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Music Box in Little Italy is such a gem for a fun date night! We went to see CID and had the best time from start to finish. The layout of the venue is one of my favorite parts--it feels intimate but still gives you options depending on your vibe. Downstairs is where most of the action is, but the upstairs is a total game changer. There's another bar (huge plus), plenty of space to move around, and a patio/terrace area where you can step out, catch some air, and still enjoy the music. It's the perfect balance between being in the crowd and having a more relaxed viewing experience. And the sound system? SO good. Crisp, immersive, and you can feel the music without it being overwhelming--CID sounded incredible. Overall, such a fun and unique spot for a night out or date night. We'll definitely be back for more shows!
Went to Music Box for the Earlybird Club (dancing to music from the various decades from 6-10pm on certain dates). The venue was packed and happening. Dancing was mainly on 1st floor, with limited dance space on 2nd and 3rd floors, as DJ was playing tunes from the stage. There are VIP areas which you can rent but not needed. There is outdoor patio seating to cool yourself down on 3rd floor, plus small air conditioned private lounge area above stage. However, since it was packed and people were dancing continuously, it can get hot fast. Everyone was sweating. It would be nice for more ventilation, windows or fans or AC circulating on all 3 floors. You can buy drinks on all floors. Bathrooms are limited, despite the size of crowd. Impressed with Music Box staff who were continuously wiping/ mopping wet spots on the ground to minimize slipping.
When we were there, it was super packed - mostly standing room, and the main floor was absolutely buzzing. If you're planning a visit, just a heads-up that some of the tables don't really give you a clear view of the stage. But, if you're looking for a prime spot, they do have VIP tables! You'll need to hit up their website to inquire about those, and they'll get back to you with all the details on booking one. On the bright side, the sound system was totally on point - the music sounded fantastic! They also have video screens dotted around, though the camera angle was a bit far back, which made it a little tricky to catch all the stage action up close. One great perk is the patio - it's a perfect little escape if you need a breather from the crowd, and they've got a full bar and food available. And, no surprise for Little Italy, parking was a bit of an adventure, but you kind of expect that, right? The staff were all super welcoming and friendly, which always makes a difference. All in all, we had a good time grooving to the music. While it was a fun night out, I probably wouldn't rush back unless it was for an artist I absolutely adore and I could lock down one of those VIP tables for a comfy view!
It's a pretty decent venue with some cool artists who come through. They have the stage at a nice height where you can see it well. It is rather small, so I can see it getting crowded easily. There's benches on the one side for you to sit. The other side and top are is tables and chairs, which you need to pay extra for. The sound here is decent but can definitely use better acoustics. You have street parking around, which can be challenging.
We've been coming here more lately, and the experience has improved. I've been here for sold out shows, medium shows, and shows where there's a really light crowd. Each is a different experience of its own. First thing, the ADA seating has improved drastically. In the old days, you were seated on the black L-shaped couch that runs from the back along the left wall to the stage. In a sold-out or fuller show, I had people backing into me. That and there was no way you could see anything. Much better now that ADA gets seated up on the 3rd floor, looking down. There's a restroom on the 3rd floor, so no need to come down just for that. Staff is really friendly, and happy to help if we need assistance with something. The downside is parking because it's in Little Italy. Right now there's a lot of construction which makes it even more difficult.
such a fun venue for an intimate show! staff was friendly and the sound was great. I didn't get anything to eat here but they do have food. beverages are pricey but on par with what other venues are charging.
