Came here to see Bryson Tiller! Best experience ever. I love his music. The reason for the 3 stars is because we(my date and I) picked up the tickets there. We received our wrist bands and then went inside. Went to the bar and then went up stairs. When we got up stairs security looked at our tickets and said where’s our vip wrist band, we were surprised we didn’t know we had vip someone booked this for(my date) him. So we went outside got our wristbands and then got a drink and went back up stairs. We were directed to a room on the right that was so small, packed up and hot. We said this can’t be vip, we asked security and he said yes. So, we went back down where we were closer. Another security guard the one that handed us the vip wrist bands looked at our tickets again, and he said we got the wrong bands, apparently we were suppose to get bottle service but either way we didn’t get the tickets vip that was paid for or the reserved seats. The show was amazing though I was happier and closer on the floor.
Denise S.
Classificação do local: 5 San Diego, CA
I recently went to a concert and was very impressed with how security took care of finding my stolen phone. The security manager Una handled the situation very professional and his team Lamar and so deserve to be recognized. I was very hesitant about going back after having my phone stolen I can now say I will attend other concerts due to how exceptional security service was :-)
Kalvin P.
Classificação do local: 5 San Diego, CA
In terms of an overall music venue, The Observatory is definitely one of my favorites in San Diego! Comparable to The House of Blues in a couple different aspects, the floor seems a little bigger. However, the balcony here is smaller and is not for the general public. There’s a parking garage right across the street from the venue, which was covered by the cost of the ticket so that was convenient, albeit a little difficult to get out of once the show was over since everyone was trying to leave. Starting at the door, security was not an issue as some people might state. I don’t know, most places I’ve been to I haven’t had an issue with security. Maybe because I’m not a threat or because I haven’t acted out of line/stupid. The Observatory doesn’t have a dedicated Merch room like The House of Blues does. Instead, the merch booths and stands are lined up against the back wall, along with a station selling water/juice and snacks, and a small bar. I guess the bar has just been added because a lot of the reviews state you have to go in to the adjoining restaurant to get a drink. We were carded at the door and given a color coded wristband for age identification. The bathrooms I used were also located in the restaurant so I’m not sure how people under 21 would get in there. Hmm… The show was great, lighting and sound were fantastic and the event was organized well. Everyone started on time. Very happy with my first experience at The Observatory and will definitely be coming back :)
Hannah V.
Classificação do local: 2 San Diego, CA
The venue itself is nice, very clean and open and conveniently placed right across from the parking garage. However when it comes to the security guards that work the venue is where I give it only two stars. They are very unprofessional and very rude and overly strict. everything ends before 10 o’clock and every show seems like it’s cut short. Security will kick you out for the smallest things. It is overly strict. Honestly the wackest venue I’ve been to foor concerts, I only go because my favorite artist choose that venue. there are ones that are much better than North Park Observatory. I suggest artist coming to San Diego pick soma or anything else other than this venue.
Samantha R.
Classificação do local: 5 National City, CA
I just went for the first time to the Hombres G & Enanitos Verdes concert… Loved how security was on top of things and at the first moment of fights; they were removed from the venue allowing all of us to truly enjoy the concert… It just a little hot; I would recommend some fans upfront, but aside from that I had a blast and would go back!!!
Kim P.
Classificação do local: 5 Pasadena, CA
huge venue but intimate at the same time. multiple levels give everyone a great view of the stage. you can also come and go from west coast tavern too but you cant take drinks back and forth. inside there is a bar for 21+ wristbands and the drinks menu there is quality. bathrooms are located in west coast tavern and also up the stairs just inside the the space between the two locations. the bouncers seem nice and ive never been patted down too thoroughly here. its a crap shoot whether or not they pat down your back for ladies stuffing hip flasks in the backs of your bras
Mosa M.
Classificação do local: 1 San Diego, CA
2 shows and 2 terrible experiences here. The first show started on time but the opening act(immortal technique) opened for himself and his set lasted only 20 minutes. The second show which was tonight was downright aweful. I arrived exactly at 7pm(show start) so that i wouldnt have a repeat of last time. 3 performances came on that were so-so at best with huge times in between performances. After the last person went up the wait time was 1 hr of a dj playing tracks until GZA(main performer) would come on. I decided to leave 15 minutes before he would come on, at this point it juat wasnt worth it anymore. I will never give my money to this establishment again. $ 55 total for a lesson learned, steep price in my book but here we are.
