Best bars in San Francisco

80 people recommend, 8 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/Tiki, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Smuggler's Cove, a tiki bar, and many praise its drinks. Several highlight its rum selection and several point to the Rum Barrel cocktail. Several call it a must-visit and a few call it the benchmark for tiki. One rates it highly on technique but feels it sticks to a formula, and one found it disappointing. Several say it gets crowded, and a few advise arriving early.

54 people recommend, 5 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Most people who weigh in recommend Vesuvio, a North Beach bar, and many list it among the good bars in North Beach. A few suggest sitting upstairs by a window, and one calls it an old-school favorite with a broad age range. On the other side, one person who lives nearby says patrons' screaming is the worst noise, one says it is becoming crowded with a TikTok-following crowd, and one says the lighting could be dim for reading.

North Beach

53 people recommend, 7 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/Tiki, r/cocktails

Most commenters recommend Last Rites, a cocktail bar known for its airplane-crash theme, and many praise its atmosphere and drinks. A few describe the space as small, and one says lines can get long. Several are less enthusiastic: one finds the drinks and the crowd inconsistent, one finds it underwhelming and ranks other bars ahead of it, one would skip it on a one-night trip, one doubts it is an industry favorite, and one says the fog machines overwhelm them quickly.

44 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Most people recommend Specs, a North Beach bar often suggested alongside Vesuvio. Two describe it as a dive bar, and one points to cheap canned beer. Two suggest going early rather than late on weekend nights, and one says it is nice but does not fit the cowboy-bar label.

North Beach

41 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Most people who weigh in recommend True Laurel, a cocktail bar in the Mission, and many praise the cocktails, while some say the food is good too. One says it is well liked without feeling touristy, and several suggest it as a stop on a night out. Caveats include one finding it loud for solo reading, one finding it pricey, and one doubting it is an industry favorite. One found the rest average apart from one standout drink.

Mission

40 people recommend, 8 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Most people recommend Toronado, a beer bar in Lower Haight, and many praise its beer selection, with several commenters calling it the top beer spot in town. A few describe it as a no-frills, divey beer bar, and one half-jokingly calls it a dump yet says they are fond of it. Caveats include one finding the tables very small, one former fan feeling the selection has slipped, and one commenter jokingly suggesting it suits anyone seeking an off-putting place. A few worry that efforts to make it trendy could erode what makes it distinctive.

Lower Haight

37 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/bayarea

Overall, people recommend Li Po Lounge, a Chinatown cocktail lounge, and some call it a dive. Several praise its Chinese mai tai, though some find the drink poor or underwhelming. One says the drinks feel pricey for the effect, and one says it works for a single drink though they would rather drink elsewhere.

Chinatown

37 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/Tiki

Most commenters recommend Zombie Village, a Tenderloin tiki bar, and many praise its atmosphere and decor. Many also praise the drinks, and one patron calls its Jamaican Zombie the best tiki drink they've had. One patron finds the decor overwhelming, another would pick Pagan Idol instead, one ranks its drinks below Last Rites, and one notes a smaller menu.

Tenderloin

35 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Most people who mention The Royal Cuckoo recommend it, and many commenters praise its music, from a live organ to jazz and vinyl records. Two praise its red, dark decor and mood lighting. One patron finds the organ a bit theatrical, though the patio is the better spot for it. Two commenters say the drinks fall short, and one says it can feel romantic when it is not crowded.

Mission

34 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Many people recommend ABV, a cocktail bar in the Mission. One recommends its solid food and creative cocktails rather than syrup-heavy drinks, one recommends the Tarragon Fix, and one says it has great drinks despite an unfussy setting. One suggests it as a nightcap to finish the outing. One found it good but not especially outstanding, and one likes it overall but had a mixed experience on recent visits.

Mission

34 people recommend, 4 warn against itvia r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Trick Dog is a Mission cocktail bar that many people praise for its drinks. A few call them unusual, inventive or imaginative, one singles out the kale salad. Many mention crowds, and two find the drinks pricey. One visitor feels it has declined over time, and another did not love it, though most visitors recommend it.

