Comedian headliner was 10/10. Server was quite pushy and kept interrupting to ask if we wanted more. Drinks are $15 each at the cheapest (that's for a beer), and the food was subpar at best. I'd expect more from a $20 burger! Nachos were mostly chips and a bit of topping for also like $18! Tickets are given freely cause they'll get you on the drink and beverage side of things. Ugh. Editing reviewer after manager replied below to say: individual beer prices are not listed on the menu. We asked the server and he said they're about $13-17 each depending on what you order. Also, the water and soda being options for the drink min was not explained. read more

This was our first time at this particular Improv club. We've been to several around the Valley and usually stick to the west side, but we came here to celebrate our anniversary after an amazing dinner at Kierland Commons. The staff was very friendly, and we were able to get in quickly despite the sold-out show. Once inside, they seat you at the next available spots, often across from others in your party. We didn't love that setup, and neither did the couple next to us, so we ended up switching seats so both couples could sit together. The general seating tables are arranged perpendicular to the stage. We were seated at a center-back table, which meant our view was almost completely blocked. The gentleman next to me tried to be considerate, but even when I leaned around him, my view was still obstructed by others. I think I saw the main comedian's face maybe four times total. There were several moments when the comedians made gestures or facial expressions that the front tables reacted to, while those of us in the middle just looked at each other, confused. It felt like we missed a lot of punchlines. That said, the service was great, especially considering how packed it was and how little room the waitstaff had to move. Drinks were delivered quickly, and everyone we interacted with was helpful and positive. Unfortunately, I did find a random floating object in my wine--I'm not sure what it was, but I had to pull it out and set it aside. I understand trying to maximize seating for a popular show, but if I just wanted to LISTEN to a comedy set, I could have stayed home and streamed one while enjoying a good bottle of wine...without any unexpected extras. We'll likely stick to other Improv locations in the future. read more

I've been to Desert Ridge Improv twice, both for comedy shows. Once on a Thursday and once on a Friday evening. Located in Desert Ridge Marketplace, it's a popular entertainment district but you won't have trouble finding a parking spot. There are plenty of restaurants and bars in the area if you're trying to make a night out of it. Ambiance (3/5): Desert Ridge Improv is a relatively large comedy club. If you get a general admission ticket, which I've done on both occasions, they seat you wherever you would like. If a show is sold out, you're pretty much packed in their like sardines. A little too close for comfort (with barely any room in between your seat and the people next to you), but I understand they're trying to maximize their profits. Service (3/5): Desert Ridge Improv has a two-drink minimum per person which is annoying but is consistent with other comedy clubs in town like Tempe Improv and Rick Bronson's House of Comedy. The servers generally do a good job taking care of a large group of people all placing orders around the same time. My only other pet peeve? You pay on those electronic payment systems. They just show you the total amount and I've noticed that the tip options include tax rather than pre-tax as it should be. I'll have to make sure I ask for an itemized receipt next time to make sure I'm calculating my tip correctly. Drinks (3/5): On the adult beverage side of things, Desert Ridge Improv has wine (both by the glass and bottles), beer (craft and your standard stuff, bottles and beer buckets), and various cocktails. They're overpriced, you're paying a "venue premium" here. Food (3.5/5): Given that it's a comedy club, I didn't have high hopes for the food. I had some food on one of my visits: the chicken tenders and fries. Good portion size, though their food is also a bit expensive. The chicken tenders were your run-of-the-mill chicken tenders. The fries were well seasoned. It's a filling meal, so I'll give them that. While the food and beverages, service, and ambiance are all part of the experience, it's the opportunity to see comedians that's most important. Desert Ridge Improv brings in a good amount of big names. If you're looking for some good laughs, and you respect comedy as an art form, it's a cool experience to let loose and relax. read more

I popped over to see the Adam Farrera show Jan. 29 - I hadn't seen him before and oh man, he was incredible! So fun, hilarious and so cheeky! I was also amazed at just how kind and warm he was! He made me feel like I'd done him the favor just for coming out! That is a gift of a human! WIshing him many years of blessings to come! Great show, amazing service, great food! read more

This place used to be the go to place well they can go to Hell as far as im concerned. We would always get here early to sit in the front and now im told you and your whole party have to buy a drink at the bar to get priority seating. So it just turned into a 3 drink minimum store instead of 2. They just lost frequent customers. I hope you burn for this. Disgusting read more

