I've been here twice now, most recently for the eternal sunshine indie music event in November! Really enjoyed the DJ and the whole vibe going on. The staff there was super quick with getting drinks out and my cocktail tasted great. The only real downside was that there were lots of people not wearing masks, which was a bit uncomfortable but I can't completely blame the club for not enforcing because it's pretty hard to check the dance floor. read more

went to the Trish Toledo concert the place is pitch dark (SAFETY ISSUE) ZERO AIR CIRCULATION!!! very few tables and very few stools.. not a comfortable setting whatsoever.. my friend and I ended up leaving before Trish performed. VERY DISAPPOINTED!!! read more

Drinks, people, staff, bartenders, Music and dancing is awesome! The only complaint I have are the 3 stairs that lead to the dance floor!! They are very treacherous, dangerous and slippery. My girlfriend fell down last night and could have been seriously hurt. I'm an engineer and I recommend to the owner, a Ramp or level and elongate the steps!!! read more

The venue may be good idk but the security is very unprofessional and tries to scam people with "fees" What happened: Saturday night my boyfriend and I came here, we didn't have cash for the $10 cover. He asked to use the ATM and gave the bouncer his ID. I was waiting outside beside the bouncer. My boyfriend was unable to pull cash out so he came out and walked over to me to let me know what was going on. He went back to the bouncer to tell him what happened and get his ID back. The bouncer told him he'd have to pay $25 get it back. We didn't have any cash so we left. (All of this happened within 20mins max) We came back today to get it. What the bouncer said happened: he said my boyfriend was in there hanging out for an hour and when he left he walked past the bouncer and then came back after a while to get it. He called his manager and was told my Bf had to "buy it back" and he doesn't remember me being there. What Jeff the manager (who didn't witness anything) said happened: my boyfriend was in there for an hour, I was never there LOL and my boyfriend left the club and came back at the end of his night. They first threatened to prove us wrong with camera footage but once we told them to please check it... they didn't. Eventually they said it would be $10 as a cover payment. When we agreed to pay it they started looking for it and couldn't find it. Jeff gave it back after waiting an hour and a half. He threw it on the table, told him he had found it an hour ago and flipped him off (through the glass of course). And didn't charge him... but that may have something to do with me telling them it's illegal to sell peoples IDs back. Another bouncer seemed shocked by what was going on. He even said "buy it back?!!" As if he hadn't heard of that before. The bartenders advice was to shut the fxck up and go to the fxcking dmv. Note for the owner, I'd be embarrassed of how your team is making this place look. Note for everyone, just be cautious when it comes these bouncers making up fees. They are just trying to make a quick buck off you and pocket it. read more

went the ritz a few weeks ago and was trying to buy a box office ticket for the Turnover concert and they were acting like it was the biggest inconvenience to buy a ticket...the security guard told me to fuck myself if i thought i could buy one, then the person running the ticket booth pushed my ID to the ground...come to find out they only take cash (no signs or information online saying this) and their ATM wasn't working...ended up just leaving because i felt so disrespected for literally just trying to go to a show..i've been to hole in the wall hardcore venues that were way less hostile and less disrespectful than these people....i don't think i'll ever go to the ritz again read more

Pretty cool layout with the bar up a ramp, so you can stand slightly above the crowd at the railing and not get knocked around trying to drink your drink. The bathrooms are in kind of a lame spot, because if the show is super crowded, you'll have to fight through to get to it past the stage on the right. Good selection of boozes. If a show comes through I want to see here, I won't be mad. read more

Friendly venue and nice staff we love u Ritzzzz cant wait for another great show. The drinks are good and the lines move fast. read more

