The lights are back on at Circle Bar.
After nearly two years in the dark, one of Santa Monica’s most iconic nightlife spots is set to reopen on Friday, May 22. With roots dating back to 1949, Circle Bar 2.0 brings with it decades of history, grit, and late-night stories.
“We’re not looking to reinvent it,” owner Mark Van Gessel says. “We’re looking to bring it back.”
Long known for its dim lighting, oval-shaped bar, and anything-goes dance floor, Circle Bar has been a Santa Monica staple for generations. In its heyday, it drew an eclectic mix of artists, musicians, and regulars, with reported drop-ins from the likes of Jim Morrison, Anthony Kiedis, Sean Penn, and Robert Downey Jr.
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It wasn’t about velvet ropes or exclusivity — it was about music, atmosphere, and who showed up.
The bar closed in August 2023 following a change in ownership. Now, under the direction of Van Gessel and his wife Addie — also known for Hinano Cafe in Venice and Tavern on Main — the space is being brought back to life with a careful balance of preservation and upgrade.
Among the biggest upgrades: an elevated DJ booth known as “Halo” in the center of the room. The venue also features an upgrades sound system and 100 inch display screen. The music program will showcase a mix of local and regional DJs, along with occasional special guest appearances.
Circle Bar will operate Thursday through Saturday evenings from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. with opportunities for private parties and special events on weekdays.
“Circle Bar isn’t just a bar,” Mark says. “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.”
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