By Molly Sanchez
What do mimosas, North Beach, and Lenny Bruce have in common? Monroe.
Monroe is a new bar located on Broadway St. in a building that was once the famous Jazz Workshop — where many comedians and musicians performed back in the day, including Lenny Bruce (he was famously arrested at the Jazz Workshop for obscenity in 1961). One of Monroe’s partners, Payam Arvin, says he hopes the bar’s colorful history will attract local comedy and music acts. “I’d think a lot of comics would love to perform in a venue with that kind of history,” Arvin says.
Monroe’s atmosphere has a decidedly old Hollywood flair, with glamorous low lighting and dramatic portraits on the walls. The exposed brick and sophisticated wood paneling really help create a swanky vibe. There are plenty of places for patrons to sit, but who could resist dancing when local DJs are spinning? Arvin says that Monroe boasts “one of the best sound systems in the city,” and that the music varies night to night.
One of the bar’s most popular musical events is the “Battle of the Decades,” which takes place every Friday at 6 p.m. The party features DJs playing music from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and ’00s. If that isn’t enough to get your toes tapping, Monroe also offers $1 cocktails, beers, and bar bites on their outdoor patio.
Another popular weekly event, Sundaze, is what Arvin calls “The only Sunday morning party in SF.” It starts at 6 a.m. with DJs playing “soul thumping dance music.” Guests can enjoy champagne bottle service then as well.
You can check out Monroe’s amazing cocktail deals and dancy vibe this Thursday because The Bold Italic has chosen Monroe as the official after party for our North Beach Microhood. We’ll see you there!
Photos courtesy of Payam Arvin
