November Edition of BARtab, monthly Entertainment & Nightlife Magazine from the Bay Area Reporter by Bay Area Reporter

2 ✶ Vol. 1 bartabsf.com b rta ba rtta ab bs bsf sf.co sf com ✶ November co Novemb No ve v vem em emb be ber er 2010 er

ON THE TAB: EVENTS LISTINGS

EATING OUT PUB GRUB • NIGHT BITES BUNCHES OF BRUNCHES

ingredients ★ November 2010 ★

Top Chef: Brandon Lee Page 4 Pub Grub Page 6 Night Bites Page 8 Eating Out Page 10 Savory Sips Page 12 Brunch Bunch Page 14 On the Tab Pages 18-29 BARchive: Come As You Are Page 30 Read more stories online at www.bartabsf.com ✶ On the Cover: Javier O. Hernandez (left) and Paul Loesel share a tasty meal at Truck. Photo: Georg Lester

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Editor: Jim Provenzano • Art Director: Kurt Thomas Designer: Scott King • General Manager: Michael Yamashita Advertising Sales: David McBrayer, Colleen Small, Scott Wazlowski

enter to win one of five (5) $25 gift certificates to Bursa in West Portal. Winners will be randomly selected from BARtab registrants through November. Visit BARtabSF.com today!

Contributors: Matt Baume, Heather Cassell, Kurt Thomas, Ronn Vigh Photography: Rick Gerharter, Georg Lester, Jim Provenzano, Rich Stadtmiller, Steven Underhill BARtab is published by Benro Enterprises, Inc. Publisher: Thomas E. Horn Benro Enterprises, Inc. 395 Ninth Street • San Francisco CA 94103 • (415) 861-5019 Member of the National Gay Newspaper Guild National Advertising Representative: Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863

60 West Portal, San Francisco, CA Tel: 415 564 4006 www.bursa415.com

TOP CHEFd Brandon Lee caters to taste

Courtesy Brandon Lee/Stephen Bouska

• by Kurt Thomas

o his fans, adult film star Brandon Lee has been many things over the years: a hot, young, porn stud, a Navy man and airplane mechanic – in all of which, he’s committed the same high level of enthusiasm. Now, they can add chef to that list. After a few years of working in some of LA’s finest restaurants, Brandon has relocated to San Francisco to open his own catering business. We caught up with the city’s newest chef for a brief chat during a break in his busy holiday schedule. When did you first become interested in cooking? I grew up in a family that cooked all the time. It was definitely a family affair. But, it’s my mother who I got my early training from. She had me in the kitchen helping out with everything for as far back as I can remember. Have you incorporated much of your family’s influence and heritage into your dishes? I love mixing lots of influences from wherever I visit or learn about into the dishes I make. In this business, you have to be versatile and ready try different ways to put together the same dish. As for my family’s influence, this morning I made a puff pasty dish that normally calls for ham, but I added pork bellies instead, which is a staple found in most Filipino kitchens. It’s a good example of how you can swap things around to make what you’re preparing a little more special. Any specialties? I try to make every dish my specialty (laughs). I originally studied to be a pastry chef and it’s true what they say about cooking versus baking: you can save a dish by adding a dash of salt or pepper, but 4 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

with baking it’s a science. It’s all chemistry and exact proportions. I approach cooking with that same attitude. It’s got to be perfect the first time around. You own your own catering business now. How are things going with that? It’s been going great. I’ve been in San Francisco since July, and things have been gradually picking up. I’ve also been giving private cooking lessons. I teach folks some of the basics or we zero in on certain areas. Right now my catering company is real busy for the holidays. Thanksgiving is going to be a lot of work! Do your adult film career and your new profession sometimes collide? It’s actually happened quite a bit. I’ve been out on the floor of the restaurant and someone will lean over to me and say “You look familiar.” I just smile and tell them “Well, you must watch gay porn!” But, I have to say, the food service industry as been very good to me. I’ve had absolutely no problems with my adult career interfering with my job as a chef. Has your experience in the adult industry helped you in any way in your new field? I wish I could say it has! Working at a restaurant can be nuts. There’ve been times when I’ve felt like saying, “Screw this, I’m going back to porn full time!” Porn’s got nothing on the food service industry when it comes to drama and stress. It’s intense and doesn’t stop until the last guest is served. It’s much different in film. If you’re feeling uncomfortable or the scene just isn’t going well, you can always shout “Cut!” ✸ For more information on Brandon’s catering services call (415) 508-7036.

PUB GRUBd • by Heather Cassell

Georg Lester

The bar offers shower ueers know boys to beer squirt gun where to dine. fights as a part of its lively So it shouldn’t entertainment. Tuesdays, come as a surprise that Thursdays, Fridays, and the “gay mecca” is also Sundays are the bars a foodie paradise that most popular nights, offers a cornucopia Miller said. Mondays and of options to diverse Wednesdays are typically palettes no matter what slower and Saturdays are mood or time of day. crap shoots, he added. Tables around the bay The lively entertainare a diner’s oyster where ment starts most nights chefs offer up everything at 10pm. Truck is fast from classics that never and easy, but not cheap went out of style to the – on the ingredients that newest innovation in is – the bar’s burgers and cuisine, from pub grub chicken stakes are made to the finest dining and with the same quality entertainment in the ingredients as high-end world. restaurants without the Gays and lesbians are sticker shock, Miller said. experts when it comes to Off the beaten path, dinning out and ordering Truck has a “San Francisco drinks. Nearly half of vibe” that attracts a very the 4,500 self-identified Javier O. Hernandez (left) and Paul Loesel local crowd and the LGBT respondents to a share a tasty meal at Truck. bartenders don’t leave Community Marketing wallflowers to sit out to survey frequented restaurants 2 – 5 times a week, especially gay men dry. They often pull them into the fun, he said. “They who dined out on a regular basis up to 6 or more are there to hang out. They are a part of the fun. You times a week. Alcohol often accompanied evening feel like you are there with friends.” Miller is also civically minded, as the founder of meals with wine, cocktails and spirits topping the list . LGBT foodies and adult beverages aficionados the “Straight up the Vote” initiative he’s bringing aren’t only enticed to the hottest places to dine and the party to voting. On Election Day, vote and wine: Queers are creating, building, and serving get a drink for $.50. For more information, visit with a delightful twist. They know their community www.straightupvote.org. is there to support them by hanging out at gay and lesbian-owned and –operated or LGBT-friendly THIS AIN’T KANSAS Queers looking for a little more pizzazz with restaurants and bars. Boys and a few good women looking for a cheap, their drinks and meals head to the Rrazz Room and dirty fun night out on the town can find it at Truck. Starlight Room at the Sir Francis Drake and Nikko Not your average neighborhood boy bar, located hotels respectively. Both hotels offer unique “only in somewhere between the city’s gayborhood and San Francisco” experiences for natives and visitors SoMa, this bar was designed as “a place to come be alike. It is all about the experience according to Harry rowdy and have a good time,” said Paul Miller, one of Denton, host of the Starlight Room, and Robert the bar’s three partners. Designed for their pleasure, the former queer Kotonly, co-promoter of the Rrazz Room. The Rrazz Room started out at the Plush Room at Castro bartenders Jon Airaudi, Mary Lemos, and Miller opened Truck three and a half years ago as a the York Club for three years before moving in 2008 boy bar that “didn’t take itself too seriously,” Miller to its current location. Kotonly and his business and life partner Rory Paull took the opportunity to said.