Kristen J.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
We went to see Telefon Tel Aviv and Moderat here. I agree with other reviews, the acoustics and sound are not the best, but since the bass is so ridiculously heavy, you can really feel it which is always cool to me. We tried out the VIP area above the venue floor. We were one of only 2 tables up there that were taken, but I think it just opened up not long ago. The experience and service was awesome up until a crowd of people flooded in near us by the railing, I couldn’t tell if they were friends of people who worked the venue or if they were also customers. One guy’s butt was in my face because he was right up against our table and I was visibly annoyed. The reason we dropped extra cash to really enjoy the show and sit back and relax and avoid randos getting all up in our business. Someone from their crowd got the hint and they moved away, and then I was happy again. The food was great, drinks were strong, and service was really on point. You can pay what you would for an overpriced show at a big venue like Sleep Train with overpriced beer, or you can have an amazing view of a performer with a buttload of food and drinks(and perhaps, an actual buttload in your face as a bonus) for the same price in the VIP area of the Observatory. That was the way I looked at it when rationalizing the cost. The tickets to the show we went to were pretty cheap, so it all evened out. Overall we had a really great time and we will definitely do the VIP area again next time a special show for us is in town.
Ashlynn-Joy F.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
I came here for the first time this past weekend to see J Boog, a reggae/local hawaiian music artist. The venue is not too big, but not too small either. The wait time for the security line went smoothly and all the bouncers were nice! The bar could be bigger or have more than 2 bartenders working at a time to make the wait time for drinks shorter. The sound system isn’t amazing, but pretty decent! Would definitely come back for other events.
Jeric L.
Classificação do local: 4 Glendora, CA
Stopped by here for dinner and the food is great! Flat bread is awesome. They also have the music venue area and just by peeking in, the room shows a lot of old charming character. The whole building is historic and if you like old architecture, this is a must see! Under the new ownership, he’s reviving the music venue the way it’s suppose to be.
Jennifer H.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
I was pleasantly surprised by the venue. After reading so many horror stories, I was expecting the worst. The set up is nice. Good sized venue. Guessing a sold out show would hold 750. I think only general admission is available. As long as you are inside 15 minutes before a show, you should be able to find a good spot. Loved the various levels at the middle and back of the space. This is the first venue that has multiple levels available to stand for a concert without paying a different ticket price. I stood along the railing of the second level in front of the mixing booth It was so nice to be able to see over the people standing in front of the stage. Plus when waiting for the opening band to go on, you could sit on the carpet and relax. Another first, the air vents are in the floor. Nice touch to have good circulating air. The sound of the concert itself was a little on the loud side but you want to be able to hear the music at a live concert. I had no issue with security as was mentioned in many other reviews. Yes, I got a little groped going into the venue but I did feel safer as I would rather know everyone was equally patted down and there is less likely of a wacko to get through. I would welcome attending another show at this venue.
Nicole O.
Classificação do local: 3 San Diego, CA
I’m glad there is a nice venue located conveniently in North Park with a diverse offering of performers. The box office is cash only, and although there are hours listed, there aggravatingly isn’t always someone available. Nevertheless, I usually purchase from the box office, and when staff is there, they have always been courteous. Weirdly, the security guards will confiscate your pens, but they are kind and accommodated my pen fondness by saving it for me to recuperate after the show. For one show, the doors opened an hour late, creating a huge line which wrapped around the block. The sound quality has been variable, even in-between sets, but is more often good than bad. Overall, I like this venue because the clientele is calm and creates a relaxed setting in which to enjoy music. I have never felt too cramped and the nearby parking garage helps in the nightmare that is parking in North Park.
Maridel A.
