Media contact: David Perry / (415) 676-7007 /news@davidperry.com

Due to Overwhelming Demand, AsiaSF Closing Pushed Back:
Last Dinner Show now Sunday, April 28

Internationally Acclaimed San Francisco Legacy Business
Entertained Over 1 Million People for 26 Years

Transgender Performers Known for Sell-Out Crowds Are the Stars at this 
“Top 100 Hottest Restaurants in America” as Voted by all Opentable Diners Nationwide

www.asiasf.com

22 March 2024 – San Francisco, CA:  After announcing the retirement of its owners, and a planned last-evening originally slated for the end of March, due to overwhelming demand for reservations, the closing of San Francisco’s beloved AsiaSF (www.asiasf.com), the storied San Francisco dinner theater and cabaret featuring the world-famous transgender Ladies of AsiaSF, has been pushed back one month to Sunday, April 28.  April is also significant as it marks their 26th anniversary in business on April 17th.

“Our reservation phones and emails have been exploding. We have been moved to tears and smiles by the extraordinary response of love and support by the Bay Area community who want to share this amazing experience while they can and bid us farewell,” said Larry Hashbarger, Founder and CEO of AsiaSF.  “We are still closing but want to accommodate everyone, so we are giving it one more month.”

“While the AsiaSF signature brick-and-mortar business at 201 9^th Street in San Francisco’s South of Market District will close, the intellectual property and the brand of AsiaSF will live on and continue. We have already started the groundwork for pop-up editions of AsiaSF that are really amazing,” Hashbarger continued.  “This is very much a transition, and the end of an era. However, hopefully, it is the beginning of new opportunities for our vision and the Ladies of AsiaSF.”

In 1998, a small business that celebrates diversity and multiculturalism was born: AsiaSF. Founded by Larry Hashbarger and Skip Young, the world-famous restaurant, cabaret and nightclub quickly became an iconic entertainment landmark.

“AsiaSF has been a visionary pioneer in supporting the transgender community through empowerment by creating a safe space and unique employment opportunities that showcased our beautiful transgender stars, the Ladies of AsiaSF, said AsiaSF President/COO, Aaron Nelson. “For almost 26 years, The Ladies of AsiaSF, our star performers and hostesses, have continually made our audiences laugh, blush and just be in awe of their talent and beauty.”

Under the direction of show director and choreographer, Ronnie Reddick, guests have delighted in choreographed dance routines and lip sync numbers with beautiful costumes, state of the art sound and lights, which electrify AsiaSF’s dramatic runway stage. 

“This sisterhood of diverse performers has mastered the art of celebrating,” said Young. By being their own authentic, welcoming selves, the Ladies of AsiaSF have always provided a warm, welcoming atmosphere that has made AsiaSF “Celebration Central for the Bay Area.”

With Vegas commercial style choreography byReddick and award-winning Cal-Asian cuisine, AsiaSF is a unique interactive, cabaret and dinner entertainment experience. From the moment one enters, the internationally acclaimed “Ladies of AsiaSF”  entertain and enlighten you, complete with stand-out-performances featuring original creations by Julian Mendez Couture and Prime Kreations of Los Angeles who has designed for Beyoncé, Kendall Jenner and Megan Thee Stallion.

Voted “One of the Top 100 Hottest Restaurants in America” and “Best Ambiance” by Opentable Diners, AsiaSF has hosted well over 1 million patrons since it opened its doors in 1998.  COVID and the need for a seismic building retrofit created challenging conditions. Additionally, COVID changed the dining landscape.

“AsiaSF is a complete entertainment, food and cocktail experience,” says Hashbarger, the creator/producer of Passport – America’s premier fashion show and HIV/AIDS fundraiser – during his three and a half decades as Director of Special Productions for Macy’s. “Our beautiful and talented transgender cast bring our guests into their world from the first second they enter the space. They graciously serve our guests mouthwatering cocktails, while also with their talent and style dish up a song and dance experience that will have you applauding-‘til-your-hands-are-sore. ‘They literally create a transformative experience. I couldn’t be prouder of these inspiring women.”

