SESH

Underground SF is a renowned nightclub located in the Lower Haight neighborhood of San Francisco, United States. Operating since the early 1990s, the venue occupies a storied corner of the city’s nightlife, known for its intimate dance floor, dim ambiance, and an unpretentious, welcoming vibe that stands in contrast to some of San Francisco’s swankier nightclubs. Originally founded as a safe and inviting space for all patrons, including the LGBTQ+ community, Underground SF quickly developed a reputation as a haven for alternative music movements, regularly hosting genre-defining parties in house, techno, drum and bass, and more experimental electronic music styles.

The space has become an institution, with its iconic black-and-white checkered exterior signifying a kind of underground cool that has survived waves of gentrification and changing musical tastes. Over the years, while San Francisco’s nightlife scene has seen countless venues come and go, Underground SF has maintained its original location at 424 Haight Street and has only seen minor changes to its structure—occasional interior touch-ups and upgrades to its sound system—without sacrificing its core identity or beloved, lived-in atmosphere. Its resilience through the challenges of rising rent, city ordinances, and even periodic closures during the COVID-19 pandemic is a testament to its cultural significance, serving as a critical breeding ground and launchpad for both local talent and touring artists, thereby contributing to the city’s legendary status in the global dance music scene.

Notable artists who have performed at Underground SF include international acts such as Claude VonStroke, Egyptian Lover, and Doc Martin, as well as influential local DJs and collectives like J. Phlip, M3 (Makes Me Move), Solar, and residents from crews such as Honey Soundsystem, Housepitality, and Polyglamorous.