6 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

“It’s fabulous!” chorused a group of Kansas lesbians who came out to see the first (12 p.m.) show, which featured six unique drag acts. The performers make another round at 2:30 p.m. each Sunday. The morning brunch starts at 11 a.m. and the afternoon brunch starting at 1:30 p.m. Michael Pagan, Kendra Monroe producer of the show, performs at Denton and Sachet Sundays a Drag. created the show in an effort to revive the glamour of 1930s drag cabarets, with a hint of Las Vegas pizzazz. The trio picked up where Finnochio’s historic drag review left off in 1991 when it closed. “We want to give brunch a little “attitude” with song, dance, and comedy,” said Pagan. Oh and don’t forget all-you-can-eat $44.95 buffet served up by openly celesbian chef Jen Biesty of Scala’s Bistro with drinks created by master mixologist Jacques Bezuidenhout starting at $10. “Its old school glamour,” said Pagan, adding, “It is one of the hottest tickets in town. It is just pure fun … an ‘Only in San Francisco experience.’” ✸ Rick Gerharter

design a true quality entertainment all the way with great food, drinks, and where every seat in the house is a great seat without the over-the-top prices, he said. Anzu restaurant serves an optional pre-fixed menu for $38. Entrance into shows averages up to $35 per ticket, with a two drink minimum. It’s a small price to pay to get up close and personal with celebrities and top notch entertainers from local performers to the biggest names in Broadway, comedy, jazz, R&B, and more. While Kotonly brings his queer sensibility and support to LGBT entertainers, he creates shows to everyone’s liking, he said. Denton takes a similar approach with his Sunday’s A Drag brunch, now celebrating its fifth anniversary. The sold-out show features celebrity drag queens, such as Showtime’s Wild Things star Cassandra Cass, and hosted by San Francisco’s drag personality Donna Sachet.

• by Matt Baume

Food’s served all night at Orphan Andy’s.

t some point, we’ve all felt the need to indulge in a little late-night snacking. But here in The City That Knows How (to go to Bed Early), it can be a challenge to find a good hearty meal after the clubs close. But never fear! There are plenty of nocturnal eateries for you night owls. You just have to know where to look, starting with the Castro standbys. Sparky’s specialty is cute punky wait staff and a menu so large it borders on excessive. You can’t go wrong with the French toast platter, and the milkshakes are grand, as are the curly fries. Animal-lovers will be pleased to hear that the veggie burgers taste far better than veggie burgers should. Open 24 hours a day. 242 Church St. 626-8666. www.sparkysdinersf.com Baghdad Cafe switches to 24-hour operation on the weekends, which is good news for fans of Philly cheese steaks, mounds of nachos, and Italian sodas. The wait staff is generous with the coffee refills, and the tipsy patrons are always ready to flirt. Try the meatloaf. 2295 Market St. at 16th. 621-4434. www.bagdadcafesf.com Orphan Andy’s, meanwhile, boasts waiters who know how to smile, and some of the best pancakes in town. Everyone loves the Sloppy Joe omelet and the turkey melt, and the chicken tenders are A-plus. Bonus: the quirky restroom, through the kitchen and down a flight of stairs, and hidden inside a strange tiny cubicle. 3991 17th St. 864-9795. A bit further afield, there’s It’s Tops. On the off chance that you find yourself hanging out near the Octavia off-ramp, or more probably, at Martuni’s, settle in to one of the cozy booths, surrounded by the 8 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

sort of vintage lived-in decor that only accumulates after decades as a neighborhood institution. Try the pie or a milkshake if you’re ready for dessert. If it’s early enough for morning, have a sausage with waffles, or a sausage in a waffle. Open til 3am, WedSat. 1801 Market St. 431-6395. The last word in late-night Tenderloin dining is The Grubstake, where American classics like potato skins occupy a menu alongside Portuguese specialties like boiled cod, pork chops with white wine, and sautéed prawns. And the ambience doesn’t get any more old-timey. “The place looked like I was mining for gold in 1849,” recalled one patron. Open til 4am. 1525 Pine St. at Van Ness Ave. 673-8268. www. sfgrubstake.com Then there’s Osha Thai on Geary, well worth the hike up towards the Nob. (Just don’t attempt it by yourself or with any conspicuous valuables.) The sleek black decor makes a perfect setting for yummy pumpkin curry, mango salad, and fried wontons. Open Fri & Sat til 3am. 696 Geary St. 278-9991. Other branches in 5 locations and mostly open until 11pm. www.oshathai.com Just a few blocks away, Cocobang’s open until 2am. With shorter lines than most late-night joints, you’ll be enjoying hot pot tofu, seafood pancakes, kimchi fried rice in no time. And projected larger than life on a wall, the K-pop infuses the meals with a party atmosphere. 550 Taylor St. 292-5144. Wander on down towards the melting pot between Chinatown and the Financial District for Sam Wo, which couldn’t be more of a hole in the wall if it tried. Sam Wo’s been serving up fast Chinese food for decades, and they’ve got it down to a science, although

Jim Provenzano

NIGHT BITES d

The Grubstake

Cocobang

the seating and dining room stools are primitive at best. Meals zip up and down in a dumbwaiter, and portions are more than generous. You’ll get your fill of chicken chow fun, egg and shrimp over rice, and beef noodle soup, with plenty of leftovers to microwave the next day. Check out the doodle Conan O’Brien left on the bathroom wall when he stopped by. MonSat open til 3am. Sun til 9:30pm. 813 Washington St. 982-0596. Settle on in to a booth at the Lucky Penny for some truly peculiar people-watching. The food’s plenty reliable, but it’s the clientele that makes this dive at

★

3991-A 17TH STREET MARKET & CASTRO 415-864-9795

★

Geary and Masonic worth checking out. Whether it’s a lady in a muumuu poring through a stack of romance novels, a clutch of shrieking college girls, or two guys in a trench coat watching the door like a pair of private eyes, there’s always someone or something unusual to look at when you drop by the Lucky Penny. Open daily 24 hours. 2670 Geary Blvd. 921-0836. Are you detecting a trend here? Late-night food may not be the healthiest fare, but when you’re creeping around town in the wee hours, a little comfort food is just the thing. There’ll be plenty of time for salad when the sun comes up. ✸

★

★ ★ ★

★

SERVING BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND DINNER!

