In December, we reported that vintage arcade-inspired bar and game room Coin-Op was planning to open its first San Francisco location in SoMa by launching a speakeasy pattered after "Tron," the 1982 sci-fi cult classic
For anyone who's ever dreamed of inhabiting a dreamlike computer world infused with booze, the wait is finally over—The Grid opens tomorrow.
In "Tron," The Grid is a vast part of a system programmed by Jeff Bridges' character, Kevin Flynn.
"Often referred to as his 'digital frontier,' the Grid was made to provide an experimental platform where all forms of research could be carried out at unparalleled speeds," said Coin-Op spokesperson Emily Rudisill in a statement.
The Grid joins the 10,000 square foot space's other bars, Flynn's and The Octagon Bar, each with its own separate entrance. But to imbibe one of the exclusive Tron-inspired cocktails inside, you'll need to know how to get in.
Like speakeasies in the days of prohibition, guests must use a secret password and to make a reservation. The Grid's owners are being coy about how to gain access, but at least customers won't be forced into gladiatorial combat inside a computer game.
Craft cocktails designed by bar manager Jason Huffman will be the highlight, as well as wine served by the glass and an extensive cider program. And as for the physical details, every detail, such as the bar's comic book-inspired menu, has been designed with Tron and light cycles in mind.
“We’ve been perfecting the atmosphere for The Grid and are stoked to debut an exclusive space for our guests,” said Has Mahmood, co-founder of Sporting Fraternity Inc., the restaurant group behind Coin-Op’s other locations in San Diego and Sacramento.
“Our talented bar manager...has created incredibly unique cocktails for The Grid that will impress even the most astute drinker, said Mahmood, "and [the] design will be nostalgic for every Tron fan.”
“We wanted to create a haven for arcade lovers and casual nostalgists alike," added designers Eva Bradley and Alicia Cheung Lichtenstein, co-founders of sfHEIMAT, which worked on the project. "[We wanted them] to get lost in the games of their youth within the backdrop of a quirky, yet sophisticated space."
Coin-Op is open Monday - Friday, 4pm – 2am and Saturday - Sunday 12pm – 2am. The Grid is open Thursday – Saturday 7pm - 2am by reservation only. For more information, email [email protected].
