Madrone Art Bar is a prominent nightlife destination located in the Western Addition neighborhood of San Francisco,
California, United States. Opened in 2004 by Michael Krouse, the venue has established itself as a vibrant fusion of contemporary art gallery and energetic cocktail bar, setting it apart from typical nightclubs in the city. Originally conceived as both an exhibition space for local artists and a community hangout, Madrone Art Bar evolved into a dynamic cultural hub that hosts a range of performances, from live music and DJ sets to immersive art installations and themed dance parties.
Its walls are adorned with regularly rotating art exhibitions, contributing to its reputation as an incubator for creative expression. Over the years, Madrone has garnered a loyal following—both within San Francisco's eclectic nightlife scene and among the wider artistic community—thanks to its inclusive atmosphere, innovative programming, and commitment to showcasing emerging and established talent. Despite fluctuations in the surrounding neighborhood and the challenges posed by the city’s shifting cultural landscape, Madrone has maintained its original location at 500 Divisadero Street.
Minor renovations have modernized its interior and sound system, but the bar has retained much of its original charm and mission, serving as a cornerstone for local nightlife and creativity. The club is especially known for recurring themed events like "Motown on Mondays" and "Boom Bap," which draw diverse crowds and celebrate various facets of music and culture. Notable artists and DJs who have performed or exhibited at Madrone Art Bar include internationally recognized names such as Peanut Butter Wolf, J.
Boogie, and DJ Shortkut, as well as esteemed local talents like DJ Z-Trip,
Felix the Dog, The Fresh & Onlys, and Mophono. Additionally, the venue has provided a platform for emerging Bay Area musicians, visual artists such as Jeremy Fish and Sirron Norris, and regular appearances by local DJ crews like Motown on Mondays and Afro Funké, all of whom have helped cement its stature as a vital fixture in San Francisco's ongoing cultural story.