(Published in the Ukiah Daily Journal - - August 23, 2015)
Driving past the sad, tall-sailing “Fjord” sign, I flashed
yet again on how wonderful it would be if somebody opened a business in that
very optimal site. And, unlike the very cool Bagel Zen Blues which had a very
short shelf life, hopefully it would be supported locally and offer culinary
and musical treats to this little town.
If not for the wonderful free summer concerts, Ukiah’s live
music venues would be fewer and farther between. The Office is still going
strong a couple of concerts per month, but seating is very limited and late
hours aren’t possible due to the residential neighborhood.
Ukiah’s own Brewing Company has morphed into the more
prestigious Ritual…an interesting but actually a possibly disturbing name to
some for a restaurant. Prices are higher, but servings are tiny on large
plates. The worst part? The stage was traded for two or three more tables, so
NO more live music!
Some of us thought years ago that we’d see more lively
evenings when Mendocino Brewing Company changed from its Hopland hot night
venue and set up production at the south industrial area in Ukiah. But, no.
Their nearby store is pretty much that – a store for their beers with no
atmosphere and offer only theater-style hot dogs and maybe fries if you’re
lucky. At least that was my experience in the past. I hope it’s changed.
The huge Crush steakhouse has talented pianists playing in
the entry (a little hard to hear back in the booths and tables) but
disappointingly stopped their live weekend music in the large, casual bar
section on weekends.
We can find chicken wings and trucker breakfasts along with
some take-home pizza and sandwiches on the north end of town, but have to drive
up to Redwood Valley for truly good cuisine – to Mario’s Italian Restaurant or
The Broiler, which has its awesome retro bar, but have yet to hear any live
music there.
Thankfully, a new version of the previous Redwood Valley
Café is opening soon and plans more live music. They have a lot to offer in the
way of stage space and had a reputation for good service, too. But, it’s a
drive – on the highway, late at night after good tunes and imbibing, which can
cause concern.
For that casual patron of drink and loud bands, Club
Calpella offers party-central, especially for holiday celebrations! That’s lucky
for local bands like Double Standyrd, Warehouse 21, Fat Chance Trucking Band
and more.
Thank goodness for some wineries in our area who know the
importance of bringing out patrons by offering more than wine; adding musicians
and caterers draws more customers, they’ve learned. Nelson Family Vineyards, Parducci,
Rivino and Simaine Cellars have discovered this secret. Testa Vineyards now,
too, I hear.
However, back in the little town of Ukiah …
Downtown restaurants like Dora’s Gourmet Café, Oco Time,
Patrona’s and Saucy are jammed and treat customers to great food at reasonable
prices, but none offer dinner with live music; though I’m sure if adequate
space were available, these owners would appreciate the opportunity for local –
and out of area musicians to complete an occasional stellar evening for us.
Anna’s Bistro has an early evening of live music sporadically, to complement
their wonderful menu and premium wines.
Perhaps I’m just a bit deflated after attending the 9th
annual Blue Wing Blues Festival in Upper
Lake
There is still one more night Bernie
Butcher , the owner, has scheduled coming up on Labor Day.
Check it out and get your tickets at bluewingsaloon.com or call 275-2233.
Monday, September 7 promises to be terrific music with boogie woogie queen,
Wendy Dewitt (a top act of her own) opening for Nancy Wright, an amazing
saxophonist from the Bay Area who is an up and coming player on regional and
international blues scenes. She lit up the stages on a Legendary Rhythm and
Blues Cruise we had the pleasure to be on recently.
A letter published in the Ukiah Daily Journal some days ago
voiced concern over the rumor about a new tavern possibly opening where
Dragon’s Lair store and Romi’s Brew and BBQ are now located on Perkins Street.
Well, it would be welcomed with open arms. Nearby Perkins Street Lounge’s dancing
poles and pool tables have their place; but a classy, noisy bar with occasional
live music would be a welcome addition for many Ukiahans.
There’s so much good food and live music in the world to be
enjoyed. I hope more of it comes to our little town.
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