Renowned chef Tyler Florence, well-known for his captivating work on the Food Network, has recently been announced as the new head of San Francisco’s esteemed restaurant, Town Hall. Located in the vibrant South of Market (SoMa) neighborhood in San Francisco.
While Florence’s restaurants have garnered praise from both critics and patrons alike, it is his television career that has truly propelled him into the spotlight. He rose to prominence as the host of several Food Network shows, including “Food 911,” “How to Boil Water,” and “Tyler’s Ultimate.” With his warm and engaging personality, Florence captivated audiences around the world, making cooking accessible and enjoyable for home cooks of all skill levels.
Under Florence’s leadership, Town Hall plans to introduce changes to the menu and extend its operational hours. “Running a successful restaurant is not just about serving great food, but also about creating an unforgettable experience for your guests. It’s about the entire package,” Florence noted. The South Carolina native is a renowned American chef, television personality, and cookbook author. With a career spanning over three decades, he has made a significant impact on the culinary world through his innovative cooking style, captivating television shows, and best-selling cookbooks. Known for his passion for fresh ingredients and his dedication to creating delicious, approachable dishes, Florence has become a household name in the culinary industry.
With an already established presence in San Francisco’s culinary scene, Tyler Florence is the proud owner of acclaimed establishments like Wayfare Tavern in the downtown area and the Miller & Lux steakhouse. His latest venture includes the opening of two new cafes in Union Square. Since its inception in 2004 by chef Mitchell Rosenthal and partners Steven Rosenthal and Bjorn Kock, Town Hall has become a highly sought-after destination in the thriving SoMa district.
Like many Bay Area restaurants facing the challenges brought on by the pandemic, Town Hall adapted its approach in 2020 by paying homage to the iconic New Orleans restaurant, K-Paul’s. This strategic move allowed them to navigate the difficult times and remain afloat amidst the uncertainties.
In the pursuit of this exciting new chapter, Florence has formed a partnership with DivcoWest, a national real estate investment firm that owns both the building housing Town Hall and the adjacent office complex at 199 Fremont. DivcoWest confirmed this collaboration expressing their confidence in Florence’s ability to honor the beloved culinary traditions of this San Francisco institution while simultaneously introducing a unique concept that aligns with the enduring Town Hall brand.
After completing his education at Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina, Florence embarked on a journey to refine his culinary skills. He honed his craft in some of the finest restaurants in New York City, including renowned establishments such as Charlie Palmer’s Aureole and Marta Pulini’s Cibreo. “Pay attention to the details. from the ambiance to the presentation of the food, every little aspect matters. It’s the little things that make a big difference,” Florence continued.
In 1998, Florence opened his first restaurant, Cafeteria, in New York City. This venture received critical acclaim and quickly became a popular dining destination. The success of Cafeteria led to the opening of his second restaurant, the Michelin-starred Wayfare Tavern, located in San Francisco, California. Both restaurants showcase Florence’s culinary expertise and his commitment to using only the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
With Tyler Florence at the helm, San Francisco’s Town Hall is poised to continue its legacy of culinary excellence, bringing innovative flavors and experiences to its loyal patrons.
