Divas San Francisco

[DScotMiller]

Please allow me to introduce...myself.

I'm a professional writer, photographer, and visual artist.
I've worked at Divas San Francisco (1081 Post Street, San Francisco) for three (Almost four!) years (Can you believe it?), and am a regular contributor to The San Francisco Bay Guardian and few others...

My title is "publicist", but I help Steve Berkey and Alexis Miranda however I can. They're great, beautiful people!

Folks can send me personal messages if they want to be discreet. I'll be sure they get to the appropriate parties!

Nice to meet you all!

[DScotMiller]

Divas Facebook groups:
http://www.facebook.com/groups/10150116295535035/
http://www.facebook.com/groups/111949965486830/

[GroobyKrissy]

Welcome :)

I try to make it to Divas whenever I get down to CA to have a drink and contemplate life in the 2nd floor window seat :)

[DScotMiller]

PM me your info Krissy and I'll buy you a drink next time you come through!

[cragorama]

Went to Diva's a couple years ago, it was very fun.
Much smaller than I thought it would be.

[DScotMiller]

Divas has three floors. The first floor is a bar. The second is a dancefloor and a pole for the dancers. The third is a lounge. All three floors are only open on weekends. Maybe that's why it seemed small to you.

[christianxxx]

I haven't been to Diva's in a few years but I love that club! Been going there since 2003! So many gorgeous TS girls on every level.

[Wendy Summers]

I had hoped to check it out while I was in San Fran but my schedule was too tight. I've heard lots of good about the place.

[DScotMiller]

I had hoped to check it out while I was in San Fran but my schedule was too tight. I've heard lots of good about the place.
PM me next time Wendy! We'd love to host you!!

[Bopper007]

Rose, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, is really sexy and beautiful.

[Willie Escalade]

Rose, on Wednesdays and Thursdays, is really sexy and beautiful.
So is Jessica...wow...

[DScotMiller]

Who are you guys tellin? They're all fiiiiiiiine!

[FootFetishGuy]

I've never been. But I haven't heard any bad things about it. Are the ladies allowed to go full monty? Any type of dress code for customers?

[rifraf]

Last time I was there was in 2008. I haven't been back to the Bay Area since so no chances to go back :( Everytime I've gone, the girls have been very friendly and pretty. Most, if not all were asian. Just be careful of the street girls,, stay away from them lol..

[frownyface420]

i'm sotally gonna go one of these weekends... now i just gotta figure out how slutty, errr i mean how cute to be LOL

[dc_guy_75]

I was there last night for the Halloween party, it was pretty packed, though not as much as I expected for the Saturday before Halloween. There were probably about 30 or 40 girls there. As always, some of the girls were absolutly stunning, though the vast majority are "working".

Last night, I had a couple of girls just walk up to me and kiss me (I made them kiss me on cheek), and I wasn't even in a costume.

Oddly, there were a bunch a guys there wearing full masks, like Mexican wresters and things, which made it a little creepy. And with many ts-bars, there's always a bunch a guys hanging out in dark corners, not wanting to be seen.

Even on "bad" nights, its awesome that Divas exists, though it has a slightly "dark" vibe to the place.

[kj312]

Anybody been to SF lately? Wondering how divas has been and if there are any other places to check out.

[RACQUEL]

Diva's is always a saturday night stop when Im in SanFranfreako! TS Sexual energy is intoxicating>>>>>>

[mcaextreme69]

Word....

[TheOneAndOnly510]

Any recommendations on places to go to in SF or the bay area?

[kj312]

Divas is a nice place to check out. Last couple years the times I stopped in not much of a crowd. I think that's it in SF as far as ts clubs.

[James Matthews]

Heading to the bay area in September but the only day I can get away is Wednesday. Is it worth it too go? Love to hear from everyone. Never been to a trans bar or been with a transwoman before so this would be a first for me.

[kj312]

Heading to the bay area in September but the only day I can get away is Wednesday. Is it worth it too go? Love to hear from everyone. Never been to a trans bar or been with a transwoman before so this would be a first for me.

Yes it is worth going to. It's a cool bar. There is 3 floors. Take an Uber or cab to and from.

[gaysian71]

I have not been there in a few years. But on wednesday night, they used to have schoolgirl night. It's mostly asian dancers that are very good looking. So, if you like asian girls, you'll love Wednesday nights.

[James Matthews]

I have not been there in a few years. But on wednesday night, they used to have schoolgirl night. It's mostly asian dancers that are very good looking. So, if you like asian girls, you'll love Wednesday nights.

My favourite so that is good to hear! How early/late is good to get there?

Will it be strange to go by myself or are there others that do the same?

[kj312]

My favourite so that is good to hear! How early/late is good to get there?

Will it be strange to go by myself or are there others that do the same?

It's not strange to go by yourself. It's not like the bars in socal. Sometimes there is a crowd earlier. Go around 10.

[James Matthews]

It's not strange to go by yourself. It's not like the bars in socal. Sometimes there is a crowd earlier. Go around 10.

awesome thanks, is it basically like a strip club on Wednesday? or is it more a social bar?

[kj312]

awesome thanks, is it basically like a strip club on Wednesday? or is it more a social bar?

The 2nd floor is girls dancing but it's more of a social bar also. The 1st and 3rd floor are more social.

[James Matthews]

The 2nd floor is girls dancing but it's more of a social bar also. The 1st and 3rd floor are more social.

Do they do private dances? If so has anyone had experience with them? Its only a topless bar I know but will the girls shed bottoms in private?

[gaysian71]

Do they do private dances? If so has anyone had experience with them? Its only a topless bar I know but will the girls shed bottoms in private?

If you do a private dance and keep the 20's flowing, the'll make it worth your while.

[IluvemHung]

I've met some pretty hot girls from there, and met plenty of big name stars!

[James Matthews]

If you do a private dance and keep the 20's flowing, the'll make it worth your while.

Perfect! Glad to hear thanks for the help.

[CanadaCurious]

Anyone actually go here on a regular basis? or been in the last few months?

[FootFetishGuy]

Does anyone know if there's a similar place any where around Seattle?

[dc_guy_75]

Anyone actually go here on a regular basis? or been in the last few months?

Divas still going strong (even with all the construction a block away), Wed-Fri are 'stripper' nights... and its truly amazing to see the beauty of the girls.

Visit while its still there.

