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111 Minna Gallery
Categories: Arts & Entertainment Art Galleries Shopping Art Galleries Nightlife Bars Art Galleries, Bars [Edit]
111 Minna St(between 2nd St & New Montgomery St)
San Francisco, CA 94105
Neighborhood: SOMA
(415) 974-1719
- Hours:
Wed-Sat 12 pm - 5 pm
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- DJ
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Wed, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- Yes
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- Outdoor Area/ Patio Only
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ambience:
- Hipster, Trendy
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
C g. said: "I learned something new about myself after we decided to shop for the perfect diamond for my engagement ring. Apparently I have super human eye sight. Due to my profession I am sensitive to light and reflection and tiny details. I…" read more »
692 reviews for 111 Minna Gallery
Review Highlights
"Wednesdays: Back in the day Minna was Qool."
(in 50 reviews)
"Getting sweaty to great music at Happy Hour."
(in 21 reviews)
"i came here the other day for sketch tuesday."
(in 9 reviews)
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692 reviews in English
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Review from Vi T.
2/1/2012 1 Check-in Here
I love the concept behind Minna and wish there were similar spots closer to home. Art, music, drinks, and a little dancing (if you're up to it) = a good night. This is a place I could see myself hanging out at, and not even on just on a "club" night. In fact, I'd prefer returning on a weeknight to check out a few of their more laid back events. As far as the venue itself, it was spacious, well ventilated, and not nearly as sardine-packed as most other lounges/bars. Big plus!
The one minus: crowd threw me off a little. There was a strange divide between the two main areas: one side - dare I say it - was slightly on the pretentious end of things while the other erred on the Asian-wannabe-thug-o'-dudes. And lots of them. Honestly, it was kind of weird, but whatever. I have a good time anywhere I go and unless you're directly affecting my evening in a negative way. Carry on with your bad self, sir/homie. I ain't mad atcha. -
Review from Alan S.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2012
This place is completely overrated.
It's harder than ever to get into this downtown yuppie enclave and the wait is simply not worth it. As an art gallery, this place is pretty good, but as a "nightclub", it sucks the proverbial donkey dick in my opinion.
I went to an "80's night" at 111 Minna and my disappointment had no limit.
First of all, there's a line halfway around the building which creeps along like at the same pace as Congress working on the budget. The bouncers were professional, though the cover charge seemed a bit steep. But I had high hopes so I paid and went in.
Nightclub? No, not really.
This place is basically an art gallery with a long bar on one side and some DJ playing tunes at one end. There's nowhere whatsoever to sit and no specifically designated dance floor -- but that didn't really matter because very few of
the uber-pretentious crowd here have enough self-esteem to fill a thimble, let alone get up and dance.
It was susposed to be "80's night", however, while the mix was indeed from the 80's, it was not *dance* music. For example, they played 'Paradise City'by Guns N Roses, 'Heat of The Moment' by Asia, and such. After a few sets, its became painfully clear that the DJ had been:
A) Born after the 80's, or
B) In a coma during the 80's, or
C) Cryogenically-frozen during the 80's.
The night I was there there was, count 'em, ONE bartender for the entire huge bar which was jam-packed with people.
As a result, trying to get a drink was like trying to fist a velociraptor.
After waiting forever, the guy in front of me ordered a top shelf Long Island Ice Tea. C'mon! Really? After the mixer is added, you're not going to be able to taste what's in it so by bother?
At most bars, if you did this, the bartender would laugh in your face and move on to a more intelligent person. However, being pretentious is the name of the game here.
Speaking of which, I had *this* exchange after I got my drink:
Yuppy guy & friends: "Oooh! I really like your shirt! Is that a Versace?"
Me: "I don't know; I got it at Goodwill."
Yuppy guy: -sniffs in disdain- "I can't talk to you any more." And he & his entourage rapidly split!
Believe it or not, I had pretty much the same conversation two more times that evening with entirely different people, all of whom were horrified either that I did not know (or care) what 'brand' I was wearing, or that I had been to Goodwill.
One guy I told jumped back like Cindy McCain waking up in bed with Ron Jeremy.