I went to Desert Ridge Improv for a "Wicked" drag brunch. It was fairly pricey at $25 per ticket -- I did see that it said a two drink minimum not realizing that their drinks were about $20 per drink!! These were general admission tickets too and that basically means first come first seated -- however we were escorted to our table and weren't able to take whatever seat we wanted -- this resulted in my back to the majority of the action that took place in the middle of the seating arrangement (not just on stage). This is the first drag show I have been to in Phoenix and I do have to say it was pretty tame -- it might have been the PG subject matter -- "Wicked" The host was the best act iMO -- but overall it is hard to have a bad time at a drag show!! Now back to the drinks and food -- My friend and I opted for the bottle of champagne and mimosa's -- we actually set a trend and by the end of the event everyone at our table ordered the same -- I like this option because you know you aren't getting a watered down drink -- but I did see some of the drink specials looked super cute, likes ones in a fishbowl. We also ordered food -- I had the sweetie tots and my friend had the avocado toast. Her toast was totally flavorless -- basically was like avocado with no spices, citrus or salt and some micro greens on top -- she had to get some salt and pepper from the waiter but it still didn't help. My sweetie tots were pretty good but very cheesy -- they were sitting in a pool of queso at the bottom of the plate -- so needless to say I didn't eat too much because it was so heavy. The service was very good -- they are obviously very used to the chaos of a bunch of drunk brunch drag fans, LOL. No complaints on the service at all!! So really giving it 3 stars for the cost of drinks and food, as well as the seating but it was super fun -- and am tempted to come back to see some comedy shows. read more

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Such a nice venue and in a great location! I came here to see my favorite podcasters Joey and Ellyn from ITN do a live here. The venue made up specialty drinks for them and the podcast which I thought were amazing and so did they! Apparently that was a surprise. Plenty of room, seating was very comfy -it was bar seating you know at bar tables but still cozy. I feel it was very budget friendly but I don't know how much they have to do with that or if that was the podcast. Anyways had a great time and can't wait to see another event here. read more

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BFF and I came here for the Y2K Drag Brunch show on 8/30. This was my first time visiting this venue and I very much enjoyed the experience. As many of the reviews state this and the venue website as well, there is a 2 drink minimum purchase. Our server was upfront about this right away when he first came to our table but it doesn't seem to be enforced. I got away with only ordering 1 drink and our server never pressured us into ordering more, which was appreciated. Drinks do not have to be alcoholic - I ordered a non-alcoholic mocktail and BFF had sodas. Water was brought to every table automatically. We also ordered 1 dish to share as well. The drag queens for our show were excellent. My only regret was not bringing enough cash to tip them! (Singles preferred). If you are going to see a drag show here, please show your love and tip! They work hard to give everyone a wonderful, entertaining show and are super gracious for pictures with you. If I had to critique something, it would be the food and drink prices. They are very reminiscent of Vegas prices and the food and drinks offered I feel doesn't justify it. The food menu was super limited as well. Just keep in mind that the menus on the website is to give you an idea of what they serve. The actual menu during the show may be different. You can have a good time here on a budget but it will take some careful planning beforehand. read more

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We saw Kristin Key at Desert Ridge Improv tonight and it was amazing. I was enjoying the show until Steven, the security personnel, said not to "hoot and hollar", since he felt he needed to tell me to be quiet when I was doing nothing but supporting the comedian (and she even played off a couple comments to make the crowd laugh). Steven (the "head" of security) claimed that he received complaints. When my girlfriend asked him about his comments, he struggled to defend his actions and just said he "got complaints", and felt that "we had to agree to disagree". Steven then said he needed to end the conversation. He never accepted or understood that his words caused emotional distress and tears. I'm hoping Steven will take a moment to understand that his words and actions can have intent, but the impact will forever change the experience of seeing a show at Desert Ridge Improv! read more

Alec Fynn what a douche! My fault for not doing a better job researching the comedian. Service was good, beverages are expensive.

2 drink minimum? Fine. $20 drinks? Yeah, no... ridiculous. No wonder they struggle selling tickets despite a prime location.

