Michele StuevenCircle Bar, the longtime Main Street bar and nightclub in Santa Monica known for its dimly lit, oval-shaped bar, packed dance floor, and historic past, will reopen under new ownership and reopen on Friday, May 22. At the helm are local restaurateurs Mark and Addie Van Gessel, the duo behind the Venice staple Hinano Cafe and Santa Monica’s Tavern on Main.
Originally established in 1949, Circle Bar evolved from a neighborhood watering hole into a fixture of Santa Monica’s nightlife and music scene. By the 1970s, it had developed a reputation as a go-to spot where artists, musicians, and locals gathered regularly. Over time, it became known for late-night DJ and live music sets, a dance floor, and a diverse crowd ranging from industry professionals to neighborhood regulars.
In its heyday, Circle Bar became known for its low-key, dimly lit atmosphere, which attracted discreet late-night drop-ins including Jim Morrison and Truman Capote, as well as Anthony Kiedis, Sean Penn, Robert Downey Jr., and cast members of hit shows like Mad Men.
Circle Bar (Tiffany Rose Photography)
The reimagined Circle Bar will stay true to its roots, maintaining the same floor plan it has had since 1949 while introducing upgrades to sound, lighting, and overall production. A new elevated DJ booth, called “The Halo,” puts the DJ at the center of the room, reinforcing the venue’s music-first identity and creating a more immersive dance floor experience. The music program will feature rotating local and regional DJs, along with occasional special guest appearances.
The venue’s upgraded sound system is powered by top-of-the-line QSC speakers, while a digitally controlled lighting system using premium Chauvet components enhances the atmosphere and highlights the venue’s signature disco ball. There’s also a 100+ inch screen with an 8K laser projector for visual programming and private event capabilities.
Circle Bar (Tiffany Rose Photography)
The refreshed cocktail program combines the Circle Bar’s classic dive bar spirit with playful updates, like the Pacific Cooler made with tequila or mezcal, yuzu, and pamplemousse; the Roadhouse Mule featuring vodka or rum, cacao, lime, and ginger beer; and the Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, a mix of gin, Aperol, St. Germain, mango, and lemon.
The menu also features late-night offerings like the Late Night Latte with cold brew, coffee liqueur, and cinnamon oat milk, along with an extensive lineup of specialty shots, and there will be a daily “Power Hour” from 6 p.m.to 7 p.m., featuring $5 bubbles and wine, along with discounted margaritas, Old Fashioneds, and Aperol Spritzes.
Circle Bar (Tiffany Rose Photography)
Circle Bar (Tiffany Rose Photography)