A Landmark Nightclub

Bimbo's 365 Club opened in the 30's and is still going strong.

The club is named after its founder, Agostino Giuntoli, who was nicknamed "Bimbo" -- which means "boy" in Italian.

Giuntoli came to San Francisco from Tuscany in 1922, and took a job as a janitor at The Palace Hotel. From there he went into the restaurant business as a cook. In 1931, he became partners with his boss, Monk Young. Monk, unable to pronounce his name, called him "Bimbo," thus the name of the club. Together, they opened the 365 Club on Market Street. In 1951, Bimbo's was moved to North Beach.

In 1970, Giuntoli retired and turned over the reins to his grandson, Michael Cerchiai. In 2001, Cerchiai was nominated by the Pollstar Concert Industry as one of the Best Nightclub Talent Buyers of the Year.

In 1931, Bimbo and Young's initial inspiration was a response to the Depression. Rita Hayworth performed at this speakeasy among many chorus girls. Other more recent performers include Bette Midler, Jewel, Chris Isaak, Macy Gray, Counting Crows and Van Morrison. Robin Williams is often seen -- in action here -- testing out new material.

Other favorites this year: Walking in Memphis' Marc Cohn, who came to San Francisco this summer, as well as, the up-and-coming, British jazz pianist and singer, Jamie Cullum.

Like Club Fugazi, two levels of seats are offered. One is the main bar called the Continental Lounge. If you sit here, don't miss Dolfina, the world famous "Girl in the Fishbowl." The other is The Flambeau Terrace, in the main room, which offers views of the entire club.

Live Music
Nightclubs
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Eclectic International
For Men & Women
Recommended For 21 & Over