Music Box is a gem of San Diego and was such an intimate venue to see and hear Hayla beautifully sing and perform and feel the venue acoustics and deep bass vibrations (down to 20Hz). I'm incredibly thankful to Music Box and Hayla for this unforgettable night. AMBIANCE Lively crowd, with a modern, clean interior spanning three levels. SERVICE Staff and security were on their game, while being conscientious and helpful. Earplugs are provided free of charge FOOD Filipino Food by Mama V's Lumpia, Drinks, and plenty of water are served at the bar at the first and second floor. P.S. There's something about Hayla's songs, lyrics, and voice that just speaks on another level like a light in the dark - she's artistic, soulful, upbeat, profound, and comforting with a presence that balances vulnerability, love, an strength. Songs of the night include: free-fall, John Summit - shiver/where you are, sub focus - found you, Wilkinson - I need (your love), illenium - (hold you) in my arms, faded, Kygo - without you, Alone, Visions of you, Meduza - another world, kx5 - escape
I personally love this venue. It's much smaller so be prepared for it to get packed.. I highly recommend coming early and not drinking much so you don't have to keep squeezing through the crowd to go to the bathroom. The sound is amazing!! For the small venue their speaker system is perfect!!! The service from people who work there were also super refreshing- it's like they enjoyed being there and what they do! If you get the chance to see a show here don't pass it up!
Beautiful, intimate live music venue in downtown, Little Italy, with 3 levels, which holds @ 700 people. The sound is always on point, as is the stellar lighting. The main floor is a long narrow room- GA standing with seats along the wall. Gotta get there early for those or front stage standing. I've seen at least 10 amazing shows here and here's what they do well: reasonable ticket prices, quality acts, security is usually kind (minus the female security guard out front by the guy scanning tickets, working Chet Faker 5/1, who was on a serious power trip). Good choice of spirits, beers, hard seltzers and the bartenders are friendly & efficient as is security working inside. Shout out to Thomas, who always has a smile on his face and who will help you out if he can. He absolutely rocks! I recently purchased first floor VIP tickets to a sold out show via Krag, the VIP/box office mgr and am grateful for the experience but if you are interested in the VIP experience, here are some helpful tips: most first floor tables have obstructed views if you stay seated at your table, the other two VIP tables can be super social and chatty and due to people constantly passing (looking for front spaces to stand or ladies passing to go to the restroom), it can be very distracting. However, there's a VIP area to stand at the front of the stage on the right side, which was so nice if you want to be up close. If you just want to sit and listen to the music and have an awesome designated server *David (for food and drinks) and don't care so much about people passing, then this area may be for you. On the second and third floors you can reserve VIP tables as well and people passing or blocking views will not be an issue. Overall, there are lots of options for a fun night out for live music at the Music Box, no matter which option you choose!
I've come here a few times through the years and really like this venue. It's midsize and a kind of intimate setting, reminds me of the House of Blues. Have I just been lucky?? I always get a free park easily within a few hundred feet of this place. Major plus! The bar has a ton of beers on tap, if that's your thing. Bathrooms are always maintained and clean too. Also - seating! There's actual seating on the main GA floor. That feels good, pushing 40 haha!
I've been to Music Box in San Diego a few times over the last couple of years and every time has been a great experience. The staff here is always professional, kind, and incredibly helpful. Most recently, I attended a show with a friend who had a broken foot so we needed to sit in the ADA section. The employees went out of their way to accommodate us and make sure she was comfortable which I really appreciated. The venue itself is beautiful inside, modern, clean, and well laid out for an intimate live music experience. The sound quality is consistently solid and the vibe is always just right. I have not tried the food here yet, I actually just found out they served food after my last visit lol! I have tried a variety of their cocktails, and they are delicious and reasonably priced considering the area. Highly recommend Music Box to anyone looking to catch a great live show in a smaller more intimate setting.
Wow! Wow! Wow! I hadn't been to this venue in a while and it was such a good time. The vibe, security, food and bathrooms were all great! This venue always has some of the best on the rise artists which I love!
We came here to see some of our favorite local bands (Rough Houser) on a weekday and it was absolutely popping off! Music Box is such a cool staple for SD locals and tourists alike. The venue is really well set up with multiple levels and a ton of space for fans. From the VIP section to GA, you really can't go wrong. The staff was friendly and the show/visuals were awesome.
