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Ashkenaz Music and Dance Community Center
Categories: Nightlife Dance Clubs Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Education Specialty Schools Dance Schools Dance Clubs, Music Venues, Dance Schools [Edit]
1317 San Pablo Ave(between Camelia St & Gilman St)
Berkeley, CA 94702
(510) 525-5054
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- No
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Tue, Fri, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- No
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Ages Allowed:
- All Ages
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
56 reviews for Ashkenaz Music and Dance Community Center
Review Highlights
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"It's all ages, they serve light snacks and beverages." In 6 reviews -
"I've seen bands ranging from decent to awesome here." In 10 reviews -
"The bar serves beer and wine." In 4 reviews
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56 reviews in English
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Review from Joanna M.
5/25/2012 1 Check-in Here
I'm what I call a HbP-Hippie by Proxy.
Having lived amongst hippies for most of my life, I can out-hippie by proxy 99% of you. My first boyfriend was named after a constellation, my second one was Hare Krishna, my house always smelled like a combination of Indian incense and Mendo incense, and growing up I used my window as a door and never wore shoes.
While the smell of patchouli makes me nostalgic, I am pretty far from being a hippie, whatever that word means. I never climb out my window anymore, and I have a near obsessive love of shoes, but my HbP nature is still in full swing.
The Ashkenaz further cements my HbP-ness. It's so reminiscent of NorCal hippie barn parties, with little tealights strung across the stage, children and adults dancing, holding hands, and just loving being alive and present. I may shave my legs and eat meat, but the Ashkenaz just makes me so happy, which is etymologically very similar to hippie. Coincidence? I doubt it.
The musicians that this little love shack books are always beyond talented, the cover fee being a small down payment for not only a magical time that night, but future good times by jumping on the groupie bandwagon and following these local musicians around town. The Ashkenaz only deals in cash, so bring it or use the ATM at Chevron across the street. A little goes a long way; the beer, wine, and kombucha are cheaply priced, which has been a bit dangerous in the past.
One of the only places around that has the potential to lop off the last two letters of my condition, leaving me only as 'hippie' or 'happy', whichever way you want to perceive it. All I know is that after hours dancing here with special people, 'happy' is the only word that my soul cares to utter.Listed in: Music to my Ears
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Review from Keane L.
4/17/2012
I love a good old-fashioned orgy, sweaty bodies gyrating to the natural beats of rhythmic music, torsos spinning and feet thumping on the ground...
And by "old-fashioned orgy," I mean a "really great dance celebration with lots of people." Just to be clear, the environment and clientele are entirely wholesome, fun and respectable. The Afro-jazz band playing that night filled the stage, and the dancers spread across the floor. And, my, what dancers they were, as some took to the space like spiders spinning up the wall. Moves, my friends.
There's a bit of beer here, though not much. Just enough to loosen the joints. It's really as simple as this: a big warehouse of a room with plenty of space to move.
So if you wanted to know where to have an orgy in the Bay Area (deal with those keywords, Google), Ashkenaz is your place. -
Review from Jessica R.
Oakland, CA
4/6/2012
Best place for a first date. I should know, as I was on the receiving end of a surprise date that will never be forgotten.
It's as if all the stars aligned and a man took me dancing, something I LOVE to do on a first date to learn a dance I've never done before.
From there on out I was like putty. But I digress.
Ashkenaz is a really amazing place: great community feel, with rustic architecture and homey vibe. Great sound--good beer selection---comfortable environment. Hands down amazing experience.
We went on a Tuesday (I know right?!?) and still had a blast. IT WAS ROCKIN. I recommend this to anyone who loves live music, dancing, having fun, and trying something new. -
Review from Nique F.
10/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
Imagine all the people...
Yeah, this place is pretty much one big Lennon-esque Love Fest. How could one complain about that?
