Natali purchased Badlands in 1999, and after a brief closure for a remodel, it reopened in 2000 as a dance club.
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According to SF Gay History, “the bar had a rustic, almost honky-tonk vibe" by the late 1980s, "with automobile license plates from every state decorating the walls and several pool tables." | Photo: Steven Bracco/Hoodlineīadlands originally opened as Watergate West in 1973, changing its moniker in 1975. Toad Hall remains closed, despite promises in early July that it would reopen for outdoor dining. According to a July 7 Facebook post, Toad Hall planned to reopen with outdoor food and drinks, but it has yet to do so or announce a date. Natali also owns Toad Hall (4146 18th St.), which is directly across the street from Badlands. It’s unclear if Natali is selling the bar outright, or if he will continue to own it under a new concept and management group. Public records indicate a liquor license transfer has yet to be initiated, and a new owner has not been announced. While many bars in the neighborhood have teamed up with neighboring restaurants to offer outdoor dining, Badlands never did so. | Photo: Ray Everett/ Instagramīadlands has been closed since shelter-in-place restrictions went into effect on March 17. Badlands' dance floor, prior to its closure.
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Hoodline reached out to Natali for more details, but did not receive a response. The closure was first reported by the Bay Area Reporter. “Later this fall, a new bar, under new ownership, will open in the Badlands location," owner Les Natali wrote on Facebook. “The name of the new bar and other details will be announced later, closer to the opening date."
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After 45 years, Castro video bar Badlands (4121 18th St.) has announced its permanent closure.