EATING OUTd Food near bars satisfies • by Matt Baume

ttention, hungry clubbers, bar-goers, and late-night partiers. You’ve been out dancing and drinking the night away when you suddenly realize how empty your stomach is. Worry not: whether you’re in the depths of the Castro, strolling the Mission, or hitting SoMa, there’s plenty of grub within reach of your venue. The secret’s out about the Castro’s favorite Indian fare. Kasa turns into a crowded mob around dinner time. Efficient assembly-line ordering keeps a brisk pace, but they close a bit early for club-goers: 11pm on the weekend. (The Marina location stays open until past 2am.) For $5 apiece, you’ll get a variety of cheap rolls that burst with flavor. Try the lamb curry, chicken tikka, karahi paneer, and don’t forget to opt in to the generous sides of rice and chutneys. If you’re looking for a filling dinner to kick off your evening, swing by Ike’s. The notorious storefront may have been shuttered by grumpy neighbors, but Ike relocated to Lime and keeps serving up his show-stopping food from Monday to Saturday until 7pm. Stroll on in and place your order, and prepare to have your mind blown by a sandwich that could launch a thousand ships. Stop by on your birthday and you’ll get a free meal. For a wider dinner selection, consider the Cove Cafe, at a location that dates back to the Casto’s pregay days. The specialty is comfort foods like mac and cheese, shepherd’s pie, and hash browns. And if you’re just waking up from a night on the town, the buckwheat pancakes and scrambled eggs get 10 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

rave reviews. The relaxed atmosphere gives the place a calm, almost sleepy, vibe. You won’t get a more personalized burger in the Castro than at Sliders, where the rotating grill in the window lures in many a late-night partier. There’s turkey and chicken and veggie patties if beef isn’t your thing, and they’re known to be generous with the bacon. But the real treat is the voluminous toppings bar, where you can stack your food high with whatever you like. If you’re sitting down to eat, beware of the unflattering fluorescent lights. The Castro has plenty of good restaurants, but for Mexican food, Leticia’s is a popular and handy locale. With its festive décor and broad windows letting in warm light, the buzz from frozen Margeritas, combined with some tasty enchiladas or burritos, make for a great night’s eating (open till 1pm) or a great alternative brunch spot. Over in the Mission, the superstars of late-night cuisine are the hotdog-bacon carts. Usually found near 24th and Mission, your nose will lead you straight to the $3 grease-bombs. Get ‘em with onions on top, or jalapenos if you need a little pick-me-up. And does it even need to be said that they’re cashonly? For an indoor experience, hit Taqueria Cancun, open until 2am on weekends. The free chips are just what you need after a night of dancing, and the salsa verde is not to be missed. Get the burrito mojado for the most bang for your buck, or the vegetarian burrito for an eye-openingly delicious experience.

Jim Provenzano

Enjoying drinks and dinner (on its way) at Leticia’s

Rick Gerharter

You may have the good fortune to spot one of are infinitely patient with the drunkish clientele, who the El Toyanese taco trucks if you’re out strolling flock from nearby clubs for crepes with Nutella and on Folsom around 19th. The super-burritos, fruit, smoked turkey, or avocado, and the cornucopia renowned for their juiciness, will fill you right of hot sauces. Fill up on some ritzy eats up while delighting your with a trip to Oola, near tongue, especially if you’re Folsom and 5th. The tenfeeling daring and try the dollar bottomless mimosas lengua. With lengthy lines will keep you occupied forming on the sidewalk, until you get your croque it’s no wonder people rent madame, mussels, or fallthe trucks for parties and off-the-bone ribs. The weddings. fried chicken may bring Looking for fine dining? back childhood memories, Drop by Beretta. Waits as it’s been frequently can be long, but you can compared to a classed-up hang out by the bar until McNugget. a table opens up, all the Vivica performing at Asia SF Over at Asia SF, the while sampling masterful cocktails like the Acadian (rye, honey, gin, and welcome atmosphere extends all the way to shots absinthe), the Paloma (tequila and grapefruit), or offered from between hostess’ breasts. And those the Lonsdale (scotch and root beer). Once you’re breasts have a story to tell, since the entertainers are seated, try the kobe steak, the saffron risotto, or all transgender ladies. Watch the singing and dancing the fava bean bruschette. Then top it off with a while you down tuna sashimi, crab cakes, and orange lamb sirloin, then head downstairs for a little dancing strawberry tart and marscapone. Should you find yourself traversing the Mission/ of your own. Just watch your wallet: the prix fixe SoMa divide, keep an eye out for Crepes A Go Go, a menu is $50 a person before drinks. After all, it’s hard work being a nonstop party truck on 11th between Folsom and Harrison. Bundle up, because there’s no indoors. Just a casual clutch of animal, but you’ve got to come up for food lawn chairs and plenty of standing room. The staff sometime. ✸

Steven Underhill

Enjoying a glass of wine at Catch

SAVORY SIPSd • by Heather Cassell

ressed up or dressed down, wine brings a casual class to any meal, which is appealing to queers. in spite of being the most popular beverage ordered with evening meals, according to recent surveys, gay and lesbians wine connoisseurs have largely been invisible in wine country and in the wine market, according to some gay and lesbian wine experts. Gay and lesbian wine industry insiders and passionate connoisseurs have been working to close the gap between California’s wine country and the gay mecca within recent years with wine socials, restaurants and bars, and now wine travel companies geared towards the LGBT community. “Mark and I want to make this a destination for our community,” said Gary Saperstein, co-founder of Out in the Vineyards, of Sonoma in the heart of California’s wine country. Saperstein and his business partner and friend, Mark Vogler, noticed that the gay market was barely on the wine industry’s radar. “Sonoma feels like going France or Italy,” Vogler said. Janine Falvo, an openly lesbian executive chef

Pat Johnson Studios

Gals at Out in the Vineyard’s Twilight T-Dance

of Carnero Bistro and Wine Bar at the Lodge at Sonoma Renaissance Resort and Spa, who has worked with Saperstein and Vogler, agreed. “It is so close to the city, but you feel like you are in a different part of the county when you come up to Sonoma,” said Falvo, who flavors her Mediterranean style dishes with ingredients from her garden and pairs it with wines from local vineyards. “It’s a romantic destination.” “This is a global luxury destination and no one has put a program together to make the LGBT market feel comfortable,” said Vogler about tailoring wine events and tours to the queer community. They launched their first event, Twilight T-Dance, a Pride celebration and fundraiser for various organizations, at Atwood Ranch & Vineyard in Glen Ellen in June. The event was a hit, the men said. Since then they’ve hosted several other popular events and are looking forward to 2011. Queers looking for a quick wine fix have an increasing amount of choices in the Castro. Café Flore has offered a choice selection of wines and spirits since 1973 along with great food, deserts, and coffee, said J.D. Petras, the café’s owner, representative, who asked not to be identified. Café Flore isn’t alone in the Castro wine rush. Swirl on Castro, opened in 2005, and Blush! wine bar followed suit four years later. Betty Sullivan, founder of Betty’s List, which provides community news and social events for queer women, has hosted Wine Time, a monthly gathering of queer women celebrating women wineries and lesbians in the wine industry, since 2008. “People love wine and wine lovers enjoy it,” said Sullivan, who hosts the popular event at 2223 Restaurant, as she sipped wine from St. Supery Vineyards and Winery with a room full of women. Heather Findlay, the former publisher and editor of Girlfriends and On Our Backs magazines agreed with Sullivan that queer women love wine. “Women buy and drink a lion’s share of wine,” said Findlay, who launched WineGirlOnline.com in 2006 and attends a private wine tasting group that has been gathering since 2002. ✸ November 2010 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 13

• by Ronn Vigh

Home’s cozy fireplace and Bloody Mary table

parties, birthdays and other celebrations,” she notes. “We pride ourselves on elaborate costumes, professional drag, local humor, and a great variety of musical types…. a show worthy of Las Vegas!”