The space feels like a big barn, with casual tables around the edges, a no-frills bar in back (beer, wine and kombucha!) and an all-walks-of-life crowd. We saw Audiafauna, a band from Santa Cruz that ended up being way better than I expected (think Sia meets Rilo Kiley). We stayed for a while, drank cheap wine and swayed carefree, as children frolicked and recovering-hippies flung their limbs to the music. It was dreamy.
This is a place to feel free. Yes, it's very "Berkeley"...but isn't that why you came? Bring cash. Bring soul. Let go and love it.Listed in: Live Music around the Bay, Culturize Me - Berkeley
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Review from Eric B.
8/13/2011
Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center is a nationally recognized nonprofit music and culture venue that specializes in presenting live world and roots music. Ashkenaz was founded in 1973 by David Nadel, a dedicated human rights activist and folk dancer, in response to the San Francisco Bay Area's strong interest in international folk dance. He transformed a warehouse on San Pablo Avenue into a dance hall, which was modeled after an Eastern European wooden synagogue. He envisioned a place where the world's music and dance would dissolve the differences that keep people apart.
Unfortunately, David was murdered in 1996 by a drunk patron that he refused to let into the Building. It was the one violent act in a dance hall dedicated to peace and nonviolence. Yet his local legacy lives on, as I still remember many of the People's Park and other Local Berkeley causes David championed. Most of the time I didn't agree with him, but I admired his principles and passion.
As for the Ashkenaz itself, I've been here for folk dance lessons and an occasional show. I'm not naturally attracted to many of the acts here, so my attendance has been rather hit or miss over the years. Yet I make it a point to regularly keep up with the bookings. After all, who who knows when time and circumstance will bring people together? -
Review from Jensyn H.
Santa Rosa, CA
9/30/2011
I had never heard of Ashkenaz Music & Dance Community Center until last night. My friends convinced me to meet them for a small show. I didn't know the music either. As soon as I walked through the door, I knew I had to stay longer than expected. I loved the big open space--perfect for dancing. There are also tables around the walls, which is nice for sitting and catching up if you get tired or storing your things.
They only serve beer & wine as alcoholic beverages, but they also serve other types of beverages for those not in the mood for drinking, which is nice. I loved the music, and I enjoy the idea of having a place to see more local artists. I fully support this place, and I plan on keeping up with more of their events. -
Review from Matt D.
Berkeley, CA
1/27/2012
Best place in Berkeley to see music, hands down. Great sound, great beer, big enough that when full isn't too crowded. Would like to see a bit more rock shows, but otherwise it's the place to be in Berkeley!
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Review from Yasya G.
Oakland, CA
10/26/2010
So fun!
Ashkenaz wasn't too crowded when I came for a show the other night. Plenty of room to dance, and they had tables and chairs around the dance floor to take a break! All the staff, patrons, and musicians were very friendly.
The location is easy to get to via BART/bus, but definitely a hassle getting home late after the show since public transit doesn't run as regularly after 1am.
I just wish Ashkenaz was a little more selective about who they let in. The group of trashed 15 year-olds vomiting in the bathroom kind of put a damper on the beginning of the night. -
Review from catherine b.
El Cerrito, CA
9/9/2008
This is when I will go back to Ashkenaz:
when I really and truly love the band
and
when the band really and truly loves me and puts me on their guest list
and
when I have cash because the bar is cash only
and
when I want nothing but beer, wine or bottled water, 'cause that's all they got.
I will go back when all of the above conditions are satisfied AND when I feel great about myself - - so I can fit in with the rest of the crowd. As easy as it is to poke fun at this place (and good LORD they make it easy) the truth is that the patrons come here to have fun, to listen to their band and to dance. They don't give a rat's ass about whether they look cool, smell good, or dance well. Like the lady dancing to the Ritmo Cubano, dressed to the nines AND in her sneakers. Simultaneously saving her feet and w-o-r-k-i-n-g it ... that's some serious high-efficiency, Berkeley style! -
Review from Stephen D.
