Tickets
Saturday, October 10, 2026 @ 12pm
SATURDAY, October 10th, CONVERSATION CORNER AT KEYS CAFÉ: “NameDropping”, Keys Owner, Simon Rowe explores the history of Barnaby Conrad’s El Matador.
“Before there was Keys, there was El Matador.”
In 1953, author, artist and former bullfighter Barnaby Conrad opened El Matador in the space that is now Keys, funded by the royalties from his bestselling novel Matador. Bennett Cerf called it “the most attractive room in America,” and Herb Caen said everybody who was anybody came through the door. Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and Truman Capote dropped in, and pianist Vince Guaraldi made it his musical home base.
Join Keys founder Simon Rowe for a conversation about Conrad’s memoir Name Dropping: Tales From My San Francisco Nightclub, the stories behind the room and the characters who filled it.
Come join us for a relaxed conversation and a delicious brunch at Keys Cafe!
Tickets: $10 ticket (Your ticket reserves your spot, but does not include brunch)
First come, first served seating policy. Advanced Ticket Purchase Suggested We strongly recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the show to secure your spot in line for seating.
Will-call check-in system, simply provide your last name to check in upon arrival.
Take advantage of our Bar & Lounge. No Cover! Happy Hour: Wed-Sat from 5pm-6pm.