Best of 2003: Best Open Mic For Performers

Tiki House
1152 Garnet Avenue, Pacific Beach
858-273-9734

If you think it's time to take your show on the road but lean toward the shy side, take it to the Tiki House in Pacific Beach on Sunday night. Chris Kelly, a longtime San Diego musician and musician supporter, hosts the friendliest open mic that any fledgling performer could want. The Tiki is equipped with an unglamorous tiny stage, just the other side of a pool table, and an unflattering PA, but it's nothing but positive vibes from the Tiki's friendly regulars, who welcome fresh faces and new talents. Or maybe they're tired of watching each other perform. Unlike most open mics around town, there's no lottery and no pay-to-play routine. Just show up with your guitar, or your guitar-playing partner(s), and about 20 minutes' worth of songs (originals or covers, they don't care) and sign up. It's first come, first served, so the earlier you show, the earlier you go. The open mic usually starts around 9, unless it doesn't -- as is usually the case in bar-land. But hang around; someone will get the ball rolling.