San Francisco is one of the great comedy capitals of this hilarious world. Robin Williams, Dana Carvey and Margaret Cho got their start here, with hilarious talent like Moshe Kasher, W. Kamau Bell, Emily Heller and Al Madrigal following right behind. The city by the Bay is always ready for a fresh crop of funny folks, which is why we’ve put together this list of local open mic nights. Whether you’ve got a set ready to go or wanna check out the scene before taking the stage, here’s where hopefuls (and sometimes horribles) give comedy a shot. Your open mic recommendations in the comments, please.
Brainwash Laundromat and Cafe Thursday nights, 8pm
This is the mothership of San Francisco open mic and has been for the past 15 years. Hosted by Tony Sparks, Thursday open mic at Brainwash is the most popular night of its kind in town. Half cafe, half laundromat (seriously), the venue is a delightfully unexpected one: Comedy takes place on a small stage in the cafe section, Tony and other comics are encouraging and folks waiting for their clothes to dry provide a built-in audience.
Punchline Comedy Club Sunday nights, 8pm
Comics are advised to attend Sunday night’s Comedy Showcase for several months before aiming to make it onstage (okay, so it’s not your traditional open mic). Hopefuls are asked to get to know the show and vice-versa. As a result the Comedy Showcase fosters a sense of community among local comics who make Sundays at the Punchline a regular thing.
50 Mason Social House first Tuesday of the month, 8pm
Sign-ups start at 7pm for this popular, monthly open mic in the heart of the Tenderloin. The venue is a block from BART and features a full bar, so your friends have no excuse not to a) show up and support your comedy dream and b) get drunk enough to laugh.
Pissed Off Pete’s Wednesday nights, 8pm
Pissed Off Comedy is a new open mic night in the Excelsior District. Host Jonathan Ott is more than happy to sign you up. Get in touch via Facebook and be sure to arrive angry at the neighborhood dive bar.
Eagle Tavern second and fifth Wednesdays of the month, 6pm
How can you not love San Francisco—especially on certain Wednesdays of the month when a gay biker bar and amateur comedy night collide? Sign-ups start at 5:30, and all would-be comedians might want to steel their nerves with a shot and a beer back.
Milk Bar Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights, 8pm
This modern space on Haight Street is home to some really exciting live entertainment, including tons of comedy. Shows here can run long unless a headlining band is scheduled right after. But it’s always a great time at Milk, both onstage and in the crowd.
Mutiny Radio Friday nights, 8pm
Jokes at the Komedy Klubhouse open mic spread beyond the tiny Mission District performance space—they’re broadcast live on Mutiny Radio! Shows can also be relived after the fact, so your mom can hear your set from the comfort of the suburbs. Sign-ups start at 7:30.