The iconic Anchor Brewing, once a San Francisco craft beer darling, is starting to look like that vintage band reunion tour that never actually happens.

One year after billionaire Hamdi Ulukaya dramatically swooped in to “save” the brewery, the Potrero Hill facility remains as silent as a hipster’s vinyl collection. What was supposed to be a triumphant comeback has turned into a whole lot of nothing - with weeds growing through rusting trucks and zero beer flowing.

The Brewing Disappointment

Ulukaya, known for transforming Chobani from a small yogurt brand to a dairy empire, promised to breathe new life into America’s oldest craft brewery. His social media announcement last year was met with cheers from local beer enthusiasts who saw him as a potential savior. Fast forward twelve months, and those cheers have devolved into confused mumbles.

Ghosting San Francisco

Former Anchor employees have essentially been left on read. Patrick Machel, a previous team member, noted they’ve tried contacting Ulukaya with zero response - a move that feels more like a corporate breakup than a revitalization strategy. The brewery sits idle, its once-bustling space now resembling an industrial ghost town.

A Brewing Uncertainty

While Ulukaya’s team received an alcohol beverage permit in February, concrete actions remain as elusive as affordable San Francisco housing. Local experts suggest restarting a dormant brewery isn’t just pushing a magic button - it requires meticulous maintenance and deep respect for traditional brewing methods.

Until then, San Francisco’s beer lovers will continue waiting, their hope for Anchor Steam’s return slowly evaporating like morning fog.