San Francisco is home to a plethora of bars, watering holes, and lounges. It’s a colorful, lively place with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re in need of refreshment or keen to try out the nightlife, follow our guide and check out ten of San Francisco’s best bars.
Whether you prefer craft cocktails, a cold beer, or a glass of wine, Rickhouse has something for everyone. There’s even an event space, The Keeper’s Share, which can be rented for holiday parties, birthdays, and other events. Their menu is extensive and the knowledgeable bartenders are always at the ready to create a special concoction right on the spot.
This cozy bar features a fireplace, jukebox, and a couple of old school arcade games. Summer Place is great for a well priced and superbly made drink. Despite the small space, there’s more than enough seating between the bar and the tables scattered around this spot. The friendly staff only adds to the casual, fun-loving atmosphere. Although this is a cash only bar, an ATM is conveniently available for guests.
Topsy’s Fun House is notable for the bartending tools embedded in the walls right outside the front door. The cocktail menu is extensive and there’s a happy hour on Mondays. The kitchen offers a great number of food options, as well as two dollar tacos on Tuesdays.
This bar is themed on the newsprint industry from the ’50s and ’60s. Real newspaper clippings of San Francisco are scattered throughout the interior decor. Although the cocktail menu stays true to its era, Local Edition prides itself on also serving ‘progressive drinks.’ Local Edition is the place to learn about the history of San Francisco over drinks.
Sitting atop the Marriott Marquis, The View Lounge certainly lives up to its name. The arched walls and windows offer beautiful sights of San Francisco, and the vast selection of cocktails, wine, and small plates make this bar a great place for both business and pleasure.
At 83 Proof a vast array of alcohol lines one side of this lofty bar, but besides a small beer list, there’s not much of a formal menu. However, the brilliantly creative bartenders are always ready to mix up something completely original.
A chic two story bar, the Owl Tree has plenty of space and seating but reservations and table service are offered to groups of six or more. Along with a daily happy hour, Owl Tree also offers Sunday and Monday Industry Nights. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, so if nothing catches your eye on any of their menus, they’ll whip up something extraordinary.
Although it has recently come under new ownership, Cantina still prides itself on using the freshest ingredients possible, and their beautifully balanced cocktails show that careful craftsmanship. Dimly lit, Cantina is home to a cozy ambiance that’s both inviting and tantalizing. There are plenty of cocktails, wines, and beers to choose from on the menu.
At Novela, Literature and cocktails prove to be an excellent combination. Specializing in on-tap punches and house made ingredients, there’s also a seasonal cocktail menu which features cocktails named after book characters.
For a memorable wine experience in San Francisco, Press Club is the place to be. With monthly features on different vintners, guests can experience genuine wine tastings here. To accompany your drinks you can also enjoy seasonal small plates.