BRUNCH CAN BE A DRAG After dark, you can’t throw a handful of glitter without hitting a drag queen. Then, they scatter like cockroaches with the first hint of morning light. Still, occasionally, comedic tranny tart Pippi Lovestocking manages to wake up before sundown, and craves more for brunch than three cans of Red Bull. When that happens, Pippi boasts about the brunch at Harvey’s in the Castro: “It is queenveniently located, and the food is delish.” Harvey’s casual setting and sense of community is also a draw for San Francisco’s most recognizable lady in red, Donna Sachet-- on the rare occasions she gets to play hooky from her weekly brunch revue at Harry Denton’s Starlight Room, Sunday’s a Drag. Running five years strong, Sachet is proud of the diverse crowds the weekly brunch-hour show’s Union Square location attracts: “it’s a mix of gay and straight, old and young, families, bridesmaids’

FAG HAG FAVES Most gay men have at least one straight lady friend to share their mimosas—and their most precious secrets. Call these ladies what you want: fag hags, fruit flies or queer peers. Whatever the label, these lovely ladies are a staple in our development and faithful constant brunch companions. Katie Compa loves her role as a fag hag: “I’m a single woman in San Francisco, so of course I’m surrounded by gays. I’m at brunch all the time—it doesn’t actually matter when. At 7:30 on Tuesday night I’m having mimosas and crepes.” One of her top picks for brunch on the weekend is the sophisticated yet not too snooty surroundings of 2223, which is located at that address on Market Street. “I’m in heaven with so many gays both dining and working there, and I always run into a friend or five,” says Compa. “You can tell they have a large gay clientele by the carbless egg white scramble.” Longtime Castro residents Kimyn Braithwaite and Anita Drieseberg also find themselves surrounded by a table of gay men over most meals. When it comes to brunch in the neighborhood, Braithwaite prefers the more traditional, “downhome” digs of Orphan Andy’s. “I just enjoy the ‘greasy spoon’ nature of this place and its central

elcome to San Francisco, where brunch is not just a meal-- it’s a way of life. The City by the Bay’s restaurants are just as diverse as its community, and the weekends often bring lengthy wait lists and foggy-minded folks together over possibly the most important meal of the week. For one left feeling a bit scrambled from the night before, there’s no better cure than the hometown hangover remedy of sharing the juiciest gossip with friends over a table stacked with coffee, eggs and, well-- more booze.

14 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

Jim Provenzano

BRUNCH BUNCHd

BLOODY GOOD, MARY Situated in the heart of the Castro (at Market and Castro St.), Bisou, “petit baiser,” in English “Kiss” is bringing traditional French cuisine in a new style and based on locally and organically grown products. Bisou offers dinner and weekend brunch menus with bottomless mimosa and Bloody Marys, but also provides latenight dinner that pairs well with a delicious cocktail or glass of wine. For a romantic or casual meal, you can’t beat French style in the heart of the Castro. The Bloody Mary Bar at Home Restaurant causes quite a stir among locals. While some consider making decent Bloody Marys an art, it’s the doit-yourself deal at Home that keeps the crowds coming every weekend. Five dollars gets you a glass with a shot of alcohol delivered to your table, and

then you can stroll through the Sizzler-style table of exotic toppings, including hot sauce, cipollini onions and gherkins to create your own lavish alcoholic masterpiece. On a warm sunny day you can enjoy the patio at Flipper’s, located on Hayes Street next door to the historic gay bar Marlena’s. It’s busy on weekends, but you never wait too long for the wraps, omelets and salmon burgers, served with temptingly caloric curly fries. The Bloody Marys at Harvey’s also bring on big smiles, due to their substantial size and punny names such as the Bloody Mary Tyler Brunch and breakfast at Moore and Bloody Flipper’s Mary Lou Retton. Harvey’s general manager Steve Porter says, “People come from all over the Bay Area and beyond, because they have heard about our wonderful Bloody Marys.” My mother always met with resistance when she hounded me to eat my vegetables as a child, but now I have no problem eating them-- with creations as beautiful and tasty as these, I’d prefer to drink my five a day. ✸ Jim Provenzano

location.” Illustrator Anita Driesberg also chooses the classic feel of Sparky’s, noting, “It’s not very glamorous, but it is nearby and the food is delicious!”

eON THE TA~B f ~November ★

members Marcia Gay Harden, Joe Mantello and Stephen m SSpinella in attendance. $350. 6:30pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. 2255-4800. www.mpdsf.org

Bearracuda @ DNA Lounge Celebrate Bearracuda genius Matt Mikesell’s 35th birthday, C with a stage show featuring Christeene, Peaches Christ, w Smash-Up Derby, Holy McGrail, Suppositori Spelling; DJs Steve Sherwood, Pee Play, Boyshapedbox and Dabecy. $8. 9pm-3am. 375 11th St. www.dnalounge.com www.bearracuda.com

Chicken Strip @ The Cinch

Thu 4➠ Courtney Act @ The Rrazz Room

Courtney act

Australian drag queen with a snazzy style performs. $20. 10:30pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

David Crowe @ Holly’s Comedy Club Straight comic performs at the first show for the new comedy club, bar and restaurant. $18-$20. 8pm. Also Fri & Sat 8pm & 10:30pm. Mezzanine, Don Lee Bldg., 1000 Van Ness Ave. 346-5597. www.hollyscomedyclub.com

Mark Twain Ball @ Herbst Theatre Green Room Litquake honors the publication of the Autobiography of Mark Twain with a huge party. Don a real or fake mustache, Twain-era garb, or simply enjoy ragtime music, theatrical performances by A.C.T. actors reading as Twin, specialty period coktails, food and more. $20. 7pm. 401 Van Ness Ave. www.litquake.org

Sheryl Lee Ralph @ The Rrazz Room

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Original Dreamgirl on Broadway returns with her fab cabaret act. $40-$45. 8pm. Nov. 5, 8pm. Nov 9, 9pm. Nov 7, 7:30pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Nightlife @ California Academy of Sciences Weekly parties with different themes at the new museum of life sciences. Enjoy the exhibits while drinking and schmoozing. $12. 21+. 6pm-10pm. Golden Gate Park. www.calacademy.org/nightlife

Fri 5➠ Angels in America at 20 @ Museum of Performance & Design Opening gala of an exhibit documenting the award-winning Tony Kushner drama, with co-chairs and original cast

18 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

Juanita Fajita brings her frisky and unpredictable male strip contest to The Cinch every Friday night. Juanita’s Taco Truck starts at 8:30pm for your late night cravings. Strip contest starts at 10:30pm. Cash prizes for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place ($25-$75). The Cinch 1723 Polk St. at Clay.