Mission

32 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Tempest, a SoMa bar. One cites cheap draft and beer-and-shot deals, and one says its food is above average. One recalls spending many nights there in their twenties, and one calls it a unique former biker hangout that now serves upscale snacks. One found the crowd much older than expected.

Soma

31 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/Tiki, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Pagan Idol, a tiki cocktail bar. One ranks it first on their list, saying it excels at drinks and ambiance, one names its Quarantine Order drink as a standout, and two praise the tiki decor and undersea-style interior. Two call it a good backup if Smuggler's Cove is too busy. One says Last Rites has better drink quality, one finds the room lacks atmosphere, and one calls it fun but finds quality varies.

30 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Zeitgeist, a Mission bar. One suggests it as a good option for beer, one calls it a solid pick among Mission bars, and one lists it among authentic bars worth trying and calls it great. One points out a cheap PBR for those paying cash. Not everyone agrees: one commenter who used to like it feels the beer selection has slipped, and another says it has changed and its food has declined.

Mission

29 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Many people recommend The Interval at Long Now, a bar and cafe at Fort Mason run by the Long Now Foundation. One calls it fun and quirky with a waterfront setting, one recommends its unusual cocktails, mocktails and quirky displays, four compare the room to a library, and one calls it a favorite with a chill vibe. One finds the cocktails not especially standout, though it is a cool bar mainly for its clock, and one doubts a private buyout would be affordable.

Fort Mason

28 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/Tiki

Many people recommend the Buena Vista, a bar best known for its Irish coffee, which many name as the draw. One local says they still really love it, one enjoys chatting with visitors there, one recommends it mainly for Irish coffees, and one liked it for breakfast. One who has been there on a date calls it a normal, okay experience, somewhere between a bar and a diner.

27 people recommend, 10 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/bayarea, r/Tiki

Tonga Room is a tiki bar in the Fairmont hotel's basement, with a pool, indoor rain and live music, and many people praise the atmosphere. Several also value its history, and many say it works best for the setting rather than the cocktails. The drinks are the main complaint: many patrons find them weak, some people say they are pricey, and some visitors advise skipping it for other bars. Opinions are split overall.

Nob Hill

25 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend The Page on Divisadero as a dive bar for a night out, and two commenters praise its beer. Two people find it budget-friendly, and a couple of patrons mention outdoor seating, sometimes with live music. The caveats are that two commenters note it is cash only, one commenter says it is more a bar than a restaurant, and one visitor advises going early or midweek because weekend nights get very busy. One finds it calmer in the afternoons and early evenings.

Divisadero

25 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend The Phone Booth, a dive bar on South Van Ness at 25th Street. A couple praise its jukebox, with one calling it possibly the best in San Francisco, and one says it has fairly inexpensive drinks. One says it is a bit divey, though seats in a corner or in a booth can feel intimate.

S Van Ness At 25th St

25 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/bayarea, r/sanfrancisco

Most people recommend The Saloon, a North Beach dive known for its music, including live blues. Several call it a dive, and several say the drinks are cheap. One says it can be loud but calmer if you go early on weekends, and one advises bringing cash. One neighbor who shares a wall says the nightly music is an adjustment and the talk outside after closing is worse, and another says living right beside it would be rough.

North Beach

24 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Bourbon & Branch, a speakeasy-style bar. A few praise the drinks, and two describe the room as intimate, one noting it is dimly lit. A few note it takes reservations, one suggests it as a date spot, and one calls the library room a cool experience. One recalled a long wait for a drink on a birthday visit.

Tenderloin

23 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Standard Deviant is a brewery taproom at Pier 70 in Dogpatch that many commenters recommend. One says it has cool views and good beer, a few mention the waterside setting or views, and two say parking is easy. Two say it stays busy despite being out of the way, one found a great atmosphere on a weekend afternoon, and one suggests it as an option for a visitor. Two call the beers boring or not especially impressive, and one says the room was loud and crowded.

