WOW WOW WOW. Masterful performance by Kevin Blake...! The Illusionist is seriously the best show I've seen in the bay area, likely in my entire life. You need to take your friends and family and coworkers and neighbors and mailman and everyone you know~~~! After seeing this show recommended across several threads on Reddit (of all places...!), I booked tickets for my family and partner 2 months in advance-- was very pleased to see ADA-accessible seats available. Located under China Live, the Palace Theater is a gorgeous, Prohibition-themed club and bar; meticulously upkept and tastefully furnished. Fantastic, welcoming, accommodating staff. We arrived 30 mins beforehand to locate seating with spare time to appreciate the venue. Intimate but not claustrophobic... You can see everything up close. The show. Is. AMAZING. Simply blown away by the tricks and performance. Expect a great variety of illusions, mentalism, and tricks that actually had us questioning physics and reality. All parts of the audience are engaged, regardless of seating. Despite being on the fringe from the central tables, even our party was involved in one of the tricks...! I couldn't help but think about how incredibly high quality and well-rounded the overall production was. Kevin himself is as charming as he is quick, and seemed to maintain an air of sly composure amid the hilarity and drama... For the rest of the evening, we literally couldn't stop talking about the show (STREET MAGIC :D)... Even on the drive back home, we were still buzzing from realizing that magic is indeed REAL... ... We were waiting for the elevator when we encountered Kevin on his way out-- he was so generous to stop for a few photos and chat for a moment. We were totally starstruck and grateful for the time. You've made lifelong fans in us! Eagerly awaiting season 4 and onwards ^_^ read more

I highly recomment the magic show: - One of the tricks was kind of lame, but the rest were really impressive. - A lot of the tricks are clever and unique; you have not seen this stuff before. - There is a good combination of skill-based magic (card manipulation), stunt-based magic (levitating things), and psychic-based magic (mind reading). - Besides the magic act itself, Kevin Blake has an amazing level of showmanship. He is able to involve the audience in a very intimate way. Come for the magic, stay for the showmanship. The cocktails are hit or miss: 4.5/5: Conjurer's Orders: A good manhattan with a green chartreuse edge. 4/5: Afternoon Alchemy: Great Tequila/Aperol combo. 2/5: Caribbean Queen milk punch: It's a clarified milk punch with all the flavor removed. 2/5: The Telegraph tipple: A sparkly elderflower highball that is too dry and boring. read more

See all

This was such a gem to find. A friend informed me about this place and I said we had to go and I'm so glad we did. The special guest was BRAD BARTON the reality thief. He was spectacular. I was so engaged the entire time. We had a Karen in the audience but he was able to still tell a story and ignored her. Brad was full of surprises in his performance and they were jaw dropping. I would totally come back for more and definitely look for Brad. Location was hidden and deep down below. You talk through a casino theme bar and then down to a really antique looking hall, and even further down to this theater that takes you back to the 1800's. It's insane!!! I love the location, I love the show, and I love Brad Barton the reality thief. I HIGHLY recommend this place and their performances!!!! read more

The Illusionist - BRAD BARTON the Reality Thief!!!! - Speakeasies Near Me - San Francisco, California

Thought we'd try something unique and very SF and took some out of town visitors to see this show located in the unique Palace Theater which was a Chinese movie house in the late '90s . It has been remodeled to look like a speakeasy behind Joe's Clock Shop. A great last minute decision by the family yo try something local and different on a weeknight we all came away with a happy feeling. What is great about Kevin's show is that in the 130 seat theatre you don't feel as though you are far away. In fact it really is a participatory show. This is no time to be a wallflower. All 5 of us came away with the same feeling- "How did he do that?" . All of us participated in the show in one way or another. As Kevin would say, "Its Street Magic". The show lasts close to 2 hours with a 15 minute intermission.. well I can't say anything else because I don't want to give away any secrets! read more

