No one dances enough anymore. Personally, I hardly ever go - even though when I do, I have a great time. Maybe it’s because if you end up in North Beach or the Marina, dancing can take on so much more weight than it’s meant to (you know, that whole meet-market stereotype). So while I enjoy a good house beat or pop-y groove as much as the next girl, sometimes, you just have to go where people actually dance.
I’ve been to Roccapulco twice now, and both times have been thoroughly enjoyable. I don’t know much about the salsa scene in the Mission - so I’m counting on reader input to let me know if I’ve found a good place or just the tip of the salsa-iceberg in San Francisco.
Maybe it’s because it appeals to my ethnic roots, or maybe it’s just the undeniable life force coming from the live band, but dancing is easier when it’s salsa or merengue. (yes, there’s a difference, and no I can’t explain, though it has been explained/demonstrated to me before). The steps can be taught - quickly (Roccapulco even offers classes if you get there before the general crowd on a Friday or Saturday night) - and willingly by most of the guys there. The club also makes a great girls-night-out venue because, thankfully, a request to dance isn’t a proposition, it’s just a request to dance. On both trips there, the only dances I sat out were by choice, not for lack of partners. It’s fun, it’s social, and much more friendly than other, clubbier haunts around the city.
Drinks are good, priced fairly, and served with a smile. The club is very large, so seating shouldn’t be a problem, except if you wait until unusually late to show up (and they do take reservations, if you’re concerned). Oh, and it’s full name is the Roccapulco Supper Club - so I’ll let you deduce from that the availability of food. People-watching while you take a breather is almost as fun as dancing. Both times I was there, it was easy to pick out the regulars, the really steller dancers, and just marvel at their speed, skill, and grace.
So grab your dancing shoes and head for floor. Take an open mind and a willingness to mix it up with different dance partners. If you’re like me and are less than skilled, salsa-wise, have a drink first, loosen up, and enjoy learning. You’ll be spinning in no time.
Roccapulco (info from the site linked above):
Hours: Salsa Lessons @ 8:30pm, 21 & over, Wed-Sundays, 8pm-2am
Admission: Special Admission: $10 Before 10pm, Except Special Shows
Contact: 415.648-6611 or Fax: 415.648-6613.
Website: www.roccapulco.com or email: roccapulco@aol.com
Address: 3140 Mission Street, San Francisco.

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