April 2013 edition of BARtab

bartabsf.com

Hello, Goodbye.

The Eagle returns; Marlena’s and KOK give their last call.

k

April 2013

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ingredients H April 2013H

Hello Again

F Page 4 f Last Call

F Page 8 f Kok Blocked

F Page 10 f On The Tab

F Pages 10-30 f BARchive: The Balcony

F Page 31f Read more stories online at www.bartabsf.com

V On the cover: Andy Cross, newly crowned Mr. SF Leather (center), is embraced by Allen Silver (Left) and Will Swagger, both Bare Chest Calendar alumni, at the San Francisco Eagle’s victory party, a few days after the bar’s re-opening in March. Photo: Rich Stadtmiller.

H H H H H H H H H H H H H Editor: Jim Provenzano, Designer: T. Scott King General Manager: Michael Yamashita Advertising Sales: Simma Baghbanbashi, Colleen Small, Scott Wazlowski Contributors: Ray Aguilera, Matt Baume, Heather Cassell, Coy Ellison, Michael Flanagan, Dr. Jack Fritscher, Marga Gomez, T. Scott King, Joshua Klipp, Michael McAllister, Sal Meza, David Elijah-Nahmod, Adam Sandel, Jim Stewart, Ronn Vigh Photography: Biron, Marques Daniels, Don Eckert, Lydia Gonzales, Rick Gerharter, Jose GuzmanColon, Georg Lester, Dan Lloyd, Jim Provenzano, Rich Stadtmiller, Jim Stewart, Monty Suwannukul, 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 Media Association National Advertising Representative: Rivendell Media (212) 242-6863

The renovated Eagle Tavern.

HELLO AGAINd

The Eagle Tavern’s Return • by Jim Provenzano Rick Gerharter

A

fter nearly two years, legal real estate wran- worked at the old Eagle for 30 years. Since many patrons were awaiting drinks, glings, liquor license his summation was succinct: “I hassles and lots of renolike it.” vations, the rumors became One of the delays that the true, and the historic San Frannew owners faced were needed cisco favorite, The Eagle Tavern, roof repairs. The rebuilt roof, finally re-opened on March 2, whose inside is painted black 2013. like most of the walls, recalls the The Eagle shut down in barn-like awning of the venue’s April 2011 after a rent dispute historic past as a carriage house. between the former owners The once-central U-shaped and the landlord. In Septembar has been removed and reber 2012, the new Eagle owners placed by a long strip on the Alex Montiel and Mike Leon paid $250,000 for the 10-year lease, with an op- east end of the front room. The front doorway no longer has the foytion of going for another er and shelf, nor the 10 years. So, hopefully leather tarp. It’s simply the threat of a high-rise a streamlined door and condo or conversion of open entryway. the venue into yet another Among the other straight hipster bar may updates are a wheelnever come to true. chair-accessible bathWith the well-timed room, placed where Mr. San Francisco Leaththe former small shop er events holding parties, used to be. The other and the extra leathermen outside urinal trough and women in San Franand inside toilet (up cisco for the festivities, three steps) are not the opening weekend was accessible, but retain a hit. Saturday’s crowd their … ahem, cruisy took in the redesigns, Alex, Jeffrey and ambiance. and opinions were overBob at the Eagle’s preStripped of their whelmingly popular. opening night. many wall adornBartender Gary has

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BARtab

• April 2013

a philosophical perspective; “When one door closes, another one opens.”

During the Eagle’s haitus, community members organized talks, fundraisers and “outlaw” events, including Northern California Leather Sir Brent Ganetta the popular (left) and David Wichman Eagle in Exile on the Eagle’s patio. events at El Rich Stadtmiller Rio. Glendon “Anna Conda” Hyde led the efforts online, at meetings and events. Hyde is also a member of the city’s Entertainment Commission.

One of the bar’s most popular days was, of course, the Sunday Beer Bust. After its celebrated re-opening, the bar’s first Sunday on March 3 saw lines around the block and hundreds of patrons.

And while the bar’s website is still a bit slim on

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ments, the space has a more serious air to it, but offers more open space.

Outside, the patio remains nearly the same. The tree near the indoor/outdoor bar was dying, so it was cut down, and the circular wooden bench removed. However, the ivy growing along the west wall, and a large tree, remain.

Alex, visiting from Fort L a u d e rd a l e , had been to the Eagle before the renovations: “It’s awesome,” he said Bartenders of the of the new derenovated Eagle Tavern. sign. “I really like what they Rich Stadtmiller did with the front room. It’s great.”

His friend Jeffrey said, “I’m really excited by how many people are here. It really assures me that we can support a gay bar in this town.”

Their pal Bob, when told of the historic drag bar Marlena’s closing that same weekend, offered

Pals on the patio

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Rich Stadtmiller

From page 5

content, the schedule is pretty simple. Along with Sunday beer busts, Thursday nights will include music. Women’s nights are planned, and drag events organized by Anna Conda commence on April 6.

Also on the website (www.sf-eagle.com) are links to buy the bar’s new T-shirts that feature a winged eagle in stylish white, with a silver ring on a black tee. On opening weekend, the entire staff

wore shirts with the new logo.

“It’s so strange wonderful to be back,” said one patron, Dave. “People are just roosting right back where they used to.”

As the two owners stated on the bar’s Facebook page, “ “It has been a long journey to get us to where we are today, but we know that we could not have done it without you, our amazing community, who have stood by us from the beginning.” ✸

Bartenders and patrons of the renovated Eagle Tavern.

Rich Stadtmiller

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Rich Stadtmiller

ANOTHER OP’NIN’!d A BARchive EXTRA • by Jim Provenzano

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f the recent re-opening to the San Francisco Eagle Tavern seemed like a big deal, compare it to the bar’s original opening in 1981.

As reported in columns by the dearly departed Mister Marcus Hernandez, the Bay Area Reporter’s leather and bar gossip columnist for decades, like the re-opening, the bar’s first premiere endured delays and rumors of openings, from New Year’s Eve 1980 to its eventual opening in April 1981.

Let’s let Mister Marcus’ vintage columns offer the dish on the leatherazzi: From Southern Scandals, Dec. 4, 1980: “Bobby Ulyvari took on the designing of the bar and the new poster (wait’ll you see it!) after David Nelson vanished into thin air. The contractor and $5000 also vanished… The new SF Eagle promises to be a bright new star in the galaxy of the already-fabled Folsom Street Campus.

The whole area waits with bated breath…”

From Marcus’ March 26, 1981 column: leather facilities. The “The long-awaited opening of the Eagle SF Eagle liquor bar will two weeks ago was open its doors April 8. electrifying.