See all

We went here for my birthday celebration and had a great time! This venue is so cool and unique! Show: 5/5 The show was great! It was very entertaining and engaging. We went on a night when a guest headliner named Brad Barton was performing. He was funny, engaging and very fun to watch. Ambiance: 5/5 The ambiance of this venue is awesome! You walk down what looks like an old vintage clock shop, then you are let into what looks like an old 1920's underground gambling hall and bar. The bar and drink menu are fun and really make you feel like you're in an old speakeasy during prohibition. After you grab your drinks, you go down into the intimate theater area where there really isn't a bad seat in the house! Price: 4.5/5 The price for the show was a 5/5 and very reasonable especially if you buy in advance. We bought our tickets for 49 each for an outer circle table seat. The cocktail drinks were any where from $15-20 and the beers were about $10. They also offer a cocktail flight you can buy in advance online that is a good value if you want multiple cocktails. It includes 2 cocktails, frozen grapes (alcohol infused) and a boozy milkshake for $50 after tax/fees. Another bonus if you get this is you don't have to wait in the regular bar line. Keep in mind, they don't serve food here, so it's best to get some food before the show! Customer service: 5/5 The customer service was great! The bar tenders were very nice and attentive, they are also in character to enhance the 1920's feel. Parking: 2/5 Is standard downtown SF parking. So looking on SpotHero and finding a local garage is the best bet. Or you can take BART into the area as well. If you are looking for a fun, unique experience during your night out in the city, I highly recommend coming to a show here! read more

See all

Attended the Secret Magic event this past weekend, and had a great time (see more about this event in my separate review for the "Palace Theater"). We especially enjoyed the main act, a variety show hosted by renowned magician Kevin Blake who selected audience members to throw darts at a board to come up with a sequence of numbers for one of the bits. David Gerard and Ben Seidman (who used volunteers to demostrate how easy he could make things disappear) also took the stage and filled the crowd with astonishment and laughter throughout the evening. The Adam Levine lookalike and the professional pick pocket put on a great show. And if it's your first time, you'll surely be amazed. If you've seen them before, like I had, you'll still be entertained, as they both have great showmanship and incorporate quite a bit of humor into their acts. And the seats from the balcony allowed for excellent viewing, even if a tad cramped. The magic, mentalism, and quirky personalities on stage kept us fascinated and curious and made for a memorable night. read more

See all

Kevin Blake is a great magician and comedian - very entertaining! The venue is intimate - there are no bad seats. Cool speakeasy vibes, I recommend going. Street Magic!!!! read more

Until 6 months ago I could credibly say that I'd been to only one magic show in the past 15 years. Somehow, I've now been to 2 magic shows in the past 6 months and I think I'll back off now for another 15 years. That's not to say there's anything wrong with The Illusionist, only that a little magic goes a long way. The Illusionist takes place in a very chilly (dress warmly) subterranean space deep beneath SF's China Live (this space has, in the past, been the site of The Speakeasy). Once inside, the room where the magic occurs - literally - is on multiple levels with those closest to the stage paying the most for tickets (my tickets ran $95.35 apiece). Opting for the most expensive tickets also slightly increases the odds that you'll be a participant in some of the on-stage antics. The show is fun and excellent. Because of my past experience I was familiar with some acts of magic but I was never bored or unimpressed. Admittedly though, it's most fun and impressive when you experience these tricks for the first time. Given the price of admission I was surprised by the number of children in the audience. This show struck me as one for adults, not because there was anything racy or inappropriate (there wasn't) but because much of the magic involves numbers, letters, dice, and playing cards; this is not rabbit-out-of-a-hat magic and I think it would be quite above the heads of most children under 10. If you're looking for a unique pre or post meal activity in North Beach or Chinatown The Illusionist is the answer. read more

