The Best Bars In The Tenderloin

Although the Tenderloin neighborhood near downtown San Francisco is considered ‘bad,’ there are some amazing hidden gems in the form of restaurants, unique bars and nightclubs, independently owned stores, and great live music. Read on for The Culture Trip’s list of the best bars located in the Tenderloin.

Wilson & Wilson

Bar, Dessert, Pub Grub

Wilson & Wilson is a hidden, Prohibition-style speakeasy inside Bourbon & Branch that offers specialty cocktails and special spirit tastings. Pass through the hidden door and enjoy elaborate cocktails prepared with house-made tinctures, infused spirits, and other artisanal ingredients, which can be ordered individually or as three-course tastings.

Bourbon & Branch

Cocktail Bar, Bar, American

Bourbon & Branch is a swanky, unmarked, 1920s-style speakeasy that specializes in handcrafted cocktails and requires a reservation. Whisper the secret password at the entrance (find it on the website; we’re not giving away the secrets that easily), and you’ll be whisked inside for a one-of-a-kind experience.

PianoFight

Theater

This full-service restaurant and bar boasts a cabaret stage and two theaters for sketch comedy and other live acts. PianoFight features a variety of shows, including world premiere plays, sketch comedy, choose-your-own-ending plays, improv and variety shows, dance, live podcasts, film screenings, and more.

Amsterdam Cafe

Bar, Cafe, American

Amsterdam Cafe is a cash-only bar that specializes in craft beer, offering 25 taps and over 350 bottles of fine ales and lagers. It has a reputation for the best beer selection in the area.

Rx

This unique spot with an apothecary theme serves prescription-themed cocktails in categories ranging from ‘painkillers,’ ‘stress relievers,’ and ‘mood stabilizers.’ Head to Rx and enjoy the low-lighting, gold walls, dark-wood booths, and comfy corner couches, and grab a drink to fit any mood.

Redford

Bar, American

Redford serves American comfort food like mac n’ cheese and pulled pork grilled cheese and a full bar, including a whiskey flight. Located in a hip, loft-style building with exposed brick and wooden beams, Redford is a great destination for enjoying yourself with a drink and some comfort food on one of those blustery San Francisco nights.

The Basement

Bar, Nightclub, Pub Grub

The Basement is a stylish nightclub that features comedy acts and dancing. Offering a variety of cocktails, beers, wines, and sake, The Basement should be on your go-to list for stand-up comedy and live music.

About the author

Megan Busch

A San Diego native, Megan is currently battling the San Francisco fog to finish her senior year at the University of San Francisco. A communication studies major with a minor in sociology, she has a passion for traveling (after studying abroad in Florence, Italy) and a love of books and movies, exploring, hiking, and great food.