Finishing touches are “One can overlook being put on the intethe opening night jitrior and the big patio ters with all those little which will be one of things that go wrong. the main features of One cannot overlook the bar. the smell of man sweat, “Dick Dearborn or new and old leather and Steve Fabus have (they are distinctively expended their considerable talents to make Photos by Robert Pruzan, originally published in the Bay Area Reporter. different), the glitterScans courtesy the GLBT Historical Society. ing chains, crushed the music just right. leather caps, polished Throw in the hunkiest set of bartenders ever to grace the planks, and you have an award-winning boots, pins, buttons, the old men and the young combination… Quite possibly, the new SF Eagle men all INTO leather and not just IN leather. All sharing that mystique, that special ambiance that will redefine Folsom in the 80s.” only leather men share. Not leather on top, and And from Marcus’s April 23, 1981 column: “Spring is everywhere! One of the best places Adidas on the bottom. That’s for pseudo-leather you’ll find to savor these balmy nights is the patio bars.

“The Eagle has landed in San Francisco. The on the new SF Eagle. I don’t know where all these humpy leather men come from. It seems as if atmosphere is the kind that if somebody says more dudes of the leather fraternity come out of to you, ‘Hey boy, want your butt fucked?’ you’ll the woodwork with the proliferation of genuine most likely respond, ‘Yes, sir!’”✸ April 2013 • bartabsf.com • BARHTAB 7

LAST CALLd MARLENA’S SAYS GOODBYE

by Jim Provenzano

Marlena performs on the bar’s last night.

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ore of a celebration, and less of a wake, the last weeks of Marlena’s, the historic and intimate Hayes Valley bar, grew to a series of crowded boisterous celebrations.

On the same weekend that the Eagle Tavern re-opened, after 22 years, on March 3, 2013, Marlena’s closed.

The last days were full of performances, including the marathon showcase of lip-synching numbers performed by dozens of female impersonating drag royalty from the Imperial and Ducal courts.

Taking a break from the day full of acts, Marlena, whose real name in Garry McLain, sat outside the bar, rested on a tree planter and recorded another portion of an upcoming audio feature for a reporter.

Asked about the day being called a celebration, Marlena agreed. “It is, because I’m not going anywhere,” he said. “I’m not moving. Hopefully, these people will find somewhere to go. But I’m still dedicated to this city. I’m an Empress! I love this city and I’ve given my life to it, so why wouldn’t I want to keep it going? I figure I’ve got another good twenty or thirty years.”

As reported in BARtab’s parent publication, the Bay Area Reporter, the men in escrow to buy Marlena’s are Matt Conway, Anthony Healy-London, and Josh McAdam. Conway is the bar manager at the nearby restaurant Absinthe, and HealyLondon is a co-owner of the gay-friendly Church Street bar Churchill.

McLain, better known as Absolute Empress XXV of San Francisco, Marlena the Magnificent, and his business partner, Janice Buxton, entered into escrow with the buyers in January.

Rick Gerharter

Twenty years ago, Hayes Valley was a very different place. The highway overpass loomed, street crime was rampant, and many of the current successful shops and restaurants had yet to become part of a financial boom.

Buxton and her now-deceased husband, John,

Kathleen Ritchey (left) and Grand Duchess XI Deena Cartier outside Marlena’s bar.

BARtab

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Marlena poses with fans outside the bar.

BARtab

“I think this might give the Imperial Court a little kick in the ass to change it up, and do different venues,” said Goldie. “Outdoor venues like The Sisters [of Perpetual Indulgence] do at other bars.”

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opened the bar in 1978 as The Overpass. In 1990 McLain came on as a co-owner of the bar while he was the reigning empress, and it was renamed Marlena’s.

Now, with the Patricia’s Green park and other nearby improvements, it’s sad to see a stalwart part of the neighborhood bid goodbye just as the street has become a success (or a gentrified strip, according to critics).

“The neighborhood is changing, rapidly,” said Marlena. “All the new businesses, the buildings, and a lot of younger people. We have a lot of younger women who had been coming to the bar.” He offered a campy look. “Now I have nothing against women, except they scream.”

Amid some laughter, Marlena posed for another bevy of photographs, commenting, “If I got a dollar for every picture I’ve had taken today, I’d be rich.”

Other drag performers offered comments.

Goldie aka Glen, for many years has lived next door, above the next-door restaurant Flippers.

“Marlena’s has been our home,” she said. “Or The Imperial Palace, as we call it. We’re still a community, and have been friends for a number of years.

But we don’t know where we might next congregate, what hen house we’re gonna be in.”

But where will they go?

Former bartenders Jon and Andrew at Kok bar.

KOK BLOCKEDd F

by Jim Provenzano

Rich Stadtmiller

ive years to the day after it opened, Kok Bar, previously known as Chaps II, will close on March 30.

Co-owner David Morgan, who ran the bar with Steven Abramson, said that the license is expected to transfer to the new owners on April 1.

“Steven and I have had an amazing experience, and we’re very happy we had the opportunity to even open and operate a bar on Folsom in SOMA,” said Morgan. “It was a great learning experience and I’d never trade it for the world.”

The intimate cruisy leather-themed bar at 1225 Folsom Street has a storied past as the very cruisy gay bar My Place, and long before that as the pioneering gay leather bar, The Ramrod.

Yet despite its history, the bar had been suffering from a lack of patrons, despite a diverse array of sexy-themed nights, beer bust fundraisers and kink-specific events. Several special nights, however, did attract a good number of patrons. Porn video premieres saw enthusiastic crowds, including videos that had been taped at the bar.

And for many nights the bar was packed, including Folsom and Up Your Alley street fair weekends, Halloween, and when leather events were held in San Francisco.

Rumors of the bar’s imminent closing were raised by a post on the blog GrubStreet last month.

“The sale of a bar takes time and you really never know till the last minute,” said Morgan. “The liquor license is with the state and you just never know.”

Of the sometimes sparse attendance, Morgan 10 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

replied, “Some people said we were slow, but we actually did good. When we were Chaps II, it was a lot busier, but it cost a lot of money to create that business and bring those people in. With Kok, we cut all of our costs, so the margins were much lower as we had wanted.”

Asked what his plans are, Morgan said he would not rule out buying another bar, “in a couple years.”

He said he wasn’t sure about opening a new bar in South of Market.

Kok enjoyed a bit of carry-over patronage when the Eagle Tavern closed in 2011, but not enough to sustain the bar. Yet Morgan remains upbeat.

“I’m very happy the Eagle has reopened, and has great new employees,” he said. “It looks good, and I pray they do well. But the ‘community’ is placing so many demands on them. I want them to get it up and running, how they want to, try things they want to do, make it their own. It has to move forward into the future.”