I bought these season 2 tickets for my husband as part of his birthday celebration because he absolutely loves magic, and I have to say that it was one of the best decisions I've ever made! I would suggest going during a weekday for cheaper tickets if you can, get way better seats for a great price! Kevin Blake is one of the most incredible performers I've ever seen. I am inclined to believe that magic is real and he is the wizard. His acts were unbelievable and unique. He actively interacts with the audience and tries to include a good number of participants in each one, so it adds an additional layer of authenticity and fun. He's extremely charismatic, intelligent, has an incredible memory, and I'm honestly honored to witness such a fantastic experience from someone so smart that I feel like he could be curing brain cancer instead of doing magic. The show went from defying my expectations to defying gravity (and frankly the laws of the universe because everything he did seemed unreal). My husband was even able to go up to the stage to experience one of the card tricks up close, and although being familiar with magic, couldn't even come close to figuring out what occurred. Ive only ever really watched magic on TV previously, I've never seen a real magic performance outside of the hired performers at kid parties, or the random shows they have at Pier 39, so this entirely blew my mind. Please treat yourself to an amazingly fun night out, have a fancy drink, and enjoy, this is more than worth it. Cant wait for season 3! read more

We saw Season 2 of The Illusionist with Kevin Blake at the Palace Theater and had an absolute blast. Kevin is just as hilarious as he is magical- his energy and crowd interaction made the show stand out. It was a two-hour performance with a short intermission, and the time flew by. He brought many audience members into the act- my boyfriend even got to go on stage for one of the dice games, which made the night extra memorable! I am mind blown by all the illusions. We will be back for the next season! read more

See all

We attended a matinee performance of the Illusionist yesterday and to say we were Blown Away is an understatement. Kevin Blake is a master magician, mentalist and comedian. The show was amazing and his crowd work second to none. I look forward to recommending this show to friends, family and business associates. Additionally, the theatre was very cool and the staff was excellent. A really wonderful time was had by everyone in attendance. read more

The Illusionist - What a good time at a great show. - Speakeasies Near Me - San Francisco, California

Kevin was such a great magician and blew our minds! His comedy was on point and we even got a picture with him after. My boyfriend volunteered and could not stop talking about it after. Highly recommend for a night out!!! read more

The Illusionist - Venue - Speakeasies Near Me - San Francisco, California

Just came back from the third time seeing Kevin Blake's show. He definitely has me believing in magic! He's an incredible performer and good looking too. read more

See all

The space is cool. It's a multilevel brick labyrinth underneath the streets of North Beach. The Kevin Blake magic show was pretty lame.

My wife and I have seen at least one show on each of Kevin Blake's runs at the Palace Theater. We've had a great time on each occasion. Kevin is a great performer, his comedy is on point and his illusions are as smooth as butter. The venue does not have food, but is conveniently located by North Beach and Chinatown which provide endless opportunities for a nice meal before/after the show. The venue does have two bars where you can get drinks before the show and during intermission. My one complaint would be both times we've been we've found the drinks to be a bit unbalanced. One time too acidic and the other time too sweet. It was still a 5 star experience and I'd recommend anyone looking for a fun and unique date night to attend. read more

The Illusionist - Speakeasies Near Me - San Francisco, California

Excellent showmanship, venue, overall experience. Kevin was great interacting with the audience and injecting humor. Well worth a visit, and a somewhat hidden gem IMO. read more

Excellent experience! Was so entertaining throughout the entire performance. Kevin is such a talented performer and used so many audience members in his fact that it felt extremely interactive. There weren't any snacks there but there is a drink flight option (with grapes i think?) you can purchase ahead of time or you can order drinks at a couple of bars around the venue. read more

What an incredible show, two hours of pure delight and wonder. Kevin Blake is an amazing and funny storyteller, and he weaves his illusions in with personal anecdotes and tales of magic. We came with another family (including two teenagers and a 10 year old), and everyone loved every minute of the show. The most baffling illusions were performed effortlessly and with an undertone of humility; Kevin is clearly a master of the craft. Joe's Clock Shop provides an intimate environment that lends itself well to audience participation. Most of the action is on the main stage. When the action is at the card table, a camera follows the action and projects an up-close view onto a large screen. We went to the last show of the season but will be looking out for future opportunities to see Kevin perform. Still have no idea how many of the illusions were performed, and I'm very happy about that. read more