Classificação do local: 5 Hillcrest, San Diego, CA
HUGE venue… you can definitely have your wedding, birthday, baby shower, debut, christening, divorce party, funeral, ANYTHING! comes with a bar too annnd short cut to WESTCOASTTAVERN! Came here to watch Anuhea in concert and other bands that opened for her. Great performances, i enjoyed the music. Good amount of people, didn’t seem crowded, im sure it was… but thats just how big this venue is. The best part of this place are the a/c vents on the floor! ladies wear a skirt… let that fly like Marilyn Manroe!
Ramona G.
Classificação do local: 5 San Diego, CA
I LOVETHISVENUE! I came here last night for the first time for the Anuhea concert. There is no seating, but a standing venue. There is plenty of room to dance and it’s not crowded. No stinky or sweating people grinding on you. Plus, a bonus is that they have circular vents on the floor and nice cold air will cool you down while you dance. Cute security guards and bouncers will watch you as you feel the music. LADIES… WHATYOUNEEDTOKNOW! There are HELLAFIONE A$$ PINOYBOYS roaming around on the loose. I did not see one, not two, not three but plenty of pinoy boys if you dig it. Filipino gentlemen around for that eye candy if you have a sweet tooth. Very friendly and soft, the kind that will take you home to their nanays and will wrap you lumpia. Come through pinoy boys, come through. Holla at meh. As far as the food/drinks: Food: They serve hot dogs, and nachos for $ 5 which is not bad! I didn’t get to try it last night :(I wish I brought cash. Drinks: Refer to my previous post at West Coast Tavern. They only have a theater bar here so you will need to go to WCT if you need girly drinks. You know what’s up ladies! Parking: $FREE.99 if you park in the garage right across the Observatory! HOLLA! You will need to retrieve an additional parking pass at the front door to get your parking comped. Only if you attend an event, otherwise it’s $ 5. I will definitely want to attend more events/concerts here in the future.
Daniel L.
Classificação do local: 3 West Covina, CA
We came here to see Jhene Aiko and venue was cool, I have no complaints. Original time for the show was 7:30 with the doors opening at 6:30, but during the day they sent out an email saying doors would be opening at 7. We got there around 6 and there was a line forming, by then time 7 rolled around there was a line going down the block. It looks bad if you see that long line, but it really wasn’t that bad. Like people say, they frisk you pretty thoroughly because of their weed policy… don’t be careless if you’re trying to bring that stuff in. The way the venue is arranged, there is the main floor area, then right behind that is a slightly raised platform with railing, then right behind that is the mixing booth. on each side of the mixing booth are tiered sections with railing. If your friends are height challenged like my friend is, the raised areas were great. Also other people mention the sound isn’t great and I tend to agree with the reviewers, it was really hard to hear Jhene’s vocals clearly, but since this was my only experience here, I’m not going to complain too hard about it. If there’s another musical act that I like that is performing here, I would have no problems coming here again. Some people were complaining about crazy fees, but ticket was $ 35 with a $ 7 fee, so $ 42 is not bad at all. Only thing was we got 2 ½ hours of DJ performance, and not quite an hour of Jhene :(…I’m not sure who is at fault for that.
Jeb H.
Classificação do local: 5 San Diego, CA
I love the Observatory in North Park. They recently remodeled the interior, and it looks fantastic! It has a fancy, old-school look with a very large room for concerts and events as well as a cool balcony. This is a cozy and stylish venue where you can actually see the performers instead of being hundreds of feet away. In addition, most concerts are under $ 40, which is great! Several low-key bands play The Observatory every year, and it’s a great place to see them. A couple of weeks ago I saw Beats Antique, and it was one of the best shows I’ve ever seen! This was partly due to the venue, but mostly due to the wonderful performers and awesome music! If you ever get a chance to see a Beats Antique show, don’t think about it, DOIT! They said they’ll be returning to The Observatory next year. Later this year the retro rock band, X, will also be playing. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that there are air vents in the floor that spew air conditioning during the shows. This is a great way to lessen the heat that builds up from SD weather and packing people into a medium-sized room. My only complaints are that the drinks are outrageously expensive($ 9 for a crappy American tallboy beer like Coors or Bud), but that’s to be expected. Also, the floor has been repainted, and it gets slippery when drinks are spilled on it. Nevertheless, it’s still a great place to see bands. Lastly, there’s a fantastic vintage flea market in the parking lot of The Observatory four times a year. Over fifty vendors hock their vintage and vintage-inspired wares. It’s a great place to find vintage items, and it’s lots of fun even if you don’t buy anything.
