Celebrity chef Tyler Florence walks away from Union Square stands

Neither space was referred to as a temporary pop-up when they were announced.

A celebrity chef who partnered with the City of San Francisco to bring two new kiosks to Union Square has abruptly walked away from both of them, according to reports.

Tyler Florence, who starred on “Food 911” and “The Great Food Truck Race” on the Food Network, opened the two Miller & Lux Provisions cafes in 2023 in a move announced by then-Mayor London Breed.

However, last weekend Florence stepped away from operating the kiosks, right before the start of the NBA All-Star weekend, according to a report in the San Francisco Examiner.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, which also reported the story, a San Francisco Recreation and Parks official said Florence decided to “move on” from the cafes.

The official, according to the Chronicle, did not say why.

In September of 2023, Florence was given three-year leases for the two spaces — one adjacent to Stockton Street and another adjacent to Powell Street — with options for two three-year extensions, Mayor Breed’s office said at the time.

The Powell Street location showcased pastry and breakfast options and boasted a coffee bar. The Stockton Street location was more savory-focused with roasted chicken, “farm fresh” sides, artisanal cheeses, and beer and wine.

“Union Square continues to evolve, and we’re excited about what’s next. Miller & Lux stepped into the space with a pop-up during a critical time for the area, bringing energy and great food when it was needed most,” Deputy Director of Communications and Public Affairs Tamara Barak Aparton told the Chronicle.

Neither space was referred to as a temporary pop-up when they were announced. Florence received a $440,000 grant from the city to upgrade and launch the two spaces.

Following Florence’s abrupt departure, the city recruited a “celebrated local baker” to provide pastries at the location over the NBA All-Star weekend.