Gamma Ray Bar — Local services in Madison

SCAM ALERT Sells tickets for shows that DO NOT HAPPEN and then REFUSE REFUND. Bouncers then invite their friends to assault disgruntled customers asking for money back

Owner is SLANDERING me. When more than an hour after the "start time" and no sign of a show happening nearing midnight, I asked for my money back so I could leave. The bouncer proceeded to ask me to leave when I asked for my money back, and I refused to leave until I was refunded, or given a receipt I could later use to refund the cash purchase. The bouncer was rude and aggressive, refusing to refund me until his manager ordered him to do so. The bouncer then refused to look at me, took two fives and ripped them partway like a petulant child before throwing them at me. He insisted I leave RIGHT NOW while I was trying to put the damaged cash into my wallet and safely away, shoving me out the door and then asking his skinhead friend to shove me down the stairs...

This place is so special. My boyfriend and I drove over from Minneapolis to see Mr. Gnome, and the experience was absolutely worth it. We had the pleasure of meeting the one of the owners, and it’s obvious they put so much love and care into this venue—the inside is clean, style is super fun, and acoustics are solid. This is just one of those places that is filled with good energy, where you can really feel the love and respect for the art that is showcased, and where you’d make a 5 hour drive to come and visit several times throughout the year. We’ll definitely be back :)

P.S. VomBom, a local Madison band, opened and RIPPED. Check ‘em out if you haven’t yet—hope to see a lot...

I will not be returning to this bar. It’s disappointing and unsafe to see an establishment knowingly book and support a performer with a known history of abusive behavior—especially in a space that serves alcohol and should prioritize community safety. Women and survivors deserve better than being put in proximity to people with violent pasts for the sake of entertainment or profit. This kind of disregard sends a clear message about whose comfort and safety actually...