[CanadaCurious]

Divas still going strong (even with all the construction a block away), Wed-Fri are 'stripper' nights... and its truly amazing to see the beauty of the girls.

Visit while its still there.

Is it strictly just a "stripper" bar on those nights or is there any chance to hook up with these girls?

[dc_guy_75]

Is it strictly just a "stripper" bar on those nights or is there any chance to hook up with these girls?

The vast majority (90%+) of the girls are 'working', especially on the stripper nights, but there are often amateur girls there and plenty of girls who aren't working, especially on Saturdays. Sunday-Tuesday are usually pretty dead, but sometimes worth going, especially after 10ish or so.

[golffool]

I've been many times and it is one great place with lots of beautiful working women!!

[CanadaCurious]

Cool, thanks for the information, are the working girls pushy to take them home? I am open to taking someone home but would like to hang out and chat for a few hours and have some drinks. not sure if this is doable here without paying for there time?

[dc_guy_75]

Cool, thanks for the information, are the working girls pushy to take them home? I am open to taking someone home but would like to hang out and chat for a few hours and have some drinks. not sure if this is doable here without paying for there time?

Just hang out and take in the scene (as there are few places like it).

Flirt with the girls (and buy a drink for their conversation here or there), tip the bartenders well, be respectful, it'll be almost impossible not to have a good time.

[golffool]

totally agree with your comments. Its probably the best place in the US to meet beautiful women. Cobra in LA is also a great place to meet many TS Porn Stars!!

[crutsinger]

I've always had a blast at Diva's. Weekends, as mentioned earlier, are best.

[gaysian71]

I havent been there in ages. But a couple weeks ago I dropped in for a drink. And surprisingly business was good. I didn't recognize the bartender. She must be new. I stopped going because it was always dead with nothing but the bartenders and a few working girls. But it's much better now. I wonder if that has anything to do with the passing of FOSTA/SESTA? Maybe it's bringing people back out into the real world. Heck, if it stays crowded like that, I may have to start going on a regular basis. Back in the early 2000's Divas was crazy. If you couldn't find a nice girl it was because you were either blind or were a wall flower.

[golffool]

I was there a few weeks ago and it was backed with beautiful women and there followers. I will be back again in a few weeks and can't wait to have some fun!!

[crutsinger]

Someone also suggested SFAsia as a good non-Diva's option in San Fran. Anyone have any thoughts on SFAsia? It looks more like a dinner club with entertainment versus a place with a Divas vibe.

[Stavros]

SF Asia is a cabaret-diner that caters for the Preppie types who take their girlfriends in to hear them say Get outta here! But note there is a bar downstairs near the changing rooms and if you are fit then you might strike it lucky with some of the waitresses when they are not rushed off their feet and they need a drink. If its action you want, Divas makes more sense.

[crutsinger]

Thanks, that is kind of what I thought based on their web site. A destination for bachelorette parties, etc..... it appears that some new version of Power Exchange is still open.....any intel on Power Exchange? Thanks again.

SF Asia is a cabaret-diner that caters for the Preppie types who take their girlfriends in to hear them say Get outta here! But note there is a bar downstairs near the changing rooms and if you are fit then you might strike it lucky with some of the waitresses when they are not rushed off their feet and they need a drink. If its action you want, Divas makes more sense.

[golffool]

The best place to go to in SF is DIVAS hands down - the best. The more we support the club the better it will get!!

[BellaBellucci]

It figures that all of these places would get busy after I found myself bored out of my mind up there for 5 months last summer/fall. Outside of chilling with friends, I had nothing to do. I felt like Diva's and PE were both ghost towns.

I'm glad to hear that things have picked up, but now I have to go back! :lol:

~B

PS: Last I heard, Diva's was looking for a buyer. If anyone is interested, I'd like a finder's fee and a management position. :P

[crutsinger]

This is all very helpful, thank you. A beeline to Divas!

[CaptainPlanet]

lots of hotties on IG, definitely going to make a trip soon.
https://www.instagram.com/divassf/

[golffool]

Divas definitely has some fine looking women that like to have fun. I hope to be there next weekend. If you haven't been - you need to go and experience the best TG club in the US - hands down!!

[thickmotherfucker]

agree that in 2000s Divas was the bomb... the bartenders, the DJs, the music, the girls - just what you'd picture a top notch club to be.

last few times I was there it looked like the club hasn't been updated in ages and all the girls left for greener pastures. you'd still bump into a few and have a nice chat with some hotties, but not even close to what it used to be. I hope things are turning for the better.

[golffool]

Its has gotten much better since backpage demise. I had a great time there last weekend and can't wait until I can return in a few weeks.

[chi73inla]

Thai Sabrina is the best top I ever serviced. I lost contact with her but I hope she is still around, working bottom boys over.

[golffool]

I went there last night and it was loaded with lots of gorgeous women!!

[crutsinger]

I was there two weeks ago and this bar is a good as ever. There is no pretense at Divas, the girls know why the guys are there and the guys know why the girls are there and that is just how I like it.

[golfingphantom]

I went there last night and there was nothing happening on the 3rd floor. I was there until around 11:45pm and nothing. Not really sure why. I went there for the first time on a Friday back in May and it awesome. There was three different ladies there that were smoking hot. Got some nice lap dances from Aubrey ( I think that was her name).

[crutsinger]

I do think Thursday and Friday are better nights than Saturday night for some reason at Divas. I've always managed to find a girl on a Saturday but you are right Saturday's are less crowded and have a completely different vibe from a Friday.

[golfingphantom]

I will never go on a Saturday night again. Complete waste of money on parking and cover charge. I will stick with Thursday or Fridays. When I left and was driving down Polk there was a lunatic screaming and throwing bags of garbage at moving cars and trash was spilling out all along the street. As I was passing by he threw one of those white and orange dpw sawhorses towards my brand new car, but fortunately didn't hit it. Not the kind of excitement I was looking for Saturday night haha.

[atkms7]

Lol, Diva's is in the Tenderloin, what else would you expect.

That sounds like a pretty chill night for the TL

[golfingphantom]

Point well taken. I do not live there so I guess the other couple of times I have been there it was a slow night haha.

[dc_guy_75]

Divas is on the very edge of the Tenderloin. Definitely park 2 or 3 blocks west of Divas (closer to Van Ness) and get in and out of the city without Polk St or going through the Tenderloin.