Chita Rivera @ The Venetian Room Award-winning actress, singer and dancer brings her new cabaret show, My Broadway, to the ultra-classy renovated hotel Chita Rivera dining hall. featuring songs from West Side Story, Sweet Charity, Kiss of the Spider Woman and more. $55-$60. 8pm. Fairmont Hotel, 900 Mason St. 392-4400. www.bayareacabaret.org

Cultural Encounters @ de Young Museum Weekly parties that mix live and DJed music, hands-on art projects for all ages, and drinks and a fun scene. Tonight’s the grand finale of the Mission Muralismo series, with artists and performances focusing on Bay area mural artists. Free$20. 5pm-8:45pm. Golden Gate Park. www.famsf.org www.deyoungmuseum.org

Ghetto Disco @ The Endup DJs Hawthorne and guests spin dance grooves til dawn. $15$20. Free before 12am. 11pm-6am. 401 6th St. at Harrison. 646-0999. www.theendup.com

Jeffrey Johnson @ The Rrazz Room Drag performer recreates Little Edie Beale’s infamous 1978 cabaret act “Live at Reno Sweeney.” $25. 10:30pm. Also Nov. 6. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Teatro Zinzanni @ Pier 29 Hail Ceasar! is the current show at the theatre-tent-dinner extravaganza with comic Frank Ferrante, twin acrobats Ming and Rui, Vertical Tango rope dance, plus magic, comedy, a five-course dinner, and a lot of fun. $117-$145. Saturday 11:30am “Breve” show $63--$78. Wed-Sat 6pm (Sun 5pm). Pier 29 at Embarcadero Ave. 438-2668. www.teatrozinzanni.com

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BeardSummit

eON THE TA~B f

Thievery Corporation

~From page 18

★

Truck Wash @ Truck Live shower show with hot guys getting wet. 10pm-ish-2am. 1900 15th St. 252-0306. www.trucksf.com

Sat 6➠ Aventura @ Alameda Bay Women’s party on a yacht cruise around the San Francisco Bay, with DJ Mas playing Latin dance music, appetizers and an open bar. Black tie/formal attire. $60. 8pm board from Alameda dock. (510) 282-2142. (415) 706-7333.

Cockfight @ Underground SF Culture Whores’ big slutty dance party in a little club, with Pansy the Drunken Panda and saucy gogo guys. Now 1st and 3rd Saturdays. $7. 9pm-2am. 424 Haight St. www.cockfightsf.com

Plus 30 @ War Memorial Green Room Interactive party with dancing, entertainment, DJ Frantik, flagging, Imperial Court royalty, celebrating and sharing experiences of those who have survived the AIDS epidemic. Hosted by the American Legion Post 448, SF Defenders, Rich Trove and the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence. Donations. Hors d’eouvres and cash bar. 2pm-5pm. 401 Van Ness Ave., 2nd floor. www.richtrove.com

Sun 7➠

Deana Martin @ The Rrazz Room

Afternoon Delight @ Deco Lounge

Daughter of Dean Martin performs many of his hits. $35-$45. 7pm. Also Nov. 7, 5pm; Nov. 8, 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Weekly Sunday T-dance with DJ Pirate spinning 70s, 80s and new stuff. 21+. 4pm-8pm. 510 Larkin St. www.decorsf.com

Eclectic trip-hop bands with a shared moody pop edge share a concert. $55. 7pm. Hearst St. at Gayley. (510) 809-0100. www.massiveattack.com www.thieverycorporation.com www.apeconcerts.com

Le Perle Degli Squallor @ Hot Spot DJ Bus Station John’s intimate monthly (1st Saturdays) retro disco night re-decorates the cozy dive bar into a cool dance hangout and upstairs cruise space; popular with bear cubs and friendly hipsters. 2 for 1 drinks 9pm-11pm. Open til 2am. $5. 1414 Market St. at Van Ness.

Ginger Snap hosts the wild and sexy night of newbies gettin’ nude. $100 cash prize! DJ Lambchop spins tunes. 510 Larkin St. at Turk. 346-2025. www.decosf.com

Beer Bust @ SF Eagle The most popular daytime gay bar event in Northern California, with benefits for local LGBT and AIDS charities and organizations. $10 (for beer bust). 3pm-6pm. 12th St. at Harrison. www.sfeagle.com

Dot429 Brunch @ Adagio Hotel LGBT networking group hosts another brunch with a view. $35-$40. 12pm-3pm. Penthouse, 550 Geary St. www.dot429.com

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20 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

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Massive Attack, Thievery Corporation @ The Greek Theatre, Berkeley

All-Male Amateur Strip Show @ Deco Lounge

f eON THE TAB ~ ~From page 20

★

Honey Soundsystem @ Holy Cow The coolest Sunday music mix crew has moved yet again, but not too far, and to the original home of The Stud. Look for the suspended cow. 10pm-2am. 1535 Folsom St. at 11th. www.honeysoundsystem.com

Wed 10➠ The Bobs @ Café Du Nord Grammy-nominated local band (back after 10 years) that’s been described as a cross between Manhattan Transfer and Jimi Hendrix perform their unusual music. $24. 21+. 9pm. 2170 Market St. 861-5016. www.bobs.com www.cafedunord.com

Booty Call @ Q Bar

Moulin Rouge-themed night of the local court party, with Cookie Dough and others. 5pm-9pm. 1500 Howard St. www.sfducal.org

Juanita More! and her More Boys celebrate three years of Bootyness, with Juanita and Joshua J. DJing, with guests W. Jeremy and Christy Love from House of Stank (NYC). Dress up for Isaac’s glam portrait booth in the back. $3-$5. 9pm2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore. com www.bootycallwednesdays.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550

Josh Klipp @ Enrico’s

Ducal Investiture @ The Arc

Sundance Saloon presents countrywestern dancing for the LGBT community Josh Klipp and its friends two night a week, every Sunday and Thursday. The club is always packed with friendly urban cowboys and cowgirls two-stepping and line dancing the night away. $5. 21+. Sundays 5pm-10:30pm, lessons 5:30–7:15pm. Thursdays 6:30–10:30pm, lessons 7pm-8pm. 550 Barneveld Ave., near Bayshore and Industrial. www.sundancesaloon.org

Mon 8➠

Local singer performs with his band, The Klipptones, as they record for their first live CD. 7pm-10pm. 504 Broadway. www.facebook.com/joshua.klipp