4 months ago
This place is really a nice space and perfect for an intimate concert experience. I really enjoyed my experience here, and this place will live on forever in my memory as I got to see my favorite band perform here. I will say, I read in previous reviews that the sound seems off. I will admit I feel like I felt the same way, however I would be willing to bet that this was more of an issue of the band's sound techs rather than an issue of the venue's acoustics. To anyone reading this, go to a show here in confidence. read more
First time here and they definitely did impress. Staff was friendly and quick to make drinks and get people through the line. Security was nice and friendly even when I was in the wrong spot. The venue itself is more intimate, which I enjoyed, but they still had some seating they had private spots and even some reserve reserved or VIP tables which I really liked and I think I would get next time I came here. If you have a band that you enjoy, this is definitely a good venue if they're playing out to go check them out. Easy to get to via Lyft. And in a nice location in the downtown area. read more
7 months ago
Place was clean and fresh and perfect venue for Spanish rock band Odisseo - my first time there - kinda neat to have 3 stories - vip option is available which is great but I think if venue doesn't sell out we should be able to just go upstairs - to enjoy the space! Bar tenders were great and enough for the crowd we had - - unfortunately they ran out of the whiskey I was drinking and that was a bummer - but I will definitely be back restrooms were clean and stocked and nice to see stage up close with the bathroom break ! read more
Music Box in Little Italy is such a gem for a fun date night! We went to see CID and had the best time from start to finish. The layout of the venue is one of my favorite parts--it feels intimate but still gives you options depending on your vibe. Downstairs is where most of the action is, but the upstairs is a total game changer. There's another bar (huge plus), plenty of space to move around, and a patio/terrace area where you can step out, catch some air, and still enjoy the music. It's the perfect balance between being in the crowd and having a more relaxed viewing experience. And the sound system? SO good. Crisp, immersive, and you can feel the music without it being overwhelming--CID sounded incredible. Overall, such a fun and unique spot for a night out or date night. We'll definitely be back for more shows! read more
Went to Music Box for the Earlybird Club (dancing to music from the various decades from 6-10pm on certain dates). The venue was packed and happening. Dancing was mainly on 1st floor, with limited dance space on 2nd and 3rd floors, as DJ was playing tunes from the stage. There are VIP areas which you can rent but not needed. There is outdoor patio seating to cool yourself down on 3rd floor, plus small air conditioned private lounge area above stage. However, since it was packed and people were dancing continuously, it can get hot fast. Everyone was sweating. It would be nice for more ventilation, windows or fans or AC circulating on all 3 floors. You can buy drinks on all floors. Bathrooms are limited, despite the size of crowd. Impressed with Music Box staff who were continuously wiping/ mopping wet spots on the ground to minimize slipping. read more
When we were there, it was super packed - mostly standing room, and the main floor was absolutely buzzing. If you're planning a visit, just a heads-up that some of the tables don't really give you a clear view of the stage. But, if you're looking for a prime spot, they do have VIP tables! You'll need to hit up their website to inquire about those, and they'll get back to you with all the details on booking one. On the bright side, the sound system was totally on point - the music sounded fantastic! They also have video screens dotted around, though the camera angle was a bit far back, which made it a little tricky to catch all the stage action up close. One great perk is the patio - it's a perfect little escape if you need a breather from the crowd, and they've got a full bar and food available. And, no surprise for Little Italy, parking was a bit of an adventure, but you kind of expect that, right? The staff were all super welcoming and friendly, which always makes a difference. All in all, we had a good time grooving to the music. While it was a fun night out, I probably wouldn't rush back unless it was for an artist I absolutely adore and I could lock down one of those VIP tables for a comfy view! read more
4 months ago
It's a pretty decent venue with some cool artists who come through. They have the stage at a nice height where you can see it well. It is rather small, so I can see it getting crowded easily. There's benches on the one side for you to sit. The other side and top are is tables and chairs, which you need to pay extra for. The sound here is decent but can definitely use better acoustics. You have street parking around, which can be challenging. read more