Albany, CA
11/14/2011
Great place, great people. A Non-Profit music and dance venue now with an awesome monthly open mic. This place is way cool.
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Review from Krystal H.
Berkeley, CA
8/22/2011
It's a great idea -- but it's just too "Berkeley" for me, if that makes any sense.
Listed in: Dance Clubs
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Review from Art O.
San Francisco, CA
8/20/2006
I don't know...maybe this place is just "too" Berkeley. Last time I went, it was for some West African band and they were all right. But when I first arrived, there were a bunch of kids running around and your run-of-the-mill hippies holding hands and circling around the venue. It didn't help the vibe to have a couple of fish-brained zombies staring into space during the concert.
The kicker was when I went to buy a soda for my friend. When I asked for a Coke, the guy gave me the worst stink-eye and said,
"We don't serve THAT kind of drink here."
"What do you mean?", I asked.
"We don't serve drinks from fascist multi-nationals!".
"Uh, okay dude..."
Yeah, this place is definitely "too" Berkeley for me.Listed in: Never Again!
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Review from Zain K.
4/28/2008
As you've likely discerned from other reviews, this place is a trip. It's a little hard to rate since I'm not sure how to separate the venue itself from the events happening there or from the clientele attending these events. That said, here are three reviews for the price of one:
1. Venue: It's a great common-use, multi-purpose space. The floor is large and danceable, the acoustics are very good, air circulation is excellent, and there are mirrors aplenty. It's a shame that much of the wallspace is decked out in gaudy leftist paraphernalia (amongst the clutter of which there's one particular "Como en Vietnam" poster whose meaning I'm still trying to grasp). Also, it's too bad about the restrooms; go elsewhere if you can.
2. Events: I've been to a few Saturday morning bhangra classes, a couple of world music parties, a Cafe Bellie event, and a couple of Bandworks showcases. All were well-organized, well-attended, and enjoyable.
3. Clientele: Almost regardless of the event, this place attracts the type of person who, if they weren't there, would likely be at home making vegan stew and creating leftist paraphernalia. They tend to have an interpretive dance style that never seems to fit the type of music being played, and they smell kinda funky when they start to sweat (then again, I've found that this tends to be the case at world music parties in general, regardless of the venue).
Reviews aside, this is a place that you probably need to check out on your own, so put on your favorite Che t-shirt, tie your dreads in a bun, save the deodrant for another day, and let us know what you think... -
Review from Adam L.
Mountain View, CA
8/21/2006
First, the good news:
I've seen bands ranging from decent to awesome here. Ticket prices are very reasonable ($14 to see Brave Combo? Nice!), and parking is pretty easy to come by. Also, their tofu sandwich is indescribably delicious... crunchy, savory, satisfying... even for an unrepentant meat-lover like myself.
On the downside, though... this place makes a moderate liberal like me cringe. I know that often times music (and all art) is inextricable from politics and serious commentary on The Human Condition, but for crying out loud... can't a bloke go and enjoy some fun music and dancing without being visually assaulted with 17284719 ultra-leftist propaganda posters? I swear, it's stuff like this that makes Berkeley an oft-laughingstock of much of the world, and if I didn't know that the proprietors of this place were ultraserious about World Peace, I'd cynically think that it was all tongue-in-cheek, a spot-on parody of Berkeley.
Oh, and one more cranky thought for the night: if you value your shins, think twice before going here to dance. The folks here are admirably filled with joy (not to mention quite likely, uh, other substances) and seeing the unbridled lack of self-consciousness is admittedly refreshing and often humorous... but floorcraft is not in most of the folks' movement vocab here. -
Review from alexa c.
Oakland, CA
3/15/2007
I've always loved Ashkenaz but unfortunately have very little desire to go. My most recent visit was in November for a friend's wedding rehearsal dinner. They had rented the space for dinner before Ashkenaz opened their doors to the public for a Cuban act that night. It was a lovely time and a great place for a rental. I highly recommend it.
