With Stranger Sings, a hilarious musical parody featuring your favorite storylines and characters from the hit Netflix show, rolling into town, we thought it was the perfect chance to plan the ultimate fun-packed 80s evening! The show itself is packed with pop culture references, massive 80s nostalgia, and immersive comedy that will leave you in fits of laughter!
We’ve curated the perfect themed night out that takes you through the very best of San Diego’s retro spots.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the fun from beginning to end!
Phase 1: Fuelling up with Eleven-approved waffles!
Fuelling up before the laughs is obviously essential! And what better bite than Eleven’s personal favorite, waffles, to get you in the mood.
The Waffle Spot: the ultimate San Diego retro diner
All San Diegans know the best spot for waffles is no other than the institution, The Waffle Spot in Mission Valley. The interior itself sets the tone for the night—it’s brightly colored and retro, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping right into a TV set.
Fill your boots with the sweetest feast. We particularly recommend the Double Chip Waffle or the Apple Cinnamon Waffle for the perfect sweet appetizer before your 80s themed night out. You might even be tempted by their tasty range of cocktails, getting the fun started early…
Logistical note: This spot is a perfect early dinner/late afternoon feast. After you’re done, it’s just a quick drive north to our next nostalgic stop!
📍The Waffle Spot, 1333 Hotel Cir S, San Diego, CA 92108
Post-show debrief? Head to Rudford’s
If you’re going to one of the later shows and fancy a bite after the fun, Rudford’s Restaurant is your 24-hour answer. It’s a classic, greasy-spoon diner experience, serving up the favorites since 1949—so channel your inner Mike and Dustin and debrief over a milkshake and fries, 80s style! Just like Hopper would want you to!
📍Rudford’s Restaurant, 2900 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104
Phase 2: Next stop: The Palace Arcade!
Talking about doing the characters proud, spend the next while as every 80s teen would: hitting the arcade and playing the classics until your fingers hurt.
Brewski’s Arcade Bar: your pre-show battleground
Brewski’s Arcade Bar in Miramar is a well-loved spot with something for everyone. It’s just a 15-minute drive from the show’s venue, making it the perfect pre-game!
Challenge your friends on a high-score run of Pac-Man, try to escape the tunnels in Dig Dug, or see who’s best at Donkey Kong. This is the perfect chance to get into that Dungeons & Dragons mindset before the comedic chaos of the show.
Pro Tip: Grab a local craft beer or a classic mixed drink while you play—it’s the ideal way to spend your quarters.
📍Brewski’s Arcade Bar, 8670 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92126
Don’t miss the chance for the perfect 80s evening, get your Stranger Sings Tickets before they sell out!
Phase 3: THE MAIN EVENT!
After the perfect 80s themed evening, it’s time for the performance you’ve been waiting for.
Stranger Sings! is a wonderful combination of musical, parody, silliness, and nostalgia. Its hilarious script and talented cast bring to life the characters we love so much and the storylines we miss in a way you’ve never seen before. The chaos and silliness are a tonic, with dancing demogorgons, knowing references, and fantastic performances—it’s a riot!
Plus, it’s immersive, and as a lucky audience member, you can have a say in what happens on stage, maybe even finally getting justice for poor Barb! No two shows are the same. It’s an unforgettable night of non-stop lols, right at the Mandeville Auditorium in La Jolla.
What the people are saying about Stranger Sings:
The New York Times: “Go see this screwy, high-camp musical parody of your favorite TV show”
Broadway World: “Brilliant in every aspect”
Forbes: “Non-stop fun and laughter”
Cititour.com: “Blisteringly funny. You will positively flip”