Visual arts. Communication. Interaction. Ambiance. Absolutely a great practitioner of Illusions that commands every amount of attention throughout the entire performance. Time is a marker especially when we are anything less than completely engaged. Time stands still with every word, every example, every action. unbelievable acts of artistry. Now the performance is over but yet still replaying over and over... exceptional practitioner!! read more

A wonderful venue, friendly staff, inventive cocktails and an incredible show. Highly recommend! Little challenging to find the main entrance but after a walk around the block we realized it's next to the China Live entrance. read more

See all

Not a food place at best you can order drinks, but there is NO food. Service, as in getting seated was stellar. The setting is that of a speakeasy, lots of stairs to go down. It's a magic / illusionist show & the guy is fascinating, intriguing, you leave wondering how the heck ... Highly recommended for a date night out. My only complaint were the chairs they were tough on the body. A cushion, better chairs, something, yet it does remind one of going to an old fashion illusionist show, where the audience is up close & personal . read more

Such an amazing and interactive show!There was never a dull moment! Prepare for a fun night and crowd!

We see a lot of magic and this is one of the best we have seen in a while. The space is totally cool--old timey and charming. The seating is tight and the chairs are not comfortable, but otherwise it was pretty great. I love the interactive elements that are woven throughout. Also, the magician, Kevin, is funny and has amazing patter. Many of the tricks left us thinking and talking about them for a few days. read more

When was the last time you saw something truly impossible right in front of you? This show was incredible... and I was a skeptic. The Illusionist has created miracles right in front of your eyes. Go see it! read more

The Illusionist - a typewriter and a clock - Speakeasies Near Me - San Francisco, California

Great show! A lovely way to spend an evening out. The magician was very skilled at his craft. Highly recommend.

I have been twice to those show. It is so worth it! Very fun very cool venue. The people who work there are all nice and go out of their way to make sure you're having a great time. It's very clean. Kevin is not only a talented magician but he is also hilarious. This show is truly for all ages . I highly recommend this! I would get there when doors open so you have enough time to park and also use the bathroom and get a seat and your drinks. read more

We enjoy these type of magic/illusion shows in small theaters and have seen many over the years. We were very pleased that this show is right here in SF in the fun North Beach/Chinatown neighborhood. The location of the theater is great for drinks/food before or after, the decor and design of the Palace is very cool, and the show was really well done. We saw Kevin do his show, not a guest illusionist, so we got the person who designed the performance. Many reviews here go into detail about the act so I'll just say that the pace and variety are excellent and keep you focused and interested every minute. Literally everyone has an opportunity to do a little something participative and those chosen to do specific ones really seemed to enjoy it. The drinks are SF prices but the bar does a good job of serving everyone quickly so you're back in your seat and don't miss a thing. read more

Kevin Blake puts on a fantastic show. We took our 2 teenagers, and they both got to participate in the show and absolutely loved it. We were all laughing and in awe the entire time. There's an intermission, so we all got drinks from the speakeasy bar (non-alcoholic for the kids of course). Although some magic shows can skew cheesy, my kids agreed Kevin is a cool magician and we all loved the comedy. He's a great storyteller and we have zero idea how he did any of his illusions, totally mind blowing. read more

A delightfully entertaining show by a brilliant and engaging performer who appears to enjoy himself as much as his audience. A great experience for both kids and adults who can use an interlude of suspended reality in their lives. read more

Highly recommend! I saw one of Kevin Blake's shows during a virtual offsite during the peak of covid and I'm so glad I found his show! I got a balcony seat and I think I preferred it over the downstairs, although it was higher up, it was a little closer to the stage vs the back of the downstairs. Kevin brings such a great show and I'd definitely go again when he has a Part 3. read more

