Up to Date: an After-Dark Guide to San Francisco's Castro
A large queer community makes this LGBTQ-friendly ’hood a welcoming date-night spot for couples of all kinds seeking inclusive bars and buzzy restaurants.
From gold rush to flower power to tech boom, San Francisco has attracted a steady stream of trailblazers, dreamers and entrepreneurs through the years. Gay liberation also took root here, with the Castro district as its epicenter. Today, a vibrant LGBTQ community continues to define the neighborhood, which has evolved into one of the city’s most diverse and date-friendly districts. Here’s our rundown of the top dating spots in the Castro, plus some great places to stay, too.
1. L'Ardoise Bistro
Bistro, Restaurant, French
2. Castro Theatre
Cinema, Theater
4. Blush! Wine Bar
Bar, Wine Bar, Pub Grub
5. Fable
Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan
6. Anchor Oyster Bar
Bar, Restaurant, Seafood
7. Monte Cristo Inn
Hotel
Few guesthouses in San Francisco can claim such a storied past as the Monte Cristo Inn – it might even be the city’s oldest. Opened in 1875 as a bordello and saloon, it became a speakeasy during prohibition and still brims with old-world charm. This certainly extends to the individually styled bedrooms, where damask wallpaper, antique furniture and vintage artwork combine to timelessly romantic effect. If you’d rather have a sleep-in with your love, order the excellent breakfast direct to your room.
8. Hotel Drisco
Hotel
There are so many reasons why Hotel Drisco makes a top pick for romancing travelers. Dating from the early 20th century, it’s old, upmarket San Fran – urbane, refined and immaculately presented. The hotel is imbued with the glamor of its time, albeit with a more neutral, contemporary polish where required. The hilltop Pacific Heights address affords swoon-worthy views from its higher rooms, while goose-down duvets and pillow menus make for beds you’ll not want to leave.
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