Also there were lots of self-styled 'players' making the rounds trying to get it on, but they did not get it on.
Bottom line, if you're a hipster or pretentious type who goes out solely for the purpose of being seen by other pretentious types,then this is your rhinestone-encrusted Disneyland.
However, if you like to enjoy yourself, dance, and be able to get a drink inless time than it takes Dick Cheney to have a bowel movement, go somewhere else.Listed in: The Suck Factory
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Review from John P.
Milpitas, CA
Minna is a really cool place to be at if you're in the party mood and artsy mood as well. It's an art gallery by day and turns into a club/lounge by night. Came here Friday night for a friends birthday.
COVER IS $5 with guestlist before 11p.m. after that then it's $10.
With 2 separate room with its own bars. Plenty of space to dance, mingle with people and look at art work that's up. The main room with is much darker than the other room and it was not crowded which was good. Music played in the main room was top 40's and the other room had a mixtape release party which multiple djs played the mixtape sets they had which was pretty awesome.
Drinks prices were not as costly as other places and getting drinks does not take that long especially when you go to the small bar area in the other room.
The vibe of the crowd was good and very chill. -
Review from Nhung T.
Oakland, CA
1/3/2012
Came here for a company's party and I really enjoyed the ambiance. It was the perfect size for an intimate party. I don't know how it's like during the regular bar scene, but I enjoyed the provided DJ and food.
The bartenders were really nice. I had a great time! -
Review from Nick K.
San Francisco, CA
12/28/2011
***Good***
Weird random artwork to look at. Above average bar.
***Bad***
Charge a cover sometimes. Crowd can be pretentious and annoying.
***Recommendation***
Try to sneak in for free. -
Review from Tu H.
Elk Grove, CA
12/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
Really cool spot. First time here and found at random by walking on the street.
Not much to say about this place but that it is a must go. It has the "VIP/cool kids club" kind of feel to it because of its location. It's on a small street kind of hidden, more like an alley. Music is great because this is a place that actually places hip/hop and club music not house or "jersey shore fist pumping" music like so many places are doing nowadays. I want to dance, but punch the air. Place is really cool Bartenders are cool too. One bad thing is there lack of selection of beer, but that's ok.
Best thing: Taco truck parked outside for your late night grub. So bomb.
Final verdict: Coming back. -
Review from Maria C.
1/17/2012
went here for new years. people kept stepping on my feet and spilling drinks on me! i wanted to start a fight but i didn't, but it was hard not to (getting way too old for it lol). i have no interest in going back to this place at this time... nothing particularly special. good VENUE to hold an event probably.
i like space gallery WAY better. -
Review from Joan Y.
Bay Area, CA
12/21/2011
Was here for a private party. I thought it was a pretty interesting place. I love that this was a gallery but a club at night. The space was good. The crowd was decent and not ghetto. The music was alright... it didn't get me in the dancing mood (we ended up at another bar that night).
The drinks were a hit or miss. The main bar made drinks really strong and the bar in the other room made the drinks terribly. -
Review from Lidia Z.
San Francisco, CA
11/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
I loved this venue. Great art. Great ambiance. Great crowd for a Monday.
I took away one star because the bartender 1. took too long to get our drinks, and 2 we had to walk away one drink short because I guess the bartender needs to physically see who ever is getting the drink. -
Review from Priscilla S.
San Francisco, CA
10/16/2011
Good place to have a get together or party.
My coworker from Daly City hosted her birthday their and everyone from Serramonte was there..LOL
So if your Filipino or just know a lot of people from Daly City your going to run into someone you know.
Music: Hip Hop on some Fridays (DJ through in some techno, Like Jersey Shore type music) ...Friends called it Serramonte Shore LOL but over all "throwback hip hop" which i think is the best hip hop that was ever made
Dance space: Limited but it has two rooms, i mostly stayed in one room with the bigger bar.
**Note if you like strong drinks for your money's worth, get the older bartender with grey hair, he has a heavy hand.**
My coworker did get a table which made the night easier and they allowed her friend to bring in cupcakes for guest which was really nice.