[crutsinger]

There are actually a lot of new bars and restaurants opening in the area including a new bar directly across the street from Divas. Notwithstanding your experience with the homeless guy golfingphantom, I think some of that area is making a comeback. I don't disagree that Thursday & Friday are better than Saturday. Having said that Divas is still one of the best bars in the US outside of New York City.

[golffool]

Has anyone been to Divas in SF recently??

Would love to have an update. Plan to be in SF next month.

[njjohn]

I was there on a Thursday and Friday in August. There were 6-7 girls there including a super hot Asian girl. I didn't stay past 12:30 so maybe more would have come. I was disappointed.

[golffool]

Sorry to hear it was slow. Just remember you only need one to have a great time.
I'm going to be there next week - so I will report back. I had a great time the last time I was there with one of the girls coming back to my hotel after work!!!

[crutsinger]

I've always had a good time there at Divas and was there in July. Some nights are better than others but as someone else pointed out you only need one girl to have a successful night.

[golffool]

I went to Divas last Friday night about midnight. It was fairly busy but not overly crowed. There were some extremely beautiful girls there and I had the pleasure of a few nice lap dances and met up with one the next day for lunch etc.

Good time - will be back soon

[golfingphantom]

Does anyone know if it is worth going to Divas on Thanksgiving night? Is it business as usual or pretty dead for the holiday? I am going to be in the area Thursday so it would be great if it was like a typical Thursday otherwise I may try to get there Friday night. Thanks in advance.

[ghbryans]

It’s not in the Tenderloin. Not at all, but you’ll find homeless everywhere here.

[kmersh]

I cannot speak to meeting a girl as I was there with my wife who is personal friends of one of the performers, but it was busy when we were there.

I saw at least five attractive woman and the men in the place seemed to be enjoying themselves.

Personally, I am not a club person, I prefer quieter places, with that said, it is perfectly fine for what it is.

Regarding the neighborhood, it was not bad, but not great either, there are places far worse where I live and there are much nicer places too, if you keep your wits about you and realize you are in a big city, I would imagine anyone would be safe.

[thombergeron]

It’s not in the Tenderloin. Not at all, but you’ll find homeless everywhere here.

Polk and Post is definitely the Tenderloin. Historically, the immediate area has been referred to as Polk Gulch. Divas is on the edge of what they now call Little Saigon. But both are neighborhoods within the Tenderloin.

[ghbryans]

Technically, perhaps. But it’s not in the Tenderloin that everyone warns you to stay away from at night. That’s the area immediately around 6th and Market.

[wombat2k]

One of the girls just posted in her Insta story that Diva's has been sold. Anyone have more info?

[Lorca81]

One of the girls just posted in her Insta story that Diva's has been sold. Anyone have more info?

It wouldn't surprise me. There's been talk of the owner wanting to sell for a few years so he can retire. It's hard to blame the guy, since running a bar is tough, gentrification has dramatically changed the neighborhood, and he's run Diva's, and Motherlode before that, for like 25+ years. Supposedly, a condition of the sale is keeping Diva's, but who knows...

[Lorca81]

...oh, and or the record, Post & Polk is not considered the Tenderloin. Geary, which is one block south of Post, has always been considered the northern boarder of the TL. As someone mentioned above, the corridor east of Polk between Geary and California is called Polk Gulch. Although, because it's nestled between the Tenderloin and Nob Hill, natives and OG locals often call that area the "Tender-Nob."

[thombergeron]

Steve Berkey did not own the Motherlode. He bought Divas from prior owner Mark Gilpin in 1998, shortly after Gilpin moved the club into its current location at 1031 Post.

Last I heard a couple of weeks ago, Steve had an interested buyer. But he's had half a dozen interested buyers in the last few years, so I'll believe it when I meet the new owner.

As for the name of the neighborhood, arguing over where various subneighborhoods begin and end is a fine SF tradition going back to the beginning, but the San Francisco Fire Department calls Station 3 at 1067 Post its Tenderloin Firehouse. My grandfather was a tillerman there in the 50s and 60s. So call it what you like, but I'm a native and an OG local and I call it the Tenderloin, or Polk Gulch if you want to be more specific. Tender-Nob is more east of Larkin.

[Stavros]

It woud be a great pity if Divas were to close, but if it did and no equivalent establishment were to replace it, would this create a gap in the market that for commercial reasons will not be filled, or a sign of the times, that the key actors -transexuals in their 20s-30s no longer want to be seen in 'trans' clubs? I know a lot of working girls go to Divas both for fun and trade, but maybe what worked 10-20 years ago no longer does, and they used to say Califoria was way ahead of everyone else. I may just have to survive on the memories of Lucy and the Vietnamese girl who is in the centre of the slide show first with Steve, then a silver-patterened dress and later in a white top and red skirt, can't recall her name.

http://old.divassf.com/Divas%20at%20Divas%20Slide%20Show.htm

http://www.divassf.com/

[Lorca81]

Steve Berkey did not own the Motherlode. He bought Divas from prior owner Mark Gilpin in 1998, shortly after Gilpin moved the club into its current location at 1031 Post.

What I've never understood is the Diva's-Motherlode connection. Did Motherlode become Diva's, then move to its current Post Street location; did Motherlode move, then become Diva's; or were they always entirely separate places? All of this predates me reaching bar-going age by a few years...


As for the name of the neighborhood, arguing over where various subneighborhoods begin and end is a fine SF tradition going back to the beginning, but the San Francisco Fire Department calls Station 3 at 1067 Post its Tenderloin Firehouse. My grandfather was a tillerman there in the 50s and 60s. So call it what you like, but I'm a native and an OG local and I call it the Tenderloin, or Polk Gulch if you want to be more specific. Tender-Nob is more east of Larkin.

That's so true about San Franciscans and neighborhood boundaries! It probably doesn't help that neighborhoods here get renamed periodically, like the Western Addition becoming "NoPa" recently /s.

Either way, it's nice to meet another OG San Franciscan since natives are so rare these days.

[wombat2k]

Last day is March 30th. Sadly I can't be there. :(
https://photos.app.goo.gl/SidmjvaB8SvKGPny9

[dc_guy_75]

Wow! It's difficult to believe its actually closing. The rumors of its demise have been going on for years, and I'm very sad to see it close, as I've been there many, many times and I've made friends and have met some of the most beautiful trans women on the planet there.