Morgan was an enthusiastic supporter of cooperation among South of Market bar owners, and cofounded the SOMA Bar & Business Guild, which sponsored bar crawls and other events.

“It was great,” he said of the guild. “Scott Peterson (of the Powerhouse), Paul Miller (Truck) and I planned everything and everyone participated.”

In a difficult business where cruising is increasingly done online, or on cell phones, the traditional cruise bar may become a part of gay history. But Morgan remains optimistic.

“I hope the Eagle will have a lot of clout with «Pin the Dildo on the Porn Star,» a game night at Kok Bar when it was Chaps II.

A recent No Pants Night at Kok Bar. BARtab

liquor and beer folks,” he said. “They can encourage other bars to get working together again. I live across the street from the Eagle, and more than anything I want them to do well.”

The new co-owners, Shawn Magee (owner of Amnesia) and Chris Milstead, have tentative plans to remodel the bar, and call the new bar Driftwood.

Leo Forte (right) and friends at Chaps II.

Milstead, in an informal chat at the B.A.R. offices, and as quoted in a GrubStreet interview, described he and his partner as “the gayest straight guy you”ll ever meet and I’m the straightest gay guy you’ll ever meet.” They said that they hope that Driftwood, which will open mid-summer will attract a mixed gay/straight clientele. ✸

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From page 9

Other alternatives include El Rio, which hosts the DayTime Realness event.

Goldie smiled. “Have you ever seen a drag queen climb the lemon tree on the patio of El Rio? It’s fun!”

Kathleen Ritchey, who worked as a doorman for two and a half years, called Marlena’s “the only sports drag bar in San Francisco. This was a really great work experience for me. I met a lot of great people. I’m proud of Marlena for retiring.

She worked hard as hell. But I’m gonna miss all these people.”

Grand Duchess XI Deena Cartier of Alameda called the closing day more of a celebration than one of loss. “It’s a tribute to a community institution,” she said. “I’ve been coming here at least eighteen years. It could be a sad day, but it’s also a happy day, because this is not the end of Marlena.”

Asked as well about the future of traditional drag performing venues, Deena said, “Because San Francisco is so diverse, we’re lucky to live where we can go elsewhere; the Castro, Beatbox, which has been doing drag shows, and Fauxgirls, and monthly shows at Infusion Lounge. Donna Sachet’s Sundays a Drag, and the shows at Aunt Charlie’s Lounge may hopefully keep drag performers busy.”

While Aunt Charlie’s is more intimate, “It’s a tiny dive,” corrected Cartier. “But you would be surprised by how much money benefits there have raised.”

Galilea, the longtime host of the weekly drag

Anna Mae Coxxx, Colette LaGrande and Sheena Rose at Marlena’s last day.

show Hayes Valley Follies, was lauded onstage as well as Marlena. Members of the LGBT rodeo community paid tribute to the hostess in a singalong version of the Amy Winehouse song “Valerie,” with the title changed to “Galile(a).”

Galilea commented from the stage, “When the rodeo would come and the girls would show up, I would be so excited because I knew I was gonna have the funnest show. There was never a dull moment with the boys and girls from the rodeo.”

After lip-synching her number on the last day, Danielle stepped to the side of the stage. Marlena had been seated on a raised platform next to a painting depicting an earlier drag incarnation.

“Thank you for believing in our community,” Danielle said as she held Marlena’s hand. “Thank you for believing in us. Thank you unselfishly preserving our history. Thank you for giving us a safe place. You are a formidable force in our community. I love you.” ✸ April 2013 • bartabsf.com • BARHTAB 11

AB f eON THE T ~ ~April H

13 Licks @ Qbar. Tue 2

Mon 1 Cock and Bull Mondays @ Hole in the Wall Saloon

Specials on drinks made with “Cock and Bull” ginger ale (Jack and Cock, Russian Mule, and more). 8pmclosing. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Karaoke @ The Lookout

Paul K hosts the amateur singing night. 8pm-2am.

3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Monday Musicals @ The Edge

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre

Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations, and the weekly night. $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 3976758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

The Queens of Boogie Woogie @ Yoshi’s, Oakland

13th annual concert of rousing women performers: Lady Bianca, Sue Palmer, Dona Oxford and Wendy deWitt. $17. 8pm. 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week, with Broadway touring performers occasionally stopping by to sing, too. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pmclosing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Smarty Pants Trivia @ Stray Bar

Tue 2

Trivia Night @ Hi Tops

13 Licks @ Q Bar

Weekly women’s night at the stylish intimate bar.

9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Kitty Tapata hosts the game show fun with popcorn and prizes at the dog-friendly gay/straight bar in Bernal Heights.

Tuesdays, 8pm. 309 Cortland. www.straybarsf.com Play the trivia game at the popular new sports bar.

9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Wed 3

Block Party @ Midnight Sun

Bearaoke @ The Mint

Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am.

4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

SF Movie Bears invades the karaoke bar for a night of singing and drinkin’. No cover. 6pm-9pm. 1942 Market St. 626-4726. www.sfmoviebears.com

Funny Tuesdays @ Harvey’s

Booty Call @ Q Bar

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

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Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com

Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops

Trivia Night @ Harvey’s

Red Hots Burlesque @ El Rio

Way Back @ Midnight Sun

Rookie Night @ Nob Hill Theatre

Thu 4

Women’s burlesque show performs each Wed & Fri. $5-$10. 7pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com See fresh talent strip it off, with the audience judging; sign-up by 8pm, show at 9pm; winner gets $200! $20 (for audience). 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell.

397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Secret Lovers @ Lexington Club

DJs Katie Duck, PonyBoy and Durt play slowjams for makin’ out at the saucy women’s bar. 9pm-12:30am.

3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 8632052. www.lexingtonclub.com

Steven Slatten @ Martuni’s

The New York comic singer performs his witty show, Obsessive Compulsive Broadway, with Daniel Allan and accompanist Ben Prince. $7. 7pm. 4 Valencia St. at Market. www.brownpapertickets.com/ event/355408

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Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes, fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

The new weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com

Gym Class @ Hi Tops

Enjoy cheap/free whiskey shots from jock-strapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular new sports bar. 10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Latin Night @ The Café

Amazingly hot gogo guys, cheap drinks and DJed dance music. $5. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

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Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 13

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Underwear Party @ Powerhouse

Strip down to your skivvies (free clothes check) and watch or compete in the wet underwear contest ($100 prize!) at midnight; gogo guys and DJ Dam Nation. $5. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Fri 5 Colin Stone @ Nob Hill Theatre

Hirsute porn stud performs a live strip show. $25.

8pm and 10pm, with plenty of other strippers before, after and on other nights. 729 Bush St. at Powell.

