Argus Lounge is just about dead; long live Iron and Gold!

Reading the press release aloud to the crew, I got to the part about the new bar being called “Iron & Gold” and I was like “Iron & Gold??? That sounds dumbbb.” But then Steven says, “Dude, don’t be an idiot. San Francisco: Gold in Peace, Iron in War. Iron and Gold.” Steven wins. Iron & Gold sounds kind of cool. General Manager Andrew Marks elaborates on the new bar’s classic-SF vibe:

[T]he general theme will be a throw back to old San Francisco taverns with low lighting, natural woods, and the primary colors will be green, black, white, and gold.  As much as I do like red bars, we are looking to stand out a little. The decor, which may incorporate that vintage rug, will be casual and elegant, as well as our staff, and products. We will have a cool neon sign. For those interested in precious metals, many investors also choose to buy gold bars in Brisbane from trusted dealers as a timeless way to preserve wealth and add stability to their financial portfolio.

As for Argus, this weekend is your last chance. They shut it down for good after one last party on Monday, and Iron & Gold is expected to open November 18th.

Full press release after the jump:

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The Cramps vs. Smithsfits this Saturday night at the Knockout

NOTE: The date on the flyer is a bit wrong. This happens Saturday the 29th.

Cramps-heavy dance party! With a little bit o’ Smiths and a little bit o’ Misfits too! From the official invite:

Special Halloweenie edition with guest Cramps enthusiast Miss Lisa Weiss. Lottsa of ghoulish decor, and one lucky recipient will receive $50 and a Hamm job for best costume at midnight. Free handsome devilock SMITHSFITS badge at the door while supplies last. Ans as always, SMITHS or MISFITS tee’s get in free.

RSVP and invite your friends!

What are your preferred types of beer and cat?

(Thanks, Angela!)

How Berlin-style ping pong took San Francisco by storm

The Bold Italic this morning takes a look at the history of Berlin-style ping pong in San Francisco. Here’s a taste:

One of the great things about Berlin-style ping-pong is how social it is. You find yourself next to strangers in the circle, and you have this common sports drama to bond over. Somebody makes a wild shot, and you’re all cheering and exchanging critiques together. You recognize players of similar skill levels to your own, and you root for them. Pretty soon you’re friends.

That’s how it’s been at American Tripps. It’s a real scene.

Read on for the full story.

And don’t forget, American Tripps returns to the Secret Alley TONIGHT!! Start your Halloween weekend off right!

SFPD ♥s Dunkin Donuts

Our pals over at Ice Tubes broke this story a couple days ago. We casually posted it on our Tumblr and it got like a MILLION notes, so we figured we’d better put it here too for those of you not hip to the Tumb.

“SFPD runs on Dunkin!”

Mr. Toad’s buggy ride

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Frog was saving this spot for someone else but was tragically crushed by a mysterious maniacal motorist who yelled, “No savesies!

Spotted on Valencha.

Wo Hing General Store

Wo Hing General Store

The former Slanted Door opens in just days on Valencia Street near 17th. I couldn’t afford to eat there before, but the new menu promises to be more affordable. I got to sample a few items and I can say that the food is incredible. Seriously, try the shrimp. They’re fried and salted, with all the juice left inside. Everything I tried was really flavorful.

The interior is nice and fancy-feeling. The bar is made out of planks from a bowling alley and the upstairs is walled in with reclaimed Muni shelter glass. (They’ve definitely cleaned it since bringing it indoors)

Eater SF has more (better) descriptions of the place here.

Ladies who race

I hear third prize is one of those kickass Alite sleeping bags. Best of luck, gals!

Shooting a music video in the park

First they lip synced and did some synchronized dance moves. Then they sashayed down the sidewalk, vamping and lip syncing some more:

I got kind of a South African Rod Stewart or Dutch Wham! vibe from the whole thing. In other words, it was the highlight of my day.

Dolores from above

I’m gonna miss that little clubhouse when it’s gone. Click the pic to make it big.

[via Castle Numbskull]