8 Awesome Venues for TechCrunch Disrupt SF Parties in 2019

TechCrunch Disrupt focuses on startups and new, groundbreaking innovations in tech. This focus on innovation and creativity makes it a truly exciting event. The conference’s thousands of attendees have opportunities to, in the event organizers’ own words, “be inspired by the insights of today’s leaders and tomorrow’s best startups, learn from industry analysts sharing their business expertise, witness the latest innovations and up-and-coming founders, and make the right connections easily to propel your business forward.” Disrupt was one of the first conferences on this topic; their history makes it clear that they’re an authoritative source and a major hub for tech startup culture.

It’s no surprise that Disrupt is happening in San Francisco. The Bay Area’s Silicon Valley is home to the world’s leading tech companies, including Apple, Google, Intel, HP, Cisco, Oracle, and many others. (And the industry is only continuing to grow!) More specifically, the conference will be taking place at the Moscone Center, the city’s largest convention center complex, situated centrally in the South of Market neighborhood. This is great news for anyone planning Disrupt-adjacent events like cocktail parties, after-parties, launch events, happy hours, and so forth — there are a mind-boggling number of event spaces right nearby, giving you an array of venue choices as you plan your event.

In this article, we’ll describe our favorite venues for TechCrunch Disrupt SF parties, pointing out key features of each space and linking you to listings for each with detailed descriptions, reviews, and high-res photos. 

1. A cozy space in a converted West SoMa industrial building

Right nearby in the western part of the South of Market neighborhood, this recently converted commercial building boasts stunning features like 18-foot ceilings, huge skylights, and a galley-style kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances. That’s not to mention the side-by-side tree swing, original potbelly stove, four indoor bike racks, and a 79-inch 4K television! As many as 20 people can enjoy this location, which is set up well for intimate events that are focused on generating communication among guests. 

2. An industrial-modern museum space in the heart of SoMa

First off, this venue is located right in the heart of the SoMa district, within walking distance of the Moscone Center. The 2,625-square-foot space can accommodate as many as 112 guests and is ideal for both corporate and more informal social events. The building itself mixes modern and industrial aesthetics for a sleek look with a touch of edge, along with the oodles of natural light and soaring ceilings that take any event space to the next level. Additional amenities also available include projector, screen, and small Wi-Fi surround speaker system along with a variety of furniture and on-site event support. 

3. A turn-key event and screening loft

If you’re looking to host an engaging screening following your visit to the Disrupt conference, this should be one of your top choices among venues for TechCrunch Disrupt SF parties. Depending on the kind of activities you’re incorporating, it can host as many as 80 people, with chairs and tables available to be set up before the rental begins. In addition to a great audio system, mood lighting, and even a sound-proof breakout room upstairs, there are 10-foot windows with lots of natural light (which can also be covered up entirely), a five-star chef’s kitchen, and a garden patio. This venue really has it all!

4. A creative Downtown amphitheater space

What this great venue offers is a perfect mixture between a lecture hall and an event space. For those planning a lecture or other structured event, it’s ideal: you’ll have a staged area for the main focus, and then an open café section that allows for socializing and discussion following the lecture or other event. (Note that it’s not geared toward social gatherings like weddings, birthday parties, etc. — it’s really for professional events and meetups.) It has capacity for 100 standing or 50 seated guests, and it’s another South of Market location, so it’s easily accessed from the Moscone Center. 

5. A modern yet rustic Valencia Street specialty shop and dining space

Another top choice among venues for TechCrunch Disrupt SF parties, this foodie lifestyle experience shop and dining space includes a cafe kitchen, as well as offers seating for as many as 45 guests. The combination of modern and rustic design makes for an energizing and relaxing experience, perfect for an upscale yet unpretentious event (especially one centering around a lunch or dinner). As one reviewer commented: “Amazing service, amazing host!” 

6. A designer Castro lounge with speakeasy and outdoor terrace

Looking for the best of both worlds: breezy outdoor beauty as well as a cool, intimate speakeasy vibe? You’ll find a perfect balance of both at this impressive event venue. It’s a newly-renovated, 2000-square-foot space ideally suited to receptions, client events, premier parties, fundraisers, and more — and certainly to your Disrupt-related event! In addition to the gorgeous outdoor lounge, with deck, fire pit, outdoor lighting, speakers, and more, guests can step through the secret door (hidden in a bookshelf!) and down the stairs to the underground speakeasy and bar.

7. A spacious and historic loft with modern elegance

It’s tough to go wrong with a classic, elegant loft space, especially one located in a historic building like this one: the original exposed brick and wooden beams give it an extra layer of warmth and texture that you won’t find in newer constructions. It’s quiet, light, and airy, with high ceilings; your guests will feel at home here (and will probably end up wishing they lived here!). 

8. A bright Design District villa with ample space

This villa was formerly a machine shop built at the end of the 19th century, and it shows in the original features that have been preserved following its conversion. Prior to becoming an office for an international event designer/producer, it was an antique and art gallery. Outside, the brick masonry building is covered and vines and surrounded by manicured topiaries; inside there’s a grand foyer with a crystal chandelier and Italian statuary among other eye-catching art. There’s also a 1000-square-foot ballroom with views of the Downtown skyline, a library, and a conference room. This is undoubtedly one of the greatest venues for TechCrunch Disrupt SF parties.

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