The Ritz - Big Pati & all his cousins xoxo - Bars Near Me - San Jose, California

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Security threw and pepper sprayed a PERFORMER on the night of 7/14. * Unnecessarily* used AGGRESSIVE force to get this performer off the stage by throwing his body carelessly into the crowd (not paying mind to the other people who attended and stage equipment which also fell onto people). The person attacked (performer) was non-provoking. This situation could have easily EASILY been handled differently. I'm surprised there's "security guards" who go for the most violent thing they can think possible without thinking of the consequences or what harm they bring into others. This is a venue where the security guards will believe the decisions they make are the "right" ones. Sorry, never attending this venue again and I hope people stray away from an UNSAFE environment like this one. I came to watch a great show- but in return witnessed an unsettling one. Shame on The Ritz for condemning this type of experience / behavior. Take this as a warning if you're reading. Poor experience. read more

This venue is great. The dance floor is big and so is the bar area. I have been here to see many shows and finally decided to do a review. The shows that are booked here ALWAYS start more than two hours after doors open. I don't understand why. Is it because you want people to stay longer and buy drinks? I know a lot of people who won't see shows here anymore for that reason. All of the other live music venues in the Bay Area start their shows much earlier. - Bimbos, Retro Junkie, Dan's Bar, Number 1 Broadway, Felton, Club Fox. Etc etc. All by 9 pm the bands start. Who wants to wait till 10:30? No one. This is just bad business. I just went to a show last night and same thing. I won't be coming back. All the other venues do it right. read more

Came here on a Wednesday night. I was visiting my hometown & this is the newest bar since I've been gone. It's like the blank club, but the front has a pool table. Great customer service & music. Thanks for a good night out. read more

The Ritz to me personally is the replacement for R.I.P. "The Blank" this venue is a lot bigger with two bars a nice large stage and a dance floor. I've been here for a few burlesque shows and traveling metal groups. I always bump into friends and you always have a good time.. ( i speak for myself) Drinks are stiff and the staff's pretty cool. I want to come for 80's night .. i should put that in my san jose bucket list for things to do. read more

Came here last night to see La Santa Cecilia and it was so fun! the line to get in moved pretty fast & the bouncers were really chill! The place was clean and had decent bathrooms. Bar was cool and had average prices! Music was loud but not too loud where you couldn't handle it! over all had a great experience and def will be coming back :-) read more

I had soooo much fun at their Abba themed disco night! Cheap drinks, great speaker system. Such a fun time.

I've been here twice, once for DJ SoSuperSam a few years back and Japanese Breakfast last night. Both of my experiences here were quite pleasant. I wish I was here when Giraffage was performing... darn! Anyways, The Ritz is an underrated venue that I wish more of my favorite up and coming artists stopped in to. It's fairly roomy in here, yet just enough for the scene to feel intimate. The bar is fairly standard, just well drinks & beer. Also, they don't have anything regarding a camera policy on their website but I've gotten in with my camera with no problems! I hope this helps. read more

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Front bar and one inside.  Good sound, bands, and good bartenders - lethal combo with friends on a Friday night. Not over priced - strong drinks.  Shotgun style venue - not a bad place to watch bands, people, and crazy action from the back. Lots of people hooking up - early and late night.  Loads of fun. read more

The Ritz - Bars Near Me - San Jose, California

I've seen a few shows here, most recently Shabazz Palaces this past Tuesday, and the sound has been awful for each. Sound quality is pretty important for concerts... But, the one star is mainly for the rash and itchiness I've had the past few days where my wrist was stamped. Not sure if it's cheap ink or what, but I've been to hundreds of shows and never had this happen. Boo on you, Ritz read more