Hopefully, something will rise from the ashes, but I doubt it. I sure won't miss it's sleaziness and its hustle, but it was a truly unique place.. Alas, SF is changing, for good and bad, I consider myself lucky to have been able to experience it.

Cheers to Steve for running it for so many years.

[thombergeron]

What I've never understood is the Diva's-Motherlode connection. Did Motherlode become Diva's, then move to its current Post Street location; did Motherlode move, then become Diva's; or were they always entirely separate places? All of this predates me reaching bar-going age by a few years...



I was in the service and then school for a lot of the 90s, so I only hit the Motherlode a couple of times and I didn't know Mark. So this is secondhand, but I believe the original concept was that "Divas" was to be the name of the whole complex. The first floor would be the new Motherlode, and the third and fourth floors would be Dragon, a club aimed at young Asian men. But Mark's partner Joe died and Mark got sick, so they canceled the Dragon part and Steve came in as a buyer. Steve told me it took until 2001 before he was finally able to get all the financing together to complete the sale, but Mark was basically out of the picture as of late 1998.


One of the other Divas regulars, a guy a little older than me from out in the Avenues, told me there was a little-known drag bar in the TL called Divas that was combined with Motherlode in the new building, but Steve says that's not true.



I may just have to survive on the memories of Lucy and the Vietnamese girl who is in the centre of the slide show first with Steve, then a silver-patterened dress and later in a white top and red skirt, can't recall her name.


Such great memories in the slideshow, Stavros. Sonia, Carla, Andrea… Is the Vietnamese girl Sonja? I can remember her laugh, but not quite sure about the name.

[gaysian71]

Does anyone have any proof that divas is sold or closing?

[wombat2k]

The info comes from one of the long time girls, and another has confirmed.

[gaysian71]

The info comes from one of the long time girls, and another has confirmed.

Which girls?

[wombat2k]

Jasmine and Lily/Kataluna

[Jackal]

Hello, everyone. I was hoping people could share some insight as I have only been to SF once and didn't have time to check out Divas (sad to hear it's closing). So, how's it like? Is it worth a trip to SF before it closes? Is it more of just a place where tgirls hang out and socialize or a strip club or a little of both? Is it best to visit during the weekend (presumably when it's at its busiest) or are weekday nights lively as well?

[thombergeron]

Alexis confirmed to me that the building was sold and Divas will close March 30. End of an era, for sure. So head on down to see it all one last time, but really the glory days ended around when Brianna put that guy’s eye out with her heel back in 2010.

[Jackal]

Alexis confirmed to me that the building was sold and Divas will close March 30. End of an era, for sure. So head on down to see it all one last time, but really the glory days ended around when Brianna put that guy’s eye out with her heel back in 2010.

My god! Were you there? Any word on what happened?

[dc_guy_75]

I personally wasn't there, but know several peeps who were there. A fight between two girls broke out in 2013. A guy tried to break it up (he is 6'4/250 lbs) and lost an eye from a girl's heel, which she was took off her foot and had in her hand.

Brianna had been previously banned from the place, but slipped in. The guy tried to sue Steve for not having proper security (there was never any security, besides Steve), but was unsuccessful. The guy had a really bad reputation among the girls, and he's an avid Trump supporter from Marin County of all places (according to his Facebook page), so fuck that guy.

[crutsinger]

This is sad news, truly the end of an era. There are not many of these gritty fun casual bars left around the country, El Gato in Chicago, Peanuts in LA, Edelweiss in NYC, Jacques in Boston still open but has changed, Le Round Up in NOLA, The Oxwood in LA, the old Ziegfields in DC, .....all gone. A few remain open like Cruisin' on 7th in Phoenix, SRO in San Diego, and the Las Vegas Lounge but with Divas closing those are the only ones left.

[Lorca81]

I was in the service and then school for a lot of the 90s, so I only hit the Motherlode a couple of times and I didn't know Mark. So this is secondhand, but I believe the original concept was that "Divas" was to be the name of the whole complex. The first floor would be the new Motherlode, and the third and fourth floors would be Dragon, a club aimed at young Asian men. But Mark's partner Joe died and Mark got sick, so they canceled the Dragon part and Steve came in as a buyer. Steve told me it took until 2001 before he was finally able to get all the financing together to complete the sale, but Mark was basically out of the picture as of late 1998.


One of the other Divas regulars, a guy a little older than me from out in the Avenues, told me there was a little-known drag bar in the TL called Divas that was combined with Motherlode in the new building, but Steve says that's not true.

Thanks for the info. Even though I'm local, I've never been a regular or met the owner and only been there a handful of times, when then-current girlfriends wanted to go.

That said, I'm still sorry to hear Diva's is closing because represents a vestige of San Francisco's edgy past, which has been largely forgotten with gentrification. Also, I know for many transwomen and crossdressers, Diva's is a very special place.

[Lorca81]

Does anyone have any proof that divas is sold or closing?

The building's sale and impending closure has been confirmed here (https://sfist.com/2019/03/22/legendary-polk-gulch-bar-divas-nightclub-to-close/?fbclid=IwAR0pSAckdnF62SpYBBssd0E7P7YBECth2nJMB7ZG GpbW7cAAbbkfXTV9Xm8) and here (https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Divas-transgender-bar-closing-nightclub-Polk-Gulch-13707048.php). Although, it sounds like the manager is looking for a new location so they can reopen.

[crutsinger]

This would be a nice development if they could find a new location and re-open but the new building won't hold the memories of the original location. The places like Divas where all pretense is checked at the door are nearly extinct. No place, however, rivaled Edelweiss back in the day. Wild, wild times.
The building's sale and impending closure has been confirmed here (https://sfist.com/2019/03/22/legendary-polk-gulch-bar-divas-nightclub-to-close/?fbclid=IwAR0pSAckdnF62SpYBBssd0E7P7YBECth2nJMB7ZG GpbW7cAAbbkfXTV9Xm8) and here (https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/Divas-transgender-bar-closing-nightclub-Polk-Gulch-13707048.php). Although, it sounds like the manager is looking for a new location so they can reopen.

[gaysian71]

So sad. I heard from Alexis that it's over. The 30th of this month is the closing party. Alexis wants to keep it going somewhere, but I don't think she has the resources to do it.

Such a bummer. I've been going there off and on ad long as I can remember. It's gonna be hard to get a replacement spot. Asia SF is cool but it's not the same. Although who knows, with Divas gone maybe the downstairs bar at Asia SF will become more trans attractive.