Location wasn't that bad, was able to find street parking about 3-4 blocks away. -
Review from David C.
9/19/2011
This place has a very, urban SF feel to it. It attracts a very diverse crowd of people, and more of the artsy type. Pretty cool that they have art exhibitions all around. Drinks are strong, bartenders work quick and aren't too pompous, and they do have drink specials. I'm glad i stumbled upon this gem. It can be hard to find for first timers since its tucked away in a small alleyway. They spun mostly old school hip hop, creating a nice and lax vibe.
PROTIP: At the end of the night, get hooked up with some guy selling bacon wrapped hot dogs on a cart outside. -
Review from Jennifer H.
12/21/2011
I went here with a friend for some art event I can't remember. The space looked nice and the people were friendly (even though some were to busy being hip - which made it really funny though). The space is nothing mind-blowing, but when you go there it feels like you're about to enter the cool crowed as the space is a bit hidden in a "dark" alley. They play some nice music there, so worth checking out.
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Review from Jacquelynne S.
San Jose, CA
9/6/2011
Minna. Minna. Minna.
1. Are you Filipino?
2. Did you grow up in Daly City.
3. Did you go to Westmoore, Jefferson, Mercy SF, or Sacred Heart?
If you answered yes to all three then you'll more than likely bump into atleast one of your old classmates. Be prepared to either avoid a bunch of people all night or be forced to have awkward conversations with them about what you've been up to (even though I'm sure both parties probably do not care).
The music is alright. The drinks are pretty strong and nicely priced. I do enjoy looking at all of the beautiful artwork around me while mingling. All in all this place is meh. Maybe it's the bar or the past few venues I've been to but so far I've noticed it's predominately hip hop enthusiasts and Filipinos. I might as well just go to Lucky Chances if I want that.
+2, the artwork and drinks are atleast worth it. I'd go on a free night. I would never want to pay cover to go here. I recommend going to Eve or John Colins if there's a cover. -
Review from Mike V.
12/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here for the Batch party. Great venue for a private event, no question, although we got lucky with parking, which is rare in this part of SoMa on a Friday. Might be a drawback.
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Review from Erika C.
9/24/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here most recently for the Quirky x Moneyball event (http://moneyball.quirk...). Jonah Hill was on the agenda but that skinny bastard didn't show up.
We also threw a couple of events here before and I've been other events here. It's always fun and I like the location. The fact that it's an art gallery sets it apart from other HH or night spots. -
Review from Alina N.
San Francisco, CA
8/8/2011
Classy n chic, I'd like to think that's kinda like me! My kinda place. Been here several times since maybe 2005 and had my bday here this yr. Excellent customer service I must say. Very accommodating. The bottle service table it right next to the bar so you have a little nook where you can order drinks without having to stand in line at the bar which is awesome! But the main bar is long so not much of a wait. Everyone had a blast!
Let's see: beautiful art, decent size venue, huge dance floor, great djs playing 90 and top 40, nice guards, excellent staff. I just dont see how you can go wrong here. I did run into a douche bag bartender yrs ago but haven't seen him since. The ticket chick was a bit snobby too but that's the promoters fault not the venue. But geez, you make prob $10/hr, just cause you're cute doesn't give you a right to be snobby, makes you look ugly. Anyway, other than that, love this place! I'd recommend it! -
Review from Linda T.
Los Angeles, CA
10/6/2011
What a unique space to host an event! The gallery showcases contemporary.urban art from local up and coming artists. Best part? The space converts to a kick-ass bar at night, serving up killer drinks and NOT taking names.
As an event space, there is a lot of floor room to play with. There is stage that you can make a speech, do a presentation or host karaoke at and an elevated, nay, "floating" DJ box. You definitely need to bring in 2-3 vendors (i.e. photo booth) to make it more cozy. The general managers all deliver top notch service and creative ideas on how to fill up the space. The GMs are expert party hosts and know how to take care of everything efficiently and conveniently so you can sit on your pretty little arse and enjoy the fun!
