For years, the phrase “night out in Menifee” usually meant a nice dinner at a chain restaurant or a drive down the I-15 to Temecula or Riverside. But as our city’s rooftops expand and our population grows, so does the hunger for local culture and entertainment. We aren’t just a bedroom community anymore; we are slowly becoming a destination for excitement and adventure.
Last night, I walked into Grey Iron Brewing with a sense of curiosity. I wasn’t just there for a pint of their signature stout (although it is wonderful). I was there to witness the birth of something Menifee has been missing for decades, an amazing nightlife event!
Attending the grand opening of Above the Iron Comedy Club felt like being let in on a secret. Tucked away in a private room above the brewery, this venue is poised to change how we spend our weekends. I sat through back-to-back shows to get the full experience, and if the roaring laughter was any indication, Menifee is more than ready for this.
What is Above the Iron Comedy Club?
Above the Iron isn’t just a stage set up in the corner of a loud bar. It is a purpose-built, intimate venue designed with a “speakeasy” atmosphere in mind. Located on the second floor of the popular Grey Iron Brewing Company, the club feels exclusive from the moment you head up the stairs.
The venue strikes a balance between industrial cool and a community hotspot. Because it is a separate, enclosed space from the main taproom downstairs, it solves the biggest problem with brewery comedy shows: noise. There is no clinking of glasses from the bar or chatter from people watching sports. When you are “Above the Iron,” the focus is entirely on the stage.
The setup is professional grade. The lighting was dialed in to focus attention squarely on the performers, and the sound system was crisp. Every punchline landed clearly, whether you were in the front row or the back. And, of course, the hospitality was on point. Guests didn’t have to trek downstairs for refreshments; the upstairs bar featured Grey Iron’s craft beer lineup on tap, keeping the spirits high in more ways than one.
It’s a venue that feels like it belongs in a major metropolitan downtown, yet it’s right here in our backyard on New Hub Drive.
Overview of the night
There is always a nervous energy at a grand opening. Will the jokes land? Will the equipment work? Will the vibe be right?
Those questions were answered almost immediately. The atmosphere was excellent for a night out after a long week. There was a relaxed, buzzing-with-anticipation atmosphere. The room was packed with locals eager to laugh, and the talent delivered.
The lineup was a showcase of seasoned professionals who knew exactly how to work a room. The 7:00 PM show was steered by host Melissa Nehme, whose energy set the tone early. She bridged the gaps between sets effortlessly, keeping the momentum going.
The featured comedians included: Luis Villaseñor, Mike Diamond, David Rosenberg, and Ed Selwyn III, who each brought a diverse range of styles to the stage. From observational humor about family life to sharper, edgier takes on modern society, there was something for everyone.
What struck me most was the consistency. I attended both the early show and the late show, and the energy never dipped. The laughter echoed through the room, creating that specific kind of collective joy you only get from live performance. It wasn’t just about hearing jokes; it was about sitting shoulder-to-shoulder with neighbors and sharing in the excitement.
Frank Martinez: The Man Behind the Mic
Every great local venue needs a visionary, and for Above the Iron, that person is Frank Martinez.
Frank isn’t just the owner who writes the checks; he is a comedian himself, and his passion for the craft is the venue’s heartbeat. He built this club with a specific mission: to bring high-caliber entertainment to the people of Menifee, so they don’t have to commute for a laugh.
Frank took to the stage last night as well, proving he can walk the walk. His set was a highlight of the evening, filled with classic, relatable jokes about navigating the single life in today’s world. Something is endearing about watching the owner of an establishment make himself vulnerable on stage, and it builds an immediate trust with the audience.
Speaking with him briefly, his vision is clear. He wants Above the Iron to be a beacon for talent, drawing comedians from near and far to perform in Menifee. If opening night was any indication, he is well on his way to achieving that.
Upcoming shows to watch
One of the most exciting aspects of Above the Iron is the variety Frank plans to bring to the schedule. Comedy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the upcoming calendar reflects a desire to serve all parts of our community.
Valentine’s Weekend Specials
For those looking for a unique date night, the club has a packed Valentine’s schedule. On Friday, February 13th, the club will host a “Latin Lovers” comedy night performed entirely in Spanish. This is a fantastic addition to Menifee’s cultural landscape. Following that, February 14th will feature the same show in English, and either night will beperfect for couples looking to avoid the standard crowded dinner rush.
Unhinged: A Cozmic Comedy Event
Looking further ahead, the club recently announced a show for February 26th titled “Unhinged.” This promises to be a wilder, high-energy event, showcasing a different flavor of comedy.
This venue intends to be a rotating door of diverse talent, ensuring that no two visits are the same.
How to Purchase Tickets
If you are ready to check out the new spot, buying tickets is straightforward.
- Where to buy: Tickets for all upcoming shows are available online via Eventbrite. It is highly recommended to book in advance, as the intimate nature of the speakeasy means seating is limited and shows are likely to sell out.
- Age Restriction: It is important to note that Above the Iron is a 21+ venue. This is a space for adults to unwind, so book the babysitter before you grab your tickets.
- Accessibility Note: As the venue is located on the second floor of the brewery, guests should be aware that it is accessible by stairs only. There is currently no elevator access to the speakeasy room, though the main taproom downstairs remains fully ADA accessible.
Where is The Comedy Club Located?
Above the Iron Comedy Club is located within:
Grey Iron Brewing Company
29683 New Hub Drive, Suite A
Menifee, CA 92586
The brewery is situated in a growing industrial and commercial hub, easily accessible from the I-215. Parking is generally available in the lot, but as the venue grows in popularity, arriving a bit early to grab a spot and a pre-show beer downstairs is a smart move. There will be different food trucks available each weekend, with something new to try each time you visit!
A new chapter for Menifee nightlife
Driving home last night at 11:45 PM, I found myself reflecting on what this opening represents. A comedy club is just a room with a microphone, but for a growing city like Menifee, it signifies maturity. It means we are building spaces where culture, community, and commerce intersect.
Above the Iron isn’t just a place to hear jokes; it’s a place to gather. Whether you need a break from the kids, a place to take a date, or just a good laugh after a hard week, Frank Martinez and his team have forged something special here.
So, support local. Grab a ticket, order a pint, and get ready to laugh. Menifee finally has the stage it deserves.
