It's easy to notice a curious trend when chatting with longtime Sactown residents. As a relative newcomer to the city of trees, I usually defer to their expertise (the people, not the trees) on all matters local. However, whenever the topic of our favorite bars comes up and Marilyn’s on K Street is discussed, more often than not the local responds with something like, “Yeah, I used to like the old Marilyn’s before they moved.”
I’ve learned to follow this by asking how often they’ve visited the new spot. Invariably the response is in the neighborhood of zero.
Now I used to think that making up your mind about something without firsthand knowledge was the sole intellectual domain of politicians, but many longtime Sacramento residents are similar creatures. Maybe they miss the old Marilyn’s, or maybe they just resent change in general. Even without being able to use the “old” Marilyn’s as comparison, it's clear that the current version has a lot going for it.
Situated down a few steps from sidewalk level on K Street between 9th and 10th, Marilyn’s is an ideal stop for an after-work drink, or even better to catch the locally and nationally-known musical acts that set up live several nights each week.
An outdoor courtyard with palm trees and a fountain provides a serene environment where smokers can get their fix while exchanging stares with curious pigeons. Inside, the joint is much bigger than you’d expect. Several framed photos of the bar's namesake, Marilyn Monroe, adorn the walls. A large stage area and dance floor are surrounded by intimate cocktail tables and plenty of seating around the bar. There’s even a pool table, not to mention a lounge area where you can park yourself on a comfy couch in front of a big screen TV after one of the regulars has hustled you at pool.
Brian, Chynna, Steph, and the gang mix the drinks--anything from single malt scotches to draft beers--and keep the friendly conversation flowing. Like karaoke? How about karaoke with a live band? Adam Donald and his boys will make you sound like a rock star every Tuesday night. Thursdays offer aspiring soul singers a chance to strut their stuff onstage and then scarf down some homemade soul food!
But the real attraction here is the impressive list of actual rock stars who take the stage on a regular basis. (Check out their current calendar here.) Yes, if the locals who miss the old spot knew how often favorites like Jackie Greene, Kate Gaffney, The Donnas, and Izabella rock the walls, they might just warm up to the new spot.
For more info: Marilyn’s, 908 K St., Sacramento, (916) 446-4361
Comments
I agree totally with the writer of this article. I miss the ole Marilyn's like I miss the soft supple lips of my first lover. But times have changed, and she's a lesbian now. The new Marilyn's fills that void like the chocolate donuts I use to satiate my loneliness.
Huzzah to the new Marilyns!
The nicest bar in town. Fun, intimate, decent prices, friendly people, great shows, what's not to like? You walk in and you they make you feel like a regular. And no place else books the talent like Marilyn's.
Good infor Jeff! I agree that the old place was cool but I like the new location even better.
I would love to check it out but alas I live in Maryland
And the Best Day Shift Bartender wed, thurs, friday!
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