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Great American Music Hall
Category: Arts & Entertainment Music Venues Nightlife Music Venues Music Venues [Edit]
859 O'Farrell St(between Larkin St & Polk St)
San Francisco, CA 94109
Neighborhood: Civic Center/Tenderloin
(415) 885-0750
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 10:30 am - 6 pm
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Music:
- Live
- Best Nights:
- Fri, Thu, Sat
- Happy Hour:
- No
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Smoking:
- No
- Coat Check:
- Yes
- Noise Level:
- Very Loud
- Good For Dancing:
- Yes
- Has TV:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
601 reviews for Great American Music Hall
601 reviews in English
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Review from Christina R.
San Francisco, CA
2/6/2012
By far one of my favorite venues in the city.
I get a tear in my eye when I remember the first gig I saw here long ago: The Super Furry Animals. I was so excited, and despite my height impediment, I could still see the band from every place I stood throughout the set. I've been back like a million times since and the experience is always the same.
This gorgeous old theater is an SF institution. If you haven't been, you iz crazy. -
Review from Thanh N.
1/31/2012 1 Check-in Here
Notes to self: next time get dinner tickets along with concert tickets! looks like it's a great view from up there.
as for the bar? a bit stingy on the alcohol...but loved that they had snacks to munch on during concerts =] -
Review from rob d.
San Francisco, CA
1/16/2012
one of the best music venues in the city. they book a wide variety of performers, the staff are pros and the place is palatial.
their new website sucks, though. -
Review from Jessica t.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 12/15/2011
I fell hard for this place again this past Tuesday as Chris Robinson Brotherhood serenaded the whole crowd with chords and octaves that made the room just sway in beautiful formation. The stunning architecture was lit just right and the vibes in this place were warm and soft. They even had water readily available for grabbing and I barely had to wait in line at the bathrooms.
See the right show here (a sold out -busy one is best) and I guarantee you won't forget the experience.
Trust.Listed in: Places and Businesses that I…, Businesses that Make San…, Where to see music
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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12/13/2010
It's been a number of years now and the Great American Music Hall is just as spectacular as I… Read more »
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Review from Sloan W.
San Francisco, CA
1/24/2012
It pains me to give GAMH just one star. I've been to many a show and the history, I mean how can you not love this place! Like a previous post, I had a tremendously negative experience with the manager (female, wish I got her name) on 1/21/12 Keller Williams all ages show. After false advertising I show up to get verbally harassed by this woman when trying to calmly discuss the false advertising (under 1yr was free when in fact it was not).
It was the kind of treatment reserved for a kid sneaking alcohol in, not an adult with his 8 month daughter in his hands. One the whole, the security seemed very heavy handed (it's a kids show people). Owners, I implore you to talk with this woman or have her removed so she doesn't interact with customers - there are lots of additional live music venues in town one can give ones business to. The treatment I received was so bad, that I will avoid going back for some time. -
Review from Ryan B.
1/25/2012 1 Check-in Here
Caldecott was my first show here. Great place to see a music act. Intimate, classic decor, and great sound/acoustics. Reminds me of a mini Fillmore.
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Review from Markus N.
11/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
What can I say that all my Yelvish friends haven't already said? Not much.
I've seen many a band in this fine space. Last night, Over the Rhine with a tri-tip dinner, a bottomless cup of Anchor (of my own invention), a blonde Marlo Thomas in front of me, Chadwick to my rear (always a dangerous proposition).
I've seen OTR on numerous occasions. They're a husband and wife Cowboy Junkies kind of arrangement. The Junkies themselves have kept my company here as well. White Stripes, Crash Test Dummies, others that because of prior bottomless Anchor Steams I can't call to memory just now.
The show last night was splendid. The space, as always, sublime. A cozy floor with a cozier balcony, fine acoustics, no wait at the bar. The staff were on it, attentive, friendly. Dori with the hat that could have held dreads or all manner contraband, but didn't. Just a ponytail, askew.
If you leave energized, the O'Farrell is just a half block away. A salacious Yin to balance a Yang of aural ecstasy. -
Review from Tom C.
Beverly Hills, CA
1/20/2012
Great venue with lots of fantastic up and coming acts.
"The Hard Copies" are my new favorite band:
http://thehardcopies.b.../ -
Review from Michelangelo S.
Seattle, WA
10/17/2011 6 photos
Awesome, just incredibly awesome for the more intimate sized-music performance....
SITREP
One of the most beautiful and exceptional shows I've ever seen was DELERIUM's performance @ Great American Music Hall (GAMH). It was an incredible show full of magical moments for me....