Went with a friend to see a "concert" for a band she likes. There is no seating except for the bar in the lobby (around 10 stools) and a "VIP section" that appeared to be 2 couches behind a bouncer. Not sure whether it was the sound system or the "bands" but too much bass. I like to be able to actually understand what is being sung when it's live music rather than a DJ. But maybe that's just me. Bar has no blenders. I prefer slushy like drinks so that was a bummer. Tickets said show started at 8pm but they didn't let people in until almost 9pm. Turns out 2 bands were ahead of the "headliner" and 1st band didn't go on until 9:45pm. We stuck around until about 11pm when the 2nd band took the stage. Seems like most of the regulars knew that the headliner wouldn't be on until probably midnight but since it was our first time at this venue (and it wasn't specified on the ticket or website) we didn't. So, basically, unless you're willing to stand for 4 hours after a long day at work to see the headliner, don't come until after 11pm. Place doesn't seem overly popular so you'll still be able to get through to the front of the stage if that's your thing and your feet will thank you. read more

Cool spot in Downtown SJ. Very dark inside, not a lot of seating. The stage area is pretty clear to see from wherever you're standing though so that part is nice if you're seeing a band or something. They have a bar in front and inside. Only had a couple of beers, the prices were average. Overall, good spot, and would definitely come back for events, read more

This place can seem a bit divey. The crowd is rocker, punk, ska, etc. they serve good drinks as far as strength of the pour is goood. Prices are good too for drinks. They have a big venue in the back. I am giving this 4 stars because it's innocent til proven guilty. We haven't really experience this place in its full splendor, so to speak. I hey have a patio out front where smokers reside. Overall a cool spot. My finance loved it...she's a punk rocker at heart . read more

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One of the best places downtown to see live music. I love sitting at the front bar and listening to the music, every now and then venturing off into the main room to grab a booth and watch a show. Great place to meet with friends. Can't recommend it enough as a great live music venue. read more

I went here to see devil driver the other day since my husband really loves heavy metal. The venue was nice with a pretty high capacity. The place was pretty easy to navigate but for some reason the people on the left were crowding the ramp. The sound was good though the sound guy new what he was doing. Only gripe was the cost. $35 ekkk! I get that the tour package was probably expensive but dang! You get tickets for concerts in SF that are around $20-$25. Maybe the tour package was a lot but either way I had fun. read more

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Place is super cool. Came to watch kero kero bonito and was blown away. The bar service was excellent and prices were reasonable. Super impressed read more

Security failed to do their job at Emo Night. There was a man instigating a fight out front that was quickly ejected from the venue. For over 30 minutes following that, security continued to allow him to yell and harass multiple people including women walking past him, making everybody in the area uncomfortable. He was screaming at the people he instigated a fight with and waited for them outside the venue until one of them eventually chased him off, to which he later returned. In an age of constant mass shootings you think a cop would have been called to remove him from the area but the embarrassment of a security detail not only allowed all this to happen while paying customers had to endure all this but they also were laughing and chatting with the guy half the time, only in between his violent outbursts. He kept telling people he worked there which was his get out of jail free card apparently. I feel embarrassed for having brought people to their first Emo Night at this wreck of a venue. read more

Last night (11/17/18), I went for "Echo Flex" night and it was decently crowded with good music and good vibes but thanks to one of the bartenders, my night started off horrible. I went to the bar near the dance floor and literally got skipped over more than 5 times. After waiting for over ten or fifteen minutes, the bartender (Hayley) saw me, we made eye contact and she turned away from me and instead helped the guy next to me, who had literally just walked up to the bar. I waited patiently for her to come around again, thinking she was going to serve me this time, then she made eye contact with both my girlfriend and I and skipped both of us again. The gentleman beside me saw this happening and decided to flag her down. It took about 3-4 tries over another couple of minutes. Finally he got her attention, and she tried to serve him but he insisted on having her serve me instead. The drink came out super weak, it was almost completely soda. After this 15-20 minutes to receive. The bar was full so I didn't want to lose my spot in front. For my next drink I went to the more crowded area of the bar and was served immediately by an older women bartender (Kate), she even made it strong! In the end, avoid Hayley, horrible bartender. She even went on her phone in the middle of making someone's drink. Been here previously when it was 80's night and was a decent time, but last night was horrible. read more

