Mr. Tipple’s: San Francisco’s Premier Recording-Grade Jazz Room
Located at 39 Fell Street, Mr. Tipple’s (often referred to as “Mr. Tipple’s Recording Studio”) serves as a dedicated shrine to the art of live improvisation. Founded by Jay Bordeleau—a former music performance major who spent his early years behind the drums in orchestral halls—Mr. Tipple’s was built with a singular “recording studio” ethos: that the interplay between musicians and the clarity of the sound should always be the main event.
The calendar at Mr. Tipple’s is a testament to the diversity of the Bay Area’s vibrant jazz scene. On any given night, the stage hosts an eclectic rotation of talent, from the Cosmo Alleycats performing swinging blues and standards to contemporary quartets led by virtuosos like Paul Hanson.
The programming at Mr. Tipple’s spans the entire Black American musical continuum, bridging the gap between bebop, gospel-infused contemporary jazz, and avant-garde global textures.
What sets Mr. Tipple’s apart is its commitment to a true “listening room” experience. The space is intentionally designed for sonic intimacy, featuring custom fabric drapes and a layout that keeps the focus entirely on the bandstand. It is a place where musicians are encouraged to explore their most adventurous improvisations and the audience is invited to witness those split-second moments of creation up close.
This dedication to high-fidelity sound is most evident when witnessing a powerhouse performance from a master saxophonist like Richard Howell, whose soulful, spiritual force can command the entire room. It is this caliber of artistry that has earned Mr. Tipple’s a reputation among local “jazz cats” and international touring artists alike as one of the most authentic and respected rooms in the city.
Whether it’s a hushing solo or a high-energy quintet lighting up the Mid-Market district, Mr. Tipple’s remains a cornerstone of San Francisco’s musical heritage—a modern update to the classic jazz lounge where the song always comes first.
