We thought it might be too good to be true, and as it turns out, the backers of a male burlesque outfit called The Randy Rooster appear to have backed out of the purchase of the former Bank of America/Diesel building at the corner of Castro and Market Streets.
We first heard about the project back in May, and quickly learned that the group behind it had met with neighborhood merchants in preparation for a public relations campaign and a Change of Use process with the Planning Department.
As the Bay Area Reporter tells us, the space is back on the market, for lease or for sale, and the Randy Rooster team has withdrawn their offer of $7.7 million for the property. Efforts to reach Robert Andrew Casey, listed as the groups Chief Operating Officer, were unsuccessful, and his cell phone was disconnected.
Plans had been to "fill a void, offering high caliber burlesque style entertainment in a clean, safe, and high-end environment," and that environment included a bar and restaurant. The S.F. location was to be the first of a national chain, according to the team's proposal. Some neighborhood folks objected to the idea that the place could become a venue for bachelorette parties shrill bachelorette parties already plague some Castro bars, to the chagrin of many gay patrons but Casey and his team reportedly promised that bachelorette parties would be banned.
Colliers International is actively seeking a new buyer or tenant, who could also potentially take two small retail spaces on the lower level of the building. And we think this could still make for a great club or high-profile restaurant. So, if you know anyone...
Previously: New Male Strip Club Trying to Move Into Diesel Store Space In The Castro [Updated]