Came here on 6/21 to see Jeff Garlin perform and had so much fun! We bought VIP tickets and ended up getting right up front in the action. There was a line when we showed up and general admission is first come first serve seating wise. They funneled VIP into long tables up front and it felt super immersive! There's a 2 drink minimum since the tickets are so reasonably priced. Be warned the cocktails are expensive! But we were also able to get just a couple beers and a glass of Coke. They also forgot our waters for about an hour and a half and we were definitely thirsty with the hot crowd in there. We were crammed in pretty tight with everyone so if you get easily overstimulated or need a lot of space, keep this in mind. The crowd was great and the comedians super engaging!! Overall such a good time and a great date night idea. The venue is super intimate and easy to see the stage from all sides. Remember, if you can see them, they can see you. Hecklers be warned, you WILL be called out by the comedians! Hahaha read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Entrance - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Went to see Girls Night Out Murder Mystery tonight. There is not anything redeeming about this performance. The sound quality was horrible the girls were over acting really poorly, the film clips looked like old school porn quality. The Only mystery was the cost of the drinks. It cost $40 for 2 beers and two iced teas and I wasn't even shown what I was actually charged for. The service was lacking the waitress forgot my water that I ordered with my drink. Then forgot the beer the second time around. What a waste of time and money. Save yourself the misery. read more

Listen, it's improv comedy--so of course, you're going to need to buy at least two drinks instead of just one. Of course, the waitstaff will be nudging you to order some food, and yes, you'll probably end up leaving a hefty gratuity when the bill is settled. But you go there for the talented comedians and a night filled with laughter that you won't forget. read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Ready for the show - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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July 6th- Jon Heffernan headliner) there were three very funny comedians and it was a joy to see my friend belly laughing. Service was good. French fries yummy. Pleasant atmosphere. 5 stars Tonight 7/19 Stev Byrne just swore a lot and insulted so many people, I finally signaled to my friend to leave. He was awful. Zero read more

My husband bought the VIP tickets online for the comedian Kevin Nealon. Our tickets were for the 7:30 pm show. We stood in line outside around 7pm. We were pretty close to the front. Right at 7:30pm they started letting us in. We actually got good seats close to the front. They did require a 2 drink minimum. I ordered a coke. There wasn't any gluten free options so I passed on the food. The drinks were super pricey. The show was good and the cost value made it a fun date night. Plenty of parking since it's located at Desert Ridge Mall. read more

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The comedian we saw told clean jokes, so we thoroughly enjoyed him. (John Heffron) Our server was great, friendly and attentive. The food we got was ok. I guess my biggest complaint is how they had the tables set up. Half of the room had their back to the comedian and had to try to turn their body/chair to see him. We were packed in like sardines. Meanwhile, tables toward the back were empty. Seems like there should be a better way to set up the room. There's a two drink minimum for each person, which I didn't like, but understand. Their food menu was pretty limited and there was nothing that I could really eat with my dietary needs. We didn't have time to eat supper before going to the show, so we ordered as best we could. Still, lots of laughter during the evening. read more

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Zai, our server, was absolutely wonderful! So attentive and so warm and accommodating. We went to see Martin Amini and had the best time! we shared the pretzels, which were great, loved the cheese sauce. Also shared a Caesar salad with carne asada which was surprisingly good! read more

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Terrible experience. We usually love comedy everywhere we go and expect much from the food but this food is terrible. The food also doesn't count towards your 2 drink minimum purchase. The server also talked us into drinks that include tickets for another show and we asked if it had limitations on which shows and she straight up lied. The 2nd time we tried this place they let everyone in for free because it was dead, and sat next to next to the speakers which were so loud we had to leave. The server tried to say we didn't buy enough ($75 bill). To keep this short I'll leave it there. read more

Had such a great time here for a drag brunch! I went with 3 stars only because we couldn't see the performers for most of the show based on how the place is set up. We snagged a booth and thought we totally scored, but while it was comfy it was not elevated like some of the tables, so we couldn't see the performers at all unless they were on stage or right by our table. Having been to lots of drag shows and brunches before, I haven't had this problem to this so it really stuck out to me. If you go, make sure to get one of the tables in the middle, the reserved spots along the back wall that are high up, or one of the elevated tables around the middle of the room. Our server was great -- they were packed and super busy but he still managed to come by and get our orders a couple times. The drinks are super overpriced, but I think that's how they make their $$ so it's understandable. I got the cucumber highball and if you like mocktails, I definitely recommend it. read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Stage - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Going to the Desert Ridge Improv was an evening well spent. If you have a general admission ticket, get there an early so you can be seated nearer to the stage. They do have a lot people seated pretty close together but it makes sense for a venue like this. If you are later and toward the back it is a little difficult to see. They were very up front about the 2 drink minimum which is standard for a comedy club. Our Old Fashioned & Piña Coladas hit the spot and we enjoyed some spinach dip too. Of course the best part was getting to see a great comedian, Pauly Shore! read more

