The Purple Onion dates back to San Francisco’s famed Beat generation, with the North Beach trappings, dingy basement interior and dated furniture to match. All of which is to say that this comedy club encapsulates a timeless, faintly-worn character that bespeaks a boozy den of often ribald, sometimes thought-provoking acts. With seating that accommodates a maximum crowd of 80 patrons, sight lines to the stage are uniformly quality. Though, without a liquor license, your beverages are restricted to beer and wine, as well as soju and proseco cocktails. Yet, without a doubt, a fine way to sample the city’s comedic talents for an evening.

[Image, courtesy of Lisa Miyako]

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