Walter M.
Classificação do local: 4 Oceanside, CA
I’d been going to Observatory Santa Ana for years and to now have that same representation down in North Park is a real treat. While the Santa Ana location is like a mix between HOB/Epicenter/Original SOMA this place is just a little more eclectic. The line forms on the East side of the old theater building and the security lines move quickly. They do plenty of all ages shows and are good about security. Merch is usually right inside the door and the whole space is open with tall ceilings. I’ve never used the box office, only online purchases, but if I didn’t live in Oceanside I’d come down and make use of the lesser fees if you pay cash(obviously not day of show as most bands you’ll want to see sell out). Prices are imo ok, but I’ve given up on seeing cheap shows on the chance they blow up. If you like them, you like them and you’ll pay what you want, only way around those charges is to work the system. Sometimes they’ll close the side alley smoking area. No coat check and despite the garage parking which fills up you can normally find street parking, except on weekends. Nifty feature is the underneath vents blowing air for cooling, but only down near the stage, none in the upper separated areas where it can get warm. No drinks are sold IN the theater, you must walk thru the back doors to West Coast which is still run separately with a main bar and offshoot areas. They’ll swap out your glass for plastic if you go back. Bathrooms are upstairs and the central area between them is a funky loung-ish transition between theater and bar. If your not 21 I don’t even know where the restroom is, only one I’ve used is in the 21+ areas. I’ve yet to see any fights and still very few weed smokers(they get lit up and escorted out) Acoustics are actually quite good, imo better than Santa Ana, but not their Constellation Room. Probably on par with HOB as long as you are not off to the sides. It really has brought a bit of a revival to the area, nothing wrong with Soda Bar, Bar Pink, AC Lounge, U-31, but they are more clubs and can’t handle large bands or real acoustics or do all ages since they are bars(frankly I hate all ages because kids don’t know anything). Just look at all the new restaurants. Belly Up has sort of dried up too. A great addition where I’ll be coming down here for every few months I’m sure.
Juan s.
Classificação do local: 5 Escondido, CA
power house place!
Rob g.
Classificação do local: 1 El Cajon, CA
The security guards at this place are awful. I will not ever return here. I would rather eat my own turds than return to this venue. That is all.
Joseph M.
Classificação do local: 2 Chula Vista, CA
What a horrible experience for my first show. I attended Bryson Tiller and although it was great I was wrongfully accused of providing underage with some of my drink. BS. Let me inform you that there was 3 – 4 guys with black hats in my circle INTHEDARK that weren’t with my party. They escorted me out and I was outside for almost an hour, very calmly asking to speak to someone in the management. All of the management are rude and helpless, none of them cared for what I had to say which I think is very unfair. I even requested for the security to come out and speak with me because another security agreed I wasn’t the one who«provided» drinks. Makes no sense for two security guards to both not agree I was the one and still get escorted out. I spoke with a lady named Julie who really makes me question who is in charge of this place, she kept telling me she would help me in anyway and all she did was avoid me over and over, I do understand how busy they were but at least treat me like I paid for a ticket. Let me also add the security isn’t so reliable, for many reasons I do not need to mention. Do you even do background and drug tests on the crew? I’ll never attend to this venue again. Anyway, I managed to get back in(I didn’t sneak in) I went through the front doors of West Coast Tavern and through the double doors that lead into the venue with my wrist band, I had a blast! I still got to see Bryson perform his entire set.
Aileen G.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
Been here several times to see a couple of my favorite artist. The only reason I’m giving it stars, is because it’s the only other venue in SD that has a consistent line up of artist that I want to see. The venue itself is decent, you have a couple ledges where you can kick it during the show. The security is probably the nicest I’ve encountered, all the guys here are always super chill. I can’t really say much about the bar because when I go to see shows I’m usually out on the floor dancing haha but the few drinks I’ve orderd I thought they were decent.
Nat H.
