A little while ago, Fillmore Street saw the departure of a sacred location. The Starbucks on Fillmore Street had been closed, causing a monumental problem for students at Convent and Stuart Hall. However, students can still visit Blue Bottle and Peet’s Coffee on Fillmore Street. It may seem ambiguous why Starbucks on Fillmore is closing to students, as they were not struggling with business.

Despite its success on the street, Starbucks on Fillmore Street closed on December 1st, 2024, after over 30 years of being on the street. Unfortunately, Starbucks and many other Fillmore Street stores are closing due to the revitalization project. This project is run by Cody J. Allen and backed by SF venture capitalists. The first major departure due to the Revitalization Project from Fillmore Street was Ten-Ichi, a popular family-owned Japanese restaurant. After the building Starbucks had been operating in was bought by Allen, the company decided to decline their right to extend their lease. Another desired property bought by Allen was the Clay Street Theater, which is currently vacant.

“It’s weird that it closed, but it doesn’t affect me all that much,” said Junior Benny Moosbrugger. Most people aren’t quite sure why it closed, as it was a popular and sought-after destination on Fillmore Street. Although it seems like a big hit to neighborhood businesses, Allen has stated, “We are excited at the opportunity to fulfill our mission in the Upper Fillmore and replace this chain retail tenant with an exciting small business operator and entrepreneur.”

Many people are distraught by the closing of Starbucks on Fillmore Street, as it is a popular spot for students and adults. However, Cody Allen and the Revitalization Project aim to create a more vibrant and active version of upper Fillmore Street.