397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Fedorable @ El Rio

Free weekly queer dance party, with gogos, prizes, old groovy tunes, cheap cocktails. 9pm-2am. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun

Colin Stone @ Nob Hill Theatre. Fri 5

Open during renovations, the popular video bar ends each week with gogo guys (starting at 9pm) and drink specials. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Hard @ Qbar Cookie Dough’s weekly drag show with gogo guys.

9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Reel to Real Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences

The fascinating museum’s weekly nightlife event; Music, cash bar, DJed music and entertainment. This week, exhibits and screenings about the scientifc magic of cinema. $10-$12. 21+. 6pm-10pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. www.calacademy.org

DJ Haute Toddy spins electro beats; cute gogo guys shake it. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Stanley Clarke Band @ Yoshi’s, Oakland

Bass powerhouse and his band perform rousing jazz-fusion. $25-$35. 8pm & 10pm. Thru April 7 (6pm & 8pm). 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square.

(510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

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Pharoah Sanders @ Yoshi’s

Grammy-winning legendary jazz saxophinist and John Coltrane collaborator performs with his trio. $21-$32. 8pm & 10pm. Also April 5 & 6. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Sundance Saloon @ Space 550

The popular country western LGBT dance night. $5.

6:30pm-10:30pm with lessons from 7:00 - 8:00 pm. Also Sundays 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm.

550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Retro disco tunes and eclectic crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com 14 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

Stanley Clarke @ Yoshi’s Oakland. Fri 5

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The Monster Show @ The Edge

The results are in!

Scan the QR code to find the best sports bar, bang-for-your-buck bar, bartender, dance floors, pool tables, patios, events, fundraisers, theme nights, and places to meet others, breakfast, lunch, dinner, brunch, late night restaurants & more.

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Club Rimshot @ Bench and Bar, Oakland

Weekly hip hop and R&B night. $8-$15. 9pm to 4am.

510 17th St. www.bench-and-bar.com

Miss Coco Peru @ Castro Theatre

The comic queen (aka Clinton Leupp) performs her new show, all about childhood crushes on movie monsters, the evils of Facebook, nude beaches, and, well, whatever she feels like dishing! $28-$45. 8pm.

Matinee screening of the sexy gay comedy Trick at 12pm, with Coco short flicks and a look-alike contest. $10. 429 Castro St. 863-0611. www.castrotheatre.com www.ticketfly.com

Joe @ The Lookout

Shots, drinks and DJed fun. $2. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland

Eight bars, more dance floors, and a lounge that hosts the largest gay Latin dance night in the Bay Area.

Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Soma Country @ Beatbox

Sundance Saloon’s monthly SoMa two-stepping dance night in a special edition (also every Tuesday starting April 16). $8. 8pm-12am. Lessons 8pm. 314 11th St. at Folsom. www.sundancesaloon.org www.beatboxsf.com

Whiskies of the World @ SF Belle Hornblower

The Whiskies of the World Expo’s grand tasting will be aboard the San Francisco Belle Yacht (remains docked), with its three ballroom-size tasting decks, and an open roof Whisky & Cigar Pairing deck. Enjoy hundreds of Whiskies, a full buffet dinner, Masterclasses, the Bushmills Pipe and Drum Band, whisky mixology, artisanal food pairings, live jazz, cigars and more. $120.

6pm-11pm. Pier 3. www.whiskiesoftheworld.com

Sun 7 Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

The classic leather bar is back, with the most popular Sunday daytime event in town. 3pm-6pm (Also now open daily 11am-2am). 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com Page 20

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Sat 6 Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon

Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Club Gossip @ Cat Club

Mixed gay-friendly goth-electro-retro-ish club night; monthly (2nd Sat.). $8. 21+. 9pm-3am. 1190 Folsom St. www.sfcatclub.com

Go Bang @ The Stud

Steve Fabus and Sergio Fedasz’ monthly eclectic dance night, with a focus on retro grooves and fab remixes; this month, with guest DJs Apt One and Eddy Bauer. Free-$7. 9pm-3am. 399 9th St. at Harrison. www.gobangsf.com

Jalwa @ Club OMG

DJ SSHaaN spins a unique Bollywood dance mix at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com

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Miss Coco Peru @ Castro Theatre. Sat 6

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DJ Apt One @ Go Bang. Sat 6

f eON THE TAB ~ ~from page 18

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Mon 8 Cock and Bull Mondays @ Hole in the Wall Saloon

Specials on drinks made with “Cock and Bull” ginger ale (Jack and Cock, Russian Mule, and more). 8pmclosing. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

Karaoke @ The Lookout

Paul K hosts the amateur singing night. 8pm-2am.

3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Monday Musicals @ The Edge

The renovated bar shows fun musicals each week.

7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Piano Bar 101 @ Martuni’s

Planet Bootie’s Dylan Germick at Martuni’s Cabaret Showcase Showdown. Sun 7

Cabaret Showcase Showdown @ Martuni’s

The singing competition continues, with the Best Singer-Songwriter competition. Guest judges include Planet Booty’s Dylan Germick and SF Gay Men’s Chorus musical arranger Lynden Bair. Katya SmirnoffSkyy and Mrs. Trauma Flintstone cohost. 7pm.

4 Valencia St. 241-0205.

Hella Gay Comedy @ 1772 Market

Charlie Ballard hosts the comedy night, a special ‘Gay for Pay’ theme, with straight comics doing gay jokes.

Hmm… Chris Riggins, Paul Doyle, Nick Palm, Aaron Barrett, Spencer Devine, Andrew Roberts, Steve Post, Juan Medina and Dustin Hempstead. $10. 21+. 8pm. 1772 Market St. www.facebook.com/hellagaycomedyshow

Sing-along night with talented locals, and charming accompanist Joe Wicht (aka Trauma Flintstone). 9pm.

4 Valencia St. at Market. www.dragatmartunis.com

Sacred Cocktails @ Twin Peaks

Weekly gathering for Christian and other faithful LGBTs, sponsored by Oasis, the GLBT Ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of California. Upstairs, 7:308:30pm. Castro St. at Market. www.saintaiden.org

Tue 9 Block Party @ Midnight Sun

Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am.

4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Sundance Saloon 15th Anniversary @ Space 550

The popular country western LGBT dance night celebrates a decade and a half of fun foot-stomping, two-stepping and line-dancing. Free admission. Other added events through April. 5pm-10:30pm with lessons from 5:30-7:15 pm. 550 Barneveld Ave. www.sundancesaloon.org

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

e 20 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

Sundance Saloon’s 15th Anniversary. Sun 7

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

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre

Trivia Night @ Hi Tops

Play the trivia game at the popular new sports bar.