It's a great community oriented venue that offers something for everyone. It's all ages, they serve light snacks and beverages. There's a dance studio in the back which offers dance classes throughout the week. It's a community center and a true landmark to Berkeley.
There's always a great assortment of music coming through with plenty opportunity to dance, sing and share the company of like minded souls. -
Review from Jen S.
11/5/2009
Every time I walk into the Ashkenaz I get happy. This place has absolutely no pretention. The music is always good. The beer is cheap. The space is comforable. The staff are nice.
When you start to complain about ticket prices, remember that it's a nonprofit. That's a hard thing to be in this economy, and in the Bay Area in general. So fork over your cash, thank them for existing and enjoy the show. -
Review from Jonathan D.
Berkeley, CA
5/26/2008
Ashkenaz is a world music appreciation community and you can find people from the age of toddlers to grandparents in attendance. Everyone dances and has a lot of fun. I have only been once in the last few years, but it was a great time. My wife and I enjoyed a drink and enjoyed listening to good music and watching the crowd undulate to the beat.
The interior is very Berkeley. It is a very rough design created for people who are serious about their local or transplanted local bands to enjoy those bands among friends.
The beer and wine list are short but completely acceptable and there are some simple nibbles to enjoy.Listed in: Berkeley
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Review from Boola B.
San Mateo, CA
3/16/2009
Did someone say "barn-like interior"? WHOA NELLY!
Where's them hay bales? Yee-haw!
Went here to check out the Stompy Jones show and swing dance lesson beforehand. Would have been better if half the crowd wasn't rip-drunk BEFORE they tried to take a dance lesson!
Might go back for another show if I really want to see the band. But if I want to dance, or learn how to dance, I'll be heading elsewhere. -
Review from MaryAnn W.
Emeryville, CA
12/17/2010
Been dancing to all- kinds of live magical music since 1984!
Showcase and start up for some of our favorite bands...
Amazing that we have access to such grand entertainment at great rates, usually $10-$15. Currently I dance mostly Zydeco/Cajun (most Tuesdays) and Cuban/Brazilian. Regularly draws crowds from SF and beyond...
Great, large wooden dance floor, mirrors, lighting, acoustics, and world beat. All ages (depending on the performers) . Tables and seating surround the dance floor, open most nights of the week...A real down home, sexy and safe community feel.
I am a woman and feel surrounded by friends even attending alone.
Of course now I;m part of a dance community!
Ashkenaz is non profit- truly community based organization, with a world class opportunity to tune in, get down and get happy....(also may be rented for classes during daytime).
MaryA -
Review from Tina C.
San Francisco, CA
10/5/2009
Love the African nights! Lots of folks dancing to some type of higher god or other... It's always great to see folks bring their kids, and the place still has a local community vibe to it-- lots of history, on its walls and corridors.
I'm a fan of venues that support local Bay Area musicians. Yes, there is a ticket price, and it's cash only-- I know every dollar is supporting someone-- an artist, a worker, etc. The drinks and snacks are completely reasonably priced. $10-18 bucks and you get a full night of dancing-- however you want. It's a cool feeling to feel pretty much nearly uninhibited on the dance floor. -
Review from Mort B.
San Francisco, CA
12/17/2006
I go to Ashkenaz pretty often to see my friends play in afrobeat, juju, and highlife bands.
The vibe at Ashkenaz is community oriented, joyful and accepting.
The music is of exceptionally high quality, most people dance the entire time they are there.
It's all ages at Ashkenaz. There's nothing like dancing to African music with grandmas and toddlers.
I love it there. -
Review from Mace M.
San Lorenzo, CA
3/31/2009
If Ashkenaz took their venue as seriously as their Yelpers did, they'd have five stars across the board. I love the location, and the atmosphere doesn't get to me, much. I just am not a fan of high-priced shows, cash only and doesn't serve up drinks.
I'd have to strongly agree with Catherine B on this one. -
Review from Kara S.