[crutsinger]

I hope someone that attends the last night at Divas posts some photos from the final curtain for this legendary bar. At some point we should start a thread on all of the classic gritty bars from the past. When I lived in DC I would take Amtrak up to NYC once or twice a month to go to Edelweiss. Club Edelweiss was just insane in the late 1990's and early 2000's.

[golfingphantom]

I had been planning to go in the near future anyways, but due to the news I went last night. I finally got some dances from the legendary Rose and she is a very sweet lady. I hope something else comes along to replace Diva's, but as times change I will not hold my breath.

[chi73inla]

So many great Asian Tops. I would love to service Sabrina one last time.

[Ben in LA]

...SRO in San Diego...
Even THAT is on the clock. I’m heading there on Saturday so I can get the complete scoop.

[crutsinger]

Seriously? SRO is facing the end too? There will not be any of these old school bars left before too long. You, like me, probably remember all these places in their glory days. So many great times at all of the aforementioned places. I wish I could write up reviews of all of them but to say that anything went at them would be an understatement.
Even THAT is on the clock. I’m heading there on Saturday so I can get the complete scoop.

[Huevos_Rancheros]

The T-girl only bars are dead. With rising rents, they just can't attract a big enough clientele to keep the doors open 7 days a week. There is a promoter down in LA who has a weekly t-girl night at Hamburger Mary's in Long Beach:

http://tgirlnights.com/mobile/

I can't think of any t-girl night in SF. Plenty of drag shows, even a drag bar called Oasis, but that caters to a mostly gay crowd. AsiaSF has been taken over by bachelorette parties. Definitely not the place to go for cruising.

[Stavros]

AsiaSF has been taken over by bachelorette parties. Definitely not the place to go for cruising.

Upstairs, yes, but there is a bar downstairs and its leads into the dressing rooms for the staff, and who knows what might happen after the show? A long shot, yes, but someone, sometime must get lucky!

[gaysian71]

Upstairs, yes, but there is a bar downstairs and its leads into the dressing rooms for the staff, and who knows what might happen after the show? A long shot, yes, but someone, sometime must get lucky!

A few years ago I went there a few times to check out the bar scene. They get lots of people, but no trans girls. The only time you can talk to any of the trans girls is when you catch them outside having a smoke between shows. Maybe the trans scene will get better at the power exchange but I doubt it. Ever since they moved from Otis to Jones st it hasn't been that good. It's been about 3 years since I've been there. But who knows. Maybe it's better now.

[chi73inla]

Now the lead location for meeting professional girls in the West is the Las Vegas Lounge. Things have really changed in the last 40 years.

[golffool]

Is this the last weekend at Divas??

[mikey_stl]

Sorry to hear that. When I lived in SF and I got horny, I would go to Divas. I really like talking to a lady and getting to know her a bit
before getting it on. Divas was a good place for that, at least back then.

[golffool]

when is the last day - I would reall like to visit one more time before they close??

[crutsinger]

I agree with you, the beauty of places like Divas was that you could hang out, have a few drinks and get to know the girls a bit. That is nearly impossible in some loud nightclub with music blaring. I hate that these places are all closing, or have already closed, around the country. I hope SRO in SD does not close too.
Sorry to hear that. When I lived in SF and I got horny, I would go to Divas. I really like talking to a lady and getting to know her a bit
before getting it on. Divas was a good place for that, at least back then.

[golffool]

What are the girls of Diva's going to do now to make a living - and where can we find them for some fun!!

[njjohn]

What are the girls of Diva's going to do now to make a living...

This question, regardless of Divas, has always concerned me. How many girls that rely on sex work can move to mainstream jobs after their looks fade? How many pay income tax in order to receive Social Security when they "retire" or have any savings to speak of?

[CaptainPlanet]

This question, regardless of Divas, has always concerned me. How many girls that rely on sex work can move to mainstream jobs after their looks fade? How many pay income tax in order to receive Social Security when they "retire" or have any savings to speak of?

Not many outside the big porn girls. Its hard to clean dirty money if you don't have a good front.

[dc_guy_75]

For Diva's final night, it was so crowded, the heat from so many people there was almost unbearable. And they ran out of beer.

I'll sure miss that dank shit-hole of a bar!

[smalltownguy]

For Diva's final night, it was so crowded, the heat from so many people there was almost unbearable. And they ran out of beer.

I'll sure miss that dank shit-hole of a bar!

lolzzzz.. wow..summer time madness... its great

[crutsinger]

Did anyone take any Photos last night at Divas?

[golfingphantom]

I figured it would be chaos and I am glad I went last Friday instead when it was a normal sized crowd. I can think of three different girls I wouldn't mind spending some quality time with outside the club, but never had the chance. I hope another spot pops up where we can see the girls. Because of the SESTA / FOSTA thing I do not expect any of them to have a internet presence anytime soon. Times are changing for sure.

[gaysian71]

Although I haven't been a regular customer there in over three years. I did stop in for an hour or so on Friday and Saturday night. It was crowded as hell, like the old days back in the early 2000's, especially on Saturday night. I probably tipped at least 100 bucks to the dancers on Friday night. Then I left. Saturday night was much of the same, minus the dancers . Probably a lot more people too. Unfortunately the bartending was a little slow because they were understaffed and the bartenders probably forgot how to serve a crowd that big. But it was good and every floor was packed with people. It's definitely one of the best clubs ever, especially for trans girls and those guy who appreciate them . Makes me wish I would have gone there a lot more in the past few year. But I just don't spend that much time in the city these days. Hopefully a replacement to Divas will open up somewhere . Maybe somewhere in the SOMA area or the Castro. That whole Polk Gulch area has turned into a bust. Most of the straight clubs have closed as well. That whole area will probably be converted to low income housing eventually. It seems like the younger crowd seem to be attracted to the more boujee areas of San Francisco. A true bummer.

[crutsinger]

Any update on the status of SRO in San Diego?

[golffool]

If there are any girls from Divas on this site - please PM me. I would love to get together.

[gaysian71]

If there are any girls from Divas on this site - please PM me. I would love to get together.

Hahaaaaaa. Great pickup line.

[Ben in LA]

Any update on the status of SRO in San Diego?
I was told sometime in June they’ll be moving to a new location in Hillcrest.

[thombergeron]

How many girls that rely on sex work can move to mainstream jobs after their looks fade?