We've been coming here more lately, and the experience has improved. I've been here for sold out shows, medium shows, and shows where there's a really light crowd. Each is a different experience of its own. First thing, the ADA seating has improved drastically. In the old days, you were seated on the black L-shaped couch that runs from the back along the left wall to the stage. In a sold-out or fuller show, I had people backing into me. That and there was no way you could see anything. Much better now that ADA gets seated up on the 3rd floor, looking down. There's a restroom on the 3rd floor, so no need to come down just for that. Staff is really friendly, and happy to help if we need assistance with something. The downside is parking because it's in Little Italy. Right now there's a lot of construction which makes it even more difficult. read more
11 months ago
Music Box is a gem of San Diego and was such an intimate venue to see and hear Hayla beautifully sing and perform and feel the venue acoustics and deep bass vibrations (down to 20Hz). I'm incredibly thankful to Music Box and Hayla for this unforgettable night. AMBIANCE Lively crowd, with a modern, clean interior spanning three levels. SERVICE Staff and security were on their game, while being conscientious and helpful. Earplugs are provided free of charge FOOD Filipino Food by Mama V's Lumpia, Drinks, and plenty of water are served at the bar at the first and second floor. P.S. There's something about Hayla's songs, lyrics, and voice that just speaks on another level like a light in the dark - she's artistic, soulful, upbeat, profound, and comforting with a presence that balances vulnerability, love, an strength. Songs of the night include: free-fall, John Summit - shiver/where you are, sub focus - found you, Wilkinson - I need (your love), illenium - (hold you) in my arms, faded, Kygo - without you, Alone, Visions of you, Meduza - another world, kx5 - escape read more
10 months ago
I personally love this venue. It's much smaller so be prepared for it to get packed.. I highly recommend coming early and not drinking much so you don't have to keep squeezing through the crowd to go to the bathroom. The sound is amazing!! For the small venue their speaker system is perfect!!! The service from people who work there were also super refreshing- it's like they enjoyed being there and what they do! If you get the chance to see a show here don't pass it up! read more
2 months ago
Beautiful, intimate live music venue in downtown, Little Italy, with 3 levels, which holds @ 700 people. The sound is always on point, as is the stellar lighting. The main floor is a long narrow room- GA standing with seats along the wall. Gotta get there early for those or front stage standing. I've seen at least 10 amazing shows here and here's what they do well: reasonable ticket prices, quality acts, security is usually kind (minus the female security guard out front by the guy scanning tickets, working Chet Faker 5/1, who was on a serious power trip). Good choice of spirits, beers, hard seltzers and the bartenders are friendly & efficient as is security working inside. Shout out to Thomas, who always has a smile on his face and who will help you out if he can. He absolutely rocks! I recently purchased first floor VIP tickets to a sold out show via Krag, the VIP/box office mgr and am grateful for the experience but if you are interested in the VIP experience, here are some helpful tips: most first floor tables have obstructed views if you stay seated at your table, the other two VIP tables can be super social and chatty and due to people constantly passing (looking for front spaces to stand or ladies passing to go to the restroom), it can be very distracting. However, there's a VIP area to stand at the front of the stage on the right side, which was so nice if you want to be up close. If you just want to sit and listen to the music and have an awesome designated server *David (for food and drinks) and don't care so much about people passing, then this area may be for you. On the second and third floors you can reserve VIP tables as well and people passing or blocking views will not be an issue. Overall, there are lots of options for a fun night out for live music at the Music Box, no matter which option you choose! read more
I've come here a few times through the years and really like this venue. It's midsize and a kind of intimate setting, reminds me of the House of Blues. Have I just been lucky?? I always get a free park easily within a few hundred feet of this place. Major plus! The bar has a ton of beers on tap, if that's your thing. Bathrooms are always maintained and clean too. Also - seating! There's actual seating on the main GA floor. That feels good, pushing 40 haha! read more
I've been to Music Box in San Diego a few times over the last couple of years and every time has been a great experience. The staff here is always professional, kind, and incredibly helpful. Most recently, I attended a show with a friend who had a broken foot so we needed to sit in the ADA section. The employees went out of their way to accommodate us and make sure she was comfortable which I really appreciated. The venue itself is beautiful inside, modern, clean, and well laid out for an intimate live music experience. The sound quality is consistently solid and the vibe is always just right. I have not tried the food here yet, I actually just found out they served food after my last visit lol! I have tried a variety of their cocktails, and they are delicious and reasonably priced considering the area. Highly recommend Music Box to anyone looking to catch a great live show in a smaller more intimate setting. read more
