Avedano's Meats

Bernal Butcher Shop Avedano’s Will Close in June, Unless It Finds a Buyer | Eater SF

"In Bernal Heights I learned from owner Angela Wilson that Avedano’s—a butcher and sandwich shop opened in 2007 offering sustainably raised meats and prepared foods in the former location of Cicero’s Meats (established in 1955)—has announced it will close on June 30. Of the three original founders, Wilson remains with co-owner Erin Singer; she says the 12-year-old business hasn’t turned a profit in two years. Wilson cites rent hikes, labor shortages, and stiff competition from Amazon, Good Eggs, and other delivery apps as the biggest challenges, and says changing shopping habits mean people buy online and use stores only to supplement those purchases. Although Avedano’s received legacy-business support from the SF Planning Committee, the building and the adjacent space that houses the Udder Room, kitchen, bathroom, storage, and production were sold, rent more than doubled, and planned demolition would cut off their kitchen, making continued operation untenable. Wilson says she’s willing to keep the shop running if a buyer or investor can be found—"I’m more than happy to keep this running... I just don’t want it to give me an early death"—but otherwise the store will remain open only until June 30." - Ellen Fort