Drinks are great. Food must be catered in (Michelle has amazing recommendations). Hire the house photographer. You are set. -
Review from Jason B.
Updated - 8/15/2011
Less '80s. More Mark Farina.
Everything I loved from my first yelp in 2008 is still here. The modern loft vibe. The art. The sound system.
And this time the music was more my style. Let's do that again Farina.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/29/2008
It had been way to long since hitting up 111 Minna, and last night a friend's birthday was the… Read more »
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Review from Ashley H.
11/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
this is truly a mixed review. went here for shine for a friends bday...and lets just say it was weird. i know a lot of people have been here before for various reasons and had a good time. my first time here was for a private event so it was closed off and open bar. any where with an open bar is automatic 5 stars. well this time....not so much. so here is why its weird...i love hip hop and dancing. so this is my type of place. we got there at 11 on the dot and guest list was closed....ok so maybe that was my bad. $10 cover after...no biggie. so the music was cool. there were two rooms. we stayed in the big room for the most part. so the crowd...thugs and hipsters????????? uhhh guys that were hella ghetto and art kids in skinny jeans? i was sooooo confused. i didnt really know what to do with myself.
the music on the other hand...well. it was hip hop...and kinda good. the dj wasnt really good. there was no transitions between songs...just one song and then another. and then the way he changed songs...not good. all went from getting down to brass monkey to well something else which pretty much made us stop in our tracks because the beat was soo different. i think that studying a little bit of music theory would make him a better dj.
i think by the end of the night all the hipsters left...but i did too just because i heard that san quinton was preforming and i of course wanted to avoid an inevitable stabbing/shooting. well that never happened so we went back. it was just an odd experience...dont think i want to go back but doesnt mean that somebody else wont like it. -
Review from Tracy C.
Hayward, CA
8/29/2011
This review is for the night-time after hours portion of the gallery.
We came here for one of my best friend's birthdays, the guest list told us that if we would get in free before 11. The WHOLE GROUP (there were at least 15 of us) got in line before 11, hell, we were four or five people from the front by 10:45. Since it was my friend's birthday, apparently he got the hook up and could get 5 people past the line. So, long story short (which is rare for me.) The security refused any entries until after 11, which meant people had to pay. That's annoying, but once everyone was inside it was fun, the crowd was good and the music was fine. I, personally, believe that the ambiance is what you make it.
So, in conclusion it was a bitch move to not allow anyone in until they had to pay, but it was fine once everyone was in.
BTW: This being said I'd come back, but only if they actually adhered to their guest list -
Review from Charlene K.
San Francisco, CA
12/4/2011
I have to say I enjoyed my experience here. Came to a Gallery Reception and enjoyed the amazing art works of my favorite artist, Crystal Sylver. It's a nice venue. A bar in each room. Closed off bathrooms. a DJ. Great crowd to mingle.
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Review from Christine R.
San Francisco, CA
11/22/2011
Spacious venue. Surrounded by great bites & restaurants locally i.e., Salt, Roy's, Osha Thai, sushi, Thirsty Bear, W Hotel, sandwiches, etc. Love this area of SF, decent metered parking after hours - read signs carefully. I was here a couple of times attending my designer friend's fashion line INLUSH (hand-painted silk dresses). Each time, it was a fabulous experience with a diverse crowd of friendly people. She made it as one of the finalists at the RAWARDS, and we were there once again to support her talented skills! Love this place...great stage, sound system, music, drinks, staff, and amazing artwork!!!
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Review from margaret s.
Daly City, CA
9/5/2011
Cool place. Seems that it transforms into venues that suit the taste of different types of patrons night to night.
I've been here Halloween and was realllyyyy upset that the seating was ugly and crappy and that weird dudes were hanging around. Music was also bad and can be described as hipster hip hop. Underground bs all night. Like, wtf.
The last time I was here however, there were cute wooden fixtures and bar seating and two parties were split by a moveable wall. And the music was suited to the crowd (not quite hipster)
So! Always check what the peeps here are up to! If it's not your cup of tea, don't go to the event. Simple as that.
Alcohol is limited. For instance, did not have the supplies for a rusty nail. I'm assuming the didnt have drambuie. I would have appreciated a variation.
