As residents will tell you, the northwest corner of the city is more than award-winning food and acre-spanning parks. While perhaps not the first neighborhood you'd think to go to for arts and entertainment, the Richmond is ripe with unexpected and unconventional venues, each one offering a different, distinctly San Francisco flavor.
We’ve collected five of our favorites, but would love to hear yours, too.
Noise
This family-owned record store has been making noise since its debut in 2015. Every Sunday, you’ll find live music spilling from its open door, and neighborhood regulars gathered around the cozy stage in the back. In addition to a group of rotating jazz musicians (including store owner Daniel Brown), Noise has also welcomed musicians from New York, Paris, Portugal, and throughout the Bay Area.
But that’s not all this record shop has to offer. Noise also functions as a gallery space, each wall showcasing the works of local artists. The works on display frequently change, so each visit is bound to reveal something new.
Coming up next: This Sunday, Nov. 6th, Noise is celebrating the public debut of Cyndy Goldman’s ‘Song Box’ and 'Blue Note' series, the former featuring colorfully textured pieces named after popular songs, the latter inspired by the distinct designs of Blue Note’s '1500 series' album covers. Live music will be provided by SF band Sueños, as well as renowned Richmond District native Melecio Magdaluyo.
4 Star Theater
One of the last true neighborhood movie houses—along with fellow Richmond theater The Balboa—the 4 Star is the west side's go-to venue for foreign and alternative films (and the occasional blockbuster).
This vintage two-screen theater has occupied the corner of Clement and 23rd since 1912, and today it's known for being one of the few places in the Bay Area where you can catch the latest in Asian cinema, along with an ever-changing selection of independent films. To add to its unique repertoire, the 4 Star recently collaborated with Stage Russia to bring filmed theatrical productions from the Russian stage to our very own Little Russia in the Richmond.
Coming up next: Between November 16-20, the 4 Star Theater will be screening 10 selections from the 2016 Chinese American Film Festival, including recent box office hits like Saving Mr. Wu and Tik Tok. Outside of Los Angeles, San Francisco is one of the few cities in the U.S. showing selections from the festival, making this a must-attend for lovers of foreign cinema.
Neck of the Woods
Located on Clement and 5th Avenue in the heart of the Inner Richmond, Neck of the Woods is probably the least hidden spot on this list, with a consistently packed calendar of performances and two floors dedicated to live music (the downstairs stage offers a more intimate experience, while the upstairs space fits as many as 500 people).
Although the Clement Street establishment has changed names and ownership over the years, it has proudly maintained its position as a music venue for over 40 years, hosting such names as Otis Redding, Etta James, and Metallica. Today, it's an excellent spot to discover new music or catch a local favorite, and you'll regularly find Bay Area bands sharing the bill with touring groups.
Coming up next: On November 8th, Neck of the Woods presents the Brooklyn-based Nat Osborn Band, along with San Francisco singer-songwriter Jonny Zywiciel (who just released his debut album) and Lil' Elephant (bringing the funk from Oakland). Consider it your much-needed reward after a long election day.
The Plough and Stars
Just down the street from Neck of the Woods you'll find The Plough and Stars, a long-standing Richmond District favorite and a perfect place to unwind with music and dancing. Venture into this Irish pub six nights out of the week and you'll be greeted with live music and all the Guinness you could ask for. (The exception is Mondays, during which the pub takes a break from live music but offers all-day happy hour and free pool instead.)
Perhaps best known for its seisúns (traditional Irish music sessions that have attracted players from all over the world) and Thursday night set dancing, The Plough and Stars also provides a low-key locale for getting your fix of Americana, routinely featuring live bluegrass, blues, country, and American folk music.
Coming up next: SF-based band Culann's Hounds will be bringing their infectious energy and original sound to The Plough and Stars on November 19th. With a vibe excellently described as "Irish/Cajun Rebel Roots Rock Dance Party," Culann's Hounds delivers catchy, dance-worthy music while sticking true to their Irish roots.
Kawika’s Ocean Beach Deli
An unexpected venue for live music and entertainment? Indeed. One of the Outer Richmond’s most lively spots for neighborhood gatherings? You bet.
Tucked away on an unassuming strip just steps away from the beach, Kawika’s is a local favorite for all kinds of neighborly gatherings, ranging from poetry readings to presidential debate screenings to weekly comedy sessions. Music nights have featured acts from all over the Bay Area, including repeat appearances from The Get Mads and local ukulele group Na Hoaloha. The aloha spirit runs strong at the western edge of the Richmond, no doubt an influence of Kawika's continuous efforts to bring the community together.
And in case you were wondering, the sandwiches are excellent.
Coming up next: Today (Saturday. Nov. 5th), Kawika’s will be hosting local vocalist Rebecca Yarbrough backed by a quartet of Bay Area musicians. Yarbrough will be singing her own takes on the music of Radiohead, David Bowie, and Joni Mitchell, among others. Check out Kawika's Music & Events Calendar for more.
Did we miss a favorite Richmond venue? Let us know in the comments.
