01/21/09

Its got the Scottish vote - but can anyone help me track my old buddy?!

by Paula5571

Hey all,

I lived in San Fran from 1995-1996 and was lucky enough to make friends with Cockatelia, Lycra, Gilda and Veronda.

These ladies showed me an absolutely wonderful time and gave me memories of a lifetime.

One of which was spending 4 hours in the basement of Marlena's dragging me up for halloween 1995 - good God I didnt know how much effort went into looking as good as they do!

Though I swear I got whiplash from the neon pink beehive wig they glued onto my napper (Scottish slang for head!)

I always had a fantastic time in Marlena's and was made to feel extremely welcome - with Marlena being the perfect hostess!

Thanks guys, (she says 13 years later!!!)

I would love to drop Cockatelia an email so if anyone knows her whereabouts then please point her in my direction! - the search is on!!!

Keep partying folks.

Over and out.

• Pros: Fantastic Atmosphere
• Cons: None

12/03/08

A different take

by desmond94114

First after reading a review that was all in caps without a persons name even attached, shows very poor ethics as well as some hatred for the place. Talking about lies, the previous review was not only hateful, but indicates that someone has true anger not only at Marlena (Garry) but at the place in general.

To clear some things up, some bartenders may not be the best (like any bar) but they for sure are not using meth. Marlena has done more for the Hayes Valley community, the drag community, the leather community, the gay community, as well as the community of San Francisco, than any other business. Please check the public records of his accomplishments and recognitions by the city.

As for the peope here, they are welcoming to all groups and types. One of the reasons I can honestly call this place my home and the people there "my family", is because they have been welcoming to me from day one. Ive seen nothing but kindness from Marlena (including outward to people who are down and out), to her own biological children.

Anyone who says this establishment is not grade A, is obviously bitter and using the internet as a tool to try and ruin something good.

Desmond Perrotto

• Pros: Free entertainment - never a cover - live drag shows with great performers
• Cons: Drinks are higher than normal but you do pay for having a great time.

03/24/08

Rudest Bartender Ever

by pegsf

We live in the neighborhood, and decided to take our friends to marlena's after dinner on Saturday. We ordered our drinks and tipped well and watched the tail end of the drag show, which is always great fun. No less than 5 minutes after finishing our drinks, the bartender screamed at us to "buy another round or get the f#@k out of there. There was no signage indicating a two drink minimum, and we weren't told this when we got our first round. The bartender just went bezerk and was screaming at us. It was surreal. The sad part was that we were actually going to order another round, but now they've just lost customers and we will never recommend that bar to anyone.