“One of our missions of AsiaSF has always been to create a trans-positive environment that educates and raises awareness about living your truth and being your authentic self,” Hashbarger sums up, “while at the same time providing our guests with a ‘time of your life’ experience.”

All prices are inclusive of both the dinner and the shows, with cocktails priced separately. For corporate or personal events, reservations of any size party or groups celebrating any and all special occasions – birthdays, friends / family or just life itself go to  asiasf.com or call (415) 255-2742.

media contact: David Perry / news@davidperry.com / (415) 676-7007 

International Women’s Month Extends to May!
8^th Annual Women in Leadership Forum Returns
 Thursday, May 16 at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis

Hotel Council of San Francisco Event
Aims to Empower Women Through Sports & Hospitality Leadership

Keynote Addresses by Olympic World Champion Kristi Yamaguchi,
FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion Brandi Chastain,
and Jess Smith, newly appointed President of the WNBA Expansion Team

www.hotelcouncilsf.org

20 March 2024 – San Francisco, CA:  With the eyes of the athletic world turning to San Francisco in anticipation of next year’s NBA All-Star Game and the 2026 Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup all happening here, it’s appropriate that this year’s 8^th annual Women in Leadership Forum focuses on the synergy between the sports world and the hospitality industry, showcasing how leadership in these areas empowers women at all levels. The eagerly anticipated event takes place on Thursday, May 16, 2024, from 8am ‘til 2pm at the San Francisco Marriott Marquis (780 Mission Street). This year’s event, presented by Alaska Airlines, will feature keynotes, fireside chats, and breakout sessions with some of the most inspirational figures in sports and hospitality. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to hear from Olympic World Champion Kristi Yamaguchi, FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion Brandi Chastain, and Jess Smith, the newly appointed President of the WNBA Expansion Team.  Franco Finn of Alaska Airlines will serve as the event’s emcee, guiding the day’s discussions and activities.

“The future of sports in our region is bright with the NBA All-Star Game, the Super Bowl, the World Cup, the Laver Cup, the new Golden State Warriors WNBA team, and the new women’s soccer team, Bay FC,” said Alex Bastian, President and CEO of the Hotel Council of San Francisco. “With hospitality and sports working together, we have an unprecedented opportunity to lean into this exciting future of sports in our region. Doing so will help our city, our industry, and will help us shine bright on the world stage.”

The annual all-day event has become an important touchstone for everyone in the hospitality industry, business and political leaders and media focused on gender equity and role of women in the workplace and society. Last year’s event featured Eleni Kounalakis, Lieutenant Governor of California along with San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins, Union Square Alliance CEO Marisa Rodriguez, Papia Gambelin of United Airlines, Jyoti Sarolia of Ellis Hospitality and Carla Murray and Keri Robinson of Marriott International.

“Every year we try to raise the bar on attendance, content and the quality of the discussion,” said Bastian. “With the incredible leadership shown by women in California, it’s no wonder our state is one of the world’s largest economies – which can be partially attributable to San Francisco’s main economic drivers, hospitality and travel.”

The Hotel Council of San Francisco is a non-profit membership-based organization advocating for the economic and social vitality of the hospitality industry in San Francisco. Their membership roster includes over 200 hotels, allied members, and partner organizations. The Hotel Council is dedicated to protecting the San Francisco hospitality industry and connecting its members to support the growth and success of the industry.

Tickets may be purchased online at tinyurl.com/wil2024. Early Bird Table of 10 (Member Pricing): $2,750 (available until EOD April 16, 2024)
Regular Table of 10 (Member Pricing): $3,000
Individual Ticket (Member Pricing): $325
Table of 10 (Non-Member Pricing): $3,500
Individual Ticket (Non-Member Pricing): $375

For more information, to register, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities, please contact Nicole Roumph at nroumph@hotelcouncilsf.org

Media Contact: DP&A, Inc. / David Perry (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com 

MEDIA ADVISORY / REQUEST FOR ONSITE COVERAGE:
SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 2024

Union Square is Officially Blooming

Area Hotels, Restaurants, Bars, and Merchants Burst With Floral Decor
in 3rd Annual Activation Celebrating District’s Floral History with
Wide Range of Events, and Bloom Passport.