Classificação do local: 1 Oceanside, CA
I just payed a more than 50% service charge per ticket for two tickets to a show. It ended up being more than the cost of an individual ticket. I’m far from the first person to complain about this, but it goes beyond just a slight irritation. This sh*t is straight up immoral in my eyes. Further degrading the already suffering concert going experience. Without whining any more or going into corporate vampirism on art, I’ll just say, I won’t be coming here until they get rid of ticketweb. Also, the sound could be better.
Jessica S.
Classificação do local: 4 Colton, CA
I really liked this place. The wait to get in wasn’t long, and there are ledges where you can sit, while waiting for the show. The raised areas also help in seeing the show, when you’re short like me. The sound was fine, but one of the loudest shows I’ve ever been to. The main drawbacks are that the bathrooms are shared with the bar, so very crowded, and you can tell people inside and out of the show were pretty drunk, which is really annoying. I hate how people act when they’re drunk. Seriously, stop staggering around, stop hugging your bro and watch the damn show! Parking in the structure, across the street, wasn’t bad, since there are many levels, and it was validated by the venue. Just remember you need your parking card, validation card, and show ticket, when you exit.
Erik T.
Classificação do local: 4 Tempe, AZ
Great venue. Beautiful on the inside. Acoustics are Great. Adjacent bar is solid too.
Zoey O.
Classificação do local: 5 San Diego, CA
I came here for a concert and had the greatest time! The venue was not extremely large, but was comfortable. I loved how the bar in the back is in the venue, but is separated by the wall so you can enjoy both things separately. I’d love to come back here again!
Morgan H.
Classificação do local: 1 Rolando, San Diego, CA
The service fees are almost as much as the tickets themselves. The fuck? You also have to pay a fee if you buy them at the box office, so either way, double your ticket price because these fools are greedy. Why even call it a fee? There’s no way to avoid it. Just add it to the fucking ticket price. It’s also impossible to get in contact with this business. Iffff you’d like to call it that. Get your shit together.
Leslie B.
Classificação do local: 3 San Diego, CA
I have now been to the Observatory twice, once to see Morrissey and once to see Owl City. I was a huge fan of the North Park theatre where I have gone to see musicals, fashion shows and pianists. Now it is more of a mainstream music venue, with a lot of great entertainment. Many of the Unilocal reviews reflect bad treatment from the security, but I have not had any issues at all. It is still a beautiful theater and has great music. It is a good way to be able to see a band up close, as the venue is pretty small. I really like the fact that there is a good vantage point from about anywhere in the theater. I usually head toward the front, but even when I walked toward the back, I had a good view of the stage. What I do not like, it that it is an alcohol free venue. They bother to card you and give you a wrist band, and then do not serve alcohol. I am a big fan of the drinks at West Coast Tavern(the bar that the venue is attached to) but if you want a drink during the show, you actually have to miss a show, not only to buy the drink, but also to drink it. I thought that maybe they do not serve alcohol because they don’t want spills to ruin the décor, but they still serve soft drinks and snacks. We will be heading out to see the Reverend Horton Heat in December, and we will probably arrive early to get a couple drinks at West Coast, but that is a show I don’t want to miss, so we will be seeing the show booze-free.
Doreen B.
Classificação do local: 2 San Diego, CA
Clean enough I guess, restrooms were upstairs, followed by long long lines. Old man from security white hair dengy beard, well he got very handsy. Before we got in line, we bought starbucks, granite the line was long… not long enough. I had to throw out my drink :€ To be honest that was my bad. I guesses i should have known. Standing from 6:00pm until the concert started, glad i wore comfortable shoes. Xambassadors put on a good show as did Skylar Grey. I don’t know the other band that synthesised Kevin Garett???
Vi Y.
Classificação do local: 2 San Diego, CA
No can do to this theater. Pros: awesome artists come here Cons: everything else No alcohol in the concert area. Wth? No seats. People are packed like sardines. Next to big sweaty people, not cool. Poor sound system. We went to see JBoog and Soja here last night and both their voices were so muffled, we couldn’t hear the words. I’m too old to concert uncomfortably. I wish artists would consider the comfort of their fans and not perform here. Unfortunately we’ll never come back, doesn’t matter who is performing here and for what price.
