LOVE KRAFT COUNTRY Bonny June and Bonfire perform for Ken Kraft’s 71st birthday as part of the ‘dinner and a show’ series in July at Michael’s on Main. PHOTO: MICHAEL HARRISON
When Dinner Met Show How rediscovering a classic tradition saved Michael’s on Main BY ADAM JOSEPH
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“N
othin’ left to do but smile, smile, smile” reverberates from Michael’s on Main on a Friday night in Soquel. The line from the Grateful Dead’s “He’s Gone” is a fitting, tie-dyed sentiment. Dancers twirl on the front patio, back deck, and in front of the stage, as the familiar blend of patchouli and chronic wafts throughout the space. Bay Area jam band Aardvark close the first set of the happy hour show with a spirited rendition of “Uncle John’s Band.” Grateful Dead memorabilia—framed limited edition album covers, Bob Minkin photos and 1960s Avalon Ballroom concert posters—adorn the room. Above a massive tie-dye tapestry hanging behind the stage, a large
print of Stanley Mouse’s legendary illustration, featuring a contemplative skeleton jester looking out to the sun setting over the San Francisco Bay, faces the audience. When the music stops, overheated dancers find open tables to settle down and fuel up on appetizers (the chicken wings and pulled pork sliders, layered with Cuban-style barbecue roast pork, cabbage and mojo aioli are a couple of popular choices), dinner and/or drinks. In addition to a bevy of signature cocktails, highlighted by the refreshing, low-cal “Mom’s Pick Your Botanical” (Ketel One vodka with a choice of peach and orange blossom, cucumber and mint or grapefruit »
FOOD & DRINK | GOODTIMES.SC | 2021
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