The Sunset Night Market, once a vibrant culinary celebration that put Irving Street on the map, has been unceremoniously canceled amid a political circus that would make even Karl the Fog roll his eyes.

The event, which rocketed to national fame after landing #5 on USA Today’s best night markets list, has become collateral damage in Supervisor Joel Engardio’s recall election drama. Local merchants are caught in the crossfire, with some feeling “betrayed” by the market’s sudden disappearance.

A Feast Interrupted

Last summer’s market was a massive success, stretching from 19th to 26th Avenue and featuring everything from durian-eating contests to celebrity chef Martin Yan’s cooking demos. Now, it’s been reduced to political fodder, with recall campaigners using its cancellation as a weapon against Engardio.

Behind the Scenes

Organizers cite “financial strain” and bureaucratic red tape as reasons for the pause. Lily Wong from the Sunset Chinese Cultural District revealed the city held up $120,000 in reimbursements until May, making future planning challenging.

What’s Next?

Hope isn’t lost - organizers hint at a smaller version potentially returning during Lunar New Year. For now, SF foodies will have to satisfy their night market cravings with memories of last year’s epic event. Stay tuned, and maybe stock up on emergency street food.