ROC The Casbah: A Stage Dive Into The 585’s Rising Music Scene, Part 1
For the past few years, locals of the region have eagerly demanded a more vibrant music scene. From reminiscing on the heydays to advocating for an end to the deprivation of major touring artists an unfortunate effect elevated by the 2019 pandemic. It seems that some of those voices have finally been heard. Today, the ‘585’ music scene is once again a rising star paving the pathway forward to send sound waves across the Upstate New York sky.
Never a Bad Time at Bar Bad Ending
In many ways, Bar Bad Ending pays tribute to thirsty night owls and uplifts the fringes of the local music scene. It’s underrated but glorified, it is edgy but warm and welcoming because at its core, it is a community space where members gather over a few drinks, a few laughs, great food, and live to jam the night away.
Montgomery Court Coffee is Elevating the Scene on Park & Colby
Montgomery Court Coffee is flooded with natural light and accented with lush, thoughtfully placed plants that make you want to stay a long while. It’s equal parts cozy and modern, the kind of place where mornings feel intentional. The art and murals on the walls give the space an artistic presence. It is a coffee shop that invites you to stare at the walls every time you visit and you’ll still find something new to explore.
Por Mar y Tierra: A Brief Look at El Kapitan on Park Ave
Today, a real pairing of authenticity and modernity is being brought from kitchen to table at El Kapitan on Park Ave, a Modern Mexican Street Food restaurant in Downtown Roc. From the bright acidic citrus flavor of lime to the deep, rich, and complex sweetness and spices of Mole, El Kapitan is elevating the Mexican cuisine experience in Rochester, NY. Surely, the restaurant is delivering an experience that has been largely underrepresented to some degree, but has gained traction over the past few years with new kitchens opening up across the city.
Clownboy Coffee Rocks — No Joke!
Clownboy Coffee is a third-wave queer-owned coffee shop that focuses on using vegan-friendly alternative milks for drinks and some delectable roasts for espresso. This includes alt-milk from Minor Figures and Califia Farms, and roasts by Sightseer Coffee, a women-grown and owned coffee roaster from Austin, Texas, and Blind Tiger Coffee originating out of Old Town, Maine.
Anthology is F**KING Back, Baby!
When Anthology closed its doors in the summer of 2022, it left a void in the hearts of music lovers across the city, especially those in the East End neighborhood just off of East Avenue on Lawrence Street, where the venue stands. For years, locals and weary travelers walked past the venue, watching and waiting for the day that the magnificent proverbial factory lights would turn on, and the rhythmic cadence of music would echo out to the world from behind the glass doors of the forsaken building. All hope felt lost. But, the tides are turning and Anthology is once again bringing the joy of live music to Downtown, Rochester, NY!
Que Chévere is Bringing Authentic and Traditional Puerto Rican Dishes to Culver and Atlantic
Que Chévere, a casual Puerto Rican restaurant, is bringing flavorful and authentic dishes to the up-and-coming neighborhood. The restaurant is next to local gems like Roar Nightclub, Taqueria Monterrey, a casual Mexican restaurant, and Heroes Brewing Company.
Enjoying the Immaculate Vibes at Fattey Beer Company
Fattey Beer Company is a sanctuary for craft beer lovers that pours some of the most delectable craft brews in Downtown Rochester, NY. Located across the way from the Strong National Museum of Play, Fattey brings some of the chillest vibes to the city. It is a great place to meet up with friends for a drink, listen to eclectic music, and enjoy the lovely views of a thriving side of downtown.
Celebrate the Full Moon at The Spirit Room (Permanently Closed)
The Spirit Room on State St. is Rochester’s most eclectic bar and entertainment venue. The space is famous for its macabre performances, poetry readings, karaoke, and open mic nights, and blues and folk performances that occur every week.
How RIT’s City Art Space is Bridging Creativity and Community in Downtown Roc
Located in downtown Rochester, New York, the Rochester Institute of Technology’s City Art Space is a free community space that brings artistic creations crafted by RIT students, faculty, and local Rochester artists to all who visit.