San Francisco serial evictor’s new bar will replace historic dive

Ortiz said the bar will hire locals, host drag shows and live music, and offer 17 beers on tap; it will also have billiards, darts, and arcade games, according to a presentation. Supporters told the commission they expect Kiitos to bring “economic benefits” and “diversity” to the Mission.

Dattani said the bar is fully built out and could open in two months, once the liquor license is approved.

Former staff and owners blamed Dattani for Uptown’s closure, saying he charged excessively high rent and was inflexible during negotiations over a new lease.

“We did not willingly leave,” Uptown managing partner Shea Green said during public comment. “We were faced with an impossible lease.” 

In a letter to the commission, Uptown co-owner Ken Cohen said Dattani charged unaffordable rent that was above market rate. A five-year lease signed in 2019 charged the owners $9,500 a month. When it came up for renewal, Dattani offered monthly rent at $7,750; Cohen’s letter said that was 30% above market rate. Saddled with Covid-era loans, the owners opted not to sign.