I so wanted to love the Winchester! I've heard great things about this place and I'm impressed by the artists they get in here. It makes me sad that my first experience here was extremely underwhelming.
Other reviewers were spot-on regarding the seating set-up in the music hall area. A bunch of tables on a raised platform block the view of the stage for the poor saps forced to sit on the hard fold-up chairs. Perhaps if a raised stage took over the WHOLE back wall, they could arrange tables in front of the center stage and then place individual seating off to the sides? The decor was odd and dated, as well. The worst part was that it was FREEZING in there! I tend to run on the "hot side" so I'm usually quite happy with a cooler venue. Holy Deep Freeze! I kept my jacket and scarf on the whole time I was there! Also, it's not much fun to wash your hands with ice-water after visiting the restroom. I must say that the sound system was incredible but unfortunately every other aspect of the Hall eclipsed this fact.
The tavern in front was OK. The staff was friendly and the service was quick. It seems like a decent place to pop in and have a beer or two.
I won't completely write off the Winchester just yet. If there's an act that I REALLY want to see, and it's summer, and I can get there really early to secure a seat by the stage, the Winchester may see me again. I really hope to give an updated-more favorable review!