Jefforia S.
Classificação do local: 1 Gifu-shi, Japan
UNSAFE! I have been to this venue a couple of times and have had a bad experience every time. The security is not there to help but to hurt its patrons. I thought I may have just had a bad experience the first time so I figured I would go back and give it a second try. My friend was being obscenely hit on by a creepy guy and when she told security he was being completely out of line they laughed at her and said«maybe you should just give it to him.» When the guy would not leave she had to push him away from her face and that’s when the security guards saw their opportunity to man handle her while they proceeded to grope her as they escorted her out. Do yourself a favor and go to a different venue there are plenty of them.
Miquel J.
Classificação do local: 5 El Cerrito, CA
Had a great time at the venue for Citizen Cope. I came here expecting to have a bad time dealing with security but it wasn’t as bad as the other reviews indicated at all. They were all friendly, especially Una who was in charge of the line before doors opened. Two separate entrance lines for men and women for a pat down prior to entering. Took 6 seconds and was unobtrusive. Inside the venue, the floor is sloped so those further back are on an angle and still get an unobstructed view of the stage. Why more venues don’t do this, j don’t know. The show itself was typical Citizen Cope as in great! Validated parking makes this easily a great place to catch a show in my book. No food or drinks allowed inside from what I gathered, but it doesn’t affect my ranking because I don’t drink during shows.
Joel A.
Classificação do local: 2 Escondido, CA
We came here not too long ago to see one of my favorite bands, Tribal Seeds, they were awesome! The show was epic. The venue tho, eh. They crowded that place to the brim. It was a sold out show but man it was hard to get out of. You are better off peeing in your hat than trying to make it to the bathroom when you are center stage audience. The security here takes their job as if they were 1987 Compton cops. Coming in they seperate genders and then they frisk you. Girls frisk girls. Chill bro, enjoy the good vibes. You can get some drinks from the bar at the restaurant connected to the front. Seriously tho you’re better off pre gaming it before you get here. The prices are ridiculously inflated and you will be in line forever. Actually, who am I kidding there is no line, you just pray that the bartender will make eye contact. I would keep coming just for the good shows but never to get drinks again.
Alyssa F.
Classificação do local: 5 Los Angeles, CA
I’m really not sure why this venue has such harsh reviews. I attend a lot of concerts in similar venues across the country and around the world, and the venue staff here are some of most organized, professional individuals I’ve ever met. They did an excellent job of organizing the queue outside, and were very fast and efficient in the security searching/ticket scanning process. They were also super friendly and down to earth! Informative and helpful without being arrogant or bossy. The venue itself is really nicely laid out. Quite small and intimate, with nice vintage theatre detailing. Very good A/C. Great acoustics. Friendly staff. I saw Morrissey play two nights in a row here and enjoyed the entire experience so much. This is the way concert venues should be run!
Jessica S.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
We had no issue with the security or the venue itself when we came for a show. We actually had a VIP package experience that night, so we got early a Q&A session with two of the three bands, a photo opportunity, and then were given early re-entry into the venue once the VIP experience was over. There may have been a hiccup in the communication once they made us leave the venue(after the VIP), but it was quickly cleared up. The security guards working that night were friendly and funny, and made it a point to talk to the people that they were screening in line. Then, when they re-opened the doors to us, the pat-down area was efficiently run and quick to get through. The venue itself is pretty great. There are vents on the floor, so when it gets hot in there — all those bodies and lights tend to heat things up — the cool air gets to you quickly. There’s a bit of a slope, though nothing drastic enough to make it easier for short people in the back to see over the tall people in the front. However, there is a step-up area with a rail behind the open space in front of the stage, which is a little higher up, and gives one a place to lean during a long set. One thing that I noticed was that there was a low barrier between the open space and«the pit» — right in front of the stage. Given enough alcohol or excitement, I could easily see someone toppling right over that barrier, or otherwise hurting themselves. It seems a bit precarious, but I’m sure they’ve got it all under control. About the only negative thing I can say about the place is that they don’t have a bar within the music venue itself. You have to pass through to the restaurant on the other side, and I don’t think you can bring drinks back into the music space with you. Kind of defeats the purpose of having a bar in the first place, and gives it a bit of a adolescent feel. Still, I did enjoy the venue, and the fact that they were able to get a lot of people in without it feeling too crowded. The acoustics are really good, and it feels intimate without being too close. I’d absolutely go back for a show, if someone we want to see comes through there.