Besides being overpriced, this is an awful place to go. Treated with an attitude from the moment we sat down. Had to ask the server 8 times for my girlfriends drink, and she never received it. This must have upset the server because I was escorted out by security shortly afterwards. read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Drinks are extremely expensive and its a 2 drink minimum per person. Beers are 12 and cocktails are almost 19. This isnt Vegas, this place isnt nice enough to have these prices. read more

We went to see Kristin Key on 5/15/2026. She was FANTASTIC !! However, the service was questionable and ruined the enjoyment of the show. The waiter in the front bar I guess it's called Copper Blues, was great, except we already had yellow VIP wrist bands. He was telling us we each needed to purchase a drink of some kind to get the black priority wrist band and that was better than the yellow VIP wrist band. We found this not to be true and ended up buying two drinks that we did not need to. Once we got into the venue, we had to order two drinks each. What a flipping mess. The employee who took my order, he kept bringing me the wrong drink. (About two to three times he brought the wrong drink) About halfway through the show I finally received my first drink. Tasted like sprite with very little alcohol. At least the drink up front in the Copper Blues Bar tasted like a drink. My partner ordered a Watermelon Fizz. Some other female server brought him his drink 30 mins before mine. Here she never took our order. Once I finally got my first drink, we were told by our server, that she mistakenly gave him someone else's drink. How nice!! Our second drinks finally came near the end of the show. What a mess and a distraction from the show. I don't know who is in charge, or if you were shorthanded, but this was unacceptable service for spending almost $200.00. What an up charge from $70.00 for two tickets after the fees and mandatory drinks, along with getting roped into purchasing two extra drinks to get the Black priority wrist bands. Had I known this was going to happen, We NEVER would have gone. This was not worth what we spent with all the aggravation. This two drink minimum needs to go if you cannot offer acceptable service. Raise the price on the tickets instead. We were VERY DISAPPOINTED and will not be returning. We will warn others of this type of service at your establishment. I hope somebody in your business takes this seriously and fixes this annoying problem. We were not the only ones who had bad service. There were others that had to keep asking for their food and drinks. VERY UNORGANIZED. I feel like I wasted $200 last night. read more

Amazing service and joy from Dai and all the queens. great drinks and music, wings were alright but came so quickly!

2/11/26 The comedy was good. The venue is horrible. The tables are all high tops and the chairs are extremely uncomfortable. It was freezing in there. I couldn't get comfortable at all, nor could I see the performer. We missed quite a bit of the dialog, I think the performer turned his head away from the mic a lot, but again, I couldn't see. My husband had a lot of trouble hearing in general. He adjusted his hearing aids several times because the sound was just not good. They require a 2 drink minimum. Fancy drinks are $18+, well drinks are $13, soft drinks are $6. Towards the end of the show, if you had not ordered your second drink, they offer you bottled water. Sure, how much could that be? It was $7.00 !! They make the ticket prices affordable and then rob you once you're there. There is zero chance we will go there again. read more

We attended the Hocus Pocus Drag Brunch today. Show was fun and entertainers were great. No bad seats in the venue, VIP tix not needed. Service was dreadful and we kept having to flag our wait person to order food & drinks. Half hour to get drinks. They ran out of silverware so we were given plastic forks, no knife. My meal was mediocre at best and toast came out bone dry. Food comes from neighboring restaurant so takes a while. read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Seating arrangement sucks. Sit facing perpendicular to the stage. If you're in the back, almost impossible to see. The air conditioning was weak. People packed in tight need air. If you are sitting in the middle of the row - good luck getting up to pee. Main comedian was funny - but was hard to enjoy because the seating and air. And don't forget to check your bill before you pay - no one is perfect - but we were charged for drinks we didn't order. read more

We had an amazing evening at this Improv seeing Flip Orley perform his magical hypnosis. The show was for 7:30 but they suggested we come one hour prior. They opened their doors right at the box office to let us all in at 6:30. It was just enough time to get situated with drinks and food before the show began. Service was excellent. The drinks were little pricey but decent. There are two drink minimum but you can order soft drinks as it counts towards it. We enjoyed it. Highly recommend! read more

