Downtown pub and blues club: Patrick’s II

Patrick’s II (Photo from ‘bengt nyman’ via Flickr)

Don’t be fooled. By the name, one would expect this to be a typical Irish pub. It is an Irish pub, but they there’s nothing typical here.  Patrick’s II showcases some of the finest blues and soul bands around.

The original Patrick’s pub opened its doors in 1933 in the red-light district of downtown San Diego in 1933. Almost right away it became a hot spot for entertainment for locals as well as Navy men and Marines stationed nearby. By the 1970s, downtown San Diego hit an economic downturn which affected many local businesses. Despite the bleak outlook for the area, the Matranga family decided to purchase the pub in 1976.

Four years later, the pub was tragically destroyed by a fire. The owners vowed to rebuild, which is how Patrick’s II was born. They moved next door to the historic Keating Building, where the pub resides today. Needless to say, the pub has survived the times and today is a mainstay in the historic Gaslamp Quarter.

After the City of San Diego decided to revamp the run down red-light district, Patrick’s II became the area’s entertainment mecca. The pub was the only place in the new Gaslamp Quarter with live music. As the area grew, the pub’s entertainment offerings expanded, eventually reaching their current format which includes live music every day of the year.

Patrick’s II is known by many as the premier blues club in San Diego. They feature both local and national acts in a comfortable, fun atmosphere. As you walk through the door of Patrick’s, the Irish print above the door, hardwood floors, glimmering bar lights, strangely mingled clientele and grooving blues music would tell you that you’ve just walked into an uncouth collision of two cultures, an ocean apart, yet remarkably comfortable and ridiculously fun.

If you’re looking for an escape from the bumping and grinding of the typical club scene in downtown San Diego, head over to Patrick’s II for some live, charismatic soul music that will be sure to rock your socks off. The musicians are impeccable, the drinks fairly priced, and the music so irresistible I dare you to stay in your seat.

Location:

428 F Street
San Diego, CA 92101
Map

Phone:
(619)233-3077