1. Punch Line
According to everyone we asked, Punch Line is the big comedy dog in town (if you’re wondering what a comedy dog looks like, imagine a Rottweiler had sex with a Chihuahua). For 38 long years Punch Line has been serving up the laughs, making it the longest-running comedy club in San Francisco. If being THE stage where great comedians got their start is an indication of quality, then Punch Line’s the gold standard. Legends like Robin Williams, Ellen Degeneres, Rosie O’Donnell, Chris Rock… too many to fit in this paragraph, started at this very club. Today it’s no different. The rising stars and big names of comedy flock to Punch Line. Where else can you see greats like Dave Chappelle or Margaret Cho perform a mere ten feet from you?
2. Cobb’s Comedy Club
If Punch Line’s the Rocky Balboa of comedy clubs, then Cobb’s is the Karate Kid. Did that make sense? Founded way back in 1982, Cobb’s Comedy Club has enjoyed many years of jovial success. It has moved around a bit, but they’re reputation for top shelf comedy has stayed strong. Not even a fire could slow them down. Like all the best comedy venues, they offer a full bar and dinner menu, because nothing goes better with laughing than a mouth full of shrimp and vermouth. Comedians of all stripes have graced their stage; a frequent stepping stone to late night TV appearances. They host acts like Louis CK, Dave Attell, Anjelah Johnson and more.
3. Doc’s Lab
Doc’s Lab and their above ground restaurant partner, Doc Ricketts, derive their names from marine biologist Ed Ricketts. Apparently this raconteur spent his nights hosting writers, artists and performers in his lab. And he had a bit of an opium habit (or maybe not). Today Doc’s Lab is located in the legendary comedy venue The Purple Onion, which hosted comedic luminaries like Woody Allen, Bob Newhart, and Phyllis Diller. Doc’s keeps the legacy alive by hosting an array of live entertainment, from comedy to music, even literary events. Some of the biggest ego–er names in comedy perform at Doc’s Lab on a nightly basis, as well as San Francisco’s rising stars.
4. Rooster T. Feathers
Rooster’s has a bit of an eclectic history. Once known as the Country Store, a tavern that featured comedy on the weekends, it quickly shed its feathers and began to specialize in stand-up. Class acts like Jerry Seinfeld, Robin Williams and Ellen DeGeneres cut their teeth at this intimate venue (though to be fair, Jerry would show up anywhere that featured a full bar in the 80’s). National comics pass through their doors on a regular basis while on their way to such acclaim as staring on the Late Show, The Tonight Show, and Comedy Central. Not bad for a place that was once a bus stop.
5. Lost Weekend Video
We round out our picks with an absolute gem of a venue. Lost Weekend Video is mostly known for their rare, can’t-be-streamed-so-don’t-even-try, DVD and videos. After weathering a potential closure earlier this year, they are back and newly renovated, with a new lease on life (literally). Three years ago they took a step into comedy, opening the Cynic Cave. It has quickly become the place to witness San Francisco’s alternative comedy talent. Magical experiences happen at every show. You’ll even see some big names, like the incorrigible Natasha Leggero, hone their material in the cave before going on tour.