Marlena's may be gone, but at least a portion of its beloved Santa collection lives on at Brass Tacks.
The swanky new cocktail bar that replaced long-time Hayes Valley staple Marlena's at 488 Hayes Street is paying homage to its predecessor, with a winter wonderland of eclectic Santas lining the bar and dangling from the chandeliers.
Marlena's began the tradition of displaying a small number of Santas 23 years ago. The enchantment caught on; with the help of patrons bringing Santas from all over the world, the collection grew to 1,400, according to Marlena.
The hodgepodge of Santas ranges from miniature to life-size, inexpensive to precious, Jesus-y to Mickey Mouse-y. The whole collection is estimated to value $200,000.
Whether you find it charming or creepy, impress your friends with your knowledge about the unusual decor and treat them to a Salem’s Lot (Brass Tacks’ seasonal favorite -- bourbon, apple, lemon, bitters) if they can spot the mermaid and biker Santas.