6 months ago
Wow! Wow! Wow! I hadn't been to this venue in a while and it was such a good time. The vibe, security, food and bathrooms were all great! This venue always has some of the best on the rise artists which I love! read more
6 months ago
We came here to see some of our favorite local bands (Rough Houser) on a weekday and it was absolutely popping off! Music Box is such a cool staple for SD locals and tourists alike. The venue is really well set up with multiple levels and a ton of space for fans. From the VIP section to GA, you really can't go wrong. The staff was friendly and the show/visuals were awesome. read more
1 month ago
1 month ago
5 months ago
Lovely little venue at the end of Little Italy. Lots of parking options on the street or paid parking lots. The vicinity to restaurants in Little Italy make it convenient to grab a bite before the show. The venue itself is a narrow rectangular room with two floors of balcony to view the stage from as well. VIP ticket holders can access a bar and small room with seating and monitors to watch the show if they prefer. Food and alcohol are also available on the ground floor. Ear plugs are also offered for free near the entrance. read more
An excellent, intimate venue conveniently located in Little Italy! Staff is friendly and drinks are reasonable, the crowd is also manageable even for a sold out show. We will definitely seek out more shows here in the future! read more
Can't believe it's taken me all these years to finally come here -what a hidden gem! Small venue but seems much larger once you get in due to their multiple floors setup. Upstairs has table service and screens. Main level has a stage and dance floor. Their menu offers food and drinks -typical bar food and mixed drinks. Employees were nice and easy going. Sound system was better than expected with nice acoustics. Can't wait to come back for more fun! read more
7 months ago
Shout out to my savior man Tommy, went there for the puma blue concert back in February and did he really have my back. The venue is amazing, sound is great, its just that type of setting wasn't good with my low-blood sugar. Unfortunate timing but amazing recovery, thanks to the staff and secuity, my man Tommy's department, for keeping the audience safe. Tommy got me up and running again. Got some water, a place to sit down, and alleviate my blood-sugar. No longer faint-y, Tommy got me with the best view. Best concert I've ever been too, I don't even feel embarrassed about the whole situation because Tommy made it that great. read more
1 month ago
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4 months ago
1 month ago
First time attending a concert at this venue. This place was easy to find and parking around downtown wasn't too difficult on a Sunday evening. There were 3 floors with the stage being on the first floor. When you walk in there's a bar area where you can order drinks & food. But surprisingly, there were no bar stools to sit and eat. We didn't go to the other floors, so we don't know what the lay out is up there. We did ask an employee and was told that the 2nd floor was VIP only and could go to the third if we wanted. It's not a very big venue but it was just right for a performance. The other floors were balconies that can look down onto the stage area. What was lacking though was seating. There's only a few places to sit. On the ground floor by the stage there's a small area (like waiting to be seated at a restaurant) or if you want to pay extra, there's VIP seating. So for the majority, it's standing room only. Not a good situation if you're short like me. Trying to watch a performance between tall people is rough. Not sure if I'll be back... read more
4 months ago
Fun venue with reasonable prices to see pretty trendy DJs. Definitely recommend that you buy your ticket at the box office if you can to avoid the fees on the website. Service was solid at the bar kept the lines small and the drinks were good. Didn't try any food but all in all a great spot downtown. Be aware that the air flow is low inside so wear something that breathes or you'll get very hot very quickly! read more
1 year ago