I unfortunately left my ID an hour away from the venue. .... I was unable to get in because they play by the rules which I respect . I drove and got my ID to get in (the reasoning was for a friends bday).... The service I received once I was allowed in was fantastic. This sweet man that worked at the venue saved the night with his hospitality right after entering. Thank you read more

Finally got around to checking out this place last weekend for the MangoKingz show (ALOHA!). Before this, I probably haven't set foot in this space since... Born Jamericans? Latyrx? Nikka Costa? The Pharcyde? How many young[er] yelpers did I just lose with those references...? Anyway, it's been a long time - I think it was still called The Usual back then... Back to the point: I like the made-over space! Towards the end of The Usual days, the space was showing its age with haggard upholstery, fading paint, and signs of waning attention to maintenance/housekeeping. The new Ritz has polish and order in its minimalist decor. The front bar (hi, Hayley!) is straightforward, simply that - a small bar at the entrance, away from the main room & stage & a little insulated from the sounds therein; it's my favored spot. I just want to enjoy a drink, sidled up to the bar, chatting with the bartender and maybe another patron or two; I'm uncomfortable in crowds, maybe I'm not a people person? #anxiety The tri-level main room, with its large bar and VIP booth section, has ample space for dancers and onlookers alike. The sound is clean and that stage... that stage! I've seen some great acts on that stage. From a dozen emcees & two deejays to big nine piece bands with back up dancers, that stage can accommodate large sets - leaps and bounds improvement to the shallow and narrow step that was considered a stage at Blank. I'm looking forward to big acts considering San Jose a tour stop again... A very analog marquee and screenprinted monochrome posters promote events in a decidedly "throwback"/punk aesthetic. Does it work? So far, sure. The Ritz is a reincarnation of The Blank Club which was the go-to outlet for punk, rock, new wave bands (sorry, I don't know music genres!), so it makes sense that the Blank's success in in that scene continues here. The aforementioned MangoKingz (island/reggae) show was notably under-attended, though that may be attributed more to under promotion than the venue, so we'll see... but I like it nonetheless. ___________________________ It'll be interesting to see if the upcoming Sir Mix-a-Lot show (I LIKE BIG BUTTS TOO, MAYN!) brings a hip-hop/pop crowd to this venue. read more

Bad acoustics. Be prepared to stand as there is next to no seats. You can pay an extra $50 for VIP area.

I love the layout of this club. At 5'6" (on a good day) I usually only see heads and have to peak around to see the band with these flat-floor venues. But Ritz has a second level, a few feet higher, about half-way back from the stage. That's where you will find me. Or on the ramp along the side. Perfect view for the more vertically challenged. We have seen some great shows here. Rev Horton Heat (x2), Adicts, Super Furry Animals, and many more. It is a comfortable environment. Depending on the band, a mosh pit may form, but usually they are civil. Only once did I see someone thrown out, and it happened quickly...no messing around. I think I only had a drink there once, and didn't order anything special. It was priced ok and no complaints on the drink itself. I can't really comment otherwise. The only downside would be the parking situation. Sometimes we have to drive around a bit looking for a space and then walk a couple of blocks, and it is all parallel street parking. But at least it is free at night. read more

I was really underwhelmed with that place. Watered down drinks, bad sound system, impossible to get to bathroom, slow lines at the bar, annoying crowd/clientele, Etc. I felt like I was in a 16 n up club but with adults. It was strange. The venue itself could be hella cool but they didn't really do much to it to bring out any of its potential coolness. I would go back if there was a band I absolutely loved but that's about it read more

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C'mon San Jose, you got a new rock club, now get out and go. Please don't let this place open and then 4 months later die. It's a pretty cool place, no frills, no attitude, drinks are reasonably priced and they are starting to book some decent bands. Check the schedule and go! read more

