by david vera
COMMONWEALTH Such is clearly the case at the gay-and-straight-
owned Commonwealth. The breezy, raucous banter exchanged during my interview between Owners Aly Weaver, Dave Mori and Joseph Price affirmed my first impressions about what this beautified historical landmark was destined to become: a swanky, acces- sible hangout where inclusivity is the latest word, the drinks pack the power of the DJ’s beats and the menu flashes some serious gastronomic talent. With such unifying diversity in the venue’s owner-
ship and management, it was expressed that the hope in opening Commonwealth was to offer a luxu- rious but welcoming gathering place for a diverse crowd. “We understand that this is a community. And that’s what ‘commonwealth’ means: community,” ex- plained Mori. The goal is to meld contrasting worlds into one inviting go-to hotspot as demonstrated by the hybrid of mid century-modern architecture and ultra-luxe custom-made furniture. When asked how they developed their sense for
creating good bar ambiance, David answered for everyone, “We drink a lot (laughter).” Aly continued, “We love coming here because it doesn’t feel like work at all. It feels like we’re hanging out with our friends! When David has to put on a suit for a meeting or something...he’s not too happy.”
36 RAGE monthly | NOVEMBER 2013 | NOVEMBER 2013
A GOOD TIME FOR ALL
A community is embodied by unique qualities brought forth by diverse individuals. Its suc-
cess not only depends on the skills of its gracious contributors, but also an appreciation for everyone’s inclusion therein.
Surrounded by marble, chandeliers shipped from
overseas and a functioning grand piano, it’s hard to imagine that flip-flops and t-shirts are welcomed. But the owners, already entrepreneurs with an establishment named Alibi in San Francisco, reaffirm their open-door philosophy. “Everybody has been so welcoming since we got here,” said Aly of Hillcrest’s reaction to the venue. David continued, “In other parts of the state, if a neighboring business sees you doing well, they’ll do things to sabotage you, here it’s been nothing like that. We’ve had so much support.” The culinary creations by the personable Chef
Tomás Guerrero surely played a part in harvesting attention. “Tomás is amazing,” said Aly. “He not only knows how to cook, but to also run a kitchen. Every day he offers us four or five dishes, we’re all definitely going to get fat.” Among the plates sampled during my visit, the mouth-watering Bacon-Wrapped Salmon on a bed of peppery greens was a highlight. Followed closely by the succulentCrab-Stuffed Chicken Breast,Berry Crepes with house-made chocolate sauce and the perfectly minimalist Tiramisu with berry sauce, I found it incredible that Tijuana-born Chef Tomás had never attended culinary school. Rising from busser to line-cook to the sous chef at Bice in Downtown,
Tomás is the epitome of what this establishment symbolizes: strength via diversity. Looking back, this 200-person restaurant hardly
resembles the Xen Hookah Lounge I remember from the beginning of the century, coincidentally also owned by Joseph. The furniture and accent pieces were either purchased at high-end estate sales or built by Aly’s husband. “We strive to be unique and different,” said Joseph. “As for sofas and booths, I had the white pearl croc leather one custom made.” Having been in this community for 18 years. Joseph
knows his town well. “My previous employer was Eden Nightclub when
it was opened. I helped build that venue, I was the night club manager for a year and a half. With that I took my knowledge, my name and my following to Commonwealth.” The future holds fancy treats for the community including scrumptious Sunday Brunch offerings and ladies night on Tuesday nights. Reservations are also being taken for holiday parties. And Joseph urges us to, “plan on having a very ‘Gatsby Christmas Party’ in December.”
Commonwealth is located at 1263 University Avenue. For more information call 619.756.6164
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