Powerhouse

Museum of the erotic

The Powerhouse is more like an installation than a real cruise bar. It has hanging Crisco lanterns, video porn and a great big "Danger" sign on the back wall. Fortunately, I have encountered a few friendly docents to take me through the exhibits. You can definitely have a smirky fun time here even with the surly bar staff. I think they are just playing their part as cast members.

Good and Bad - You Choose

The Bad: Some bartenders are self-obsessed and can be very rude. There is an actor working there who is really into himself and not much more. It's also packed on the weekends, which can be bad if you don't like getting jammed in. The Good: It's an old-style leather bar kind of place. People are friendly on the slow nights, and some bartenders and barbacks go out of their way to be friendly. It's also a great place to meet new visitors to town, and to learn about the history of the scene from the oldtimers. Ages are mixed from 21 to 70s, and people all seem to get along. They have some of the most ridiculous contests (wet underwear, etc) and theme nights ($1 off on Tuesdays if you have a tattoo or a piercing). This can be good depending on your fetish. All in all I give the place an A- because I like it during the off-times and the drinks are good.

Abusive staff

I was in the Powerhous bar last night, out on the Patio. It was very crowded as it often is. I was shoved forward from behind and to regain my balance I had to lean backwards. I heard a voice say "push me and I will mash your head with this bucked. When I saw move, move." I turned around to see a Powerhous employee with a bucket. (a red headed guy) I believe this kind of conduct and statement is unacceptable. I visit SF several times a year. I will not be coming back to your bar. I am sure this kind of action and comment it acceptable and condoned by the Powerhouse management.

Powerhouse, everything the name implies.

Do you go to a place like this looking to dance? It's like getting off the bus on another planet, one with sex in the air and you either do or don't float with it. Not all sex is between pretty Aberzombies you know.

Not a Dark Room - it's well lit.

Went here on a Friday night and the place was full of guys. Drinks weren't so great, but the outdoor patio was full of people. There was one guy getting a BJ, but nothing else really. If you're going for the Dark Room, it's the outdoor patio and it's well lit. So, put on a good show as EVERYONE can see you. It was ok for what is was: Cheap drinks, some eye candy, decent music but I wouldn't go just for the action on the back patio.