On an otherwise nondescript block in SOMA, there is a door painted come-hither red. Don't be shy, grab that knob! Inside you'll find God knows what: dance, theater, performance art — it's something different almost every night. And as bonus, if you come away confused or disgusted from this churning artists' incubator, you're only out a few bucks. The Garage has been around since Joe Landini opened shop in a storefront around the corner from his current location. Landini's mission was to create a safe house for artists, a place to try anything. It has made the venue, with its programming, residencies, and workshop performances, appealing to local art-makers and adventurous audiences alike.

715 Bryant, SF. (415) 518-1517, www.975howard.com