THE SETUP
GAMH fires strongly on all pistons:
THE SOUND
GAMH has a wonderful venue that is just acoustically spectacular for the kinds of intimate performances I've seen here. Let's just say it's really nice to experience a sound system that doesn't *BLAST* the blood from your eardrums, and instead let's you enjoy the nuanced melodies without being crushed by bass and percussive rhythms.
When DELERIUM performed, it was truly magical and there wasn't a bad seat in the house (so to speak). There was fixed seating on the first level, and if I had any drawbacks about the venue it's my wish that seating would be restricted to the upstairs balcony that went throughout and around and above the entire perimeter of the downstairs dance floor.
THE VIEWS
But with the raised stage, there was no problem with seeing the band. [Just with blocking the view of those seated if you tried to stand in front of them while you were in front of the stage.]
THE LIGHTING
The illumination of the bands was fantastic and made for quite the light-show. I got some pretty spectacular captures that I will always treasure from this night.
THE LOWDOWN
GAMH is truly a wonderful venue for the intimate musical encounter.Listed in: My Bay Area Raves...., CombiChrist to Dark Sparkle-…
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Review from Dan B.
10/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Great American Music Hall gives the term "old school" new meaning. As in: built over a hundred years ago old. And it appears they were going for an older look even back then, with a gilded interior reminiscent of an even earlier century.
This was my first time at this unique venue. The acoustics were excellent and not overly loud. The staff was friendly. There were full bars both upstairs and downstairs; waitresses also roamed both floors.
My buddy P and I arrived here on the early side of a Saturday evening to catch the Archers of Loaf. Consequently, we were some of the first ones inside and found an ideal spot to hang in the upstairs balcony with a good view. Since I had driven a good distance from an afternoon party, I had inadvertently skipped dinner. So I was more than pleasantly surprised to discover the GAMH served food. I chose the burger and onion rings, which was just what the doctor ordered, thank you.
The beer list could have been broader, but we made due with Lagunitas and Sierra (tough break, I know). The show itself was simply awesome; We had a great time. Afterwards, I took a peek at the upcoming schedule and it made my mouth water to see all the great bands coming here in the next few months. Low, Ra Ra Riot, J. Farrar, The Radio Dept. (Aaahhh, to be 25 and living in the city again!)
Thanks to yelp I was able to figure out where to park (1000 Van Ness), how to get this parking cheap (get a blue replacement ticket from the GAMH doorman). Thanks Miles C.H. for this key info! -
Review from Danielle L.
San Mateo, CA
10/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've never had a bad seat at the Great American Music Hall.
If I had to deduct a point, it would be for the line outside--being accosted constantly by the local street population while waiting to get in leaves something to be desired. However, that's not their bad, and adds a certain flavor to the experience.
It's beautiful on the inside, if a bit crowded at the tables. Food menu is what you would expect, and the drinks are perhaps too reasonably priced. It's easy to get a bit tipsy while watching the opening band...
If you haven't been here, come up with a reason to go. It's well worth it. -
Review from George M.
Los Angeles, CA
12/2/2011 1 Check-in Here
I hope this place never goes away. They do all ages shows so I was able to bring my daughter to see LIGHTS. Perfect place for intimate shows you can see the stage from anywhere in the place.
The sound in here is exceptional it was not too loud, but just perfect. Usually I get my ears blasted but not here. The lighting was great and I was never blinded or anything.
The bar is not the best and the drinks are a little pricey. One thing that is cool the cocktail waitress will bring you food even if you are Standing in the main room. -
Review from Carlo V.
Sacramento, CA
1/11/2012 1 Check-in Here
This venue is one of those classic music venues that never can be duplicated. Great acoustics & lighting. The show I saw here was such a great experience.
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Review from Michael L.
San Mateo, CA
I just saw LIGHTS here two nights ago. It was my first time at this beautiful venue. This is a really good venue. It's smaller than the Regency and Fillmore, so the show is much more intimate. There's a lower level and upper level. The walls and pillars are made of intricately carved wood. It reminded me of the Orpheum. The chandelier also added a great touch.
Most importantly, the drinks were as big of a rip-off as other venues. Coors Lights were $4 and Jack and Cokes were $7 (with a fair amount of Jack).
The sound was also on point.
All in all, this was a great venue. Can't wait to come back. -
Review from Vanessa S.