Dogpatch

23 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/Tiki

Overall, commenters recommend Comstock Saloon, a North Beach bar, and many praise the cocktails. Two describe a speakeasy-style feel, and one praises its cocktails and live music. One likes the atmosphere and booths, and one says the crowd skews older and suggests visiting any day except Friday.

North Beach

23 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Zam Zam, a bar in the Upper Haight. Three praise its strong martinis or drinks and three praise the jukebox. One recommends sitting at the bar to chat, and two advise bringing cash.

Upper Haight

21 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

The Gold Cane is a bar that most people recommend, and several people say its prices are budget-friendly. One person finds it very friendly, one patron has enjoyed meeting interesting older people there, and a few people fondly recall the bar from earlier years. One regular ranks it at the top of the city's bars.

Haight Street

21 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/cocktails

Many people recommend The Alembic, a cocktail bar in the Upper Haight, and many praise the cocktails, with one calling a brown butter bourbon drink very tasty and another loving one of its chili-spiked cocktails. One enjoys its vibe, and one likes going for drinks and then a pizza slice afterward.

Haight

20 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Riptide is a bar in the Outer Sunset that many people recommend. One suggests it as the answer to a question, one calls it probably the best of the Outer Sunset bars, one notes it hosts open mic nights and other events, and one calls it chill and fun. One lists it among go-to bars near Ocean Beach. One gives a qualified endorsement, and one says it looks divey but feels bougie.

Outer Sunset

20 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Casements in the Mission, with several people singling out its pints and Guinness and a few others praising the cocktails and whisky. Several say the food is good, and one patron who has not eaten there has heard the same. One patron calls it a fun spot. Some reservations: one person is only lukewarm about it, and opinions differ on whether it feels like an Irish pub, with one person saying it is not one and another saying it feels like the pubs in Ireland.

Mission

20 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/bayarea, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Lone Palm, a Mission bar that a few commenters describe as dark and moody, and a few of them say it suits a date. One commenter says its menu skips a cocktail list to focus on classics. Another notes it is an easy walk from BART.

Mission

20 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Bender's, a bar on South Van Ness in the Mission. One finds it reasonably priced and says it has a big space, a back patio and decent vegan food, and one loves its gritty feel, though it suits beer and fried food more than heavy drinking. One says it feels age-appropriate for any drinker. Two question whether the drinks are a bargain, one noting that its drink prices seem ordinary.

Mission

20 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most people recommend Madrone Art Bar, a bar on Divisadero. Several recommend it for dancing, one mentioning an indie disco night and one a long-running 90s night, and several describe a crowd that mixes ages. One says it is consistently lively during Fleet Week, one suggests starting a bar crawl there, and one says it is dive-ish but the cocktails are good. Two say it gets packed and suggest arriving early.

Divisadero

19 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Molotov's, a Lower Haight bar, and several call it a dive. Several point to cheap drinks, one commenter finds the bar friendly, and many list it as a stop on a night out. One says a cheap shot-and-beer deal there may have changed.

Lower Haight

17 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Barebottle is a local brewery with taprooms in more than one spot; the location covered on this page is its beer garden at Salesforce Park, which two commenters name. Many people recommend the brewery: one calls it their favorite brewery, one calls the park beer garden an unusual place for good beer, and one suggests it for seeing the park surrounded by tall buildings. One calls the Cortland branch pleasant. Caveats: one says the range is narrow with no Belgian, saison or red styles though still calls it a neighborhood favorite, and one says the beers vary and some disappoint, though the best are excellent.

Salesforce Park

17 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/bayarea

Many people recommend the 500 Club, a Mission bar. A few describe it as fun, one suggesting it as a stop after Dolores Park, one calls it an affordable dive though San Francisco prices still run higher than in other cities, and one praises its mix of regulars and drifters and its cozy booths. A few recall it fondly from past years. One says it has faded but still works for chatting with strangers at happy hour.

Mission

17 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many commenters recommend the Pig and Whistle, a British-style pub. Three rate its fish and chips highly, one points to its Guinness, and one says it is among the few local bars pouring real cask ale through a hand pump. One calls it their local.