We went on a couples date night and had the BEST time. While my friend kept trying to uncover the "secret sauce," I had no idea how Kevin did his magic and I don't care. It was a two hour rollercoaster of stories, illusions, and crowd work that was truly amazing and I allowed myself to be enveloped in it. Kevin really knows his craft, is GREAT with the audience, and made it the best night out. The venue is also VERY cool and the staff was super nice (from the door guy to the bartenders) all the way around. Would highly recommend this show. Thank you, Kevin! read more

I recently planned a group birthday celebration to see Kevin Blake's show, after reading incredible reviews, only to find once the show began that he would not be performing and there would be another magician performing instead. We purchased tickets specifically to see Kevin Blake. We received a confirmation email prior to the show beginning which did not mention that Kevin wouldn't be present. Similarly, there was no mention at the entrance that we wouldn't be seeing him. It wasn't until the show started that we were informed another magician would be performing instead. Had we known ahead of time, we would have never wasted our time or money. The fact that this critical information was withheld was incredibly frustrating. This felt like a bait-and-switch. If you're going to change performers, have the decency to inform your guests before they travel to attend. This kind of deception is unacceptable and casts a dark shadow over what was meant to be a special evening. Save your money, your time, and your expectations - go elsewhere. read more

Beat illusion show I've ever seen. Going again immediately. Highly recommend getting a booth and bringing friends. Absolutely stellar. Can't imagine a more fun night really. read more

Kevin's "Magic show" is fantastic! He's funny, charming and we were left amazed my what he did. Great venue; very comfortable and intimate. Two thumbs up!! read more

OMGosh !! So fun!! Very entertaining and so engaging with the audience, would do this again !

You feel the mystery that moment you walk down the steps into the clock room.... A romantic sleep easy awaits as you make your way around the several bar/gambling tables. The excitement builds as you walk over to get the signature cocktails... the bar keep also shows her talent as she pours ya the different cocktails.... VERY DELICIOUS and STRONG btw! The seating is intimate and not too crowded so you have leg room are close enough that one could hear the other folks chatting it up. The venue couldn't be better for this type of show. Steve Blake holds your captive as he begins his tale of how he wanted to become a magician. The humor and his charm delight as you sit back waiting for each trick to unfold. It's a free for all so don't be assuming you won't be called to help him out with a trick or two. He can read minds...I swear it... my fiancé and I couldn't figure out ANY way he would have known all he knew about the crowd in such a short period of time. An intermission allows ya to hit the restroom upstairs and also the opportunity to grab another beverage. Kevin Blake then invites us all to get REALLY involved with his next act. Prepare to have your mind blown!! It's a GREAT NIGHT adate night and or a group is a good idea. Keep in mind that odds are you won't be able to sit together if more than 5. Have a fantastic time!!! We may have to go back to watch it again!!! YOU WONT want to miss this I promise!!! Well worth the cost and be prepared to try to figure it all out days and days after the show!!! read more

Incredible! I've seen The Illusionist a few times, with Kevin Blake, Brad Barton, and others. All of the magicians have been stellar, top quality, and the audience always laughs and gasps in amazement! The venue, The Palace Theater, is decked out to the nines with 1920's deco decor, it's a sight (and a site) to behold. They don't serve any food, but the drinks are great too: I've tried the cocktail flight and it was wonderful, and my guests have also had drinks from the bar. Service is top notch. I highly recommend! read more

The best magic show I've ever seen! Kevin's show left us totally amazed and had us cracking up. My fiancé who thinks he knows how all magic tricks are done is still scratching his head! A very fun night out, do yourself a favor and check it out! read more

Super fun, entertaining and impressive performance! My friend and I oohed and awed all the way thru. Palace Theater is a true hidden gem. It's a cozy and quaint old speakeasy style venue tucked away so discretely, I have never before noticed it before - and I live in the area. It was a sold out show and there was a lot of audience involvement. Highly recommend! read more

Went last night. Walking into the place was a delightful journey. It is a very cool spot. The theater is beautiful. The pre-paid drinks were small, but strong and fun. But what made the night so great was Kevin. He was charming, funny, kept things moving at a nice pace. He's very talented. I would go back again with friends, it was that good! read more