Mark A.
Classificação do local: 2 San Diego, CA
The reason I am giving them any stars at all is because of the few good acts that they have brought in recently. Everything else about the place pretty much sucks. To start, the security… I have never felt so violated attending a concert. First you separate into two lines(males and females) and then the violation begins. Someone of your gender puts their hand on and in places that have only been touched in intimate encounters. They actually lifted up my wife’s bra to see if she was hiding anything, ridiculous! After a thorough molestation, you move on to scan your tickets. After you get in, the place is nice enough, but they seem to have sound/volume issues. I have been to two events here since the rebranding, a concert and a beer festival. The beer festival was a bit of a disaster, as they ran out of beer by 10PM and the event went until 12PM. The set up was also a disaster(in terms of flow), and nobody could move freely around the event. During the concert that I went to, they were selling PBR for $ 9, wow. If I were to offer a couple of suggestions, it would be to back off on the security, and turn the volume to levels that allow you to hear the music, not receive a full-on chest compression. Also, during events not strictly music centered, please accommodate the flow of traffic.
Melissa N.
Classificação do local: 3 San Diego, CA
We came here a couple of nights ago to see Toro Y Moi and the Mattson 2(local band!), and it was A-OK. 1. They REALLY care if you bring alcohol/glass/drugs/etc. I’ve been to a number of concerts and festivals in my life, and I have to say, the security here REALLY did their job. Get ready for a thorough search of your tiny purse and a generous pat down(even if you’re just wearing a dress!). I guess it makes sense since they’ll get into a lot more trouble for underage drinking and whatnot compared to a music festival, but still, easy on the ladies! 2. The one thing I really dislike about this place is that there’s a separate bar area all the way in the front(where the restaurant is). You cannot bring your delicious beverage in to enjoy the show you paid for. Also, you can BARELY hear the music! I tried listening to the Mattson 2, but omg, with the flurry of thirsty attendees crammed in the back room and a small double door to look through at the stage, it wasn’t the best experience. 3. My only compliment is the décor of the place. You can really tell that you’re in an old building, and there’s just something nice and pleasing about it to me. Oh yeah, I guess a downside to that is that they still use the old pipes(according to the women’s restroom lol). 4. Oh wait, I lied! My second compliment would be the acts. Props to whoever’s in charge of booking the artists, the lineup this year has been pretty sweet so far! A lot of big names, as well as local flavor, and the crowd turnout is definitely a reflection of this. 5. And to the sound guy/gal working in the back during Toro Y Moi’s set, please learn how to use a mixer. I’ll probably be back because it’s so close to my house and I really like their lineup. Hopefully it’ll be a better experience than this one!
Thuong T.
Classificação do local: 4 San Diego, CA
Went here last night to see The Pharcyde ! Tickets were only $ 5 ! Plus service fees online. Never been to this location before so I did not know what to expect. There is a huge parking complex next door. Parking is only $ 5. They have a lot of security upon walking in. One line for men. one line for women. They do a complete thorough search on you. They search through your purses and pockets. They pat you down every inch. They do also check your ID’s because its a 21+ event. They give you a wristband upon entering. They can scan your tickets through print out copies, hard copies, or even on your cellphone. So don’t freak out if you forgot to print out your tickets! I was sad that they didn’t have any chairs inside. The whole concert area is a giant empty room. They have two stands that you can purchase drinks/alcohol from. It IS connected to West Coast Tavern. It’s REALLYNICE that they allow you to go in and out of the concert area and West Coast Tavern as long as you have your wristband. So you can buy drinks inside the bar or grab a bite to eat. But if you leave anywhere else, there is no re-entry. Security is really tight. No smoking allowed inside. Overall, fair prices on drinks. The concert was great. And definitely great for the moneys worth! Events for this venue range anywhere between $ 5-$ 50. Just check their online website for upcoming events!