16 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/bayarea, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Evil Eye, a Mission bar. Several say the drinks are good, one calls it very high quality, and one says it has tasty cocktails and surprisingly good food. One finds the menu inventive, one praises its lounge-style vibe and a Negroni-style mocktail, and one notes it is not really a tiki bar though its tiki-style drinks are strong and good. One calls it a top pick but warns it gets crowded.

Mission

16 people recommendvia r/AskSF

Many people recommend Emperor Norton's, a Tenderloin bar, and a few name it among the Tenderloin bars they like. One describes the vibe as cool and another mentions a relaxed back patio. Opinions differ on the label: one patron says it is not really a dive, while another lists it among the dive-bar picks.

Tenderloin

16 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Holy Water, a Bernal Heights bar. One calls it one of the city's top cocktail bars, clearly ahead of others, one likes its relaxed vibe and decent cocktails, and one praises its drinks and pretty, super-chill setting but notes little food. One suggests it for a similar vibe and better beer, cautioning it could be noisy on a first meeting.

Bernal Heights

16 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/bayarea, r/AskSF

Martuni's is a piano bar, and most commenters recommend it, with a few singling out its martinis and a couple saying the cocktails are generously sized. One commenter says everyone sings along at the piano, several mention the piano entertainment, and one regular says the crowd skews toward people around their own age. Caveats: a few say the drinks are very strong, one commenter advises against making it a second stop of the night, one patron feels the bar has slipped from its past standard, and another notes there are no fries though the popcorn is free.

16 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend White Cap, a bar on Taraval near the beach in the Sunset. One suggests it for watching the surf over a few drinks, one says it serves strong cocktails next to the beach though fog may hide the view, one calls it a relaxed local cocktail bar, and a few praise its cocktails. One likes the cocktails but would point to another bar for a local drink, and one says it has declined over time.

Sunset

16 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Most commenters recommend this Irish pub in the Inner Richmond, and several name it as a Guinness pick. Several mention live music, one noting informal jam sessions and a mix of ages, and one mentions a fun dance night. One says a recurring game night there was packed with a friendly, welcoming vibe, and one likes the older Irish music group and retro feel. One finds it closer to a dive than a nice place and not a good fit for dinner.

Clement

15 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/bayarea

Many people suggest Bus Stop, a bar in the Marina, and several list it among Marina and Cow Hollow bars for a night out. One says it is one of the few places busy outside weekends, one fondly recalls first trying fernet there, and one feels it leans sports bar rather than dive but still enjoys it.

Union St Marina

15 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most people recommend Hi Tops, a sports bar in the Castro. Several praise the food, one calls it a sports bar that is enjoyable when a game is airing, and one calls it a fun sports spot with trivia, bingo and screenings, easy to talk in. One says it is more of a post-game hangout than a place to properly watch a game, and one says it gets loud fast, suspecting poor acoustics. One did not feel welcome there.

Castro

14 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Pitt's Pub, a pub. One says they love it, one describes a warm neighborhood feel that suits meeting people, one suggests it over Riptide for catching a game, and one says it was renovated and feels really nice inside. Two say it is less of a dive than it used to be.

Judah

14 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Pilsner Inn is a gay bar that many people recommend. Several describe it as relaxed or comfortable, one calls it friendly, and one calls it awesome and laid-back, with pool and a back beer garden. One praises its strong drinks and serious pool table, and one likes the koi pond at the rear.

Church St

14 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Overall, people recommend Stoa, and several commenters praise its cocktails, with one saying the drinks are well executed and free of showiness. A couple of people call it a favorite, and three say the food is good too. Three commenters place it in Lower Haight, and one describes it as a cozy spot for a relaxed cocktail night.

Lower Haight

14 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/cocktails

Most commenters recommend Lost Resort, a bar in the Mission, and many list it in suggested bar routes near Trick Dog or True Laurel. One calls it a strong cocktail bar, one calls it fairly good, one likes its backyard space and another its small patio, and one describes it as laid-back and relaxed. One suggests Asiento instead, saying its food is far better.

