Late yesterday, the Entertainment Commission approved late night hours for the Jack-in-the-Box on Geary and 11th.

The Jumbaco chain had been operating for 24 hours for decades, until some violent incidents in late 2011 brought to light the fact that Jack-in-the-Box lacked the proper permits to stay open 24/7. When the chain applied for the licenses to be open between 2am and 6am, plenty of neighborhood outcry followed.

At the hearing yesterday, a compromise of sorts was reached: it can stay open until 4am, though Supervisor Eric Mar said he agreed with the neighbors and recommended the restaurant not operate after 2am either.

But the reason why it was determined to be OK? Despite the many drunken incidents? Because those greasy tacos and curly fries are providing an invaluable service to the party people of San Francisco.

From the SF Examiner:

… Entertainment Commissioner Audrey Joseph said Tuesday such food businesses are needed. “It’s very important that we have food [available late at night]; it helps people not be as drunk,” she said.

Well, there’s that. Richmond night owls can breathe a sigh of relief.

(Though it should be said: going home at 3:30am also helps you be less drunk.)

· Previously: SF neighbors oppose 24-hour service at restaurant [San Francisco Chronicle]