A and R Music Bar

Absolutely horrible design. There's giant pillars in the middle of the venue blocking views for a considerable amount of the audience. And worst of all there are only 2 unisex bathrooms available for use. There are over 200 people at the venue and only TWO BATHROOMS are available. This should be illegal

I've been here twice for Upsahl, and it's a great place! I have personally never had issues with the staff here; it's always been quick and easy to pass the ID check and security. No pat-downs, just a standard walk-through metal detector. The bartenders have always been nice too. Most importantly, they have free water (pictured), which always feels reassuring that the establishment cares for the well-being of its guests. There's a Mikey's Late Night Slice kiosk in the back too, which is delicious. (Definitely check out the real place though!)I'm actually surprised that there are so many negative reviews, especially about the size; I think it's pleasantly intimate and appropriate considering the popularity of artists they book. It does make you feel a lot closer regardless of where you're standing and gives the artist opportunity to interact more with the crowd. I will say the sound quality seems to have gone down since the last time I was here (last year), but maybe that's because I was standing right by a speaker this time. Will update next time I go!

Wtf is the restroom situation here? I've been to over 400 concerts and never encountered anything of the like.

Solid music venue in Columbus. We had no issues with the staff -- everyone was super nice and easy to communicate with. I share the sentiment with others here to make sure you're in the right line!! When we walked up my husband freaked out because there was a huge line outside, but it was for Kemba live. We were able to walk right up to the A&R bar stairs and get right in. I ALSO share the frustrations with the people that complained about the bathroom situation. There are only 2 bathrooms to accommodate this venue -- HOWEVER if the basement doesn't have a show they can open up the stairs and there's SEVERAL stalls per gender down there. It felt like a trade secret every time i passed the potty line and went down the stairs ha. Everything sounded amazing -- great show by UPSAHL and Brightest London.

Went to the Games we play concert. There were only two tickets unisex bathrooms for the entire place. Not cool.

The venue is so cool and intimate, that also attracts really good artists. It's a little on the smaller side, but that's good because if an artist you like is performing there, you will undoubtedly be close no matter where you stand. There's a few garage doors that open onto a patio that overlooks the box office to KEMBA Live area. It's nice for fair weather evenings to have that open and allow for more space or cool/summery air. The staff at the venue are very friendly. There's also a pizza spot located in the back - I want to say it's Mikey's Late Night Slice but I could be wrong (I didn't purchase food) but it smelled AMAZING so that's always a plus. Inside the venue toward the back is the stairway to the venue, The Basement, where many other smaller artists perform. I didn't check out that section, but it's good to note that A & R is basically two venues in one!I will certainly be back for another show soon!

Terribly rude staff, pillars blocking view of the stage, cramped, and not worth the money to come here. Sorry for the bands booking gigs here because the venue is an absolute turn off.

Some truly terrific acts come through here, and, though the intimacy of this venue can't be beat, the huge pillars obstructing views of the stage are a major bummer. Almost as much of a bummer as the inexcusable lack of quality beverage options. The Ohio Stadium has a better selection of beers, for crying out loud (not to mention less punitively expensive.) Management should spend an evening at Woodlands to see how it's done properly.

Great venue to see a show as long as you don't want to see the stage or get a drink from the bar!

Intimate location, no matter where you're standing you'll get a great view of the performer