Guys, this is kinda dumb. Virtually all of the women you met at Divas have other, regular jobs. They're waitresses, home health care workers, beauticians, some even have professional corporate jobs in the daylight hours. Working class people have good reason to worry about retirement, but women doing sex work aren't really in a different boat from any others in the service industry. It's a much bigger problem than sex workers.


Maybe somewhere in the SOMA area or the Castro. That whole Polk Gulch area has turned into a bust. Most of the straight clubs have closed as well. That whole area will probably be converted to low income housing eventually.

Polk Gulch is rapidly gentrifying as the top of Nob Hill caters to multimillionaires and the mere millionaires have to settle for housing further down the slope in the TL. There are still tons of straight bars in the gulch, but some, like the Hemlock Tavern and blur, have closed to make way for luxury housing developments. The cheap dive bars are closing, but the higher end places like Vertigo and Mayes Oyster House are booming with rich young white straight people. Another factor is the massive new hospital going in on Polk and Van Ness. The city and California Pacific Medical Center absolutely do not want prostitutes, rent boys, and meth addicts hanging around their sparkling $2 billion hospital. Polk Gulch is not at all the seedy den of vice it was 30 years ago, and there's no chance that low-income housing is going to be located anywhere near there.

The whole city has changed like that. Very few of the women you would have met at Divas live in SF anymore. Nobody has really paid very close attention to what the lack of affordable housing in SF has done to the arts, culture, and entertainment here, but it has been absolutely devastating to SF's old hedonistic culture. Even the gay community in SF is pretty much all wealthy and white these days. The closure of Divas may have gotten everybody's attention On Here, but for real, guys, other subcultures in SF have been losing their iconic venues for years now. It's nice to imagine that another Divas will open in SOMA, but The Stud, home to drag and transgender events for decades, is hanging onto its lease by a thread and will likely also be gone soon. LOL at the idea that you could open a transgender bar in the Castro in 2019.

If you care, start going to the Stud or Aunt Charlie's every damn week. But for Divas, it's too late. It's over.

[wombat2k]

Apparently they are staying open for a few more weeks. https://photos.app.goo.gl/8DTA5UQofSXYJ7Jj9

[golffool]

Sometimes these real estate transaction take more time than you think. The buyer may want to make sure they can get the needed approvals for the type of property they want to build on the site before they close escrow. Would not surprise me if it stays open a while longer.

[gaysian71]

Apparently they are staying open for a few more weeks. https://photos.app.goo.gl/8DTA5UQofSXYJ7Jj9

That's cool. I'll have to stop by and see how it's going. Who knows. Maybe the closing party was just a marketing ploy to get people to come in. I saw a lot of girls there that I knew years ago when I was a regular there. And most of them are not working girls but the ones I spoke to are doing well. It's just too bad they've all been gone for so long. I've also been gone too. I'm sure that all of us being gone didn't help the place .

[golffool]

Maybe if we realize that these places that we dearly enjoy will be gone for good we will begin to visit them more often.

[crutsinger]

Thanks Ben, good to know SRO is merely relocating and not closing. Did a dive type bar ever rise up in Los Angeles to replace The Oxwood?
I was told sometime in June they’ll be moving to a new location in Hillcrest.

[golffool]

SRO will be a big success if its move into Hillcrest

[thickmotherfucker]

Good to hear they'll be open a few more weeks at least - I will need to stop by next time I am in SF (soon).

I really enjoyed the place from the very first time I went there in the '00s, everything seemed to be on point - the girls, the music, the DJ, the bartender (oh, the bartender, I nutted to you a few times shortly after :)). Then it seemed to slowly go downhill, with the club not being updated/getting run down, less people, etc.

Still, highly recommend going to anyone who hasn't been.

[golffool]

Did any one go last night??

[crutsinger]

I'd love to see some final night photos from Divas as the place winds down. Please post some either here or in the parties section. It was a grand old bar.

[golffool]

Any updates on Divas???

[crutsinger]

Bumping this for an update.

[golfingphantom]

I stopped by last night just before 11:00PM and they were closed.

[crutsinger]

End of an era

[chi73inla]

I will be in SF next week. I wish I could cancel the trip now that Divas is closed down. There is no other reason to visit the Bay Area.

[Aldo63]

Can we, as a community,do anything to save Divas? Either in the same place or elsewhere in the Bay Area? I think many tgirls are missing Divas too, not just us customers. Is there any entrepreneurs out there looking to start a similar place in the Bay Area? If so, I think that we, as a community, should support him/her. Let's do something about Divas! It was a unique place in the world (I can tell you this, as I am from Italy), so let's do something!!!

[phillyguy21]

I'm going to be visiting SF this summer, and this news deeply saddens me.

[dc_guy_75]

A bar where some of the girls hang out in SF seems to be Jolene's Bar in the Mission, especially on Friday nights.

[GroobySteven]

It's a shame what happened to Diva's but the combination of one of the worst managed clubs - and an owner without much business sense, coupled with factors in the market AND the fact that property were was worth a small fortune in SF could only but lead to it's demise. I was invited to look at the potential of buying it a few years ago - but the owner was so aloof and pointless (was more interested in hosting his karaoke for 8 people, then actually talking to me for any length of time when I'd traveled there especially, that even if I had been able to afford it I was put off.

With trans becoming more accepted then you'd find it hard to run a full time bar or club that specializes to a crowd like Diva's or other bars used to. The girls who "pass" or don't care about being clocked, would rather go to gay, mixed or straight clubs instead of a club which is usually on the seedier side, and the strange clientele it attracts. Any of you who have been to places like Diva's, would have noticed the socially awkward, or embarrassed to be there 'chasers' floating around being creepy. If you didn't see them - it's because you were it.

The real death of the 'tranny club' was the internet. When those looking for engagements could find what they wanted online, and when trans became more accepted at other venues then there was always going to be limited appeal. It is a shame, as many of these places provided an outlet where closet girls could be themselves, or those at the start of their transition could be more comfortable.

What you have now are specific nights, instead of a bar/club running 7 nights a week. Jamie's Tgirl Nights in LA is very good, a mixture of stars and faces, and lots of girls who are either just dressed for the night, or more discreet. There are other club nights of course, and there always will be but from a business perspective, thinking about running a 7 nights a week venue, I think is a lost cause.

[crutsinger]

good points there Steven.