9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Wed 10 Booty Call @ Q Bar

Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com

Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops

Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Dream Queens Revue @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Retro-classic drag show (2nd and 4th Wednesday) at the classic Tenderloin bar, featuring Collette Ashton, Ruby Slippers, Sophilya Leggz, Bobby Ashton, Sheena Rose, Davida Ashton and Joie de Vivre. No cover.

10pm. 133 Turk St. 441-2922. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Red Hots Burlesque @ El Rio

Women’s burlesque show performs each Wed & Fri. $5-$10. 7pm. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Trivia Night @ Harvey’s

Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes and fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com

Way Back @ Midnight Sun

Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

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Melissa Manchester @ Yoshi’s Oakland. Thu 11

Thu 11 Circle Jerk @ Nob Hill Theatre

Participatory play with porn pups in the Underground Playroom of the strip joint; join in the fun! $10. 9pm.

729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Melissa Manchester @ Yoshi’s, Oakland

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter performs her classic hits. $29-$35. 8pm & 10pm. 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

The new weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com Page 22

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Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations, at the weekly night. $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 3976758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

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Fri 12 Fedorable @ El Rio

Free weekly queer dance party, with gogos, prizes, old groovy tunes, cheap cocktails. 9pm-2am. 3158 Mission St. 282-3325. www.elriosf.com

Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun

Open during renovations, the popular video bar ends each week with gogo guys (starting at 9pm) and drink specials. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Hard @ Qbar

DJ Haute Toddy spins electro beats; cute gogo guys shake it. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Joe @ The Lookout

Shots, drinks and DJed fun. $2. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com Spencer Day @ Yoshi’s SF. Thu 11

Cosmic Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences

The fascinating museum’s weekly nightlife event; Music, cash bar, DJed music and entertainment. This week, astronauts, NASA, astrophysicists and spaceage tunes. $10-$12. 21+. 6pm-10pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. www.calacademy.org

Gym Class @ Hi Tops

Enjoy cheap/free whiskey shots from jock-strapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular new sports bar. 10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Latin Explosion @ Club 21, Oakland

Eight bars, more dance floors, and a smoking lounge; the largest gay Latin dance night in the Bay Area.

Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Sat 13 Bearracuda @ Beatbox

Celebrate the beartastic party that’s spawned an international ursine club scene with Underwear Night, and DJ John LePage. $6-$10. 9pm-3am. 314 11th St. www.bearracuda.com

Latin Night @ The Café

Amazingly hot gogo guys, cheap drinks and DJed dance music. $5. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

The Monster Show @ The Edge

Cookie Dough’s weekly drag show with gogo guys.

9pm-2am. 4149 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Spencer Day @ Yoshi’s

Popular local jazz/pop singer-pianist’s release party and concert for his new CD, The Mystery of You. $16$22. 8pm & 10pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Retro disco tunes and a fun diverse crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4.

10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com 22 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

Ryan gogos at The Midnight Sun’s Happy Friday.

Fri 12

Bearracuda @ Beatbox. Sat 13

Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon

Cockblock @ Rickshaw Stop

Bernadette Cooper & Klymaxx @ Yoshi’s, Oakland

Frolic @ The Stud

Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

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

Platinum-selling women’s band performs their classic hits like “Meeting in the Ladies Room.” $27-$29.

8pm & 10pm (open dance floor). 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

Monthly costume dance party (2nd Sat) for Furries and friends, with DJs Neonbunny and guests. Dance, you animals! $4 (with costume) $8 (without). 8pm2am. 399 9th St. at Harrison www.frolicparty.com

Bootie SF @ DNA Lounge

DJ SSHaaN spins a unique Bollywood dance mix at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com

Club Rimshot @ Bench and Bar, Oakland

Weekly hip hop and R&B night. $8-$15. 9pm to 4am.

510 17th St. www.bench-and-bar.com

Leo Kottke @ Yoshi’s

Veteran acoustic guitar instrumentalist performs. $35.

8pm. Also, April 14, 7pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

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Weekly mash-up dance night, with resident DJs Adrian & Mysterious D. No matter the theme, a mixed fun good time’s assured. $8-$15. 9pm-3am. 21+. 375 11th st. at Harrison. www.BootieSF.com www.DNAlounge.com

Jalwa @ Club OMG

Monday Musicals @ The Edge

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The renovated bar shows fun musicals each week.

7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing. 18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

~from page 23

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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

Tue 16 Block Party @ Midnight Sun

Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am.

4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Molly Ringwald @ Yoshi’s

Molly Ringwald @ Yoshi’s SF. Tue 16.

Hussein Katz

Love Will Fix It @ Hot Spot

DJ Bus Station John’s intimate monthly (2nd Saturdays) retro disco night with an R&B focus, re-decorates the cozy dive bar into a cool dance hangout; popular with a gaily diverse crowd. $5. 9pm-2am.

1414 Market St. at Polk.

Sun 14 Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

The classic leather bar is back, with the most popular Sunday fun. 3pm-6pm (Also now open daily 11am2am). 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Ben Howard @ The Fillmore

British singer-guitarist, whose music has been described as “haunting folk,” performs. $28-$40.

8pm. Also April 15. 1805 Geary Blvd. www.thefillmore.com

Brunch @ Hi Tops

Enjoy crunchy sandwiches and mimosas, among other menu items, at the popular new sports bar. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Jock @ Lookout

Weekly fundraiser for various local LGBT sports groups. $2 cover. Drink specials. 3pm-9pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Mon 15 Karaoke @ The Lookout

Paul K hosts the amateur singing night. 8pm-2am.

3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com 24 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

The actress and author also sings, and quite well, with a four-piece band. She performs jazz songs from her debut CD, Except…Sometime. $25-$45. 8pm.

1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre

Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations, at the weekly night. $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 3976758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Smarty Pants Trivia @ Stray Bar

Kitty Tapata hosts the game show fun with popcorn and prizes at the dog-friendly gay/straight bar in Bernal Heights. Tuesdays, 8pm. 309 Cortland. www.straybarsf.com

Soma Country @ Beatbox

Sundance Saloon’s monthly SoMa two-stepping dance night now takes place every Tuesday. $8. 8pm12am. Lessons 8pm. 314 11th St. at Folsom. www.sundancesaloon.org www.beatboxsf.com

Wed 17 Booty Call @ Q Bar

Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com

Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops

Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the popular new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Trivia Night @ Harvey’s

Bebe Sweetbriar hosts a weekly night of trivia quizzes and fun and prizes; no cover. 8pm-1pm. 500 Castro St. 431-4278. www.harveyssf.com

2

Big Bang Gala @ Cal. Academy of Sciences. Thu 18

Way Back @ Midnight Sun

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Nocha

Thu 18

Fauxgirls @ Infusion Lounge

Big Bang Gala @ California Academy of Sciences

Explore the tastes, sounds, and creatures of the night at the California Academy of Sciences during Big Bang: Party After Dark, a special evening that supports critical conservation and sustainability programs at the Academy. Retro-soul crooner Mayer Hawthorne will headline the night with a live DJ set. Del Popolo serves up pizzas, plus open bars, and exhibits in an architectual wonder. $75 and up. 21+.

