The Tenderloin/Nob Hill area of San Francisco always had this mixed identity vibe where the upscale and the rundown co-exist, rarely yielding for an intimate and accessible yet thriving live music venue where jazz and related styles could find its devoted listener.
Recently, I had a chat with Les Cowan, first-time business owner and artistic director of Café Royale as we discussed how running this establishment has changed his life, enriched his appreciation for jazz music, and gave him a great social network of friends. He purchased this space three years ago, inheriting an existing jazz program ran by a previous owner. Once the entertainment license and soundproofing were in place, Les took the entire concept of an art/music café to a new level, providing the 'home' for various music and art programs.
Located on the corner of Post and Leavenworth streets, Café Royale occupies an unassuming space with high ceilings and a balcony stretching the entire perimeter of the joint. The centerpiece of the room is a round burgundy couch, bringing old charm and sophistication to the place. Floor-to-ceiling windows on one side provide lots of light and keep you connected to the vibe of the Tenderloin district.
The venue's Sunday Jazz Series is arguably the most established, long-running program, and has brought very prominent, local musicians to Café Royale; Scott Amendola, George Cotsirilos, Darren Jonhston, and Ricardo Peixoto have all performed here. Recently, Tango No. 9 had a huge crowd with lot of great tango dancers in attendance. The list of programs expands with Roots/Americana acoustic sets presented every Tuesday and Thursday, accordion nights with Rob Reich, monthly literary readings, comedy, and movie events.
In association with San Francisco Songwriters Coalition, Café Royale also hosts a unique program, "Conversations with Renee," hosted by KFOG radio DJ Renee Richardson, who interviews some of the best bands and singer-songwriters emerging within the vibrant Northern California music scene, followed by a performance by the artist. Condensed PodCasts of these events are available at the Local Scene section of the KFOG website.
Last but not least, every month the Café features works in various mediums by local fine artists, holding kick-off receptions on the first Thursday of each month.
Breakfast (noon to 3 pm), lunch (noon to 6 pm), and dinner (noon to 8 pm) menus are available with simple but delicious pizzas, Panini sandwiches, cheese plates and salads, all rounded up with an excellent selection of beer and wine as well as cocktails made with Sake and the popular national Korean beverage Soju.
Tourists, locals, and Academy of Arts College students alike seem to adore the idea of this versatile space where they can catch great free local jazz, bring a date, have a beer with friends or just grab a bite to eat while utilizing free Wi-Fi.
Recently, I had a great opportunity to bring my own music to Café Royale, and it was an unforgettable experience! This friendly and casual join truly makes a difference in San Francisco music scene.
When you book your table at Café Royale, please mention this article on JazzWest.com!
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Café Royale is located at 800 Post Street (between Hyde & Leavenworth) in San Francisco. For reservations or more information, please call 415.441.4099 or visit the Café Royale website.
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