Nestled in the vibrant Eagle Rock neighborhood, Señor Fish, a beloved Mexican restaurant on Eagle Rock Boulevard, has spiced up its Monday night offerings with a weekly dose of laughter. “The Monday Show,” a stand-up comedy event, has become a local favorite, drawing in residents and students alike for an evening of entertainment and community spirit right in the heart of Eagle Rock.
Exterior of Señor Fish restaurant in Eagle Rock, CA, showcasing its inviting facade before "The Monday Show" comedy event.
Occidental College students, like junior Ian Terell, have become regulars at “The Monday Show,” highlighting its appeal within the local student community. Terrell and his friends stumbled upon the comedy night during summer research and internships on campus and were immediately hooked.
“We saw the sign for Monday night comedy, and were like, ‘We should just try it out,'” Terrell recounted. This spontaneous decision led to a weekly tradition, as they returned to Señor Fish every Monday, quickly becoming familiar faces in the audience.
Poster advertising "The Monday Show" stand-up comedy event displayed outside Señor Fish in Eagle Rock, California.
Senior Morgan Jackson described how their Monday visits evolved into a cherished routine. “It got to a point where we became regulars, so they wouldn’t start until we got there,” Jackson shared, emphasizing the welcoming and community-oriented atmosphere of the show. “They would always save the front row for us,” he added, illustrating the personal connection fostered between the show and its audience.
“The Monday Show” was launched in 2023 by a group of comedians — Lindsay Adams, Sam Wiles, Mike Joyce, and Will Miles — who sought to create a comedy hub in Eagle Rock. Lindsay Adams emphasized the crucial role of the audience in the show’s success. “Regulars and people who keep coming back to the show are so important and so valued,” Adams stated. “We love having Oxy students come,” she added, reinforcing the show’s welcoming attitude towards the local student population.
Adams pointed out the unique appeal of an Eagle Rock-based comedy show, contrasting it with the typical comedy scene concentrated in downtown Los Angeles. “Eagle Rock specifically — or Highland Park — doesn’t have regular comedy, you usually have to go into downtown LA,” Adams explained. For residents on the east side, like Adams herself, “The Monday Show” offers a convenient and local option for enjoying quality comedy without the need to travel far. “I live on the east side. I don’t always want to [travel]. I want to go hang out somewhere close,” she elaborated.
Julia Brody, the producer of “The Monday Show,” connected with the comedic team after meeting Adams at another comedy event. Impressed by their vision, Brody took on the challenge of finding the perfect venue for their show. Initially considering Vidiots, a movie theater nearby, Brody’s venue search led her to Señor Fish somewhat serendipitously. Recalling her parking struggles in Eagle Rock, Brody described her discovery: “I was like, ‘Wait, this is perfect,'” upon finding Señor Fish. She praised the restaurant’s welcoming ambiance, saying, “Everyone here is just like a walking angel. I don’t know how I got so lucky.”
Brody’s venue search culminated in a meeting with Señor Fish owner Enrique Ramirez. Ramirez recognized the mutual benefits of hosting “The Monday Show.” He noted that it not only boosts business on typically slower Monday evenings but also cultivates a stronger sense of community among his patrons. “When people come to the restaurant, they don’t really interact,” Ramirez observed. “The comedy brings a different kind of element, because it does create a little bit more synergy as far as people interacting, getting to know each other,” he explained, highlighting the show’s role in enhancing social interaction within his establishment.
Guest comedian Brooks Wheelan performing stand-up at "The Monday Show" inside Señor Fish in Eagle Rock, California.
Comedian Jay Washington, who performed at Señor Fish for the first time on September 9th, had been aware of “The Monday Show” for some time and seized the opportunity to participate to gain more stage time. “I’ve known Lindsay, Mike, Sam and Julia for a while. That always helps when you know the people out [of] the gate. So you know what to expect,” Washington said. He also acknowledged the established reputation of the show, adding, “If a show has been running in a certain place for a decent amount of time, you know that everybody believes in that show. They believe in who will come out to watch it, who comes regularly, who frequents it or how the word gets around.”
Brody expressed her enthusiasm for fostering community through comedy. “I love comedy, it’s always just been a dream to feel like I was part of a community, and feeling like I’m helping create a community,” Brody shared. “It just feels like hanging out,” she added, capturing the relaxed and convivial spirit of “The Monday Show.”
Adams reiterated that the primary motivation behind launching the comedy show was to foster connection. “I want to make people feel less alone and like they are a part of something,” Adams stated. She extended an invitation to those interested in comedy, saying, “We have some really fantastic comics. And if you’re interested in comedy, you can come check it out, see what you like. Maybe you’ll find someone you really like.”
“The Monday Show” at Señor Fish in Eagle Rock offers not just a night of laughs, but a chance to connect with the local community and experience the unique charm of Eagle Rock’s burgeoning arts and entertainment scene. For an enjoyable Monday evening filled with comedy and community vibes, Señor Fish Eagle Rock is the place to be.
