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San Francisco, California / Bars and nightlife

DNA Lounge

An iconic SoMa independent music venue and all-ages nightclub, DNA Lounge blends a pizza restaurant and cafe with high-energy dance floors and a legacy of free global webcasts.

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DNA Lounge
www.dnalounge.com, og_image_www.dnalounge.com

What is DNA Lounge?

DNA Lounge is an all-ages nightclub, restaurant, and cafe located in the SoMa district of San Francisco.

What can I do at DNA Lounge?

The venue features DJ dancing, live music, and burlesque performances, and it occasionally hosts film premieres, private parties, and conferences.

Is DNA Lounge good for kids?

Yes, it operates as an all-ages venue.

What facilities does the venue have?

DNA Lounge contains four dance floors, two stages, seven full bars, and a full-service cafe and pizza restaurant.

Where is it located?

It is located at 375 11th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA, in the SoMa district.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Founded in 1985 and officially opening its doors on November 22 of that year, DNA Lounge stands as one of San Francisco's most recognized independent music venues. Located in the SoMa district at 375 11th Street, this sprawling 7,800-square-foot complex operates as a hybrid nightclub, restaurant, and cafe. The venue is currently owned by Jamie Zawinski, a former Netscape programmer and open-source software hacker. The interior is designed for high-capacity entertainment, featuring a total capacity of 1,100 people. The layout includes a 2,000-square-foot performance room that holds 550 guests, alongside a 1,200-square-foot upstairs patio and a 1,500-square-foot restaurant and cafe area. To support its diverse crowds, the facility is equipped with seven full bars, two stages, and four distinct dance floors. Beyond traditional nightlife, the venue hosts a wide array of programming, including burlesque performances, film premieres, conferences, and private parties. It is particularly noted for its commitment to accessibility and technology; since 2001, the club has provided continuous audio and video webcasts of all its events to a worldwide audience free of charge. Visitors can enjoy a full-service pizza restaurant on-site, which serves pizza, snacks, and drinks. Whether attending a live concert or visiting the cafe, the venue maintains a consistent presence in the city, remaining open every day of the year with the sole exceptions of Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Visitor tips

  • Check the online calendar for show times, as doors generally open at 7:00 PM.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to ensure entry, though door sales are available based on capacity.
  • Visit during the day to enjoy the cafe and pizza restaurant without the nightclub crowds.
  • Keep in mind that while the venue is all-ages, many specific shows are restricted to those 21 and over.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of the SoMa district, DNA Lounge is a cornerstone of the neighborhood's entertainment scene. It is located just a short walk from other cultural hubs like the Rickshaw Stop theatre.

Sources

Evidence and links