Oakland, CA
12/27/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Always a great place to go to for a show. It's a small venue, but is really nice. And pretty much anywhere you stand, you are able to see the stage. I always enjoy coming here for shows.
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Review from rachelle p.
San Francisco, CA
10/2/2011
Cuteass venue. Everything was great except for the cranky security guy that scolded me for dancing too close to the "staff only" part of the stage. Sorry guy, I was inebriated.
Plus it's small, I could have easily thrown my panties at the guys on stage. -
Review from Jordan P.
San Francisco, CA
12/19/2011
Great Venue, shitty parking.
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Review from Andie L.
San Francisco, CA
11/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here to see Noah & the Whale perform. I'd never been here before and I loved it. The interior is beautiful and intimate. They have a full bar and their food is quite good. I'm looking forward to coming here again. I only wish it weren't in the tenderloin.
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Review from Ann B.
Daly City, CA
12/18/2011
Wonderful place for a show, small, great sound, killer atmosphere. I believe back in the day it was a brothel.
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Review from Mark D.
Oakland, CA
10/18/2011
There's not a lot of problems with this venue. I've had the privilege to both attend events and perform at the GAMH.
With all the history, it really adds to the grandeur and the sound is as impeccable as it comes. It stands above all others in San Francisco when it comes to small music venues. Parking may be a bit bothersome, but being a walker, BART wasn't too far away.
The clincher for me is that the staff is very friendly and, as a performer, they fed me well!
As a musician AND a music lover, the Great American Music Hall is like home! -
Review from James W.
Mill Valley, CA
8/14/2011
My favorite music venue in San Francisco. Many is the night I've danced close to the stage at this wonderful hall. It has quite a storied history as well, and the art deco interior is simply wonderful.
Although I wasn't there for the GD shows at the GAMH, I have seen some incredible Steve Kimock performances there, as well as great shows by Richard Thompson, The Radiators, David Bromberg, Buddy Miller, Cassandra Wilson and many others.
A great-sounding venue, with an amazing legacy. -
Review from Athena S.
7/21/2011
Awesome venue!!!! No matter where you stand here, you're in luck. Intimate venue with a feel good vibe. Reasonable ticket and drink prices... It's one of my favorites next to the Greek in Berkeley.
noteworthy: It does get super warm when it's packed. Ventilation sucks but you're at an indoor concert, somewhat to be expected...
* They will empty your water bottle outside to make sure you're not smuggling in vodka however, they let you keep your water bottle because there is a water cooler inside to fill up. I know we see lots of people bring their own water containers. Hydrate. good idea :)
If you do the dinner with a show, you'll end up sitting upstairs in what's like the side Mezzanines. I heard the food was edible but not spectacular, but this review isn't about the food.
Recently saw Brothers Comatose (http://www.thebrothers...) here last weekend after following them from a random show we caught in Sonoma a couple months back. TALENT! Check them out.
Twas a great night to head there apparently. It's funny how we somehow always end up where we are supposed to be. Met someone special here.
Strongly recommend heading out to GAMH if you never have. Check out their schedule, bring your water bottle and be prepared to deal with the homeless hussling Street Beats in front. The neighborhood seems a tad sketchy but welcome to the city. It's not that bad, just don't wear your loud jewelry ladies. This is a total Tshirt/ jeans joint anyway. Just make sure its a cute t shirt that screams an 80's rock band or something.Listed in: Favorite Non-Restaurants
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Review from Ro R.
East Bay, CA
7/25/2011
I got to say, I like this venue. Its big enough to cram in a bunch of people, but still small enough to actually see the band. And for those that want to just chill and have a drink, there is tons of room to sit on the mezzanine level and the dance floor.
As for parking, I've learned not to even bother looking for a spot on the street (especially since its in the Tenderloin) and cough up the $10 at the AMC garage. Just a warning though, make sure you ask the people at Great American to validate your parking. I made the mistake before and ended up paying $20.
And a last tip, try to check out their website and sign up for their newsletter. The give out tickets to some good shows every week. I signed up and got to see the Velvet Teen last Friday complements of the Great American Music Hall. Free stuff is generally awesome, but a free show at GAMH is awesomer :) -
Review from Wolfgangg S.
El Cerrito, CA
12/6/2011
This is not going to be a general review for GAMH, but instead for the show I experienced last night.
In the ten or so years that I have been listening to them, I have never had the pleasure to see The Sea and Cake live. When I heard that they were going to be touring their newest album, I very quickly jumped to see them. It's always nice to be able to cross a band off the "never going to see live" list.
