Bars
Hi Tops
Country’s first gay sports bar, on Market Street in the Castro since 2012. Beer in big mugs, drag bingo, watch parties, and a welcoming room.
True Laurel
Mission cocktail bar from the Lazy Bear team. James Beard Outstanding Bar Program 2024. Cocktails built like wine pairings, around seasonal produce.
Smuggler’s Cove
Three-story Hayes Valley tiki bar with over 700 rums and a menu of traditional Caribbean drinks. Owner Martin Cate wrote the book on tiki cocktails.
Pacific Cocktail Haven
Sutter Street cocktail bar from Kevin Diedrich, on multiple World’s 50 Best Bars lists. Tropical drinks, walk-in only.
15 Romolo
North Beach cocktail bar down an alley off Broadway. Industry-veteran bartenders, bartender’s choice as the move, dive-meets-craft vibe.
Local Edition
Speakeasy in the basement of the old San Francisco Examiner printing room. Original printing presses, newspaper-themed cocktails, live jazz.
ABV
Mission craft cocktail bar from Bourbon & Branch alumni. Serious drinks under $15, no speakeasy theatrics, walk-in only.
Trick Dog
Mission cocktail bar that reinvents its menu every six months around a different concept. James Beard nominated. House-made everything.
Buena Vista Cafe
The bar that brought Irish coffee to America in 1952. Pouring them by the dozen at Hyde and Beach.