The return of Circle Bar

One of Santa Monica’s most iconic dive bar dance clubs is back. Circle Bar on Main Street, originally established in 1949, has long been a staple of the Westside music and nightlife scene, known for its no-VIP, decades-long low-key celebrity fanfare, music-first energy, and famously packed dancefloor. 

The powers that be like to say, at a time when nightlife has become increasingly exclusive and expensive, its return signals a renewed appetite for something more authentic, an unpretentious space focused on DJs, dancing, and community.

Guests can also enjoy a refreshed cocktail program that balances Circle Bar’s classic dive bar spirit with playful, elevated drink offerings. Signature cocktails include 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 vibrant mix of gin, Aperol, St. Germain, mango, and lemon.

The space has been updated with a top-of-the-line QSC sound system, an elevated DJ booth, and upgraded lighting, while maintaining its original layout and character.

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 (across the street from Circle Bar). Both concepts are known for their consistent quality and focus on community. With deep roots in the Westside hospitality scene, the Van Gessels are committed to preserving Circle Bar’s legacy as one of L.A.’s best dive bars, blending nostalgia with new energy while maintaining its grit and dive bar charm.

Over the decades, 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, 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 from icons such as 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 isn’t just a bar,” said Mark Van Gessel. “It’s part of Santa Monica’s cultural DNA. Everyone has a Circle Bar story. We want to honor what made it special while bringing fresh life into the space, keeping the focus on great music and drinks, and a fun atmosphere so a new generation can create their own Circle Bar stories." 

The reimagined Circle Bar stays true to its roots, maintaining the same floor plan it had since 1949 while introducing significant upgrades to sound, lighting, and overall production. A new elevated DJ booth, called “The Halo,” places 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.

Guests can also take advantage of Circle Bar’s daily “Power Hour” from 6pm to 7pm, featuring $5 bubbles and wine, along with discounted margaritas, Old Fashioneds, and Aperol Spritzes.

“We’re not looking to change what people loved about Circle Bar,” said Addie Van Gessel. “We’re focused on bringing it back in a way that feels authentic—an unpretentious, music-driven space where the focus is on the dance floor, not the guest list.”

Circle Bar is located at 2926 Main Street in Santa Monica, CA. Open Thursday through Saturday from 6pm to 2am. Call (310) 392-9022.

photo credit: Tiffany Rose Photography