New York, NY
4/4/2008
I am from Berkeley. When I first meet someone and tell them I'm from Berkeley, I see that glint in their eye, trying to figure out my hippie ranking. I tell them I went to UC Santa Cruz, Banana Slug territory, now there's no denying it.
But really folks, I'm no hippie. I don't like granola. I shave my underarms everyday. I don't do tie dye. But I love my hippies, I really do, more power to them I say.
I tested out this Berkeley establishment last night, and let me say it is veeeery Berkeley hippie. Large dance area for some psychedelic dancing, go to the very small bar for some beer/wine and vegan turnovers(??). I would suggest not venturing into the restrooms unless it's a dire emergency...it's not a pretty site. I told you, hippie central. My friend's band that played there was great, so that makes me teeter from 2 stars to 3. They have dance classes there, which might be fun/interesting.
If wanna see what Berkeley was like back in its hay day, Ashkenaz is like a museum of cool hippie shit. But Berkeley really is no longer like this. I am not a hippie. I rest my case. -
Review from Return T.
Emeryville, CA
3/8/2010
Oh gawd, this is it if you want to be as Berkeley as you can be, dig in. I mean this place takes the cake. It's BORING with BORING bands and it's soundtrack is a deflated playlist of politically-culturally-socially-etc "safe" music. If you like your sound decaf and sugar-free, you can really rock out here.
Honestly, I want to say something kind about the place, but it's like enduring a two-hour elevator fart. -
Review from Earline A.
San Francisco, CA
2/16/2008
I'm giving them two stars instead of one because I like the concept.
A friend and I purchased tickets in advance ($15 ea plus fees for a total of about $36) to hear Lavay Smith and her group last night. There was to be a presentation beforehand by Frankie Manning, the 93-year-old original Lindy Hopper (one of 'em, at least). The calendar on Ashkenaz's website showed that doors opened at 7, program began at 7:30, and tickets would be available at Will Call. (In retrospect: "Will Call" -- insert insane laughter at the notion of anything so organized at this venue.)
We arrived about a quarter past seven and the place was packed. No tables and barely any standing room. I stood by a little table near the door, hoping that an employee/volunteer/any clueful person would arrive. Never happened. I was joined shortly by several other similarly confused patrons. After asking/overhearing, we ascertained that Mr. Manning's presentation was free--hence the wall-bustin' crowd--and that afterward, they would clear the house, everyone who had tickets or wanted to purchase them for Lavay would queue up in front while chairs inside were rearranged, and then the paying customers would be ushered back inside. Neither my companion nor I was interested in being squoze in a back corner, standing and unable to see anything but the backs of peoples' heads, so we decided that we would go to dinner and then come back when the music started.
(Two rants for the price of one: steer clear of the Chinese restaurant on the corner. Cheap, yes, but two for two on giving us the kung pao quickstep, if you get my drift, and their hot and sour soup, neither hot nor sour, by the way, had a faint but unmistakable taste of antibacterial hand soap.)
After dinner and our respective dashes to the restroom (that huge container of antibacterial soap...hmm...could it be? --naahhh...), we returned to Ashkenaz about a quarter past nine. By then the crowd was out the door and Mr. Manning's presentation appeared not to be approaching conclusion in any shape or form. I found a fellow who appeared to be an Ashkenaz employee/volunteer and asked him what was going on, and when the band was going to begin playing. "Oh, we still have to clear the house when Frankie's done, so I'd say not before a quarter to ten or so." My companion and I looked at each other and said in unison, "Fuck this shit."
I wanted to love this place--honestly I did--but the degree of disorganization is inexcusable. I--who used to BE a Berkeley person decades ago--have to echo the sentiments of other reviewers here: too Berkeley. -
Review from Deb N.