Matthew Martin @ The Rrazz Room Local drag celebs performs his Bette Davis, Peggy Lee, Kate Hepburn and other musical impressions. $30. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www. TheRrazzRoom.com

Kosher Comedy @ El Rio

Men’s Club @ SoMa Bars

Dhaya Lakshminarayanan, Pippi Lovestocking, Sammy Obeid, David Kleinberg and Lisa Geduldig perform diverse comic stand-up acts. $7-$20. 8pm. 3158 Mission st. at Precita. (800) 838-3006. www.koshercomedy.com www.elriosf.com

Tue 9➠ Butch Queen @ Delirium

Butch Queen

Joshua J. and Robert Jeffery’s new weekly night for homos and friends. No cover. 10pm-2am. 3139 16th St. at Guererro. www.joshuajpresents.com

Dianne Fraser @ The Rrazz Room Los Angeles singer performs cabaret songs with pianist Brad Ellis (Glee). $20. 8pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s Ronn Vigh hosts the weekly LGBT and gay-friendly comedy night. One-drink or menu item minimum. 9pm. 500 Castro St. at 18th. 431-HARV. www.harveyssf.com

Ladies Night @ Q Bar Women’s night, with DJ Ms. Jackson, half-off drinks. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.qbarsf.com

22 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

Matthew Martin

Got your dogtags? No? Get ‘em! Enjoy drink specials and other fun stuff at themed nights at Chaps, The Eagle, The Powerhouse, Truck and Hole in the Wall. 21+. www.lonestarsaloon.com

Messy Wednesdays @ Lime New weekly night with sexy DJ Tristan Jaxx and caliente gogo dudes, Mexican food served up hot, plus Tequila, Tecates, Margarita specials. 6pm-10pm. 2247 Market St.

Mexican Radio @ Lone Star Saloon Twice monthly (2nd and last Wed) fun night with gogo guys, cheap drink specials ($2 Bud, Bud Light and Rolling Rock draft), DJ Carsonova, and beartastic ambiance. 7pm-11pm. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsaloon.com

Thu 11➠ The Crib @ City Nights Pop music club night with scantily-clad gogo studs. $10. 18+. 9:30pm-3am. 715 Harrison St. at 3rd. www.thecribsf.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Retro tunes and retro cruisy crowd, each Thursday in the risky part of town. DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

Brandon Flowers @ Fox Theatre, Oakland

Jennifer Holliday @ The Castro Theatre

Lead singer for The Killers performs songs from his new solo album. Fran Healy opens. $30. 8pm. 1807 Telegraph Ave. www.apeconcerts.com

The Rrazz Room presents Dreamgirls’ original Effie performs her classic and new songs. $30-$80. 8pm. 429 Castro st. www.castrotheatre.com www.therrazzroom.com

Fri 12➠

Latin Explosion @ Bench and Bar, Oakland

Bad Girl Cocktail Hour @ The Lexington Club

Boy Bar @ The Cafe Full Frontal Fridays at the renovated popular club. Matt DJs, twinky boiz gogo dance. $10 or something like that. 9pm2am. 2369 Market St. at Castro. www.guspresents.com

Club Dragon @ Club Eight Weekly Asian gay dance club with frequent themed nights. Oct. 8 has a White Party theme., with DJ Pornstar. 1151 Folsom St. at 7th. 431-1151. www.clubdragonsf.com

Renovated gay Latin dance club (eight bars, more dance floors, lounge) shows off their hottests gogo studs. 9pm-2am. 510 17th St. (510) 444-2266. www.bench-and-bar.com Brandon Flowers

Salsa Club @ Cafe Cocomo Same-sex dancing and lessons with a live band. 21+. 8:30pm-12am. 650 Indiana St. www.QueerBallroom.com

Tattoo Fridays @ The Stud Show off your ink. DJ Adrian Taylor spins house and hiphop; gogo dudes shake it. $6. 10pm-3am. 21+. 9th St. at Harrison. www.studsf.com

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Every Friday night, bad girls can get $1 dollar margaritas between 9pm and 10pm. All drinks being served up by the fabulous bartending duo of Tanya and Amy. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 863-2052. www.lexingtonclub.com

November 2010 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 23

f eON THE TAB ~ ~From page 23

★

Sun 14➠

This Charming Band @ Café Du Nord Smiths cover band performs. For the Masses, a Depeche Mode tribute band, opens. $12. 21+. 9:30pm. 2170 Market St. 861-5016. www.bobs.com www.cafedunord.com

Cocktailgate @ Truck Suppositori Spelling’s weekly wild drag show at the cut lil gay bar. 10pm-ish-2am. 1900 15th St. 252-0306. www.trucksf.com

Medical Cannabis Competition @ Club Cocomo

Sat 13➠ Big Deal @ SOMArts Cultural Center Visual Aid’s annual massive art auction, with hundreds of interesting works of art donated, plus other items; wines, vacations, gift certificates and lots more. DJed music, drinks, food and a fab artsy crowd. $40 and up. Preview 4pm. Auction 6pm-9pm. 934 Brannan St. www.visualaid.org

Cockblock @ Rickshaw Stop Lesbo-rific queer homo dance night (each 2nd & 4th Saturday). $5-$7. 21+. 10pm-2am. 155 Fell St. www.rickshawstop.com

Devo @ The Warfield Whip it good with the whimsical robotic pop quintet. $35-$97. 9pm. 982 Market St. www.thewarfieldtheatre.com

Frolic @ The Stud Monthly costume dance party for Furries and friends. Dress up and dance, you animal. $7 w/o $3 with costume. 9pm-2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.neonbunny.com/frolic www.studsf.com

4th annual competition for the best bud. Judges and VIPs pay extra ($250-$350) to sample and judge dispensarys’ wares. General admission $18. Only qualified California Medical Cannabis patients 18 Devo and over can sample the pot. 2pm-10pm. 650 Indiana St. www.sfsafeaccess.org www.cafecocomo.com

Sunday’s a Drag @ Starlight Room Donna Sachet and Harry Denton host the weekly fabulous brunch and drag show. $45. 11am, show at noon; 1:30pm, show at 2:30pm. 450 Powell St. in Union Square. 395-8595. www.harrydenton.com

Swing-out Sundays @ Rock-it Room Slim Jenkins and other bands play weekly for your same- and opposite-sex swing dancing pleasure. $5 includes a lesson. 8pm-11pm. 406 Clement St. www.SwingChampionships.com

Mon 15➠ Monday Night Smackdown @ Bloodhound Football and food trucks blend each week in a beer and cocktail night at the stylishly rustic mixed/gay-friendly bar. 1145 Folsom St at 7th. www. bloodhoundsf.com

JUNGLE @ Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Vallejo

One Night Only @ Marines Memorial Theater

Chris Salvatore at JUNGLE

Recovery Theatre @ Martuni’s Cabaret theatre work, Night at the Black Hawk, recreates the 1960s Tenderloin nightspot with a musical tribute; Geoffrey Grier hosts. 6pm-8pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.sfrecoverytheatre.org

