Leo Fibino
I am absolutely appalled by the lack of professionalism and safety at Café 611. My team hosted an event here in December after our original venue had complications, simply put this place is way too overpriced for a venue in Frederick Maryland to be treating people this poorly. Less than an hour into the event, security was already aggressive and condescending toward our patrons. At our events we invite a community made up of our friends, loved ones and locals that share ideals and beliefs, such as PLURR and Decency. So this off rip didn’t sit well with me. While we fully support ID checks and safety procedures, this behavior was unnecessary, hostile and unacceptable.
Things escalated when a man assisting security—who was not authorized to work there and is allegedly the security’s brother—made inappropriate sexual comments to our staff greeter such as asking her to sit in his lap because she looked tired of standing while gesturing towards his genitalia, this happened in the entry hallway. (being dressed up and looking good is not an invite to be inappropriate, we condemn that disgusting behavior to the highest degree). Along with multiple patrons including my fiancé coming to me about being groped and touched during pat downs. When I calmly addressed security about their aggression, the security’s brother started threatening, telling me he would “take me outside and put me to sleep permanently” and tried to physically escalate the situation in front of multiple witnesses. Patrons that hadn’t even been in the building for more the 10 minutes had to step in to prevent violence. When it was brought to their attention, Management was dismissive, and proceeded laugh it off with security when he went to speak with them, and allowed the individual to remain in the building for over an hour until he left on his own accord. At the end of the night, staff yelled obscenities at guests and made inappropriate racial comments directed towards white people, further making everyone uncomfortable. When we tried to discuss accountability with the owner—after multiple independent complaints—he defended his staff, harassed us for payment while we were actively loading out, and shut the door on us entirely after being paid.
This venue has a reputation, and unfortunately everything we were warned about proved true. I will never host, attend, or promote events here again. Extremely unsafe and unprofessional, you all should be ashamed of yourselves. You know as good as everyone else this isn’t your first instance or situation here.
… moreJamie van Dyck
My band played Cafe 611 on tour way back in 2016. Of the 100+ shows my band has performed on tour, this was easily the place that treated us the worst of any venue staff we’ve ever encountered. During changeover, 3 minutes before our set was due to begin, I realized I was extremely thirsty and left the stage and raced over to the bar. I asked the bartender if I could grab some stage waters. He said “5 bucks!”. I re-iterated that I was in the band performing, and he didn’t blink. I asked him if I could have tap water. Nothing. I then told him I didn’t have my wallet on my person when performing, but could get my wallet after our set, and he wouldn’t lose sight of me for the next 45 minutes given I was going to be on stage. He simply re-iterated “5 bucks!”…Finally a fan sitting at the bar cut in, “this is ridiculous” and handed the bartender 5 bucks on my behalf so that I could have water on stage and not perform completely de-hydrated. This is the most irresponsible treatment of us as performers we’ve experienced in the decade since, and it’s about time that I properly punish this venue with a review.
… moreBrandon K
Awesome little place to catch some live tunes, was there Saturday to catch my favorite band out of pa, with support from like 6 other bands. Food is decently priced, as well as the drinks with a great selection of beers/spirits. Only spent $14 for a cheesesteak, which isnt terrible at all. Definitely coming back sometime for a show.
… moreJoel Beavin
If you’re an artist don’t bother playing here.
Booked a show here, was given 0 information, no contract. No communication for 5+ months, didn’t find out there was no one to run sound til we got there. Ran it ourselves using half our own equipment, ran the door ourselves half the night and still got stiffed out of 2/3 of the money we made.
Disorganized, unprofessional, sloppy mess, no prior agreements made, house shows and DIY venues have their shit together more than here.
Its a shame because the space itself is fine (its grungy, but that’s fine) and there’s not very many places for a small band to play without going to the bigger cities. Disappointing experience. Won’t bother booking any more shows here.
… moreMaureen Grayzeck
My group has had events at Cafe 611 for many years on a monthly basis. In addition, we have had catered holiday parties there as well! They give us sound and microphone help when needed for speakers, serve good food and beverages, and service is friendly!!
We have enjoyed a positive working relationship.
One thing needing work is the women’s bathroom. The stalls, doors. and equipment need to be replaced and made over to be more welcoming to visitors.
The business took a hit during Covid as many other businesses did, and it deserves a hand to freshen up! We enjoyed going there and hope to continue!
Maureen G.
… morePhoenix P
I had a great time here watching a few metal bands play. It’s a small place, but I like that when I see a show. Bartenders do seem a bit sketchy.
… moreShalia Dimes
I went for a night event to listen to music drink and wings…the wings looked good but after seeing the atmosphere I changed my mine on eating. It smelled old. The bathrooms were flooding. The door to the stall of bathroom was broken so you couldn’t lock it.. Very terrible experience. I will never go back and would never recommend. It’s a true dump hole in the wall..
… moreRosa Barnhill
If you’re looking for a affordable, delicious and excellent scenery than this is the place for you. Live entertainment was the best especially for great date night. I had a wonderful time. I can’t wait to come back again. RANDY you put did yourself. Thank you for having me.
… moreAnne Dimmette-Bell
Do not be deceived – Cafe 611 is *NOT* a restaurant. It is first and foremost a music venue disguised- largely for metal bands. It hides behind the restaurant moniker to avoid regulations. It is a nuisance neighbor
… moreMelissa Dennison
Great weekend hang out.
Live the live music! …
… more