6pm-12am. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. www.calacademy.org/events/bigbang_2013

Circle Jerk @ Nob Hill Theatre

Have a wank, with stripper/porn dude Buster Sly. $20.

9pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

The new weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. 8pm-9:30pm. 3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com The classy drag revue (3rd Thursdays), now in its 12th year, features Victoria Secret, Alexandria, Chanel, Maria Garza, Mini Minerva, Kipper, Daffney Deluxe and Ruby LeBrowne, with special guest Anya; dinner seating at 7pm. Show at 8pm. No cover. 124 Ellis St. 421-8700. www.fauxgirls.com

Gym Class @ Hi Tops

Enjoy cheap/free whiskey shots from jock-strapped hotties and sexy sports videos at the popular new sports bar.

10pm-2am. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Retro disco tunes and retro cruisy crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am.

133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com Page 26

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Weekly screenings of vintage music videos, and retro drink prices. 9pm-2am. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Scott Wazlowski Scott Wa

Advertising Director Advertising Direc lace scott@ebar.com scott@ebar.com me to rep

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395 Ninth StreetNinth • San Francisco, CA 94103 395 Street • San F 415.861.5019 • www.ebar.com 415.

861. 5019 • www.eba

Galaxy Radio @ SF Underground

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Disco, house, space funk and other grooves are spun

by DJs Smac, Lel Ephant, Emils, Holly Bun and other guests (3rd Fridays). 9pm-2am. 424 Haight St.

~from page 25

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Happy Friday @ Midnight Sun

Open during renovations, the popular video bar ends each week with gogo guys (starting at 9pm) and drink specials. 4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Hard @ Qbar

DJ Haute Toddy spins electro beats; cute gogo guys shake it. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.QbarSF.com

Hardbox @ Powerhouse

Gehno Aviance and Robin Simmons spin beats at the cruisy bar (3rd Fridays); gogo guys, free clothes check and capoeira demos. Wear boxing gear and get free drinks! $5. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com Hardbox @ Powerhouse. Fri 19.

Rich Stadtmiller

Underwear Party @ Powerhouse

Strip down to your skivvies (free clothes check) and watch or compete in the wet underwear contest ($100 prize!) at midnight; gogo guys and DJ Dam Nation. $5. 9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

VIP @ Club 21, Oakland

New night, with hip-hop, Top 40, and sexy Latin music; gogo dancers, appetizers, and special guests.

No cover before 11pm and just $5 afterward. Dancing 9pm-3am. Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Fri 19 Bad Girl Cocktail Hour @ The Lexington Club

Every Friday night, bad girls can get $1 dollar margaritas between 9pm and 10pm. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 863-2052. www.lexingtonclub.com

Buster Sly @ Nob Hill Theatre

The porn stud does a live strip show. $25. 8pm and 10pm. Also April 20. Other strippers through the eve, and on other days. 729 Bush St. at Powell. 397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com

Dragon 2.0 @ Raven

Revamped monthly gay Asian dance party at the renovated club (formerly Club 8); tequila gogos and two floors of fun. Third Fridays. $5. 9pm-3am. 1151 Folsom St. at 7th. www.ravenbarsf.com 26 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

Oleta Adams @ Yoshi’s, Oakland

The accomplished R&B/soul singer performs music from her new CD Let’s Stay Here. $35-$39. 8pm & 10pm. Also April 20, 8pm. 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

Pulse @ Bench & Bar, Oakland

The East Bay monthly gogo guy dance night, presented by Elliot Live Events, has moved to Oakland’s popular bar; 3rd Fridays. $10-$15. 9pm-3am. 510 17th St., Oakland. www.bench-and-bar.com

Questlove @ Yoshi’s

Internationally known drummer (The Roots, Jimmy Fallon Show’s house band), journalist and music producer plays a special DJ set. $22-$35. 10:30pm.

1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Raquel Bitton @ Yoshi’s

Celebrated French jazz singer, who’s sold out Carnegie Hall three times, performs classic Edith Piaf songs with a 16-piece orchestra. $30. 8pm. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

Spicy @ Club OMG

DJ SSHaaN spins Bollywood dance hits at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com

Sat 20 La Bota Loca @ Club 21, Oakland

Live bands, DJed tunes, gogo hotties, drag shows, drink specials, all at Oakland’s premiere Latin nightclub and weekly cowboy night. $10-$15. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

The Yale Whiffenpoofs and Taye Diggs @ The Concert to End Bullying. Sat 20

Concert to End Bullying @ Palace of Fine Arts

Special concert fundraiser presented by the Association of Yale Alumni and the Yale Whiffenpoofs Alumni Association. The evening will benefit New Conservatory Theatre Center’s YouthAware program. The Yale Whiffenpoofs, the Stanford Mendicants and special guest Taye Diggs (Private Practice) will perform a cappella and choral renditions of American jazz classics, contemporary pop-hits, and more. $25-$150. VIP packages available. 8pm. 3301 Lyon St. (800) 5954849. www.ayayale.com

Gameboi @ Mist Ultra Lounge

Asian pop, disco and dance music night with drink specials, gogo hotties and DJed tunes (3rd Sat). $25. 9:30pm2am. 316 11th St. www.facebook.com/gameboisf

Jane Krakowski @ Kanbar Hall

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Jane Krakowski @ Kanbar Hall. Sat 20

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Tony Award winner (Nine), two-time Emmy nominee (30 Rock) and whimsical gorgeous musical actress performs her cabaret act, which the New York Times called “loaded with saucy double entendres.” $50-$67. 8pm. Jewish Community Center, 3200 California St. 292-1200. www.jccsf.org/arts-ideas/ performances/music/jane-krakowski/

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Soberlicious @ Eureka Valley Rec Center

The Castro Country Club’s celebraiton of three decades of LGBT recovery community, with MC Sister Roma, performances (Mrs. Trauma Flintstone, Jan Wahl, Castles in Spain, Thrillpeddlers), food, drinks, dancing, raffles and silent auctions, plus the 4th annual Miss CCC Pageant. $15. 4pm. VIP soiree and soberfest 12pm-4pm ($30-$35). 100 Collingwood St. (800) 838-3006. www.castrocountryclub.org

Mon 22 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.

