Cinch Saloon, a historic queer bar in San Francisco since 1974, has been saved by new owner Scott Taylor ahead of Pride 2025. Once a lively hub for the LGBTQ+ community on Polk Street, it faced declining patronage since the pandemic led to the loss of many regulars. The bar, known for its deep-rooted legacy, was previously owned by Robby Morgenstein and Bob Thornton, who faced significant challenges amid changing times and personal loss. Taylor aims to bring the establishment into a new era while respecting its rich history.
Eric Berchtold, longtime manager of the Cinch, reminisced on the bar's bustling past, stating, "We used to have three bartenders, a barback and a cocktail waitress on Friday nights. Now it's like, you're lucky if you have 30 people in the bar." He reflects on the crowd size diminishing drastically post-lockdown, indicating a significant change in the bar's atmosphere from its vibrant history.
William Hack, a regular patron, emphasized the lasting impact of COVID-19, saying, "When it was safe to come back, they never came back." This underscores the shifting dynamics within local nightlife and the long-term effects of the pandemic on community gathering places.
The previous owner, Robby Morgenstein, noted the challenges in maintaining the legacy of Cinch Saloon after the passing of his partner Bob Thornton, stating, "the business became too much to maintain." This illustrates the emotional and financial strains faced by long-standing institutions when leadership changes occur.
The new owner, Scott Taylor, expressed his commitment to the bar’s legacy, stating that with 23 years in the restaurant industry, he is prepared to bring another era to Cinch Saloon just in time for Pride 2025. This reflects the hope for continuity and revitalization in established queer spaces.
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