This venue is nice. Staff overall is pleasant. Kind of small inside even per floor. When it's a sold out show or a busy show it gets really hott inside and when it's packed it gets uncomfortable. Not enough air in there to go around. Not alot of seating available unless you pay more to be upstairs you will be standing and even then thats limited and so you may still be standing. But as for hearing the performers you can hear good no matter what part of the venue your in. But if your up front near the stage I recommend having earbuds. I have them on me at all times some bands or artist produce sound louder than others depending on the music or their opener. I will say even though the venue itself is nice the restrooms could use some work, they look the least taken care of inside the entire venue. Parking is a pain for sure. I recommend taking a lyft or uber down here. You could find parking but make sure you read the signs posted and made aware you may have to walk three or four blocks. Parking downtown is really all about timing and luck. You could find parking but you'll definitely have to give yourself extra time before the show. read more
1 year ago
This was my first time at Music Box and it was fantastic! What a great little venue. I found my way to the balcony and got a little table and a couple chairs by the window. There is an outdoor patio upstairs as well that includes a large screen to watch the band. The vibe of this place kind of reminded me of the Troubador, one of my fave small stages. I can't wait to see another show here. The sound was the best part. It sounded amazing, the bass grooving, everything crystal clear. Tuxedo put on a great show! I would love for Mayer to come back here when he tours solo next time. I'll have to keep an eye on your upcoming shows now. read more
8 months ago
Kamara and Ángel were most accustoming. They answered my questioned and directed me to where I needed to go. Angel most specifically asked as my bartender in the vip lounge and recommended me some good drinks. MEGA SHOUTOUT!!!!!!! read more
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More info about Music Box
1337 India St
San Diego, CA 92101
Little Italy
Directions
(619) 795-1337
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https://www.musicboxsd.com
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Ask the Community - Music Box
I have tickets for my friends, can I leave them at will call for them?
Hi Bridget. You can email the tickets to your friends, or simply send them a screenshot of the tickets with the barcodes so they can be scanned at the door. If you have further questions, please contact the box office at 619-795-1337. Thank you!
Do you still have covid requirements?
Hi Joe, Thanks for reaching out! You can refer to our FAQ page for more on your question.…
What is your bag policy? I am flying in for a show very close to doors opening and won't have time to drop off my backpack.....
Hi A.A. Thank you for your question. Medium sized bags are fine, pending inspection at the door. Larger backpacks can be left in the box office and picked up after the show.
Do they have coat check?
Thank you for reaching out! We do not have a coat check at Music Box currently.
Does this venue have an elevator?
Music Box does have an elevator that provides ADA access to our mezzanine and third floor. If you are attending a show at Music Box and need special accommodations, we ask that you reach out to the box office in advance.
Does Music Box require the vaccine for people attending a concert there?
They require vax or negative. I got my Covid here.
Can you buy tickets at the location? If so when is the box office open?
Hi, you can buy tickets at the Box Office. Box Office hours are typically M-F 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It is also open daily a couple hours prior to every show, and stays open until around two hours after door time.
Does anybody know how much the lot across the way cost to park just trying to figure out if it's cheaper to left or what?
There are various parking lots nearby. The least expensive one is the Laz lot south of A Street at India Street. This is half a block from Music Box, and is usually $8.00 after 5:00PM.
So is it first come first serve for seating? we are going to the Musiq Soulchild in June, my mom would not be able to stand all that time.
Yes, general admission seating is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. It is recommended that you arrive early to get the best seating options.…
Is this a normal club if there aren't any shows?
Hi, we are a live music venue and we’re open only on nights that we have a show. This is usually 5 to 7 nights per week. You can check our schedule at MusicBoxSD.com
Is it 18 and up?
I believe it is all ages but may depend on the show. Best to check with the venue.
Music box allows dslr cameras?
Hi, the use of dslr cameras needs to be approved in advance. Please contact the Box Office at 619.795.1337 for further information.…
Interested in taking my kids to see oliver tree tonight,was wondering what to expect at all ages show there?
Hi, thanks for your interest. Tonight's show will likely sell out, so we'll have a full house. Most of the crowd will be over 21, with a lot of 18+ in attendance. There will be some people under the age of 18. No person under the age of eighteen…
So I'm attending a reggae concert there soon, is "smoking" allowed?
There is a smoking section outside on the first floor.
What seats are best.... Table seats or balcony?
Balcony! I love the balcony because you're away from the crowd and get a great view while feeling VIP
Review Highlights - Music Box
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