In the heart of San Francisco, amidst rising costs and challenges, some businesses are thriving. Outta Sight Pizza is one such story. In under four years, co-founders Eric Ehler and Peter Dorrance are preparing to launch their third location.
Their latest venture is a bar called Reggie and Maude’s, taking over the Pomeroy Bar & Grill. This dive bar is on the same block as their popular Larkin Street pizza shop. When Mission Local visited in June, customers were lining up out the door.
Pomeroy has a rich history, with a pub operating there for about a century. Dorrance and Ehler want to honor that legacy but add their touch. The name Reggie and Maude’s pays homage to Reggie Gamble and Maude Spencer, two significant figures in the early sex workers’ rights movement that’s part of the Tenderloin’s history.
The duo’s previous experience comes from working in high-end restaurants like Michelin-starred Mister Jiu’s. Now, they aim to serve “top-tier” bar food without the hefty price tag. Dorrance shared a simple yet compelling vision: “What if you could get a great burger and a martini for $20?”
Opening a business in San Francisco is no small feat, especially launching three. Yet, the Outta Sight team is hopeful. Their journey began with a pop-up in 2020 and has grown into a favorite among locals, amassing over 20,000 Instagram followers, and earning recognition as one of the best pizza spots in the country.
“We’re grateful for our customers,” said Ehler. Their pizza’s popularity spans a diverse crowd, including artists and skateboarders. “In the end, we just make good food,” he added.
After their success with Outta Sight II in Chinatown, the opportunity to take over Pomeroy was irresistible. “It already has the vibe we want,” Dorrance noted, and it boasts regulars like law students and construction workers—familiar faces for him and Ehler from their lunch breaks nearby.
They plan to maintain Pomeroy’s tradition of live music and community events on nearby Dodge Alley, reflecting the cultural richness of the Tenderloin, a neighborhood often overlooked when it comes to dining.
Dorrance faced skepticism when they first entered the scene. “People questioned why we chose the Tenderloin,” he recalled. They were determined to showcase the excellent dining options in the area.
Mark Yatabe, former managing partner of Pomeroy, briefly described his departure, saying it wasn’t an easy choice but necessary for him. Meanwhile, Dorrance and Ehler are enthusiastic about revitalizing the space. They’ve signed a lease and are planning renovations, including an expanded kitchen and accessible restroom. “If all goes well, we aim to open by summer,” Dorrance said.
In a world filled with uncertainty, their optimism shines. “Things are tough everywhere else, but I believe in our little corner,” he concluded.
For a more in-depth view of San Francisco’s changing dining scene, you can refer to the latest [data from the San Francisco Chronicle’s dining report](https://www.sfchronicle.com/food/), which highlights emerging trends and the resilience of local businesses.
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