Palo Alto, CA
7/27/2006
Went on a Wednesday night for some West Coast Swing dancing to a blue's Band call Jules Broussand, a little too fast and slow for WCS but great for East Coast Swing and Night Club two step. Nick Lawrence and Shanna, have been teaching WCS there for quite a while and are lovely people, very patient and welcoming to all newbies. http://swingisthething... $10 for a lesson and dance to a live band in pretty cheap nowadays.
The best I can describe this venue is funky, all dark, rustic wood inside and out, the dance floor is medium sized and slants towards the window, a drink/food counter, live bands and DJ's, a seperate smaller dance floor in the back, 3 bathrooms (I try not to touch anything), seating areas off the dance floor. They have all sorts of ethnic music throughout the month and dance and movement classes. Free parking across the street, I like to walk with someone from the car to the dance place. Loiters hang out outside. -
Review from Uncle Fishbits Aeneas X.
Belvedere Tiburon, CA
11/12/2006
Cute, quaint place that seems to be a community standard. Clifton Chenier, Taj Mahal, John Lee Hooker plus more have graced the halls.. and I went for a rehearsal dinner which was simply lovely. I love it, and would adore the intimate venue that it offers.
I would never go back, never look back... and never think twice.. if someone serving there *ever* told me they wouldn't serve me what I wanted. If that coke story below is true, it is simply ignorant, sophomoric business practices, and I tire of that mentality. It felt very cohesive, and therefore potentially clique-y. If that *is* that case... I didn't experience and am thankful the five stars still exist. Ah hell.. four. -
Review from jt k.
Oakland, CA
3/6/2012
this is a great place to dance to world beat music. good vibe always
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Review from Kevin Q.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2007
Fun reviews! TOO Berkeley, nice. I can definetly see that in Ashkenaz, but its refreshing to have a night in such a conscious, and community based establishment. They have a tough time getting the City folk over the bridge, myself being one of them. The acts are wide ranged, maybe one or two shows a month really gettin my considering the trek, when I'm sure I could enjoy a similarly great night in the city.
Dedicated staff, good vibes make it worth a venture.
Pre-show programs and work shops are rarely visited art treats. Check 'em out -
Review from Larry W.
Jenner, CA
5/31/2009
I've been going there since 1971 and have found it to be THE BEST dance cafe with great live bands, both local and from all over!
Always a friendly and relaxed atmosphere!
Great wooden dance floor with lots of room!
(a big plus if you like to dance)
Free and easily available water, and even earplugs!
(some bands can be loud, but that's not usually a problem)
Reasonable prices, usually around $15, and most of that goes to the band, it's a nonprofit musician supporting venue.
Atmosphere is very natural maybe a turn-off if you like modern plasticy
places, but hey, the decor reflects the music, mostly traditional multi-ethnic!
Free dance lessons before hand are very helpfull (some people will complain about anything, what in the *#*#* do they expect to get for free? -
Review from Michelle S.
Oakland, CA
6/22/2008
"Another Saturday night, and I ain't got nobody. I got some money 'case I just got paid."-Sam Cooke
You know what kinda sucks about being weird? Sometimes you are very likely the only person you know who is remotely interested in attending certain events. Now, I used to just avoid said events all together and just pity myself for missing out on cool shows. But now....
I am now blessed with additional free time in my life (bus rides) that allow me to read the weekly "East Bay Express." Now, I know that I should be doing something way more valuable with this added time such as reading "Mother Jones," or "The Economist," or "Nature," or "The New York Times." Nope, I would rather read about cougars sleeping around the "Casual Encounters" listsings on Craigslist or about what "Shorty tha Pimp" is up to these days. Anyway, I often find out about cool events in EBE that nobody I know would possibly appreciate.
*Reading EBE* "Ooooh! A West Coast Beatboxing Championship in Berkeley! I totally want to see that. Wait, nobody I know would want to see something like that." *pauses* "Screw it. I'll go by myself."
