Anthology (music venue)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Live music venue, Restaurant |
| Founded | June 2007 |
| Founder | Howard Berkson |
| Defunct | January 4, 2013 |
| Fate | Closed and sold following owners' divorce |
| Headquarters | San Diego, California , United States |
Area served | San Diego metropolitan area |
| Products | Live music performances, Dining |
Anthology was a live music venue and upscale dining establishment spanning 13,000 square feet with seating for 325 guests, situated in the Little Italy district of San Diego, California. Launching in the summer of 2007, it embodied the contemporary spirit of 1930s and 1940s downtown San Diego supper clubs. The project involved an investment exceeding $6.5 million, including $1 million dedicated to state-of-the-art sound and audiovisual technology. Anthology rapidly earned acclaim both nationally and internationally, with numerous Grammy-winning performers recognizing it as one of the premier venues worldwide.
Throughout its years of operation, Anthology garnered more than ten Emmy nominations for its concert video productions—an uncommon distinction for a U.S.-based music venue.
The establishment ceased operations abruptly in January 2013 following the divorce of owners Howard and Marsha Berkson, after which it was acquired by a restaurant and entertainment group headquartered in Los Angeles.
Venue
While initially centered on jazz, Anthology presented a diverse array of genres such as rock, blues, Latin, indie, classical, and singer-songwriter performances. Its roster included nationally renowned recording artists and several Grammy recipients. The venue was located within Metro Works, a development spearheaded by founder Howard Berkson and designed by BCV Architects from San Francisco. The acoustic design was executed by Charles M. Slater Associates Inc., who implemented a $1 million digital sound system tailored for the three-story space with mezzanine levels and ceilings reaching 30 feet, accommodating 325 seats.
Closure
Anthology abruptly shut its doors on January 4, 2013, when owners Howard and Marsha Berkson dismissed management and staff. Confirmation from the marketing manager stated there were no plans to reopen. On March 14, 2013, the property changed hands to new proprietors who later filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy; however, Anthology operated as a tenant and was not included in this filing. The incoming owners terminated Anthology’s lease agreement while Howard Berkson maintained control over the brand name and intellectual property rights. An auction initially scheduled for March 15 was deferred until April 2.
Awards
- 2008 Sign on San Diego’s Best Upscale Bar
- 2008 Orchid Architectural Award
- 2008 California Restaurant Association Gold Medallion Award for Best Live Music Venue & Restaurant
- 2010 Two Emmy Nominations awarded to Brad Gardner for Composite Audio and directing at Anthology
- 2010 California Restaurant Association Gold Medallion Award for Best Live Music Venue & Lounge
- 2011 Four Emmy nominations recognizing Brad Gardner’s work in Composite Audio and directing categories
- 2011 Emmy Award for "Director Program - Live or Live to Tape" honoring "Hiroshima Live"
- 2011 California Restaurant Association Gold Medallion Award for Best Live Music Venue & Lounge