No one was very friendly last night. The bartenders looked sluggish, the people at the door were basically frowning, and overall I got the sense that no one wanted to be there. I know it's "work", but you "work" at a music venue. Buck up.
Here's the beef of my review. The sound was simply atrocious. First of all, if every single member of the band complains about their monitors, you're doing something wrong. When the audience yells to turn the mic up multiple times, and you don't do it, you're not doing your job. Look, I know you work in a music venue, and I realize that it's not like normal jobs, but MAYBE you should wait to drink your beer until the middle of the set [or even better yet after] instead of the second song. Just because the band started playing DOES NOT mean your job is done. I'm not a sound engineer, but I'd imagine you should be paying attention the whole time, making sure the sound is at it's best every second of the set.
I had taken a friend that's never even heard the band before, and she absolutely hated them because she couldn't understand the vocals and the music was mixed completely wrong. I played them again in the car for her, and her response was, "oh this is much better, they're actually really good!"
Seeing a live music performance is supposed to be an experience like no other. Yes, albums are always mixed to perfection and you'd be hard pressed to duplicate that live, but when a bunch of people pay $30 a piece to see a band live, it should sound pretty damn good, especially in a great music hall such as this one.
Last night the Great American Music Hall just felt lazy to me, which is really sad because I'm a huge fan of the venue, and have seen many, many great performances there. I have been well pleased in the past, and hope to one day write a better review for this venue [I'm hoping Godspeed You Black Emperor! in April of 2012 will be a better experience], but again, last night was just a huge disappointment. -
Review from Janice F.
San Francisco, CA
11/5/2011
And I thought I've been to all the live music venues around SF. Apparently not. Placed on lovely O'Farrell street, next to a lovely strip club establishment, is a little gem called GAMH. Built in 1907, check out the architecture, old school wood carvings and eyeball chandelier. Think I was so busy checking out all the details of this spot, I totally forgot I was here for a show. The sound is awesome, with floating speakers hanging from above. And who is the awesome lighting dude. I don't know if he knew how the song went, but he would change it up perfectly to give the performers and song more of a dynamic. It was rockin'. The have a bar and bathroom on both floors. Ordered 3 beers and a redbull vodka, and it cost $22. It was $5 per beer, so guess thats about right? All in all, i loved this spot. Can't want to go again.
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Review from Chris W.
San Diego, CA
7/19/2011
I'm just gonna come out and say it, the Great American is by far my favorite venue, not just in the SF area. I'm talking, hands down, best venue.
There's just something charming about this place that brings the best out of the musicians and there's always a good vibe in the crowd. It just seems like everyone who comes here just gets it. For concert goers out there, you'll know what I mean when I say vague stuff like "vibes" and "atmosphere." Some places just don't have it, and even the best artists won't bring it out. This place definitely has the intangibles.
I watched Tortoise play here a few summer back and it was a completely intimate experience. The acoustics of this place are great and the stage is at a nice height where the performers aren't towering over you. There's always a good spot available and they always have a lot of interesting artists playing there. On top of it all, this place looks amazing inside.
The location of this place is pretty convenient too. You usually have to walk through some shady neighborhoods, but whatever. It's close to the BART station, so if you're coming over from the East Bay you can usually catch the last or second to last train. Whereas, if you're going out to the Independent, you'll probably have to take the transbay red eye bus back, which is definitely a big pain in the ass. -
Review from Kevin O.
San Francisco, CA
9/9/2011
Indie Acts in an Elegant Victorian Setting
Get a glimpse into San Francisco's magnificent history at The Great American Music Hall. This unique venue has been open in some fashion since 1907, and features a remarkably well-preserved Victorian interior that pays homage to The City's past.
Having been everything from a restaurant to a bordello, Great American Music Hall is now a premier showplace that has hosted acts ranging from B.B. King to Tokyo's Pizzicato 5. As a medium-sized arena, it offers visitors a chance to see some amazing acts that aren't appropriate for larger venues, often adding the intimacy of seeing a favorite performer in an up close and personal way.
Arrive early, and decide quickly if you'd rather chill-out upstairs, on the majestic balcony, or stay downstairs, on the hardwood floor where dancing usually ensues.
Either way, you're sure to enjoy yourself in one of The City's finest performance halls and remember again why everyone loves San Francisco. -
Review from Angela S.
San Francisco, CA
6/5/2011
First of all, this is a BEAUTIFUL venue. Very detailed and old - fashioned looking on the inside, with a good amount of balcony seating, so you can pretend you're at the opera while seeing Buckethead.