So, your favorite self-proclaimed Urban Socialite spent a Saturday night by herself at Ashkenaz for some fierce beatboxing. If you are in a position to see a show by yourself, Ashkenaz is a decent venue for it. It's intimate. It's in a "safer" part of San Pablo Ave. (if you frequent San Pab. as much as I do, then you KNOW what I mean by "safer"). Parking isn't horribly difficult (I can't parallel park y'all; so this is an important thing to mention) and is free at night. Just about every music type you can think of is showcased there. Admission prices vary from cheap, to reasonable, to "well, good thing I actually do like beatboxing." The bar serves beer and wine. Nobody is going to think you're weird for showing up stag. All ages show up; there are enough adults there...at first I worried that I was the only adult (not that 28 is old!) who was not chaperoning teenagers. And if you give a %$#& ('cause I sure don't), it is across the street from a Chipotle...well, and an REI, that I'm cool with.Listed in: Allow me to entertain you....
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Review from sunshine w.
Berkeley, CA
8/18/2011
what a fun place! go on a night they have dance lessons and meet some of the wonderful folks of the area!
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Review from Aaron S.
Berkeley, CA
10/12/2010
Ashkenaz is the Bay Area's center for world music and dance. They have the best line-up around with a wide range from reggae to folk. The place has deep roots in the many protest movements that have been born in Berkeley. And they have kombucha on tap! They are very green establishment with the bar serving all their drinks in glass and mugs, and they don't serve bottled water. Ashkenaz is hands-down my favorite venue in the Bay.
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Review from Jenn C.
12/25/2010
Ah, the hippies - the people of my parents. I guess that makes me a hippie-child, though I do find myself drawn to the industrial goths, both groups have dress codes that amuse but don't compel me. Ashkenaz is a great place for live performances - I don't go there often, but they are homey, friendly and if you want to go dance - this is the place to do it. The bar is not overpriced and it feels like you're in a Hobbit-owned establishment - lots of wood and small tables, low doors in the bathrooms. All ages shows are fun because then you can see little kids dancing crazy like you might have at that age.
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Review from Micheal G.
Oakland, CA
3/12/2006
Being the two stepping fool that I am, wish I lived closer. A crowded Cajun dance floor is a memorable thing. If you like to move it, move it on over here.
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Review from Jason G.
San Francisco, CA
12/10/2006
This is a local treasure - a non-profit community center dedicated to bringing us music from all over the globe.
I've been checking out reggae and African shows here for six years, and just recently my band has performed there, which has been a blast.
The only downside would be what I consider a fairly hefty cover charge on most weekend nights. But if that's what it takes to pay a reasonable wage to the hard-working musicians and staff, so be it.
Check this place out! -
Review from V M.
Berkeley, CA
9/10/2010
Just go there and see it for yourself. Get the calendar and pick a night. I guarantee something will interest you.
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Review from Jim W H.
Sonora, CA
5/21/2008 6 photos
As a musician who has had the honor to play Ashkenaz twice, I love watching the crowds dance, a variety of music and I will continue to support and be a part of this rich musical venue. The location is comfortable and down home.
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Review from Samar N.
Berkeley, CA
10/13/2009
My Belly Dance studio, Hipline, just celebrated our first year anniversary at Ashkenaz. From start to finish, the staff was on point. I've done shows at many different "levels" of venues and it can cost a bunch to put an event on. This space had everything at a VERY reasonable rate. I really can't complain, we even had a dance studio to practice in. After reading some of more negative reviews, I guess I see how this place can get "misunderstood" cause it is an older building and they are cash only. However, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages. Thank you Ashkenaz for providing us with a super affordable space that met all our needs.
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Review from Wesley W.
San Francisco, CA
6/10/2006
I checked out the West Coast Beat Box Battle in this space. It's cozy inside, shaped like a barn, with counterculture posters behind the stage and mirrors on one of the walls. There's little separation between you and the performers, and the lineup of live music they have most nights of the week looks great. (check the website) Also, they serve Reed's Ginger Root Beer for $2, which I found to be a really tasty alternative to drinking alcohol.