Did not even put an orange slice in my blue moon. This place is very confusing. -
Review from Nathalie N.
San Francisco, CA
7/25/2011
Place is super chill.
Good drinks. Came on a night where ladies DJ.
I never would've known about this hole in the wall place unless my gf had shown me. They play awesome music and lots of good people. Alot of good art to look at too if your not so much interested in the music. -
Review from Mark M.
6/23/2011
Cool place for parties, and a bit more upscale than your average bar. Very good place if you want things a bit classier or you are fundraising or just want a more professional event.
Only complaint is there are not enough seats. -
Review from Lisa L.
7/24/2011
Horrible acoustics but charming personality.
We had the luxury of having the entire place to ourselves for a private mixer for our company this year. There were probably 200 people at the event on a Wednesday evening. Good drinks, decent food (their sandwiches were ok, their pate was a little on the hard side... but great goldfish and trail mix!) but it got really hot, really fast, and was really loud. I found the vent and stood underneath it for the rest of the time.
I'd come back again to assess the real feel for this place. -
Review from Anette N.
5/14/2011
Came here for a friend's birthday. Art gallery turned into a bar at night, genius.
The scene was pretty fun although I wasn't particularly a big fan of the music they played. I still prefer hip hop to house, 80s music... It was my friend's moving away party and we had table service, which made the night more awesome. They also had a photobooth which was an added perk. -
Review from Tommy G.
San Francisco, CA
11/16/2011
This place is SICK. We rolled in here last Saturday for a 90's party. Good drinks, nice art all over the place, beautiful women and a sick DJ. The place had a really classy loungey-clubish feel. I sorta wanna give it 1 star so all you clowns don't start showing up there, but I gotta give credit where it's due. 111 Minna is a nice change of pace for that area, and good if you're looking for the upscale scene.
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Review from Jenny L.
5/13/2011
05.06.11
Came here for a going away party after a long hiatus. I forgot how much I liked this place after work. (Late night is a whole other story.)
There was a special student showcase to benefit the tsunami victims in Japan last Friday (http://www.111minnagal...). Free cover until 9, and a donation got you a cute button.
We took up a chunk of the big room and had rounds in (what felt like) every 15 minutes.
Great times with excellent company. -
Review from Leo K.
San Francisco, CA
4/15/2011
For some reason, quite a few worthwhile events are in fact held here. However, the place itself on your standard weekend night is meh.
I feel like the concept of 111 Minna draws in people who act as though their sole purpose in life is to piss you off by making asinine and entirely too-deep remarks about art they don't understand.
Relax, bro. It's Friday. Let's partake in some modern-interpretive fist pumping.Listed in: SF Nightlife
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Review from April P.
5/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
I spent the Rapture/Judgment Day at Minna for a friend's birthday. And like Britney Spears, we danced like the world was gonna end.
There were some wack live performers comparable to the New Boyz early on in the evening and the floor in the room (to the right when you enter Minna) was empty. But once the group was done performing and taking pictures on the dance floor, that's when my friends and I REALLY started having fun. We hella took over that stage and the area in front of the stage and closed down Minna at 2AM.
The space is gorgeous and there's lots of seating around, just gotta sit when you see it's available. A very artsy fartsy, modern feel to the space. 2 rooms, with their own stages, DJ's, and bars. And I know the bartenders try their best but I wish there could've been maybe a couple more bartenders, then the wait wouldn't have been so bad. But it's not so bad when you order stiff drinks like a double Hennessy & Coke and an AMF to give yourself a really good buzz.
Thanks Minna for another fun night in the city! -
Review from Emerald M.
Fremont, CA
5/30/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Came here to celebrate my 24th birthday/the Rapture. If the world had ended that night, I would have been one happy woman.
I think that's all that needs to be said.
For real though, if you want a chill spot with good music, come to 111 Minna. It will not disappoint.Listed in: SF Nightlife
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Review from Gina T.