Tue 23 Block Party @ Midnight Sun Brunch @ Hi Tops. Sun 21

Ovation @ Four Seasons

Berkeley Repertory Theatre’s annual glamorous gala fundraiser, with host Danny Scheie, a four-star meal prepered by celebrity chefs, a cocktail reception and elegance galore. $500 and up. 5:30pm reception; 7:30pm dinner. 757 Market St. (510) 647-2909. www.berkeleyrep.org

Sun 21 Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

The classic leather bar is back, with the popular Sunday patio fun. 3pm-6pm (Also now open daily 11am2am). 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Brunch @ Hi Tops

Enjoy crunchy sandwiches and mimosas, among other menu items, at the popular new sports bar. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Daytime Realness @ El Rio

Sue Casa, DJ Carnita and Stanley Frank host and DJ, with guest Derek Opperman, with drag acts by U-Phoria, Anjie Myma, Sugah Betes and more. $6-$8.

3pm-8pm. 3158 Mission St. www.elriosf.com

Debauchery @ White Horse Tavern, Oakland

Third Sunday dance and cruise fun. No cover. 6551 Telegraph Ave. (510) 652-3820. www.whitehorsebar.com

Jock @ Lookout

Weekly fundraiser for various local LGBT sports groups. $2 cover. Drink specials. 3pm-9pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com 28 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am.

4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Smarty Pants Trivia @ Stray Bar

Kitty Tapata hosts the game show fun with popcorn and prizes at the dog-friendly gay/straight bar in Bernal Heights.

Tuesdays, 8pm. 309 Cortland. www.straybarsf.com

Soma Country @ Beatbox

Sundance Saloon’s monthly SoMa two-stepping dance night now takes place every Tuesday. $8. 8pm12am. Lessons 8pm. 314 11th St. at Folsom. www.sundancesaloon.org www.beatboxsf.com

Trivia Night @ Hi Tops

Play the trivia game at the popular new sports bar.

9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Wed 24 Booty Call @ Q Bar

Juanita More and Joshua J’s weekly night packs the intimate stylish bar with grooves and a groovy younger crowd. $3. 9pm-2am. 456 Castro St. www.juanitamore.com www.QbarSF.com

Bottoms Up Bingo @ Hi Tops

Play board games and win offbeat prizes at the new sports bar. 9pm. 2247 Market St. 551-2500. www.HiTopsSF.com

Dream Queens Revue @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Old-school drag show (2nd and 4th Wednesday) at the classic Tenderloin bar, featuring Collette Ashton, Ruby Slippers, Sophilya Leggz, Bobby Ashton, Sheena Rose, Davida Ashton and Joie de Vivre!. No cover. 10pm. 133 Turk St. 441-2922. www.dreamqueensrevue.com

Thu 25 80s Thursdays @ Cat Club

DJs and VJs take you back to the MTV era with music from the 1980s. $6. 9:30-2am. 1190 Folsom St. www.sfcatclub.com

Chick Corea & The Vigil @ Yoshi’s, Oakland

18-time Grammy-winning keyboard virtuoso performs with the experimental jazz ensemble. $45-$65. 8pm & 10pm. Thru April 28 (6pm). 510 Embarcadero West, Jack London Square. (510) 238-9200. www.yoshis.com

Cocktail Challenge @ The Lookout

Annual bartender competition, where mixed drinks are prepared and judged; the best bartneder wins a trip to Palm Springs. 1600 Market St. at Noe. 4310306. www.lookoutsf.com

Comedy Bodega @ Esta Noche

Weekly LGBT and indie comic stand-up night. 8pm-9:30pm.

3079 16th St. at Mission. www.comedybodega.com

Funky Chicken Dinner @ Mars Bar

Dinihng Out for Life, the citywide fundraiser where a portion of your dinner bill at participating restaurants goes to Stop AIDS Project and the SF AIDS Foundation.

Of note, Juanita More’s classic Funky Chicken Dinner.

6pm-9pm. 798 Brannan St. www.juanitamore.com

Fuego @ The Watergarden, San Jose

Weekly event, with Latin music, half-off locker fees and Latin men, at the South Bay private men’s bath house. $8-$39. Reg hours 24/7. 18+. 1010 The Alameda. (408) 275-1215. www.thewatergarden.com

Latin Night @ The Café

Amazingly hot gogo guys, cheap drinks and DJed dance music. $5. 9pm-2am. 2369 Market St. www.cafesf.com

Shirts Off @ Hole in the Wall Saloon

$1 off any drink if ya doff yer shirt. 8pm-2am. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.holeinthewallsaloon.com

Tubesteak Connection @ Aunt Charlie’s Lounge

Retro tunes and fun crowd, each Thursday; DJ Bus Station John plays records. $4. 10pm-2am. 133 Turk St. at Taylor. www.auntcharlieslounge.com

Spring Into Summer Nightlife @ Cal. Academy of Sciences

The fascinating museum’s weekly nightlife event; Music, cash bar, DJed music and entertainment. This week, sustainability, nature, hot bikes and summer fun. $10-$12. 21+. 6pm-10pm. 55 Music Concourse Drive, Golden Gate Park. www.calacademy.org

Ruben Studdard @ Yoshi’s SF. Fri 26

VIP @ Club 21, Oakland

Hip Hop, Top 40, and sexy Latin music; gogo dancers, appetizers, and special guest DJs. No cover before 11pm and just $5 after all night. Dancing 9pm-3am.

Happy hour 4pm-8:30pm 2111 Franklin St. (510) 2689425. www.club21oakland.com

Fri 26 Bad Girl Cocktail Hour @ The Lexington Club

Every Friday night, bad girls can get $1 dollar margaritas between 9pm and 10pm. 3464 19th St. between Mission and Valencia. 863-2052. www. lexingtonclub.com

An Evening With “Mama” Cass Elliot @ The Garage

Annalisa Bastiani portrays the Mammas and Pappas singer, who performs her popular hits in a dramatised rehearsal only weeks before her death. $25. 8pm.

Also April 27, May 3 & 4. 715 Bryant St. at 5th. www.facebook.com/CrazyCatsTheatricals

Joe @ The Lookout

Shots, drinks and DJed fun. $2. 10pm-2am. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Pink Friday @ The Mad Dog in the Fog

Yo, bro; the Haight straight bar goes gay, now each 4th Friday. Gogo guys, pink drinks, no cover, Jell-O shots, and gay fun; DJ Getty spins tunes. 9pm-2am.