[ohioguy13]

it is sad but I believe grooby is correct and laid out the reasons exactly as they are wish it wernt so

[Lorca81]

It's a shame what happened to Diva's but the combination of one of the worst managed clubs - and an owner without much business sense, coupled with factors in the market AND the fact that property were was worth a small fortune in SF could only but lead to it's demise ...

With trans becoming more accepted then you'd find it hard to run a full time bar or club that specializes to a crowd like Diva's or other bars used to. The girls who "pass" or don't care about being clocked, would rather go to gay, mixed or straight clubs instead of a club which is usually on the seedier side, and the strange clientele it attracts ...

I think you hit the nail on the head, GroobySteven. Some have intimated here and in other threads that SF's housing market was a death blow to Divas. However, there are still tons of transwomen in SF proper and surrounding cities. But, in my experience, very few frequented Divas with any regularity, unless they worked there, and most prefer other spots for a nightclub outing. I don't know the now-former owner, but over the years I have known enough girls who tended bar or danced there to understand that he is pretty kooky and was an oddly unmotivated businessman.

[golfingphantom]

Some people (even business owners) just want to get by in life. I have known a couple of business people that were not equipped to be the best they could be. They wanted to get by just enough without having to be responsible of something that functions on a high level. Some people are more content being King of the Craphole than Lord of the Manor.

Water seeks its own level.

[wombat2k]

Apparently some of the Diva's girls are doing shows every 2nd Saturday at Jolene's. If anyone checks it out, report back!
https://instagram.com/t4tsf

[mikey_stl]

I always prefer going to a club to meet gurls, rather than going on the Internet. I used to live in SF and have visited there even after moving away. I went to Divas
when I was horny.

[kj312]

I drove by and the sign was still up and I saw someone standing outside the door. If you search on google it says recently opened. Anyone been lately?

[golffool]

It has reopened !!! Let's all try to support this wonderful establishment. There are only a few of these special venues left and we need to support them as much as we can.

[Jackal]

It has reopened !!! Let's all try to support this wonderful establishment. There are only a few of these special venues left and we need to support them as much as we can.

Really?

[golffool]

check out the newly updated website!!

[dc_guy_75]

It looks like their website was hacked, or someone bought the url when it expired.

Chrome gives a warning that its not safe.

[thombergeron]

Guys, no. Divas has not re-opened. Their website, http://www.divassf.com, hasn't been updated in over a year.

It's all over. The building has been sold. It's not coming back.

[gaysian71]

check out the newly updated website!!

The site has not been updated. Unfortunately divas is gone forever. I walked by there today and saw the transfer of ownership sign on the front door. Apparently some sandy bought the place and is turning into a burrito shop. Sounds kind of fishy. Last time I saw a sandy open a Mexican reaturaunt it went out of business within a year.

I for one will miss that place. The first time I had ever been with a trans girl was with one that I met there. That was back in the early 2000's back when divas was a real hot spot. Anyone who went to the final show night a couple months ago could have seen what divas was like back in the day. I doubt if there will ever be anything like it again in the SF bay.

[PEPE3Z]

Is there any other similar bar in San Francisco ?

[Jackal]

Is there any other similar bar in San Francisco ?

Or any where in the USA or Canada?

[PEPE3Z]

There are plenty of TS bars in NYC and Chicago.

I am asking for S. Francisco

[atkms7]

Oasis looks pretty cool, probably less working girls too and more CDs looking for guys

[thombergeron]

Aunt Charlie's.

[Lorca81]

Aunt Charlie's.

Has the crowd from Diva's relocated there or do you mean generally since Aunt Charile's has a trans clientele?

[dc_guy_75]

I live in SF, there's nothing left really. Sad.

[thombergeron]

A big part of why Divas closed is that there wasn't much of a crowd left there anymore. A lot of the younger transgender women prefer straight clubs, and the older generation is aging out of the club scene. Divas was established at a time when there was nowhere for transgender women to go to meet men safely. Now it's not as much of a big deal.

You might see some familiar faces at Aunt Charlie's. My favorite bartender from Divas performs there. But mostly I recommend it because it's hella fun.

[TSaddicted]

A big part of why Divas closed is that there wasn't much of a crowd left there anymore. A lot of the younger transgender women prefer straight clubs, and the older generation is aging out of the club scene. Divas was established at a time when there was nowhere for transgender women to go to meet men safely. Now it's not as much of a big deal.

You might see some familiar faces at Aunt Charlie's. My favorite bartender from Divas performs there. But mostly I recommend it because it's hella fun.

This is surely what's taking place worldwide. Clubs closing down due to lack of numbers. It could be that some trans escorts are working from home but I prefer your theory that most trans prefer straight clubs. That is a beautiful thought that the future is trans and whoever can enjoy themselves in the same clubs with pure comfort and without scrutiny.

[Stavros]

A big part of why Divas closed is that there wasn't much of a crowd left there anymore. A lot of the younger transgender women prefer straight clubs, and the older generation is aging out of the club scene. Divas was established at a time when there was nowhere for transgender women to go to meet men safely. Now it's not as much of a big deal.

You might see some familiar faces at Aunt Charlie's. My favorite bartender from Divas performs there. But mostly I recommend it because it's hella fun.

I agree entirely, and think in the UK that when the WayOut Club closes, nothing will replace it. If it were not for Vicky Lee's dedication I am sure the club would have closed long ago. The irony is that if drag becomes more popular, some venues may spring up for a while, but the trend seems to me to be evolving away from single ID venues, while the opportunities to meet someone online are superior for those guys who don't want to be seen in clubs anyway, though this does not seem to apply to Thailand. Or it could be the clubs themselves are not attractive to enough people because of the vibe, the music, the location, whatever. I rarely go to clubs these days, so I guess I am part of the problem.

[Rizzo5150]

Jeez. I did not know Divas closed...I really took it for granted and assumed it would always be there. Best damn club period. Always had a good time...except that time I had too much to drink and my phone ended up missing, but that was my fault.

[gaysian71]

So here's some good news. I heard that Divas will be reopening next weekend. I didn't talk to Steve, but I did hear it from a very reliable source. Apparently the deal fell through. So I guess there won't be a burrito reaturaunt after all. And the story i heard makes sense. The permit pic i posted back in July disappeared a couple months ago. So it is possible the deal did fall through. I think I'm gonna check it out next weekend. It would be very cool if it reopens.

