I’ve been tracking some liquor license transfer activity on this address, which reveals a new project coming this fall to the former Bar Fluxus, which just closed on July 3rd (a bunch of folks are going to miss the bar’s eclectic style and programming). Due to open this fall is HARLAN RECORDS, a reference to Harlan Alley, which has a nice parklet set up on the windless alley (especially nice on a warm day).
Partners in the project are Eric Passetti (Trocadero Club, Natoma Cabana, Café Terminus, House of Shields, and the new Pie Punks in SoMa), Will Herrera (High Horse and Old Ship Saloon), and Katya Skye (a bartender and manager at several bars and restaurants in New York and SF, and co-founder of Manhattan Zodiac, which specializes in bar consulting, classes, and events).
The concept for Harlan Records is inspired by Japanese hi-fi listening bars, and vinyl sound will definitely be front and center—they want to celebrate SF’s downtown music scene of the 50s and 60s. I asked if that would mean The Doors and Jimi Hendrix, but they mentioned “we are also excited to play Charlie Parker, John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Janis Joplin, Linda Ronstadt, as well as modern music for some occasions.” They will be serving period-specific craft cocktails that were popular in the 50’s and 60’s, as well as low-ABV drinks, alcohol-free options, and seasonal ingredients. Beer and wine will also be well-represented.
The team is working with designer Marissa Jade Marsh (Macondray, and she helped to tune the design of High Horse), who will be creating a 50s-60s feel that will be cozy, comfortable, modern, and inviting. Stay tuned for renovation and opening updates on their IG page: @harlanrecordssf. 447 Bush St. at Kearny.