14 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most people recommend Top of the Mark, and many praise the view over the city, which one patron says is especially good at sunset. Two people suggest it for dates, and two recommend the cocktails. One visitor calls it a solid hotel bar choice, and another calls it an upscale experience. Caveats: one patron finds the place stuffy and exclusive, one visitor prefers Starlite to it, and one who judged from photos doubts the vibe would suit them.

14 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Wildhawk, a Mission cocktail bar. One praises its inventive menu, one recommends it as a contemporary cocktail spot with lounge vibes, and one calls it chill with excellent drinks, noting crowds make it loud at peak times. One suggests it for mocktails, though somewhat pricey. One finds the drinks overly sweet.

Mission

13 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Ha-Ra, a Tenderloin bar, and two name it among their favorite bars in the area. One calls it a favorite dicey dive, one recalls cheap pints after work, and one describes a first date going well. One misses the bar's earlier version and says it has changed since.

Tenderloin

13 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco, r/bayarea

Many commenters name Beehive in the Mission as a good place for cocktails, and a few list it as a stop on a night out for drinks. One commenter praises its retro cocktail-lounge feel and its drinks and snacks, while another says it suits a date and has some great cocktails. One more commenter describes it as a little livelier than some other cocktail bars.

Mission

13 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend this North Beach bar as a stop for a night out. One commenter suggests starting a bar crawl there, and another says it feels youthful rather than dated. A regular visitor says the crowd looks like it is having a good time. One commenter notes that children aren't allowed.

North Beach

13 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most commenters recommend this Irish pub in the Inner Sunset, and a few describe it as long-running. One commenter calls it cozy, another calls it a calm local spot, and two find it friendly. Another commenter likes the eclectic decor but notes there is no pool table, while two say it has no kitchen, though outside food can be brought in. One commenter advises against sending a group there, and crowd descriptions differ: one says its regulars are older, while another visitor felt the vibe suited millennials or younger drinkers.

Inner Sunset

13 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Shotwell's in the Mission. A few people call it a neighborhood bar, while several describe its old-school, historic feel, and one patron praises its large beer list and the lack of TVs. Shotwell's serves beer and wine but no hard liquor, and one visitor found no food during a visit. Two patrons warn it gets crowded, while one says it can feel calmer near opening.

Mission

13 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/Tiki

Many people recommend Trad'r Sam, a divey tiki bar in the Richmond. A few praise its atmosphere or old-school character, and a couple of people call it among the first or oldest tiki bars. A couple say it is very affordable for a night of drinking. Several find the drinks poor or unremarkable, though one still calls them great. Some say a renovation took away some of its old charm, and one likes the reworked version.

12 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most people recommend Clooney's, a Mission bar, and a few call it a dive: one a true neighborhood dive, fun for watching games, and one an authentic old-school dive, unpretentious. One calls it the most neighborhood-feeling bar in the Mission, and one suggests it as a budget-friendly option. One says it is much better now than before.

Mission

12 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Horsefeather, with a few naming the Divisadero area and three patrons naming it as a cocktail stop. Two commenters pick it for a date, and another patron recommends a drink there while waiting for a table at Nopa. One patron would go only if Nopa has no seats free, and many mentions do not say which location they mean.

Divisadero

12 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend The Irish Bank, an Irish pub that one commenter places on Bush near Kearny in Union Square. One patron says the fish and chips are worth ordering, and another commenter calls it a budget-friendly option, especially at breakfast. One commenter says it covers almost everything they were after, but hedges with an unspecified caveat.

12 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Most commenters recommend Gino and Carlo as a North Beach bar to try. One calls it a favorite and says it pours a colder, tasty tap, one says you will likely end up chatting with locals and swapping drinks, and another finds it good until early evening, with a younger crowd on weekends. A few suggest having a drink there with a slice nearby, and one describes it as a real bar with pool tables.