Writers With Drinks @ The Make Out Room Author Larry-bob Roberts (The International Homosexual

24 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

Cast members from the touring production of West Side Story, Erich Bergan of Jersey Boys, Jai Rodrigez, Kalil Wilson, and cabaret chanteuse Wesla Whitfield perform at a benefit for the Richmond/Ermet AIDS Foundation. $25-$75. 7:30pm. 609 Sutter St. 273-1620. www.HelpIsOnTheWay.org

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

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Jointly Unified in a Nighttime Gay/ Lesbian Event invades the theme park, with performers Jessica and Hunter, Chris Salvatore, The Perry Twins, and MC Pollo Del Mar. $25 and up. 1001 Fairgrounds Drive, Vallejo. www.sixflags.com

Conspiracy) and others read, with host Charlie Jane Anders. $5-$10. 7:30pm. 3225 22nd St. www.writerswithdrinks.com www.makeoutroom.com

f eON THE TAB ~ ~From page 24

★

Tue 16➠ Blue Room Comedy @ Club 93 Weekly adults-only jokes with host David Hawkins giving it a queer bent at the divey small bar. 10pm. 93 9th St. at Mission.

Tank @ Trigger Muscle guy happy hour with DJs Hawthorne and James Torres. 7pm-10pm. 2344 Market St. 551-CLUB. www.clubTrigger.com

Sister Roma

tell bedtime stories at the elegant dinner gala fundraiser for Bay Positives, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary. After party DJs Grind, Anita Lofton and Floozy Flo. $125-$175. 6pm-2am. 657 Harrison St. at 3rd. www. baypozgala.eventbrite.com www.supperclub.com

Juicy @ The White Horse, Oakland Hip Hop, R&B and soul. 9pm. (karaoke, drag king shows other nights, too). 6551 Telegraph Ave. (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com

Live Bands @ SF Eagle Local and touring bands perform live rock music at the famed bar. $7. 9:30pm. 12th St. at Harrison. www. hankbobbit.com www.sfeagle.com

Wed 17➠ A-List Martini Nights @ Bar TBA

Fri 19➠

Ongoing popular weekly social and networking event for gay men and their friends. Sign up to get invites to a different bar each week. 9pm-12am. www.sfalist.com

Bob Mould @ Swedish Hall

Dine Around, Shop Around, Drink Around @ SF Businesses Fundraiser with an easy plan. Shop, eat, or have drinks at participating businesses, and a portion of your bill goes to the the AIDS/Breast Cancer Emergency Fund. www. dineshopdrink.org www. aef-sf.org

Dining by Design @ Galleria Gala benefit dinner for the design industry AIDS nonprofit, with local designers, stores and caterers creating unique display table settings. $500. 6:30pm-11pm. 101 Henry Adams St. (preview party Wed. Nov. 17, 6pm-10pm, $100). www.diffasf.org

Mexican Radio @ Lone Star Saloon Latin music night at the bear bar, with gogo guys, drink specials and DJed music. 2nd and 4th Wednesdays. 1354 Harrison St. at 10th. www.lonestarsaloon.com

Ruben Studdard @ The Rrazz Room American Idol winner performs R&B, Gospel and pop music songs. $40-$45. Thru Nov 20 at 8pm. Nov 21, 7pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Thu 18➠ Bedtime Stories @ Supperclub Cozy up to LGBT takes on fairy tales as performers, singers and drag queens (Donna Sachet, Sister Roma, Marga Gomez)

26 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

Bob Mould

Founder of Husker Du, Sugar, and the popular Blowoff co-DJ performs solo acoustic music. $22. All ages. 8pm. 2170 Market St. 861-5016. www.cafedunord.com

Jason Stuart, Michele Balan @ The Rrazz Room Gay and lesbian comics share the bill and tell gay jokes, gaily. $30. 10:15pm. Also Nov 20, 10:15pm and Nov 21, 4pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 468-3399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Snap-a-Licious @ Deco Lounge Ginger Snap’s fun drag show features Holotta Tymes, Mahlae Balenciaga, Synergy, Kylie Minono and more. 10pm-2am. 510 Larkin St. at Turk. www.decosf.com

Sat 20➠ Artumnal Gathering @ Bently Reserve Burning Man’s arts grant orgnization’s 4th annual gala; Playa devotees party in three elegant rooms, each overflowing with art, each offering a stunning array of featured live performances including soaring aerial artistry, raffles, silent auction, and music and DJs to dance the night away. Festive Burning Man attire. Dinner 6pm ($250). Party 9:30pm ($35-$45). 400 Sansome St. www.blackrockarts.org/events/artumnal

Fauxgirls @ Kimo’s Classic drag show with Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Davida Ashton, Tiger Lily, Maria Garza and more; each 3rd Saturday. No cover. 10pm. 1351 Polk St. 885-4535. www.fauxgirls.com

Queer All-Stars @ El Rio Live shows, DJ mash-ups and more from the London-based

Artumnal Gatering. See Sat

Coral Short, Paris’ DJ De Kutt, Diamond Daggers, Lynne Breedlove, and Dorian Wood. $15-$20. 4pm-9pm. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.com

Wet & Wild @ Club Eight Monthly fun club kid night celebrates its first anniversary, with dripping wet gogo guys, electro pop bumping, dragsters vamping and progressive mixes banging. Hostess Lady TaTas, drag acts by Charisma Glitterati, Suppositori Spelling and Fame Munro DJs Haute Toddy and Genius Boy. $3-$8. 9pm-3am. 1151 Folsom St. at 8th. www.eightsf.com

Sun 21➠ Adam Pascal, Anthony Rapp @ The Venetian Room Costars of the long-running musical Rent perform an acoustic concert of songs from Aida, Spring Awakening and Rent. $20-$75 (post-show party). 8pm. Fairmont Hotel, 900 Mason St. 392-4400. www.bayareacabaret.org

Big @ The Stud Monthly dance party for big men and their friends (3rd Sundays). $5. 6pm-11am. 399 9th St. www.phattestevents.com www.studsf.com

Fresh @ Ruby Skye Pre-Thanksgiving T-dance, with DJ Phil B., hot gogo guys and gals, and ample space to dance off those holiday calories, in advance. $20-$25. 21+. 6pm-12am. 420 Mason St. at Geary. www.freshsf.com

Jock @ The Lookout Afternoon schmooze and booze, with door and donations benefiting gay sports teams. $2. 3pm-8pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. 431-0306. www.myspace.com/JockatLookout

Leche @ Trigger New Sunday Latin T-dance, with Margaritas, tequila shots, gogo studs and drag show by Sasha. 4pm-10pm. 2344 Market St. 675-9763. www.clubpapi.com

Mon 22 ➠ Testarossa @ Trigger

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New weekly 80s costume party with 80s videos and music; VJ Mark Andrus, with Don Lynch. 9pm-ish. 16th St. at Noe & Market. www.clubTrigger.com

November 2010 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 27

f eON THE TAB ~ ~From page 27

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Tue 23 ➠ Robyn @ The Warfield Swedish R&B pop star with a devoted gay following performs; Maluca and Natalia Kills also sing. $22-$32. 7:30pm. 982 Market St. www.robyn.com www.thewarfieldtheatre.com

Wed 24➠ Booty Call @ Q Bar Juanita More! and her More Boys entertain and host the midweek happenin’ Castro event. $3-$5. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com

Thu 25➠ Thanksgiving Day Don’t cook! Dine out at your favorite restaurant.

