Hoodline reports that the Bubble Lounge, which closed in May, is now reopening as BARBAROSSA. Owner Eric Benn has brought on Arash Ghanadan of Novela as a new partner and is giving the space a facelift. When they reopen, the bar will have a Barbary Coast theme, as a nod to the building’s previous incarnation as a prison (oooh) and wholesale liquor warehouse. They’ll be focusing on happy hour, with a cocktail list, good beers, and wines available by the glass. There will still be plenty of Champagne and dancing too. The plan is to open in mid-October. 714 Montgomery St. at Washington.
It sounds like the beloved ELBO ROOM might not be closing imminently, as expected. KQED reported that owner Matt Shapiro posted an announcement on his Facebook page stating that the club’s lease has been extended another year, and it will go month-to-month in 2016. They could still have to close after that, but this is certainly good news for fans of the live music (and strong drink) venue. 647 Valencia St. at 17th St., 415-552-7788.
The Elbo Room is passing along good vibes to another local gem of a bar that needs it right now. As you likely know, THE RIPTIDE was badly damaged in a fire on August 18th. The bar sustained at least $600,000 in damage and is currently closed until repairs can be made. But you can help! And this is a bar, so you know the effort will be fun. Friends of the Riptide and Elbo Room are coming together on Thursday September 3rd to raise money for the rebuilding of the fabulous bar. The party is at Elbo Room starting at 8pm. There are more than six bands playing, plus DJs spinning music. There will be drink specials, a raffle, silent auction, and more to raise money. Check out all the details (and tell your friends!) on the Facebook event page. And if you can’t make it, never fear! You can also donate here. 647 Valencia St. at 17th St., 415-552-7788.
Good news: ~THE ALEMBIC~ has reopened, but the new/expanded space isn’t quite open yet. You can take a sneak peek on Hoodline (there will be more room for groups, yay), and we’ll update you on the final unveiling. We’ll also be telling you about new executive chef Dave Faro’s menu soon (Broke-Ass Stuart shared the news of Ted Fleury’s departure here).
