The Excelsior neighborhood in San Francisco stands out as a bastion of resilience against the tide of rapid change sweeping through the city.
Home to several long-standing businesses, the area boasts six legacy shops that have become integral parts of the local landscape, with Royal Baking Co. celebrating its centennial this year.
The historical richness of the Excelsior is evident as many establishments have served the community for over six decades, creating a comforting familiarity for residents.
While the specter of change looms over the neighborhood, developments have been predominantly driven by local residents.
New businesses such as Excelsior Coffee, Love and Light Yoga, and Talawine wine bar have emerged in recent years, all founded by individuals who have deep ties to the community.
District 11 Supervisor Chyanne Chen describes Excelsior as a “multicultural cultural district,” highlighting how waves of immigrants have shaped the neighborhood’s vibrant character.
The diverse influences from Salvadorian, Chinese, Italian, and Filipino communities contribute to a unique local flavor, with each culture leaving an indelible mark on the area.
Old country bakeries, delis, and take-out counters coexist harmoniously alongside newer establishments, providing a mix of experiences for residents and visitors alike.
Independent stores and services, from Dollar & Up shops to laundromats, pepper Mission Street, while the historical Hibernia Bank has found new life as El Chico Mercado.
Despite its rich history and community spirit, the Excelsior faces challenges, including a lack of vacancies in some commercial spaces and issues of crime, particularly related to illegal gambling that plagued the area just a few years ago.
Though not unique to the Excelsior, law enforcement interventions in 2017 marked the decline of organized crime in the neighborhood, contributing to a safer environment as noted by former District 11 Supervisor John Avalos.
Avalos reflects on the changes positively, indicating that the area has never looked better, thanks to improved community coordination.
However, residents and leaders agree that there is still much work to be done to ensure the neighborhood continues to thrive.
The Excelsior has one of the highest concentrations of families and children in the city, yet it lacks key community infrastructure such as children’s parks and centers for teens after school.
Local bar owner and new co-director of the Excelsior Action Group, Ben Bleiman, emphasizes the need for facilities that cater to families, including dining options and recreational spaces.
Bleiman championed the recent “From the E” night market, which successfully brought together residents for a night of music, local vendors, and entertainment, showcasing the community’s desire for more engaging events and spaces.
Concerns about gentrification linger within the community, as some residents fear that too much change could erode the neighborhood’s long-standing character.
Erin Lofthouse, a local resident who has witnessed the transformative waves of nearby areas, expresses apprehension that the Excelsior could follow suit, losing its unique cultural identity.
In contrast, voices like that of Mike Tufo, owner of Calabria Bros Deli, advocate for new establishments to invigorate the area, suggesting room for eateries like Starbucks or Philz Coffee to complement the existing offerings.
A customer at Tufo’s deli captures the sentiment of the evolving urban landscape, arguing that cities must adapt and change over time to remain vibrant and relevant.
The Excelsior, while maintaining its historical charm, appears to be navigating a delicate balance between preserving its identity and embracing necessary change.
As the community continues to grow, it will be vital to find harmony in new and old, ensuring that the Excelsior remains a place where families can thrive amidst the shifting sands of urban development.
image source from：missionlocal