San Francisco, CA
8/3/2011
I planned an event here recently and it was fabulous. Everyone had a really good time. The location is very central and accessible to public transit. The space was perfect for the amount of attendees. There is always interesting art displayed. Melissa is very responsive to your planning needs and the staff are really friendly.
I highly recommend 111 Minna as an event space. -
Review from Dee H.
5/26/2011
This place is an art gallery turned club at night! Such an odd concept, but I do like it. I remember when I went here for a friend's birthday it was a club and I enjoyed the music as well as the paintings and decor. It gives a classy vibe. Kind of small for a club though.
I recently went to 111 Minna by accident. I was in search of John Colins and mistakenly thought this was it as the bartender who was on his break outside waved us to come in haha! We sat inside with the lights dimmed. They had available bar stools, tables and chairs, as well as a loud band rocking out. Not many people were there. Of course it was 8:30. I asked for a Pisco Sour and the bartender did not know how to make it. He poured Pisco and mixed it with a ton of sour mix - not the right way to make it. So basically I just had a girl mixed drink.
The place overall is alright. Bathrooms kinda dirty but what would you expect for a club? I'd expect a little more since it's also a gallery. -
Review from Christine K.
San Diego, CA
12/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
came here for a friends birthday. good crowd since it was a private venue. artwork in the gallery was interesting to say the least. though it was entertaining, i would say it could be uncomfortable for some. I do love the cow in the corner though!!! strange layout, inconvenient bathrooms imo.
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Review from Amanda B.
*********************** REVIEW 445 ************************
I always likes to come to this art gallery, especially like the one RAW:
Natural Born Artists Presents monthly event.
111 Minna Gallery is a L-shape venue, high ceiling, wooden floor, 2 small stages, 2 bars, and quite cozy. The gallery always throw awesome events such as the RAW event ones.
The bartenders are nice; the well cocktail drinks are only $8, you can't beat that, plus you got to view some of the finest arts from local artists; listening to local live bands, and having a great time with your friends.
Thursday night is always my FAV night here! Oh, and 3 stalls for the ladies A+! -
Review from Aimee H.
San Francisco, CA
5/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been to a couple of events here and these are the things my husband and I noticed with this place:
1. The line outside looks pretty long and may take a couple of minutes to get in. When you're actually inside, there aren't really that many people in there. Seems like they're just making it look like it's poppin' even if it isn't.
2. I put 3 people, including myself, on the guest list. Somehow they got my name but not my guests names, so they had to pay at the door.
3. It does get pretty hot and stuffy in there.
4. The place is divided in two, with two separate bars. It took forever to get some drinks on both sides.
5. There was no wall separating the two events, so I was hearing BOTH music from the DJ's on either side. So I'll be dancing to some Billboard Top 40 Jams, even though I was hearing that AND the other side bumpin' some 90's Jams. It was weird.
It has a lot of potential to be greater, but I don't see myself going to anymore events here for a while. Left early enough to get a late night bite at Subway and catch one of the last BART trains back home. -
Review from Nina B.
San Francisco, CA
1/22/2011
This review is for Happy Hour.....
Went here on a Friday night for happy hour. This place was cool with a laid-back vibe....from 5-7, their happy hour specials include $3 beers (with some gems on tap, including Hoegaarden), $4 well drinks, and $5 wines.
The space itself is a nice combination between bar and lounge...there are a few tables, but their is also enough standing space for mingling in events.
I love that they featured local artists on their walls...not only is it a conversation piece, but it's also what makes this place unique from other bars. Definitely worth checking out if you are in the area.
Minus a star or two for having no food to order...... -
Review from Rachel N.
3/13/2011
Oh sweet, sweet 90s night. What an eve the remember. Between Snoop, early Britney and MJ, all my musical desires were fed and the dancing was bangin.
Drinks were priced as expected -- got busiest around midnight, but if you don't mind dancing with just with me and my crew, anytime after 11ish will do the trick.
Girls in dresses and heels, men in button ups (and more fedoras than expected??) -- overall, one of the better clurbs in SOMA for a night out. -
Review from Richard S.
San Francisco, CA
8/27/2011
Any gallery with alcohol is a gallery worth going to.