Wow. Adults Night Out was a success celebrating my sister-in-law's birthday this past Saturday. It was a dinner and dancing event. We went to the Ritz after dinner to catch English Beat. I haven't been here in years. Once when it was FX and another when it was something else, probably Angels or something about 15 years or so ago. Moderately intimate club. I met Mike one of the owners. Nice guy. I love how the club location is still around. Bar up front, bar on the inside, quiet area upfront to the side with bathroom (use the one in the back), two to three VIP sections in the back, and a pit in front of the stage. Love the acoustics (if that is the term for it). The music was great and it wasn't overtly LOUD. To me it was perfect and I am not a old timer. Great venue, like the layout, clientele was great (no douches or a-holes) and the acoustics were perfect. You heard and felt the music like it should sound in a live environment. I love what they have done to the place. We heard the Odd Numbers (whom I love now - the drummer rocks! The music moved me. What an experience) and the English Beat (they sound absolutely great). Had a rocking great time. Check out this place if you happen to see one of your favorite bands playing there. read more

Shitty bar that decided to add a $20 tip on one one beer and never gave me my receipt. Will be disputing

Went for free during the SoFa street fair. Loud music. Really loud music. Got a flashback to early '90s in my hometown in Spain, there was a very similar bar where I used to go and listen to same loud music. Nice layout and I like the little room with a view to the street where you can play pool. read more

Checked this out on their weekly Atomic Thursday and had a lot of fun. The atmosphere was friendly and the music was a breath of fresh air. The DJ was to the side of the dance floor so people hopped on stage if they wanted. Oh and drinks were very reasonable. Really looking forward to coming back for some shows as well. Really glad this opened up in SoFA read more

I've had a chance to visit this place twice in the past couple of weeks; the first to see Agent Orange / DOA (3 bands for $10!!! Are the 90's back???), and the second to see a screening of a documentary about Sid and Nancy. The fact that I can go to a venue two times in a week and have radically different dynamic experiences is astoundingly awesome. In fact, I was very disappointed that more people weren't in attendance for the documentary. Not many venues put an emphasis on experience. They'll focus on sound. Or they'll focus on ambiance. Not many focus on the overall experience that you have while you're there, and provide such a wide variety of artistic events to attend. The dj's before and after the show were spinning vinyl. The drinks weren't painfully overpriced. I met some fantastic people. The bartenders were friendly. The world needs more places like the Ritz who are willing to take a chance on a more eclectic structure like this place embraces. Thanks for the memories, gang! I'll be back - often. read more

This place is awesome. After years being out of the concert scene raising a family, I'm back and The Ritz is a big reason. Easy to get to, easy parking, great sound system, 2 bars, great location and solid bands being booked. Not too many venues left that hold punk rock shows but The Ritz does and I will definitely continue to support this place. The old Bay Area punk venues of the 90s - which are almost all gone now - don't hold a candle to this place. Hope this place sticks around! read more

Awful awful sound. Pubs in my neighborhood have better sound than this venue that is dedicated to live music ?!?!! WTF I couldn't distinguish anything from the music that the bands played. Also, I was annoyed that the first band only started at 10:30pm because we were 'treated' to a harp artist which did nothing but make me want to go to sleep. I consider myself robbed of $15, that's how bad it was. read more

On the one hand, the venue itself is quite large and a good place for a dance night. On the other hand, the way they handle line control is absurd. You are in San Jose, there's no reason to create a fake sense of exclusivity. Nothing in San Jose is worth waiting in line. read more

This is one of the finest clubs in the state, great sound system, sound man, stage, bar and the staff are all helpful and friendly. The owner is old school Punk to tr he core, and treats the bands like family. I'm in Shattered Faith and we played there last night and it was a real treat. I can't wait to be invited back. read more

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Came here on a Thursday "Atomic Dance Party" night. Yikes. Looks / feels like the kind of place Buffalo Bill would enjoy. Bartenders were very friendly and attentive. Bouncers were squared away and handled a little fight between some Indian guys and a hipster. I've been told their theme changes every night so I'm interested in coming and checking it out. read more