Summer 2026

Michaela Kuenster’s Pop & Hiss in Pacific Grove adds another record store to PG (joining Vinyl Revolution) and brings exciting nightlife to the quiet town. E very audiophile knows that “pop and hiss” sound heard when a needle kisses the first groove of a vinyl record. The term has taken on new meaning with the opening of Pop & Hiss, the Pacific Grove record store/live music venue. Owner Michaela Kuenster, a lifelong LA resident and film and television industry artist, realized she needed a slower pace. She was also tired of working on other people’s visions and looked to create her own. “So, I set out looking for my ‘Hallmark town,’” she says. After visiting several small cities, she found just that in PG. And she saw the building that became Pop & Hiss on her first visit. Kuenster forged a unique hybrid. “I thought of doing something in the music or hospitality realm,” she says, “and realized, ‘why not do both?’” The front portion of the business hous- es a vinyl record shop, toward the rear is a full bar and performance space, and an outdoor patio features a food truck serving “elevated dive bar food.” The stage sees music most evenings in a dizzying array of genres, performed by bands, solo acts and DJs. Pop & Hiss is located at 215 Forest Avenue in Pacific Grove. For more information call 831/275-3033 or visit www.popandhiss.net . Pacific Grove Venue Blends Live and Recorded Music B Y M I CHA E L CHAT F I E LD SHORT CUTS BUSINESS 82 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 Photo: Kelli Uldall