North Beach

12 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most commenters recommend Noc Noc in the Lower Haight for its quirky, offbeat atmosphere, and a few liken its vibe to dystopian Flintstones or Pee-Wee's Playhouse. One visitor says it accepts dogs. One commenter notes the drinks are limited to beer, wine and sake, and another notes it does not serve food.

Lower Haight

12 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Tony Nik's in North Beach. One visitor feels it has an adult-oriented atmosphere, with candlelit seats and good-quality drinks. One visitor argues North Beach as a whole suits people of all ages.

North Beach

12 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco

Dalva is a bar in the Mission that many people recommend. A couple of people praise the cocktails, and several mention a back bar called the Hideout, which one describes as a speakeasy. One person says it is a fun place to relax at the bar, and one patron who knew it earlier says they love the newer version.

Mission

12 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/cocktails

Many people recommend Bar Iris. One praises its Japanese-inspired cocktails and shochu selection, and another praises its cocktails and food. A few people describe it as upscale or fancy, and one patron says it has a date-night vibe.

12 people recommendvia r/AskSF

Many commenters recommend The Napper Tandy, a pub in the Mission. One lists it among the best spots for Irish food, one calls it the best they have found and says a friend from Ireland goes there often, and one says they have always liked the burger and pub food. One says they had a good pint there.

Mission

12 people recommend, 3 warn against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend El Rio, a Mission dive bar. One says the patio is relaxed and people there are open to talking, and one calls the back patio lovely in the sun and at night. One suggests it for dancing, especially for gay visitors or those who go with gay friends.

Mission

11 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Columbus Cafe, a North Beach bar that one visitor calls a classic neighborhood dive. Two suggest stopping there for a beer while waiting for a table at Sotto Mare, one adding the jukebox, and another says it is a spot they usually drink at when out at night in North Beach. Another suggests a beer there with Golden Boy pizza.

North Beach

11 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend House of Shields, a bar near Market. One commenter suggests it for conversation, noting there are no TVs and a crowd of local regulars, and another points to its two-person booths as suitable for couples. One person likes its martinis but finds the crowd unpleasant, and another finds it surprisingly loud, though they suspect that depends on when they visit.

New Montgomery Near Market

11 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF

Many people recommend The Silver Spur, an bar that a few commenters hold up as a true dive. One says it is busy at 8am, one likes its atmosphere and generous pours, and one calls it the one SF bar that evoked Texas for them. One commenter who has not been in a while says the shots there used to be larger. Some commenters mention a Sunset location, so not every remark may apply to the Irving spot.

Irving

11 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Durty Nellie's, an Irish pub in the Sunset. One commenter rates it top for Irish food and Guinness and singles out the spice bag, and another says its onion rings are among the best locally. One recalls a standout Guinness pour, one calls it a solid pub among the few Irish spots in the Sunset, and one ranks it second among the Irish pubs they have tried. One commenter finds the drink prices outrageous.

10 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Harlan Records, a bar near Union Square. One commenter calls it a strong dinner-and-drinks pairing, another says guests they took there were happy, and one lists it among places their friend group follows for shows. One recently discovered it and enjoyed chatting with an out-of-town visitor there, and another visited first and says the crowd seemed decent.

Union Square

10 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Woods is a local brewery-bar group with several taprooms around the city; the location covered on this page is the Cole Valley one, which a few commenters name. Many people recommend the brand: one praises the outdoor space and laid-back neighborhood feel, another praises the beer, wine and burgers and calls it family friendly, and one names it among recent breweries doing excellent work. Opinions on the beer are split, with three commenters calling it mediocre or poor, though two of them say Woods has good locations.

Cole Valley

10 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Balboa Cafe, a bar that commenters list among the Marina and Cow Hollow bars. One patron says it handles both martinis and fries well, and three suggest it for fleet week. Another lists it as a stop on a walkable bar crawl, and one commenter finds it too small and its crowd too old for a big group.

Marina

10 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend The Philosopher's Club, a bar near West Portal. One suggests it for chatting with older patrons, one calls it very friendly, one would pick it over other Sunset spots, and one names it among their favorite neighborhood spots. One commenter says its pool table space is tighter than at Grandma's.