[PEPE3Z]

Hey good ... please keep us posted

[Lorca81]

So here's some good news. I heard that Divas will be reopening next weekend. I didn't talk to Steve, but I did hear it from a very reliable source. Apparently the deal fell through. So I guess there won't be a burrito reaturaunt after all. And the story i heard makes sense. The permit pic i posted back in July disappeared a couple months ago. So it is possible the deal did fall through. I think I'm gonna check it out next weekend. It would be very cool if it reopens.

In the meantime, or if the reopening never happens, Sierra Mei, who used to work/dance at Divas has been hosting an event called "Back To School Night." It features the Diva Darlings (aka, the girls who danced at Divas). Not sure if her event has a regular venue, but the next one is at Holy Cow! on Folsom Street.

[thombergeron]

Has anybody checked out Sierra's shows yet?

Did you all hear that SF's incoming DA will no longer prosecute sex workers or their clients? https://sfist.com/2019/11/16/boudin-will-not-prosecute-prostitution-public-camping-and-other-quality-of-life-crimes-once-sworn-in/

[PEPE3Z]

Did DIVAS re open ?

[dc_guy_75]

Divas was going down hill for a long time, the smashed stripper mirrors, broken picture frames in the stairwell, broken bathrooms, broken souls. And last I peeked inside, it was being stripped.

And the neighborhood is being gentrified fast, and Steve is getting older and seemingly just wants to tire and not deal with the chaos.

The chances of Divas coming back is next to nothing, though it would be a very pleasant surprise if some incarnation of it did come back.

[golffool]

The best place in CA is Cobra in LA on Thursday's. There are probably 50 plus beautiful women and they are very willing to meet and chat etc.

[CaptainPlanet]

The best place in CA is Cobra in LA on Thursday's. There are probably 50 plus beautiful women and they are very willing to meet and chat etc.
I dont know about 50, maybe you went during the T awards.

[thombergeron]

In the meantime, or if the reopening never happens, Sierra Mei, who used to work/dance at Divas has been hosting an event called "Back To School Night." It features the Diva Darlings (aka, the girls who danced at Divas). Not sure if her event has a regular venue, but the next one is at Holy Cow! on Folsom Street.

So I went to Sierra's BTS Diva Darlings event last week and it was... ok. Much more like the New York parties that I've been to than the old Divas. Very mercenary. A few of my friends from Diva's were there, but there's not much opportunity to just have a drink and talk. The focus is very much on bottle service and private dances. The venue is kind of tacky and way too bright.

Broke my rule and agreed to a private dance from a young woman said she had only turned 21 a month before. She was not very skilled and was immediately about the tips. Gotta remember that people under 30 are pretty much uniformly bad at sex.

Nice to know it's there and best wishes to Sierra and the rest of the ladies. Probably not going to be a real priority for me, though.

[golfingphantom]

What other girls from Divas were there? I would go if it was on a Friday or Sat, but Thursday is tough for me.

[Lorca81]

Not sure if they were there at the most recent BTS night or prior events, but promo materials have been advertising Rose, Gia Cruz, Nicole, and Princess, all of whom were Divas girls at one point or another.

[golfingphantom]

Thanks for responding. I only started going to Divas a year or so before they closed, but the four times I went there lap dances with Princess were an absolute must. Shame it closed down.

[thombergeron]

I saw Nicole and Rose and Sierra, of course. A lot of young women I'd never seen before.

They'll never have the draw for a Saturday or Sunday night venue.

[golffool]

Cobra still the best club to go to with many beautiful ladies every Thursday!!

[Lorca81]

Cobra still the best club to go to with many beautiful ladies every Thursday!!

Club Cobra's Thursday trans-night is undoubtedly fantastic, but it's in LA rather than SF.

[thombergeron]

Just learned that Divas former owner, Steve Berkey, passed away on January 5. Steve led an amazing life, had a huge heart, and dedicated an inhuman amount of time, money, and effort to providing transgender women with a safe and welcoming place to socialize on their own terms.

He will be missed.

[chi73inla]

Just learned that Divas former owner, Steve Berkey, passed away on January 5. Steve led an amazing life, had a huge heart, and dedicated an inhuman amount of time, money, and effort to providing transgender women with a safe and welcoming place to socialize on their own terms.

He will be missed.

That's a shame. For a long time, Diva's was the premier club in the world.

[golffool]

Someone needs to have a once a month event at a club for the TS community and friends like Cobra or TGirlNights does in LA. I think it would be a huge success!!

[Lorca81]

Someone needs to have a once a month event at a club for the TS community and friends like Cobra or TGirlNights does in LA. I think it would be a huge success!!

Read above in the thread. One of the girls from Divas, Sierra, puts a on a once a month event called BTS Diva Darlings.

[golffool]

Where is the BTS Diva Darlings held and when?

Thanks

[Lorca81]

Where is the BTS Diva Darlings held and when?

Thanks

Holy Cow!, 1535 Folsom. Always on a Thursday, but not every Thursday, if that makes sense.

[golffool]

Thanks for the info can't wait to visit after all this is over!!

[Lorca81]

Thanks for the info can't wait to visit after all this is over!!

It's definitely worth checking out. I'm sure Sierra and the other girls would appreciate a big turnout when things return to normal. Shelter in place has really hit a lot of the girls hard financially.

[thombergeron]

Divas Darlings shows are happening in SF again. Last night was the first in a couple of months, and there were nearly as many girls as guys. Keep an eye on https://www.thedivasdarlings.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/TheDivasDarlings/ if you're in the Bay.

Gia Cruz was available for lap dances last night.

http://www.hungangels.com/vboard/showthread.php?91098-Just-launched-my-new-website-that-I-built-amp-run-myself&p=1931378&viewfull=1#post1931378

[kj312]

anything new going on in SF?

[Lorca81]

anything new going on in SF?

The Divas Darlings night is still happening monthly. Asia SF is also back to (almost) pre-pandemic capacity and just hired a few new girls too, including someone familiar to Grooby Girls subscribers. Other than that, not too much new is going on in SF.

[kj312]

How is the Holy Cow place?

[kj312]

It looks like they are updating on the instagram and it's not always at the same club. This month it's at Origin Night club.

[kj312]

I haven't seen a night updated since July. Any update on this?

[1983david]

Bump bump - is there anywhere in San Francisco now? The BTS website hasn't been updated in over a year