By Blair Czarecki
Love is in the air, in the streets, and on the walls, as San Francisco premiers a new late-night eats, art, and entertainment event in the city’s Tenderloin neighborhood. The first installment of “Open Late on Larkin” will be held this Thursday, February 5 at 6 p.m. from blocks 600 to 900 on Larkin Street.
In what will hopefully become a recurring event, this debut in the Tenderloin is bringing together bourgeoning business owners and old kids on the block for a party boasting art, entertainment, live music, heart-shaped chicken and waffle sandwiches, and fun from 6 p.m. to “whenever.” A few of the participating organizations include: The Loin, Soul Groove, San Francycle, Vacation, and Strand Barber and Beauty. Once they gain some momentum, these street parties should become a permanent fixture in the Tenderloin, being offered on a bimonthly basis.
So what’s love got to do with it? The night will feature Valentine’s Day-inspired art, handmade, screen printed cards, buttons, and bottle openers, performance art, and a pop-up by Soul Groove, all on a BYOB budget. The Loin will be providing a group show with some of the Bay Area’s top emerging artists, providing unique perspectives on what love represents to them.
“Everyone came through pretty strong and we are looking forward to a fun night,” says Jeffrey Bruton, owner of The Loin, located at 914 Larkin St. Admission is free and performances are scheduled to begin around 9 p.m.