West Portal

10 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend R Bar, a bar in the Tendernob area. One loves it and praises the freshly squeezed grapefruit juice in its drinks, and one says they used to watch football there and it always felt friendly. Several suggest it in dive-bar or similar-bar lists. One commenter notes there are no pool tables.

Tendernob

10 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Most people who weigh in recommend Black Horse Pub, a pub that many describe as tiny; one says its small floor comfortably fits only about eight people. Two say the small size makes it easy to talk to people, and one commenter calls it a weird bar. One says it doesn't look like it has a TV.

Van Ness and Union

10 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/bayarea, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Local Edition, a speakeasy-style bar. A few point to its live music, one describing a jazz-leaning set, an upscale, older-leaning crowd and room to dance, and one suggests trying the Ava Gardner drink. One calls it a strong pick for a date night and one advises making a reservation. One commenter finds the vibe unappealing.

10 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many commenters recommend Casanova, a Mission bar. One says it is the place to go if visiting the Mission, one calls it great, and one lists it among places their friend group has fun and follows for shows. Two commenters are unhappy that its crowd has shifted toward after-work tech workers.

Mission

9 people recommendvia r/AskSF

Many people recommend Starlite, a hotel rooftop bar. One visitor names it among the rooftop bars they love for the city views, another recommends it for the view and the hotel setting, and one commenter suggests it as a drinks stop on a date night. One found it more fun than Kaiyo, though the seating is very secluded. Another loved the drinks and the vibe.

9 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Kilowatt, a Mission bar near 16th and Valencia. One commenter lists it among dive-bar suggestions and another calls it a solid pick among several bars. A couple of commenters mention its shows, and one says it is less divey than before but now hosts shows, which they like.

Mission

9 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend April Jean's, a North Beach bar. One commenter lists it as a middle stop on a bar-crawl route. One patron likes arriving early and leaving before crowds build up, and another sees it as a nicer cocktail spot that has been packed since it opened.

North Beach

9 people recommendvia r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Elixir, a bar. One commenter calls it a nice whiskey bar and another recommends it for an Old Fashioned. One likes bringing in pizza from another spot because the bar allows outside food, and enjoys its crowd and atmosphere. One says they love it, and another suggests it only conditionally.

16th

9 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend the Latin American Club, a Mission bar. One calls it great and lists it among authentic bars worth trying, one lists it among bars popular with industry people. One says it is quiet on Thursday evenings around 8.

9 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Rock Bar, a bar on 29th Street near Mission Street. One calls it a solid pick among Mission bars, one says they love it, and one says their friend group has fun there and follows it for shows. Two suggest pairing it with Front Porch, one for a brunch Bloody Mary.

9 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/bayarea

Many people recommend Arcana, a Mission wine bar. One describes it as mainly a natural wine spot that also sells large plants, one suggests it on non-weekend nights for natural wine fans, and one says it is popular with a pleasant atmosphere for wine. One suggests drinks there while waiting for a table nearby, one suggests it as a date spot. One visitor is unsure whether it counts as a bar but likes the tea options and notes non-alcoholic drinks are offered.

Mission

9 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Stookey's Club Moderne, a bar. Several praise its cocktails, with one calling them the top option in town and another praising its unusual vintage cocktails, and two like the atmosphere. One says its mocktails are excellent.

9 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend the Wreck Room, a sporty bar near Polk. Several point to its pool tables and other games, with a few mentioning shuffleboard. One says friendly regulars and a varied crowd, and one says there is plenty of room for a large group.

California St Polk Ish

9 people recommendvia r/AskSF

Many people recommend Hotel Biron, a wine bar. A few call it cozy and one calls it a good pick for date nights. One calls it a hidden gem that feels like Europe, and one says they used to visit it often.

9 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF

Many commenters recommend The Lookout, a gay bar in the Castro. One finds it very welcoming, one describes it as fairly relaxed with nice views, and one says its margaritas are excellent. One who has been there calls it the spot for a high-energy night out. One says how relaxed it feels varies with the timing of a visit, and another says it is less relaxed on Sundays, especially in nice weather.

