Lucca’s Deli & Wine Shop: 1899 Irving Street

Lucca’s Foods Deli & Wine Shop, was unanimously approved on July 22 by the San Francisco Small Business Commission for the Legacy Business Registry. The Registry recognizes longstanding, community-serving businesses as valuable cultural assets to the city. Monday’s cohort brings the total count to 200 businesses added to the Legacy Business Registry.

Lucca’s Foods Deli & Wine Shop (“Lucca’s”) is a neighborhood grocery store and delicatessen in the Sunset District selling home and personal essentials, hot and cold sandwiches, beer, wine and spirits. Dubbed “Best Deli” and “Best Place for a Sandwich” on many lists from city voters. Lucca’s is an integral part of the neighborhood with strong ties to community members and loyal patrons include city officials.

Established in 1927 by Italian Joseph Selvani, ownership passed hands over the years until current owner Osama Kaleh purchased the business in 1997. Lucca’s is a San Francisco Green Business, committed to environmental standards for a cleaner and sustainable planet.

“I’m honored to join the Legacy Business Registry,” Kaleh said. “We will continue to serve the community with great service as one of the unique small businesses in San Francisco. Thank you to the City of San Francisco for the amazing work you do.”

The business was nominated by then-Supervisor Katy Tang.

About the Legacy Business Program

A Legacy Business is a for-profit or nonprofit business that has operated in San Francisco for 30 or more years. The business must contribute to the neighborhood’s history and/or the identity of a particular neighborhood or community, and it must commit to maintaining the physical features or traditions that define the business, including craft, culinary or art forms.

The registration process for the Legacy Business Program includes nomination by Mayor London Breed or a member of the Board of Supervisors, a written application, an advisory recommendation from the Historic Preservation Commission and approval of the Small Business Commission. Inclusion on the Registry provides Legacy Businesses with recognition and support as an incentive for them to stay in the community. The program also provides educational and promotional assistance to encourage their continued viability and success in San Francisco.

For more information about the Legacy Business Program, including a list and map of businesses on the Legacy Business Registry, visit http://sfosb.org/legacy-business.