THE HEART OF THE ARTICHOKE
The iconic Artichoke Sandwichbar is a lovable, Irish dive restaurant by day and a full bar by night. Though small, it stands in the heart of Wichita where it’s been cherished for decades, especially by our local singer-songwriters.
Every Wednesday night, local artists —bravely wearing their hearts on their sleeves — pair perfectly with the raw, friendly and honest atmosphere of The Artichoke, a vibe that encourages songwriters to trade singing in the shower for singing in their just-as-comfortable circle.
What to Expect on Wednesday Nights
Spectators can enjoy listening from booths or participate. Pull a chair into the circle of about seven other songwriters in the middle of the room. One at a time artists will take turns playing their original music on an acoustic guitar, while staying seated.
Listening is just as important as playing. Think of sharing your
song versus performing your song and you will do awesome!
Various hints of folk, blues, pop, punk, spiritual, and more will bounce throughout the dim, green-lit room and into the booths of a few spectators. You will discover lyrics of pure poetry like those of Medicine Lodge Band — strong, biting and refreshingly smooth.
The most welcoming smile is that of Uche Onwugbufor. He is the co-owner and operator alongside Tracy Rutledge. Uche is also the frontman for Uche and the Crash. For years, he took part in the cherished songwriter’s circle at The Artichoke Sandwichbar. One day the opportunity arose, thanks to Tracy, to purchase The Artichoke. Uche happily jumped on it, as his heart had already been in it for years. “It just made sense,” he says.
Encouragement and genuine friendliness is what spectators and songwriters will experience upon arriving.
Upon leaving, you’ll feel as if you had been hanging out with life-long friends.
Music aside, The Artichoke is the perfect place to check out any day of the week, not to mention St. Patricks week! Grab a booth, order a sandwich and your favorite beer. You’ll be happy you did, as The Artichoke is pure heart.
Where to Find Them
The Artichoke Sandwichbar
811 N. Broadway Ave.
Wichita, KS 67214
316.263.9164
Hours
Mon–Tues., 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Wed.–Thurs., 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
(Singer-songwriter’s circle, Wednesday 7–10 p.m.)
Fri.–Sat., 11 a.m.–11 p.m.
Sun., closed