Castro

9 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many commenters name Mr. Bing's among their bar picks, and one lists it among the barhopping stops in North Beach. One calls it a small, lively karaoke bar, and one says it still feels like a dive with no comedy. Two commenters say it has changed and lost some of its old character, though one thinks it is probably still a fine bar. One commenter places it in Chinatown.

North Beach

9 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/bayarea

Radhaus is a German beer hall at Fort Mason, and most commenters who weigh in recommend it. Several praise the food and the beer, a few mention the water view, one found it fun with many taps and a quirky serving option, and one notes it isn't a brewery. Another says a different German spot is much better.

Marina

8 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/cocktails, r/sanfrancisco

Many commenters recommend The Linden Room, a cocktail bar. One praises its inventive cocktails and one says the martini is perfect, and several describe the room as small. One suggests a midweek visit and another advises arriving early before it fills up. One finds it pricey and the space limited, though still thinks it is worth a visit.

8 people recommendvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF, r/bayarea

Many people recommend The Pawn Shop, a speakeasy with a playful hidden entrance. One calls it quirky with strong food and drinks, one calls the tapas good, and a few suggest bringing a small item to trade for entry. One finds the entry process unwelcoming, and one visitor finds it somewhat expensive.

8 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend The Knockout, a Mission bar with live music. One lists it as one of three bars close together on one block. One suggests it for canned beer and good deals, another for a cheap beer-and-whisky combo. Three commenters recommend it for local acts or shows, and one notes the live-music schedule may not suit everyone.

8 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Finnegan's Wake, a bar in Cole Valley. One says its Bloody Marys are the best in town, and one ranks it among their favorite bars in the country. One says its happy hour draws an interesting crowd, and one says a Gen X group on a bar crawl had a positive, flirty time there. One suggests pairing a stop at Zazie with a visit here.

Cole Valley

8 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Many people recommend Flanahan's, a bar in the Outer Sunset. Two pick it over Riptide for watching a game or Sunday football, and one mentions free jazz on Sunday nights. One suggests a couple of drinks there while waiting for a table at Toyose, and one mentions a beer-and-shot combo.

Outer Sunset

8 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many people recommend Hockey Haven, a bar in the Richmond. One calls it a strong dive and two suggest it as a Guinness option. One names it for low-cost drinks after dinner, and one praises it as a standout spot serving the Outer Richmond. One visitor found its Guinness no different from other beers, and another says it is usually calm but has been packed on some visits.

8 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most commenters recommend Mauna Loa, a bar in the Marina and Cow Hollow area. One calls it a true dive among the upscale Cow Hollow bars, one recommends it as the Marina option for a big group, and one lists it among SF bars they love. One found it unexpectedly quiet on a Friday during Fleet Week.

Marina

8 people recommend, 1 warns against itvia r/sanfrancisco, r/AskSF

Many commenters recommend The Irish Times, an Irish pub in the Financial District. One likes it for weekday afternoon games and quick drinks on a work break, one says it usually draws a modest but energetic industry crowd, and one says it is among the city's top Guinness sellers. One lists it among the best spots for Irish food, and one calls its selection decent and a budget pick. One would hesitate to go on weekends.

Financial District

8 people recommend, 2 warn against itvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Most people recommend The Chieftain, an Irish pub. A few praise the food, with one singling out the lamb shank, and a couple describe it as relaxed or comforting, one adding that it is warm and welcoming. One enjoyed a beer with croquettes on a foggy evening. Two are less impressed, one finding it charmless and another calling it a trap, and one finds its imported castle stone and mahogany interior interesting but not fancy.

7 people recommendvia r/AskSF, r/sanfrancisco

Several people recommend Danny Coyle's, an Irish pub. Two name it as a Guinness or pint option, and one reports good pints. One who watched an England match there found it far better with more English fans, and one recalls older English patrons lecturing about soccer on an earlier visit.

Haight St