For the most part, the artists and the patrons are a bit more "mature" than those at their sister club, Slim's, (which, don't get me wrong, I also have a great appreciation for its youthful charm) but, every place serves its own purpose. Two out of the three shows I've seen here have blown my mind (it was a bit too large of a space for The World/Inferno Friendship Society) but it was perfect for Blackfield and Fuck Buttons, in both acoustics, and scale.
Yeah, it's right in the middle of the TL, and after the Blackfield show, I was even considering having one of the sweaty prog nerds walk me to Bart, but, I like to live dangerously. I don't think I'd do that walk alone again, but, here I am, alive, writing this review of an awesome venue.
Not too big, not too small, and there's almost always someone I want to see playing in any given month. -
Review from monica c.
6/1/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Dear GAMH,
You're so cute you make me want to vomit. Or maybe that's your ridiculously strong (and tasty!) adult beverages.
$10-$11 for deliciously crafted cocktails at a concert venue? Yes, please! The Dogpatch Manhattan (Templeton Rye, Sweet Vermouth, + bitters and the SF Martini (local Juniper Gin + Noilly Prat) made a fantastic show even more amazing.
Beautiful inside (super detailed woodworking and intricate ceilings),
beautiful workers (so quick and kind),
beautiful performers (the antlers totally rocked it like they always do).
Seriously, everything was pretty much perfect.
When I come back, I'll definitely mosey on in a little early to snag one of the seats in the front row of the balcony. Why they don't get higher tables for the upstairs second-row seating is beyond me. Unless you crane your neck like a giraffe all night and are of a rather generous stature, you're pretty much staring at the lovely heads of the people in front of you.
Despite this one little flaw, don't you worry, I'll be back.Listed in: music is love in search of a…
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Review from Natalye S.
Updated - 4/15/2011 3 Check-ins Here
OK OK OK, I renege on everything bad I've ever said about this place. Well, almost.
In addition to constantly bringing in some stellar bands, this place is absolutely gorgeous inside. While my experience four or five years ago was dealing with grumpy and somewhat rude employees, I am happy to report that this isn't the case now. Either there is some new staff, or people have gotten more pleasant, or I've just gained a thicker skin.
As a music journalist, I have to say that the staff at GAMH tend to be some of the more accommodating and professional people I've worked with. They do their jobs well and in turn, help me do mine. And I really really appreciate that.
It used to bother me that shows began so early, but now that I'm older and crankier, I appreciate being able to attend a show here on a week night and still get home and in bed by midnight. I'm also glad that when it says a show begins at 8 p.m., it begins at 8 p.m. (A lesson I learned the hard way some years ago when I showed up late and missed most of the headliner). Nothing worse than standing around forever waiting for things to get started.
The only complaint I really have about this place is this: $3.50 for a ginger ale? Are you kidding me? Come on guys, I should be rewarded - not taken advantage of - for making responsible life choices.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/20/2007
Didn't strike my fancy much at all. It's unassuming and small, which is nice, but the layout is a… Read more »
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Review from M C.
San Francisco, CA
10/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here once for a concert and it was the first time I had ever been to a concert hall where everyone was just either sitting or standing around. Not sure if it was the crowd that comes or just the music. Certainly would not like to come back.
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Review from Diana M.
San Francisco, CA
1/23/2011
I love love love this place.
I have came here a couple of times to see a few concerts, most recently Ra Ra Riot. I am always excited to see someone at this venue just because the venue is small in comparison to other places I have been, and I love the ambience of the place. It looks like an old theatre that is not a place where you can see kick ass indie bands that aren't too big yet.
Drink wise, is also really reasonable. A beer for $5 is a steal in this city, and the fact you get to hear awesome music is just an added bonus. You do have the option to wander upstairs where you get a much better view of the band than you would if you stood in the back.
Highly recommend seeing a band here if you can, you won't regret it. -
Review from Michelle M.
Houston, TX
6/14/2011
GAMH is a chill venue. It's a bit smaller than the Fillmore but the same sort of intimacy. First floor is GA, and second floor is awesome seating. It's a really chill place to catch full view of the artists, be able to sit, and not be in the crowds. (I can go either way, but this is nice when I'm bringing a friend who may not be a full-fledged fan.) It's worth the extra $15.
The first time I saw Sara Bareilles and Jon McLaughlin here, I missed when they gave up the tables. So, they seated me in the center with Sara B's family and friends. Awesome!
If you're into artists right before they break, this is the place to be! -
Review from Michelle C.
