New Delhi Restaurant, a longstanding Indian culinary institution in San Francisco’s Union Square, is facing the threat of closure as pedestrian activity in the area remains significantly low. Opened in 1988, this establishment is notable for being the only Indian restaurant listed on the city’s Legacy Business Registry, a status it achieved in 2020.

Historical Significance and Celebrity Patronage

Over its 36 years of operation, New Delhi has welcomed numerous high-profile diners, including prominent figures such as Bill and Hillary Clinton, Vice President Kamala Harris, spiritual leader Deepak Chopra, and acclaimed actor Anthony Hopkins. Despite its prestigious reputation, New Delhi is currently grappling with financial difficulties as the lingering effects of the pandemic continue to affect local foot traffic and sales, according to a report by KPIX.

The Current Situation

Chef and owner Ranjan Dey expressed concern about the current state of business, stating, “January and February have been one of the slowest [months] in 36 years. This is the time that I would love everybody to support us because once we are gone, you can’t just say, ‘Oh, I wish I came.’”

Broader trends in the local economy have exacerbated the situation. The shift towards remote work has contributed to decreased foot traffic in downtown San Francisco. Significant retail closures, including those of major brands like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, further complicate the revitalization of the area.

Adaptive Strategies in Response to Challenges

To attract customers, New Delhi has introduced innovative initiatives such as “Curry-Oke” karaoke nights on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, following a model that has benefited nearby establishments like John’s Grill, which features live jazz music nightly.

Additionally, the restaurant has made necessary adjustments to its operational hours. New Delhi is temporarily suspending lunch service while continuing to offer dinner from 5 PM to 11 PM. The bar remains open until 2 AM to accommodate late-night patrons.

The Future of New Delhi Restaurant

As efforts continue to generate interest and foot traffic in Union Square, discussions of designating Ellis Street as an “entertainment zone” could provide new opportunities for local businesses. However, with the current lack of street fairs in the area, the immediate impact of such a designation remains uncertain.

New Delhi’s rich history and connection to the local community have woven its name into the fabric of the neighborhood. Only time will tell if the combination of unique offerings and community support will be enough to preserve this cherished eatery.