Nectar: Same Food, Better Music

"I couldn't get in. There was a line around the block!" said Weekly contributing writer Travis Ritter a couple of weeks ago as we watched Grand Archives at Fremont's High Dive. The source of the mob scene he was referring to wasn't at the High Dive, though. It was Cut Chemist, who was performing across the street at Nectar Lounge. A few months ago, a statement like that would have caused some confusion. What? Nectar? Cut Chemist? Line around the block? But ever since the club scooped up former Chop Suey booker Colin Johnson, it's been seeing better days, with a greater range of national acts and solid local bills, directing show-goers off the Hill, out of downtown, and into Fremont. There are a few things that haven't changed: the menu, for example, which beats most other venues in town with its oven-roasted sandwiches (the Ornery Creole, with smoked turkey, mozzarella, and spicy Cajun sauce doesn't disappoint); and the decor, which boasts a balcony with a bird's-eye view of the stage and an enclosed outdoor patio with a fireplace. So eat, drink, but be wary: Fremont's usual college-age clientele is often drunker (and surlier) than most show-going, chain-smoking hipsters. 412 N. 36th St., 632-2020, www.nectarlounge.com.