Belmont, CA
1/29/2011
Built in 1907, survived a many of different earthquakes and is still here rocking out. How cool! Saw Deer Hoof, and it was a super amazing show. Not too crowded that I couldn't move around. I loved the detailed ceilings, very romantic.
Bar had about 3 or 4 bartenders so there wasn't a long wait for drinks. I felt this place was a well oiled wheel and knows how to put on a good show. Yeah for the Great American Music Hall. -
Review from Deirdre P.
San Francisco, CA
3/13/2011
The room is BEAUTIFUL! Reminds me of some of my favorite music venues back home in NYC - very ornately, carved, dark, wooden moldings; small, intimate atmosphere where you feel like the artist is singing to you!
I went to see one of my favorite performers here the other night (Joshua Radin, you were AMAZING! xoxo). It was SUCH a great experience. Totally what I needed after a very long, stressful week.
It's so nice not spending a crazy amount just for the venue - $23.00 for a 4-hour show is pretty unreal. Particularly since the music was just so spectacular. God, I wish I could sing...
The GAMH also has a pretty sweet cocktail and food menu. Being the super-sensitive celiac that I am (if you've read my other reviews, you'll know that this is a thing that I think about ad nauseum and is the central focus of all of my food reviews...) I was PSYCHED to see that they have a 100% potato vodka. The bar tender was more than happy to fix up my martini using that vodka instead of the one on the menu. Then, when I came back and told her I was looking for something else, she just mixed up her own concoction for me on the spot, and it was amazing.
On a random but important note, the bathrooms were clean and bright (always a concern for some concert halls) and the staff was definitely accessible and friendly.
Overall, great spot. I hope to find myself at another concert here again soon. -
Review from Cath M.
2/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is my first time at this venue and I must say, it was gorgeous. It's a lot smaller than the Fillmore... but the Independent is a lot bigger.
S.O. and I came to watch "Boyce Avenue" here this past week and we were both excited to see them since they're known for their acoustic sounds... but OH MY... we were wrong.
First song they did... I think literally damaged our ear drums! The bass level was way too high for such a tiny venue!
We didn't even bother staying for another song... midway... I looked at the S.O. and told him we were out!
Walking to our car... our rings were still ringing and for a moment, I really thought I damaged my ear drums.
Therefore... the venue itself gets 4 stars... but the band and whoever was the music technician behind Boyce Avenue and it's bass level... negative stars! I guess that's why their bass level is so damn high is b/c they themselves are deaf! -
Review from Stephanie C.
Berkeley, CA
3/9/2011
Loved the intimate setting that the small stage gives to the venue, however it turned me off that the coat check was $2 per article (one purse, one scarf, one coat... $6?!) which was not what I expected after coming from a venue like the Warfield.
The district its in a super shady (but I guess most of San Francisco is likewise.) Nonetheless, DeVotchKa was AMAZING on stage and the acoustics were wonderful. Tickets were reasonably priced and the interior is beautiful. -
Review from Ksenia B.
South Pasadena, CA
10/7/2011
It is great and it is beautiful. There is some seating upstairs. Their drinks are pricey but are quite good, but I would definitely recommend to stay away from food. The staff is usually super nice. Bathrooms are quite tolerable and not super gross. Many bands that played here became very famous later on and you get to brag about how you saw them in this tiny place (Arcade Fire, The National). It is also a great combination with a wonderful bar Olive, that is just around the corner.
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Review from Rebecca G.
Walnut Creek, CA
12/26/2010 2 Check-ins Here
This just might be my favorite place in San Francisco to catch a show! It fits a lot of people, but it still feels intimate. There are ins and outs! The parking is pretty easy (I always park on Van Ness) and the staff is always chill. The sound system is pretty good, and I really love the architecture. This place is historic (since 1907)! And the marquee is beautiful.
Best of all, it's also one of the few all ages music venues in the city. I came here often when I was underage and still do.
The upstairs has some seating, but it's kind of hard to see the stage unless you're right near the banister.
Definitely see a show here!Listed in: Bay Area Music Venues
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Review from Aimee L.
Hayward, CA
6/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is a cool venue. I love the decor and how old fashioned it looks. There is an upstairs portion so that was pretty cool. We went to see The Civil Wars and the show was sold out. We bought just regular tickets so it was general admission. There were a select number of tickets that included dinner so they had the tables reserved right in the front of the stage. There was plenty of seating around them. It was a great place to watch a show. The prices of drafts weren't bad and there were plenty of waitresses walking around and there was security throughout the place.
