Slipping through the throngs of eager music fans, what secrets does this unassuming building hold? This is Bottom of the Hill. It stands at the corner of 17th and Missouri Streets in Potrero Hill. Bottom of the Hill isn’t just a name, it’s a location. It sits literally at the bottom of Potrero Hill. The building itself, a two-story Edwardian structure, dates back to 1911. Back then, Potrero Hill was a neighborhood of Italian and working-class families. They toiled in the nearby shipyards and warehouses. Imagine this place then, a bustling saloon and eatery known simply as the “17th Street Restaurant.”
Bottom of the Hill’s life as a music venue began in September 1991, thanks to Dave Benetti. He envisioned a space for emerging punk, rock, and indie bands. Benetti’s vision proved successful. Bottom of the Hill became a launchpad for countless artists. Bands like Arcade Fire, Beastie Boys, Blink 182, Green Day, and The White Stripes graced its stage before hitting the big time. The venue also fostered local talent and embraced all-ages shows. This helped nurture a vibrant music scene. The intimate setting and high-quality acoustics added to the appeal. Fans could get up close and personal with the performers.
Bottom of the Hill has seen its share of memorable moments. MTV’s “Live at the 10-Spot” featuring Green Day was filmed here. A riot even broke out in 1996. A radio DJ leaked news of a secret Beastie Boys show (under the pseudonym “Quasar”). Fans overwhelmed the venue. The venue has also survived challenges. In 2009, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control targeted all-ages venues. This threatened Bottom of the Hill’s existence. The community rallied, sending letters of support, emphasizing the venue’s importance to the neighborhood. This support helped ensure its survival. The spirit of Bottom of the Hill lives on.
The quirky décor adds to the venue’s charm. Shelves are filled with baubles and trinkets, found at garage sales or from the owners’ collections. The outdoor patio features a unique wall made from stacked milk cartons filled with greenery. A mosaic border adorns the yard’s doorway. Even the fireplace mantle becomes a collaborative art piece during holidays. Concertgoers add their own curios, transforming the space with each passing season. Bottom of the Hill remains a beloved part of San Francisco’s music scene. It’s a testament to the power of community, the love of music, and a touch of quirky charm.