Surf Spot Cranks Up Live Music Scene

Surf Spot is “totally stoked” to present a new and improved music series, said chef and owner Derek Burns, who has taken over booking the music program at the restaurant with some very exciting musicians coming in over the next few months.

"We're definitely going in a different approach than before. We have crafted a new direction to fill a void on the Coast, providing an eclectic music venue as diverse as the world of surfing itself and with a primarily acoustic and laid back vibe,” he said.

Burns is focusing on “remarkable voices and deeply talented musicians,” he said, from bands with influences from all over the world as well as from the Central California Coast, Ocean Beach and San Mateo County. He's got a line-up through February that includes reggae, Americana, folk and swing, indie-rock, Latin guitar, instrumental string, alt-country, Hawaiian and surf rock.

“The Bay Area is home to some the best musicians in the country right now and some of the acts we are bringing in play all over the country, including New York, Nashville, Los Angeles and even overseas," he said.

On Saturdays and Sundays, enjoy music on the patio between 2 and 5 p.m. If it rains, they'll move the fun indoors. On Friday nights, come experience a mellow groove as Surf Spot presents their Solo Acoustic Fridays indoors, 8 to 10:30 p.m.

The Surf Spot is also looking for local bands to perform for their local fans. Every Thursday night beginning in February, Burns will host a local act indoors from 8:30-10:30 p.m. Preference will be given to acoustic and unplugged style acts and there is not room for big drum kits or bands larger than four members. Contact Burns with a music sample if you know a local band that they should check out. Call 650-355-7873 or e-mail music@surfspoteats.com.

“When it rains, the music will move inside so we will not have to cancel gigs, but they will sell out as our dining room is much smaller than our outdoor venue,” said Burns.

For a little flavor of what they’re doing, check Surf Spot’s current calendar up on their vendor profile on their Facebook page. Or go to their website and check out the calendar. Up next: James Patrick Regan performs Friday, Feb. 1 at 8 p.m. Schooled by Slack Key masters Keola Beamer and John Keawe, James recently set out to bring the Slack Key guitar style to a broader audience, with a more "urban" feel.