Is San Francisco losing its charm when it comes to dining?
This question arises as Fog City Diner, a beloved establishment for 40 years, recently closed its doors, leaving many to ponder the evolution of the city’s restaurant culture.
Doug Biederbeck, the owner of Bix and former general manager of Fog City Diner, shared insights that hint at an undeniable shift in the city’s vibe.
Once a bustling hub of activity and innovation, Fog City Diner became a cornerstone of the dining scene upon its opening in 1985.
The establishment, which had its name altered in 2013 when the concept shifted under the guidance of chef Bruce Hill, was a part of the Real Restaurants group founded by Bill Higgins and Bill Upson, better known as “the Bills.”
The closure of Fog City has been attributed to the changing landscape of San Francisco, with Higgins noting that the area has become ‘dead’ and that Fog City “got forgotten.”
“Back in the day, it was a huge sensation,
image source from:https://sfstandard.com/2025/06/04/fog-city-diner-closes/