WHO: The Union Square Alliance Presents

WHAT: Official Kick Off to 3^rd Annual
Union Square in Bloom Campaign including concert,
flower giveaway, and “Bloom Passport” unveiling

WHEN: Saturday, March 23 (3pm – 6pm)

WHERE: Union Square Plaza

WEB: www.visitunionsquaresf.com

WHY: Building off the momentum of Tulip Day, Union Square in Bloom, now in its third year, celebrates the district’s floral legacy with a modern twist. For decades, flowers, particularly daffodils, were handed out to visitors walking through Maiden Lane. Macy’s previously hosted its annual flower show, established in 1964, and several flower stands brightened up the district. Spring Fling Concert & Union Square in Bloom Passport Debut is the official 2024 Union Square in Bloom Launch Event, and one of five featured events during Union Square in Bloom that invites the community to commemorate the legacy of Union Square interwoven with the timeless allure of flowers and encourages visitors and locals to rediscover and patronize our vibrant, full-circle offerings of hotels, restaurants, retail establishments, theater, fashion, cuisine, nightlife, and beyond.

The 3^rd Annual Union Square in Bloom campaign kicks off withthe Spring Fling Concert & Union Square in Bloom Passport Debut.  Passport is a guide to over 40 oversized floral displays cascading from area hotels, restaurants, bars, and retail establishments in addition to a wide range of events celebrating arts, culture and nightlife, and cocktail offerings all combine to highlight Union Square’s rich floral history with a modern twist. This is the 3^rd year of the bright & festive campaign. Guests are invited to enjoy a live Vinyl DJ-Set, specialty floral cocktails from Tyler Florence’s Miller & Lux Provisions, and a flower giveaway. 1,800 flower stems will be available to take home (1 per person while supplies last in exchange for following @UnionSquareSF on social media) while supplies last. Union Square in Bloom is presented by Amazon, the Union Square Foundation, Union Square Alliance, the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development, the Office of Mayor London N. Breed, and the Community Challenge Grants. Union Square in Bloom is just one of many activations throughout the year that support the vibrancy of Union Square and the greater downtown area. Bolstered by recent investments in public safety and visitor-centered ambassador programs, events like Bloom, Winter Walk, and last summer’s concert series continue to invite locals and visitors alike to visit Union Square and patronize downtown businesses.

San Francisco’s Union Square Plaza is conveniently located near the Powell Street BART station and directly on Muni’s T line. Visitors are encouraged to opt for public transportation and make a day of it in the Square. Book reservations now for lunch or dinner in one of Union Square’s spots. For more itinerary ideas, https://visitunionsquaresf.com/directory.

Passport Program: The Bloom Passport is a guide to exploring the many floral installations across the district. This guide will be unveiled both in physical and digital formats at the Spring Fling Union Square in Bloom event and available at visitunionsquaresf.com. Visit as many locations as possible between March 23rd to August 17th. Each location has a QR code. Scan the code to reveal a mystery word and jot it down in your passport. Return your passport at the Bloom Finale event August 17th for a chance to enter the raffle and win a $500-valued prize.

• 5 stops = 5 raffle ticket
• 10 stops = 10 raffle tickets
• 15 stops = 15 raffle tickets
• 20 stops = 20 raffle tickets
• 25 stops = 25 raffle tickets

The full list of businesses installing floral décor at their entrances, interiors, or in public spaces include: 77 Maiden Lane, 240 Stockton, 291 Geary Street, Axiom Hotel, American Conservatory Theater, Beacon Grand, Blake Charles Salon, Chancellor Hotel, CK Contemporary, Dirty Habit, Donatello, Flood Building, Gallery 44, Hilton San Francisco Union Square, Hotel Adagio, Hotel Nikko, Hotel Zelos, Hotel Zeppelin, Iron Horse Cocktails, John Fluevog Shoes, J Roland Salon, John’s Grill, King George Hotel, Marriott Union Square, Moscone Center, The Parc 55, PLS on Post, Rae Studios, Samuel Scheuer Fine Linens, Taj Campton Place, The Barnes, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, The Clift Royal Sonesta, The Flood Building, The Grand Hyatt, The Handlery Hotel, The Inn at Union Square, The Marker SF, Ula Mediterranean Restaurant, and the Westin St. Francis Hotel.

