Comeback Kids: Sometimes the Second Time's a Charm

by Chelsea Lin - Citysearch Editor - 76 Reviews - 90 Lists

Updated: January 29, 2009

In these times of economic meltdown, the cryptic "closed for renovations" sign often translates to closed for good. But occasionally, a business's revitalization efforts--be it in the form of a simple menu change, a new coat of paint or the drastic complete remodel and reopening--pay off and what emerges is someplace twice as good as the original.

Grand Reopenings

  1. 1 Sumi Sushi
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    4243 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94114 (map)

    French-Asian fusion spot (and Castro favorite) Sumi closed when the namesake and owner retired in late 2008--in its place is the slightly different Sumi Sushi, a revamped space with a similar look, taste and feel but heavier focus on the fish.

  2. 2 Fox Theater - Oakland
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    1807 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612 (map)

    After shuttering for 43 years, Oakland's infamous grand theater re-emerges as a leading venue for top live music acts in the Bay Area.

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended California Academy of Sciences
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    55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118 (map)

    Neither restaurant nor bar, this shockingly cool science museum is the place to spend your Saturday now, having recently reopened after an extensive rebuild.

  4. 4 4 Star Rating: Recommended Pickles Restaurant
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    42 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94111 (map)

    The scary clowns are long gone but the hearty burgers are here to stay at this recently remodeled (and modernized) Financial District institution.

  5. 5 4 Star Rating: Recommended Scala's Bistro
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    432 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102 (map)

    Just off Union Square, this grand bistro revitalized its old reputation for good food and fun with a new menu from "Top Chef" alum Jen Biesty.

  6. 6 3.5 Star Rating: Average Washington Square Bar and Grill
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    1707 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94133 (map)

    The North Beach institution returns after a lengthy hiatus with new owners, meticulously restored decor and a vastly improved menu.

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