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Title: Terrible Service, Overpriced Drinks, Outdated Policies Attended Desert Ridge Improv multiple times this year. Most recently, Friday March 27th, to see Peter Lee and it's a mess. The two-drink minimum is pushy and outdated, servers are undertrained and slow, food is bland, and drinks are overpriced (my vodka lemonade was $19.99 and awful - after the server recommended it??) On this night, they implemented a Pre-show sitting at CB Live - the system is frustrating to say the least. Before you would show up and stand in line outside of the Improv and be seated per your place in line. Now they have you go to CB Live, and IF you purchase a drink with the server there, you get a VIP wrist band, which even that doesn't help with your seating, because you still have to stand in line??? And what about those patrons who didn't get a drink and arrived well before the show so that they could get a seat in a section they hoped for by arriving EARLY??? In addition, the service during the show is slow, disruptive, and the servers are definitely not trained in the steps of service. The server couldn't clean up our empty drinks or even clear the plates when we finished. But he sure pushed their 2 drink minimum policy! Even the comedian called out low attendance. Clearly, revenue is prioritized over patrons and performers. They need a complete overhaul. read more

You think they have done this before and would have the process down. VIP tickets to see our favorite comedian. Hot summer night. The line outside was a few hundred people deep (luckily, we were up front - which meant we waited in the heat longer). If you pay extra, you should have special amenities, say maybe a VIP line? At worst, knowing folks are waiting in the heat at least add misters outside. The show itself was AMAZING but that's all due to the comedian's talent. Service was OK, at times slow, extremely marked up on the high end and gratuity is already included. I'll never attend a summer event here again. read more

Went to Bingo Loco last night which was an absolute blast! This was my first time at this venue. I didn't eat, but did have drinks (2 minimum). I was in a large group for the VIP section. Our server took good case of us. I was surprised that the old fashioned I ordered was really good. As for the venue, it was decent. Bathrooms were clean and the support staff was friendly. They got us in the door and seated quickly. read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Bingo Loco - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Talent = GREAT! Venue = ugh! They will cram you in like sardines so you're sitting with your back to the stage in a narrow row of chairs and someone else is sitting like 6" behind you. If you want to turn your chair, good like finding the space! Prices for food are insane. I'm pretty sure it's cheaper to eat and drink at Universal Studios or Coachella...?! $12 high noons $17.95 margaritas We got an order of buffalo wings that were $17.95 and they had the audacity to charge an additional 50¢ for the buffalo sauce?! Lol Just don't bother eating here -- if it's crowded, you won't have the elbow room to move utensils anyway... but 2 expensive drinks are required! read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

We went to Bingo Loco last night and had a really good time. But what made the night great was our server, Alex. I want to give a special shoutout to him. He was absolutely fabulous. Thanks Alex. read more

Had an email for free tickets to see show tonight at 6 pm. We show up at 5:30 and were told we are stand by and have to wait outside in the heat for people who bought tickets ???? Why offer tickets if we aren't going to be let in ? We always spend over 100+ on our tab. We didn't wait , we went to a nearby restaurant for dinner and drinks. Thanks for nothing ! read more

Zero pride in providing a positive guest experience. Before the Bingo Loco show started, the restroom was in need of attention. Few of the toilets were able to flush completely, no toilet paper in most of the stalls, hand towels were all wet, yuck! Of course, 2 hours later it was worse. The most disgusting thing was the fountain soda in my mixed drink. Tasted bitter & had an odd smell, other guests at my table had the same issue. For $90 dollars, I expect more. read more

Went 11/1 to see Hans Kim. Parking is free!! Which is awesome considering every venue nowadays charges $20-$40. It is near a bunch of other businesses so I would keep that in mind. Service was great, super sweet girl who was very attentive. We only got fries but they were good. Food is a little pricey but to be expected. Same with drinks but they were good as well. Performance and ambiance was great! read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Hans Kim - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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Was contacted by management after my review about my email questions and confirmed that our seats were accurate, but to make up for the service I could have 2 free tickets to the show of my choice. I confirmed the show I wanted and was asked if I had purchased tickets yet, to which I replied no because these were supposed to be free. No response after that. The only reason I initially wrote a review was because of the lack of customer service, and it still stands. read more

We came from the Shrek brunch and had a blast! Customer service was good. Food was ok. Performers were top notch! Can't wait to come back!

After several email exchanges, I was invited back by Alex, the GM to give it another shot. They did NOT disappoint! I was told that it took time to clean house and get things back on track, which is understandable. I attended the 90s R&B Diva drag brunch. We had no wait, and whatever they did to find better servers definitely worked! We had a gentleman named Barry as our server and he most definitely was attentive and sooo sweet. I ordered the chilaquiles again and added birria and it was perfectly done this time with no issue. The birria meat is still as good as I remembered. Now.... we had THE BEST TIME at this show! The entire room was erupting in singing along to all of the hits. We were dancing and making friends. Just the best atmosphere. I will be back and you all have done an amazing job with turning the place around. Even the door staff was polite. read more

Desert Ridge Improv - Comedy Clubs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona