* * * * R&B & Ribs Event * * * *…read more
Note to self: Wear Depends next time!
Cuz the VIP restrooms were phuckin' disgusting - it wasn't even 6 pm and the toilets were overflowing (wouldn't flush), no TP, no hand soap left, and the sink was clogged.
The worst part? There were only 2 women's stalls so the line was longer than the GA porta potties.
Now that I got that out of the way, I'm SO glad my friends were down to go to our first R&B & Ribs event to re-live our hey days!
Fun fact: R&B & Ribs was created by two SF chefs (Nopalito + Outta Sight Pizza)... to have DJ friends play R&B and invite chef friends for a cookout.
The event has significantly grown in popularity (for good reason) and has turned into a huge block party with dancing, sing a long, and headliners. And, this year, it was Keri Hilson, Lloyd, and Soulja Boy!!!!
The block party is 2 pm-10 pm with the after party held inside the club stage until 2 am.
Tickets: Three tiers
* GA: Long line to get in. GA area started to get packed by 5 pm.
* VIP: No line to get in. Closed off areas to the right and left of the main stage. Got shoulder to shoulder packed by 8 pm.
* Skydeck/Rooftop: No line to get in. Elevated outdoor rooftop/deck area that overlooks Islais Creek, Bayview Rise mural, and the waterfront. You have access to all other areas except seated ADA section. 110% worth the extra $ because it's limited capacity AND there's plenty of room to dance!
Food vendors: MZF BBQ, Adjective Animal Tacos, Gumbo Social, Prubechu, Akus BBQ, Sticky Business, Smokin D's.
Onsite resto: Madam Zola's
For 2 am drunchies, they had a handful of street vendors outside The Midway. I respect the hustle but the dirty dogs had no bacon (!!!) and taqueria fare we tried were ehhh.
(+) The Midway's staff was awesome! Quick responses via email and kind in person. Shout out to Tyler and Emma!
(+) As someone that's claustrophobic and avoids large crowds, the skydeck/rooftop option is a game changer. You get to enjoy the energy of the large crowd while having breathing room.
(+) Plenty of bars to get your drank on! Nomi inside the club was great to my friends.
(+) Huge 40,000 square foot industrial indoor and outdoor area for block parties...there's a nice lounge area inside with plush booths and proper tables and chairs to enjoy your grub.
(+) Great sound system (RiDE) with powerful bass.
(+) Regular, clean restrooms available inside (lines were hella long tho).
(+) Free street parking! We easily found parking 1/2 block away at 3 pm. My sister and her friends came later at 5 pm and found parking 3-4 blocks away.
(-) Not enough security and too lax.
* One fight broke out below us and one girl in the sidelines got punched in the face. Not one security personnel to be found.
* VIP wristband checks were inconsistent, allowing people in without access.
(-) No bar or restroom access in the skydeck/roofdeck. Super inconvenient and limited our alkie consumption. PLEASE change this!
Overall, The Midway is a solid event spot for a mini music festival with an awesome sound system, multiple indoor + outdoor spaces, and industrial warehouse vibes. See ya next year at the 2027 R&B & Ribs event!
P.S. - Wear comfortable closed toe shoes! Sure, you'll look hot in 5 inch stilettos but after an hour, you're struggling like a baby giraffe on roller skates.