The Independent is one of San Francisco's Non-ClearChannel Venues. It is located on Divisadero in the heart of the NOPA district. It is a general admission venue, with a large open floor. There is a balcony usually reserved for guest list/VIP folk. The music here is varied and diverse, and can range from anything from indie rock, to electronica, to reggae, to jazz. Notably, on some Monday nights they host a free movie night (two-drink minimum).

Ticket surcharges can be avoided by purchasing at the box office, which is open every night there's a show.