530 Haight St. 626-7279. www.facebook.com/pages/ Pink-Friday/546509552048256

Ruben Studdard @ Yoshi’s

American Idol season 2 winner performs new and classic R&B songs. $32-$40. 8pm & 10pm. Also April 27. 1330 Fillmore St. 655-5600. www.yoshis.com

April 2013 • bartabsf.com • BARHTAB 29

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Sun 28 Beer Bust @ SF Eagle

The classic leather bar is back, with the most popular Sunday day time event in town. 3pm-6pm (Also now open daily 11am-2am). 398 12th St. at Harrison. www.sf-eagle.com

Dances From the Heart 2 @ Palace of Fine Arts Theater

Second annual Bay Area Dancers United to Fight AIDS concert, with members of Post: Ballet, Smuin Ballet, Salsamania, Joe Goode Performance Group, Diablo Ballet, Ballet San Jose and Chitres Das Dance Co performing. Proceeds benefit several local AIDS/HIV nonprofits. VIP post-show champagne/dessert reception. $40, $60, $100, $1,000. 7:30pm. 3301 Lyon St. 273-1620. www.richmondermet.org

Jock @ Lookout

Dances From the Heart @ Palace of Fine Arts. Sun 28

Spicy @ Club OMG

DJ SSHaaN spins Bollywood dance hits at the intimate new South Asian LGBT nightclub. 9pm-2am. 43 6th St. at Market. www.clubomgsf.com

Steam @ Powerhouse

Sexy wet towel-snapping night at the cruisy bar, with a special DJ and new music set by Two Dudes in Love. $5.

9pm-2am. 1347 Folsom St. www.powerhouse-sf.com

Weekly fundraiser for various local LGBT sports groups. $2 cover. Drink specials. 3pm-9pm. 3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Time Warp @ The Regency

American Conservatory Theatre’s grand fundraiser gala, this year with a Rocky Horror Picture Show theme; special performances by the cast of Beach Blanket Babylon, with dinner and dancing ( including “The Time Warp!”). $500 and up. 5pm-11pm. 1300 Van Ness Ave. 439-2470. www.act-sf.org

Mon 29 Karaoke @ The Lookout

Sat 27

Paul K hosts the amateur singing night. 8pm-2am.

3600 16th St. at Market. www.lookoutsf.com

Beer Bust @ Hole in the Wall Saloon

Monday Musicals @ The Edge

Beer only $8 until you bust. 4pm-8pm. 1369 Folsom St. 431-4695. www.hitws.com

La Bota Loca @ Club 21, Oakland

Live bands, DJed tunes, gogo hotties, drag shows, drink specials, all at Oakland’s premiere Latin nightclub and weekly cowboy night. $10-$15. Dancing 9pm-4am. 2111 Franklin St. (510) 268-9425. www.club21oakland.com

Club Rimshot @ Bench and Bar, Oakland

Weekly hip hop and R&B night. $8-$15. 9pm to 4am.

510 17th St. www.bench-and-bar.com

Night Light @ SOMArts Cultural Center

Multimedia garden party, with installations by dozens of artists, live music and performance and digital and cinematic projections; food, beer and wine, too (cash bar). $10-$12. 8pm-12am. 934 Brannan St. at 8th. www.somarts.org 30 BARHTAB • bartabsf.com • April 2013

The renovated bar now shows fun musicals each week, with Broadway touring performers stopping by to sing, too. 7pm-2am. 2 for 1 cocktail, 5pm-closing.

18th St. at Collingwood. www.edgesf.com

Tue 30 Block Party @ Midnight Sun

Weekly screenings of music videos, concert footage, interviews and more, of popular pop stars. 9pm-2am.

4067 18th St. 861-4186. www.midnightsunsf.com

Naked Night @ Nob Hill Theatre

Enjoy strip shows in the comfort of your skivvies, or less, with complimentary libations, and the weekly night. $20. 8pm-11pm. 729 Bush St. at Powell.

397-6758. www.thenobhilltheatre.com To submit your May events, send

by April 15 to BARtabSF@ebar.com

eBARchivef H

A bartender at the Balcony, circa late 1970s.

THE BALCONYd I

by Jim Stewart

Jim Stewart

left the baths and arrived at the Balcony bar on upper Market Street around noon on Sunday. I still wore the vintage Marine tunic I had picked up at Ed’s Worn Out West. I made my way through the crowd to the dining room in the back, found a table, and ordered eggs Benedict with a bull-shot to nurse my hang-over from more fun than I bargained for.

The Balcony at 2166 Market Street,

by Duboce Triangle, near Sanchez, was a great location. It drew both Castro clones and grittier Folsom leatherfolk. It was opened in 1977 by Larry Beech and a silent partner from Madrid, together with managers Terry and Barry. The Balcony name and a kitchen came with the place. After a year, a second floor serving bar was added. The back room became a dining area, serving a cut above pub grub. Eggs Benedict were available for brunch. California fusion cuisine filled the dinner menu.

With a second bull-shot, I worked my way to the small namesake balcony facing the street. It was April, the sun was out. It was jammed with shirtless hotties. I felt out of place in my wool Marine dress jacket. I glanced up at the letters on the wall that spelled out “Balcony.” The “c” was missing.

“Bal_ony.” Larry Beech liked it and left it that way.

A loud crash from Market Street drew our attention. A black Bentley with its grill kissing the ass-end of a battered Ford pickup was stopped in front of the bar. The side window of the Bentley silently lowered. The face of an aging gentlemen with clipped white mustache momentarily appeared. The window was raised. A handsome young driver in classical chauffer uniform got out.

British right hand drive.

Whistles, hoots, and shouts of approval came from the balcony. “Love your uniform sweetheart!” could be heard above the crowd noise.

The chauffer gave his best Hollywood smile to the crowd, then turned to the cowboy who had hopped out of the pickup. Great street theater, as if filched from Jean Genet’s Le Balcon, was unfolding before my very eyes and I was out of a drink. I made my way back inside.

“Love your outfit,” a whiskey-voice reminiscent of the smoky golden years of Hollywood said.

“Does Edith Head do your uniforms?”

I looked around. Just two guys hustling at the pool table.

The horseshoeWayland Flowers shaped bar was and Madame empty except for a handsomely quiet guy by himself. The rest had flocked outside to witness the street drama.

“Aren’t you going to sit down and give this old broad a thrill, soldier boy?”

That’s when I spotted her. She was perched on the edge of the worn teak bar. Madame, with an “e.” Wayland Flowers sat next to her. I sat down next to Madame.

“Going to buy me a drink, big guy?” the silverhaired glam puppet in Art Deco gown, boa, and turban said.

“Another round,” I signaled the bartender.

Madame and I flirted until the Bentley left and the shirtless crowd returned for more drinks.

When I returned from the john, Madame had left.

My hangover gone, I headed for the Castro.

After its peak in popularity, followed by a seedy decline, the Balcony closed in 1983. Today the outside balcony has been enclosed. Klotz Watches and Clocks is now located at 2166 Market Street. ✸ April 2013 • bartabsf.com • BARHTAB 31