We actually had some people believe our fictional history of the Bus Stop! If you're gonna drink here that much you better know the real story! See you Wednesday!
"The history of the Bus Stop begins over a century ago on a once quiet street in San Francisco, Union Street. The building that currently houses the bar was originally constructed in the late 1800s as a multi-use establishment, containing a street-level storefront and two upper apartments. It was purchased by the ferroni's and has since housed four generations of ferroni's who started a family business on Union Street in 1900. With a combination of hard work, dedication and a bit of luck, that business is still intact, family owned, and more successful than ever in its current sports bar format known and loved by many as, "The Bus Stop".
The evolution of the bar into the Bus Stop has been filled with many changes, challenges, and wonderful memories.
The bar opened its doors in 1900 and was know as the Aly Inn, and in 1919 became smokeys saloon where cold beer, chilled with ice that was chipped from a block, was sold for a nickel. Amerigo Ferroni purchased the family business from his uncle in 1931 in the midst of the great depression and prohibition. Times were tough but manageable until 1933. The newly elected president Franklin Delano Roosevelt followed up on a campaign promise, encouraging congress to write the 21st amendment to the constitution, ending prohibition and, thus, fueling a rise in legal drinking establishments. The Transport Club, as it was now known, flourished for nearly three decades.
In 1955, Amerigo Ferroni fell ill and his wife, Rina, actively managed the bar for the next five years. History would show she was well suited for the task.
Although a constant presence in the day-to-day operations of the business, Rina played more of a support role prior to her husband's illness, washing towels, preparing snacks and delivering her ever-popular pizza from her upstairs apartment to employees and customers alike. But when Amerigo fell ill, it was only natural for her to become the sole proprietor/bartender. Well versed in the bar's environment, Rina filled these shoes with pride. In 1960, Amerigo's son Gabriel (Gabe) continued the legacy, and began managing and tending the bar. Rina remained active in the bar and continued living in the apartment above.
In keeping with family tradition, Gabe kept the original layout of the bar. But a new name would be crucial to identifying the establishment as his own. As he sat peering out the windows on the corner of Union and Laguna streets, Gabe had many suitable names in mind until the most obvious kept returning every fifteen minutes like clockwork. The muni bus stopped three feet from the bar's front door. The "Bus Stop" was born. At a time when Union Street had yet to be developed to its current state, this was one of few Bus Stops on the street.
Having laid the foundation of the bar, Gabe could now begin to focus on the internal business features. Much to his dismay, Gabe soon realized that an entire evening of work would only gross $11.00, not nearly enough to sustain the business. However, in order to attract more customers he realized that the Bus Stop would have to differentiate itself from other bars in the neighborhood. He would keep the charm of the old saloon and enhance it. The decor would have glimpses of the past but be modernized. Over the years Gabe initiated many ideas to create his ideal. The logo would be created with the gas lamp chandeliers to capture the past and stake claim on the future. Napkins, ashtrays, and matchbooks would be personalized with the company logo to add a touch of class as well as provide an excellent marketing tool. The "super well" would offer premium cocktails at well drinks prices. Glassware was chosen to offer the customer better value. Juices would be fresh squeezed on the premises on a daily basis. Complimentary snacks would be offered. Benches and awnings would be built out front for the comfort of customers and neighbors alike. Polished brass would fill the bar. The restrooms maintained a standard of cleanliness unlike those of other local bars.
Over the years business grew and continued to flourish through the 1980's when the sports bar craze really began to escalate. Satellite and cable tv technology was providing the opportunity for businesses to offer customers several viewing options from the same bar stool. The Bus Stop was one of the first bars in San Francisco to really embrace this concept. The Bus Stop soon became one of the premiere sports bars in the bay area, where bartenders knew your name and service was unmatched.
After 40 years, Gabe decided that it was time for his namesake to carry on the legacy that he had started. His son, Gabriel Ferroni, Jr., was charged with the responsibility of running the family business. Gabriel had spent several years managing the Bus Stop after experimenting with different ventures, including a successful business in gourmet foods. He purchased the Bus Stop from his father in 2000, after his father's health concerns became overwhelming. Unfortunately, Gabe Sr. passed without the pleasure of watching the Bus Stop move into the new millennium. Learning from the lessons his father bestowed, Gabriel has kept the Bus Stop tradition alive and well.
The Bus Stop continues to be involved in the community and participates in local programs and activities including the police activities league, local recreational sports teams, and the Union Street Association. You will still find top-notch service, great value, and a wonderful environment. Twenty new plasma tv's adorn the walls to ensure your viewing pleasure and each has a separate satellite receiver so you'll never miss a minute of your favorite team. A top of the line audio system and great music selection turns this sports bar into a nightclub the moment the buzzer goes off and the evening hours prevail.
Over the years the Bus Stop has evolved out of a family of dedicated, hard working people who have brought this business through a century of change. In that time we witnessed two world wars, the korean war, and vietnam. We survived the earthquakes of 1906 and 1989 unscathed. We weathered economic difficulties, none more challenging than the great depression. We endured 25 presidential elections, the murder of our mayor, the start of prohibition and its reversal. We've embraced five superbowl victories and dealt with several disappointing trips to the world series. We've watched music progress from the big band era to the mtv generation. We've welcomed famous faces such as President Clinton, Mayor Willie Brown, Vida Blue, Monica Seles, Ted Hendricks, Chipper Jones, Bobby Sura, Barry Zeto, and Pierce Brosnan."
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