Fri 26➠ Ghetto Disco @ The Endup DJs Hawthorne and guests spin dance grooves til dawn. $15$20. Free before 12am. 11pm-6am. 401 6th St. at Harrison. 646-0999. www.theendup.com

Ottmar Liebert @ The Rrazz Room Acclaimed solo guitarist performs flamenco, jazz, and world music. $42.50. 8pm. Also Nov 27, 7pm & 9:30pm. Nov 28, 7pm. 2-drink min. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. (866) 4683399. www.TheRrazzRoom.com

Sat 27➠ Big Top @ Club Eight Joshua J. Cook’s saucy monthly party hosts the Mister Big Top contest. Are you a big top? Maybe you’re a hot bottom. Who cares? Sign up, or come by to see the contest, with horny gogo guys and fun tunes. $5-$15. 9pm-3am. 1151 Folsom St. www.eightsf.com www.joshuajpresents.com

Blowoff @ Slim’s Bob Mould and Rich Morel return with their popular DJ night; dance-able mixes, fun visuals, and a lot of gay bears of all sizes. $15. 10pm-2am. 333 11th St. www.blowoff.us www.slims-sf.com

Go Bang! @ Deco Lounge Disco new-retro dance night celebrates its second anniversary, with DJs Ken Vulision Tres Lingerie, James Anthony performing live, and hosts Sergio and Steve Fabus bringing the fun ambiance and cheap drinks. $5. 9pm-3am. 510 Larkin St. at Turk. www.gobangsf.com

Mango @ El Rio The wild fun dance, eat, drink and enjoy party for women. Mango happens the 4th Saturday of every month from 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 3158 Mission Street. www.elriosf.com

Sun 28➠ Beer Bust @ SF Eagle The most popular daytime gay bar event in Northern California, with benefits for local LGBT and AIDS charities and organizations. $10 (for beer bust). 3pm-6pm. 12th St. at Harrison. www.sfeagle.com

Beer Bust @ Lone Star Saloon Benefit for Bears Of San Francisco. 4pm-8pm. 1354 Harrison St. www.lonestarsaloon.com

Mon 29➠ Weezer @ Masonic Auditorium Dude. That cool band performs new songs from Hurley, and other tunes as hipster fans go wild. $28-$117. 8pm. 1111 California St. Also Nov. 30. www.weezer.com

Songs of the Season @ The Rrazz Room Donna Sachet hosts the 18th Annual benefit for the AIDS Emergency Fund, with performances by Sharon McNight,

Abigail Zsiga, Vicki Shepard, and more. Lu Conrad presents a very special opening night reception Nov. 29; a lavish pre-show reception catered by Taste, a hosted champagne reception after the show with the performers, sponsored by Barefoot Wine & Bubbly. $75. 6:30pm10pm. Tuesday and Wednesday shows: $50 (8pm-10pm) including a hosted champagne reception with the performers. Hotel Nikko, 222 Mason St. www.songsoftheseason.net

Tue 30➠ Give the Gift of Success @ Monaco San Francisco Holiday party with cocktails, live and silent auction Big Top, see Sat, Nov. 27 (travel packages, dining and entertainment). Proceeds benefit Dress for Success San Francisco, which provides business clothes and career development for men and women returning to the workforce. $85-$500 (VIP includes private reception with Project Runway designer Christopher Collins). 5:30pm-9pm. 501 Geary St. 362-0034. www.dressforsuccess.org/sanfrancisco

November 2010 • bartabsf.com • BAR★TAB 29

eBARchive f ★

COME AS YOU AREd L

esbian life in San Francisco wouldn’t be the same without Amelia’s or Maud’s bars, where women once flocked to find community and more for nearly a quarter of a century. It was all because of the nightclubs’ owner, the late Rikki Streicher, who dug her roots into the bedrock of San Francisco, stretched her influence throughout the community, and flourished for nearly a quarter century. Streicher died in 1994, but not without making a profound impact with her historic bars and passion for women in sports and community. Streicher backed many women’s sports leagues, especially the Gay Softball League, and co-organizing the Gay Games in San Francisco before co-founding the Federation of Gay Games. She also hobnobbed with community and political leaders and pushing for progress for the LGBT community. Maud’s opened in 1966 in the “twilight of the closeted days and the beginning of the hippies,” and before women were allowed to tend bar, unless they were the owners, said former bar manager Susan Fahey. Streicher had a “no labels” policy, throwing out the rules of yesteryear and embracing everyone. It was unusual in the days of strong butch/femme identity adhered to at the half dozen of the city’s lesbian bars at the time, including Peg’s Place in the Inner Richmond, which followed strict butch/ femme dress codes and manners, and Olive Oil’s at Pier 350, which was a dressy affair, as well. “It was a warm embracing place … people said, ‘It always felt like our living room,’” said Fahey, now public information officer for the San Francisco Sherriff ’s Department, who managed the bar for 14 years, along with Amelia’s in the Mission District. “Rikki was very clear everyone was welcome.” A dozen years after Maud’s opened its doors, Amelia’s took up residence in what was becoming the lesbihood neighboring the gayborhood, the Castro, in 1978. The younger bar took on the same community camaraderie as Maud’s, but was a little

30 BAR★TAB • bartabsf.com • November 2010

courtesy Mary Sager

• by Heather Cassell

Ricki Streicher, dressed as Amelia Earhart (center) at a Halloween party at Maud’s.

flashier with a dance floor. “It was a place to come and get dressed up, not any old bar. It became a place to be seen and be proud,” said Joan Crittenden, one of the nightclub’s original managers, who also worked at Maud’s. Amelia’s became an instant hit. There was “a line all the way down the street the whole night,” said Crittenden, recalling the excitement. “It was a very proud moment for all of us.” “[It was] absolute freedom for lesbians,” added Terri Warkenthien, who was head bartender on the second floor of Amelia’s, and managed the floor for 15 years. “There was nothing like it. We were like kids in a candy store.” Earlier this year, the bars that took Maud’s and Amelia’s places, Finnegan’s Wake and the Elbo Room, respectively, temporarily turned back the hands of time, replacing the signs and filling the bars with memorabilia from the era. ✸ For more about the Maud’s reunion during San Francisco Pride weekend earlier this year, go to BARchive online at www.BARtabSF.com