Few entertainment options offer the variety of an open mic night. Usually booked on a first-come, first-served basis, the quality of the entertainment may vary, but there’s always something new just a few minutes away. For the last three years, one of the city’s best open mics has been held at Portugalia restaurant in Ocean Beach, hosted by Jefferson Jay. The regular event has gained a reputation for drawing a good mix of up-and-coming talent — alongside more established names and the occasional quirky performer. “As I tell the audience, I studied four years at the Open Mic Academy in order to be ready for any and every circumstance that could arise over the course, so they should not worry,” Jay said. “They are in good hands.” The music starts at 9 p.m., with signups beginning at 7 p.m. Jay has hosted other open mic nights over the past decade but feels he’s found a home at Portugalia. “Generally, my favorite thing about hosting open mics is watching people improve,” Jay said. “Everybody gets better, and the more you come and perform, the better you get. It is like extracurricular activities in that way.” While this still holds true at Portugalia, he considers the close relationship he has built with his regular audience to be special. “Portugalia is different,” Jay said. “The people that have come together there have become my closest friends in the world. Every week, hundreds of people with unbelievable talent come together to participate in the shows, performing and appreciating the vibe.” He notes that in many ways the event has become a “musicians club,” a regular Tuesday night hangout for many of the area’s performers. “Many of the people I’m referring to aren’t even playing the show,” Jay said. “They just come to kick it with the other great musicians. I love that.” Although he allows that skill level among performers on any given night can vary, he doesn’t judge them. “I am anti-best and worst in music,” he said. “It is all taste. How can you decide?” Jay considers music contests to be fundamentally flawed. “How can you win at music? That implies somebody went out to play music and lost,” Jay said. “I think that is dumb.” While Jay is open to most sorts of entertainment at his open mic, he draws the line at comedians. “I ask them if they’re funny and they usually leave,” Jay said. “Any music flies, but nothing brings the show to a dead halt faster than an unfunny comedian. Can’t have it.” Jay, a musician in his own right, has an increasingly busy schedule in 2009. There are plans to issue a children’s album, “Blue,” this spring, and he is in the process of putting together a new band. Additionally he is booking shows for a new acoustic music series at La Jolla’s Athenaeum as well as promoting the 24 Hours of Music Festival. Even still, he intends to continue hosting the open mic event as long as possible. “As a host, I try to accentuate what people do that is unique,” Jay said. “I try to give everyone a hearty introduction that makes them feel good, strongly encourage audience support when needed and keep things moving in a fast-paced, fun and interesting way.” Though the life of an open mic host is often thankless, Jay is thrilled with the success of the event in more than musical terms. “No words could explain the community and love that have blossomed at Portugalia,” Jay said. Open mic night takes place on Tuesdays at Portugalia, 4839 Newport Ave. For more information, visit www.sdportugalia.com.