The Jury Room - Santa Cruz, California

Lori C. (.

Deeply Disappointing Experience – Rude & Unwelcoming Service

While visiting San Francisco, we stopped by a bar in Haight-Ashbury and asked the bartender for recommendations in Santa Cruz, as that was our next stop. He enthusiastically suggested The Jury Room, so we made a point to visit the next night.

After a long day of hiking, sightseeing, and walking the beach in the rain, we were exhausted and eager to unwind with a couple of drinks. Unfortunately, visiting this establishment turned out to be one of the worst decisions we made on our trip.

The bar itself was a typical dive—nothing remarkable, but exactly the kind of low-key spot we were looking for. However, the service was another story entirely.

As soon as we approached the bar, it was clear we were not welcome. Two female bartenders were working that Friday night—both brunettes. The shorter one, with uneven choppy bangs, gave a nod in our direction, prompting her coworker to loudly proclaim, “No, thank you!” They both turned their backs on us and continued counting receipts, speaking to each other in hushed tones.

No greeting. No acknowledgment. We stood there for several minutes before Choppy Bangs finally turned and tersely asked what we wanted. I ordered a vodka soda with lime, and my friend requested a Maker’s Mark neat. She made both drinks carelessly, never engaging, never offering a simple “hello” or any common courtesy.

Her demeanor was openly rude and dismissive. It was so uncomfortable that we left before even finishing our drinks.

I rarely write negative reviews because we almost never encounter service this bad. But the contrast between our excitement to visit this recommended spot and the reality of how we were treated was too disappointing to ignore.

We’ve visited dive bars all over the country—from Seattle to Montana, Las Vegas to Portland—and never have we encountered bartenders as blatantly unwelcoming as the ones at The Jury Room. It soured our experience, but at the end of the day, it is what it is.

If you’re looking for a friendly dive bar in Santa Cruz, I suggest looking elsewhere.

Sophie E.

Go here pretty often, definitely the most elite Santa Cruz bar as a 20 something who can appreciate low budget drinks and good vibes.

I come through very often on Fridays and can high key appreciate seeing Paris. She is such a sweet and fun presence! ((We often come on Fridays to see her)) the jury room is my personal favorite bar. Always iconic. I would recommend coming here.

Emily L.

So, me and 2 of my girlfriends went here this last Monday afternoon 10/14/24. We were here on a girls trip. We love dive bars and couldn't wait to hit some of the local bars in Santa Cruz. We drove by "The Jury Room" and thought....we have to go there. From the minute we walked in, the bartender had a huge attitude (his name was Emmitt) He was very cold and abrasive. We asked him his name and he told us "he doesn't do that, he doesn't care who we are and doesn't want to know us." Ok.......then he drops his cash drawer on the floor and flips out! He was so hot & cold, like he was bi-polar or drunk. We have all been in the bar industry for years and know that it is very important to keep a good attitude and welcoming vibe to those visiting your community. He was horrible! Should not be in the service industry EVER! So, we went to another bar (owned by the same owner) and had a fantastic experience! "The Jury Room' is a local "Punk Rock Bar" and don't seem to like outsiders. But "Brady's Yacht Club" was amazing! From the bartender to the locals
Hopefully the owner sees this 🫶

Ihate H.

I dropped in 1999 technically I still haven't left yet and you better not be sitting in my chair when I get back with my taco from next door it's my office chair! Best place in Santa Cruz! They let local punk bands play there. We've been doing it for 20 years off and on. Have your a game on the bartender's take no s*** here and the blenders broken always! 6am-2am 365days a year!

Na'ama B.

Don't let the facade of the bar intimidate you from going in. We're a fun group that like to drink heavy and load up on heavy pours. Just don't let Han take control of the jukebox or your life will be forever doomed by the Backstreet Boys.

Joe P.

Nice place, friendly staff. They have most all your basic bar needs and drinks. Nothing to fancy but prices are good. Snack basics available and a atm inside if you need it, plus music on touch tunes.

Bret D.

Every time I'm lucky enough to visit S.C., a visit or two is mandatory for the support and service of a great establishment. F×@k yeah to the workers/staff who keep the place friendly and professional! If you're a dive-bar follower, this place is legit. Respect.

LysdexicCow D.

This place is a must. One of the best dive bars I've been to on the west coast. Decently priced heavy pours and a wonderful atmosphere to match. Between the history of this place and the excellent staff you'll make this a stop everytime you come to Santa Cruz.