The Union Square Foundation will be supporting a few surprising bursts of flowers in Union Square’s public space. Other sites include:

Maiden Lane gates, SFMTA Bus Stops, Union Square Garage sign, and the Union Square Plaza stage, and the “blooming” of a Cable Car courtesy of San Francisco Travel.

In addition, these businesses are offering floral-inspired cocktails:

E&O Kitchen and Bar, Corzetti, Campton Place Restaurant, Dirty Habit, Harlan Records, Hotel Adagio, Hotel Nikko, John’s Grill, King George Hotel, Marriott Union Square’s bin480, Parc 55’s Cable 55, Post Room at the Beacon Grand, Sool Bar, The Barnes Tapestry Collection by Hilton, The Clift Royal Sonesta’s Redwood Room, Turn Cafe at the Axiom Hotel, Tratto at the Marker SF, Ula Mediterranean Restaurant, and Zingari Ristorante

Bloomies Awards: Visitors can vote for their favorite blooms on www.visitunionsquaresf.com between March 23 and August 2. Winning Union Square businesses will be highlighted at the finale event during the Bloomies award show on August 17th.

Press Kit: A wide selection of event images, logos and videos that can be used for b-roll purposes can be accessed here.

About the Union Square Foundation:
The Union Square Foundation is a 501c3 charitable organization existing to establish a renewed ‘sense of place’ for the Union Square Area by supporting diverse artistic, cultural, and culinary programs and projects – and by cultivating a welcoming caring community for all humankind.

The Foundation provides critical support to both create and maintain a clean, safe, and beautiful environment that serves to enrich its public spaces for the enjoyment of San Francisco’s residents and visitors. Learn more at https://www.unionsquarefoundation.org.

About the Union Square Alliance:
The Union Square Alliance serves members and creates a high-quality visitor experience by managing and activating public spaces, attracting new investment, and advocating for the district’s future success. Union Square is the vibrant heart of San Francisco and an international destination where visitors come to enjoy exceptional retail experiences, luxury hotels, world-class cultural institutions, and great public spaces found only in the City by the Bay. A lively 27-block community surrounding Union Square Park in the heart of San Francisco makes up the Union Square Alliance. It is bordered on the north by Bush Street, on the east by Kearny Street, on the south by Market Street and the west by Taylor Street. For more information on the Alliance, go towww.visitunionsquaresf.com.

About The San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development:
The Office of Economic and Workforce Development advances equitable and shared prosperity for San Franciscans by growing sustainable jobs, supporting businesses of all sizes, creating great places to live and work, and helping everyone achieve economic self-sufficiency. For more information, please visit www.oewd.org.

Union Square Statement

“Change is often sudden and uncomfortable before that change yields something new and positive,” said Marisa Rodriguez, CEO of the Union Square Alliance. “Union Square, and the entire downtown, is at an inflection point. That is exactly why I feel humbled to be part of the solution. We all need to do our part to preserve our historic, legacy businesses as much as possible and that includes shoppers who need to visit if they want their favorite businesses to stay.

The reasons behind these closings are multifaceted — major retail shifts, street safety challenges, changing foot traffic, and new work patterns post-pandemic — but so too are our solutions. It will take time for all of the plans we have been working on with our city partners over the last year and a half to bear fruit beyond the progress we’ve already made.

Zoning changes, the recently announced plans to upgrade Powell Street, the increased police and security presence and our ongoing clean and safe campaign all combine to make downtown and Union Square visibly more full and popular than it was a year ago. Our aggressive work to program the Square with new traditions like this week’s Tulip Day, this past Holiday Season’s Winter Walk, and our ongoing music series are all popular and generate much needed foot traffic. Also, there truly is a ‘bar boom’ and restaurant renaissance around the Square.

However, much more needs to be done, and the media has a role to play. Presenting a clear and balanced picture of what is actually happening on the ground is critical. Obviously, a store closing is news, but sensational stories don’t help. Frankly, there is as much good, forward looking, optimistic news as there is bad.”