PRESTIGE at Yoshi's
Last seen: October 11, 2008
Recurring club night? Once a month.
Notes by Crystal Akins, Photos by Hardy Wilson

Are you wondering where all the attractive people are in San Francisco? I'll tell you: Yoshi's new monthly party, PRESTIGE, is teeming with beautiful men and woman dancing to house (yes house, not jazz) under the subtle neon lights.

"Most people's jaws are on the floor when they see how many gorgeous people are walking around this party," said DJ and promoter Donovan.

God help you if you come in wearing sneakers, ladies. You might as well crawl into a hole and die or hope one of the three photographers does not get your photo. Not only are girls wearing bangin' hot dresses, but even the guys are working it out (think gelled hair and ornate button up shirts). Donovan described his crowd as "sexy, sophisticated, and very fashion conscious."

"It's a very 'see and be seen' crowd," said Donovan. "Lot's of fancy cars pull up for valet and everyone wants a table for bottle service."

This relatively new multi-level venue is sheer decadence (as it should be for $30 a head) and somewhat offputting when Donovan graced the decks, transforming the otherwise jazzy venue into a chic nightclub. With two floors and bars (plus another mini makeshift bar), getting a drink is a breeze and Yoshi's staff is on point to say the least. But while the venue has ample seating, it's riddled with reserved tables for "Platinum" members.

"My Platinum List is my paid VIP Membership for the true ballers who attend my events and don't mind spending a little money to be treated like complete royalty," said Donovan.

For those of us who haven't quite reached baller status and can pay the $30 cover, the wait in line didn't look too long. Next up from general admission is the Diamond list, but you'll have to be Donovan's friend or in the industry to be afforded a spot on the list.

I appreciated the second level that offered a little more intimacy and a different dynamic than downstairs. Although, most (if not all) tables are reserved upstairs so everyone is standing around twirling their hair and checking each other out. Best aspect of the second level: watching girls strut their stuff down the stairs like it's a catwalk.

Overall, the caliber of this party puts all those hipster and Castro parties I've covered to shame and Donovan knows it. The man even has time to enjoy his own party, chat it up, and DJ. I kid you not, the second you walk in the door you'll either be wondering where all these pretty people have been hiding or think you teleported to L.A.

Critic's Notebook:

Personal Bias: It's pretty nice being ushered into such a large event without having to wait in line.

Random Detail: Paper plates and cups give me nausea (and especially at such a nice party).

By the Way: For all you smokers, there are no ins and outs. That could drive a person mad.

Next PRESTIGE: November 22 with an Alice in Wonderland theme.