50 Best Cocktail Bars in San Francisco

“Rich Table is a top-notch restaurant in San Francisco that consistently delivers delicious dishes and exceptional service. The menu features standout items like the duck confit taquito, and the chefs accommodate dietary restrictions with ease. The atmosphere is casual, relaxed, and non-pretentious, making it an ideal spot for a wonderful dinner. The staff is friendly, attentive, and informative, adding to the overall positive experience. With its high-quality food, excellent service, and classy interior, Rich Table is a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience.“

“Trick Dog, now known as The Salty Dawg, is a popular bar in SF, known for its creative and frequently changing cocktail menu. They offer an extensive selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic mixed drinks, with unique flavors such as strawberry in the Rising Sun. The bar has a lively atmosphere, attracting crowds in the early evening. While the food options are good, there is room for more elevated dishes according to some reviews.“

“Horsefeather offers a delightful dining experience with its heavenly and masterful expensive burger, as well as a top-tier selection of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, including the fantastic Golden Hour cocktail. The restaurant also boasts delicious tuna crispy rice, chilled red wine, and a tasty vegetarian mushroom risotto that can be made vegan upon request.“

“Outerlands is a popular brunch spot in San Francisco, known for its satisfying portions and flavorful dishes. The breakfast sandwich with bacon and smashed potatoes is a favorite among regulars. The menu may be small, but everything on it is hearty and delicious, from the grilled cheese to the mushroom toast and veggie grain bowl. Despite being busy, especially on sunny Saturdays, the friendly and efficient staff ensure a smooth dining experience. With its comfortable atmosphere and proximity to Ocean Beach, Outerlands is a great spot to refuel and relax, even on hectic days like Bay to Breakers.“

“True Laurel is a well-regarded spot for drinks and small bites. With a lively vibe and great music selection, it's a popular destination. The knowledgeable bartenders craft creative cocktails, such as the Paddy Issues, which is a standout. While portions may be small, the quality of food, like the tuna crudo, is impressive. It's a great place to grab a few drinks and snacks, with the mushrooms being a particular highlight.“

“Nari in the iconic hotel kabuki offers spicy and delicious dishes like crispy sticky rice salad, chili lime grilled squid, and crispy chicken with curry paste. Signature dishes include black cod curry, fried chicken, and squid & pork jowl, although slightly salty. Chef's pick might be too much food, but the lamb Massaman curry is described as the best ever eaten. With fantastic service and ambience, Nari is highly recommended for a great dining experience.“

“Hog Island Oyster Co. is a seafood restaurant located on the San Francisco pier, offering a relaxed and elegant dining experience with a view of the sea. Their menu includes grilled oysters, clam chowder soup, and grilled white fish, all highly praised by customers. The restaurant is known for its variety of oysters, both from the East and West coasts, with particularly delicious thick meat oysters. Their clam chowder soup is also a standout, regarded as one of the top three by a New England native. The service is praised for its quality, and the overall experience is highly recommended.“

“Kona's Street Market is a chill spot in SOMA where friends can catch up without loud music. The Blushing Dragon cocktail is sweet, masking the alcohol taste. Owned by the same as Pacific Cocktail Haven, this cocktail bar offers immaculate drinks with Asian flavors. The extensive menu features a crowd favorite, the Blushing Dragon, while the Boracay Old Fashioned is a must-try. The interior is casual with Japanese cat posters and string lights, although some find the seating uncomfortable. Visit for great cocktails and a relaxed vibe.“

“The Progress is an exceptional restaurant that lives up to its reputation. From its attentive service to its bright yet cozy decor, every aspect of the dining experience is exceptional. The menu, which rotates seasonally, offers a mix of fusion Californian fare, including creative small plates that are both flavorful and visually stunning. Standout dishes include the smoked sausage, asparagus and lime tofu, and lamb mole, while the duck is an extremely large and impressive portion. The restaurant also offers a variety of non-alcoholic cocktails and dessert options, including the delicious mochi donuts. With its upscale-casual atmosphere and elevated menu, The Progress is a must-visit destination for foodies in San Francisco, and is well worth the effort of securing a reservation and the accompanying price tag.“

“Mr Bing's is a popular restaurant in the Chinatown area known for its lively atmosphere and diverse clientele. Customers praise the restaurant's choice of music, which includes songs by bands like Natural Milk Hotel and The Sundays, as well as the vibrant murals adorning the outdoor parklet. The staff is also noted for their friendly and welcoming demeanor, making it a great spot for both tourists and locals to socialize and meet new people.“

“Tony's Pizza Napoletana is a San Francisco classic that's always bustling with activity. Solo visitors can grab a seat at the bar to avoid waiting, while others can enjoy the cozy patio or immaculate interior. The menu boasts delicious options like the Carnivore pizza and Fried Artichokes, paired perfectly with craft beers. Vegans will love the Mission Impossible pizza, featuring vegan cheese and a medley of toppings. The crust is cooked to perfection, with a crispy, blistery finish. Friendly and efficient staff ensure a great dining experience. With clearly labeled vegan and vegetarian options, Tony's is a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.“

“Aziza is a top choice with incredible and delicious food. The cornbread is a standout, and the kefta, though now presented differently, remains a favorite. The lamb shank was flavorful and fell off the bone, paired perfectly with the recommended flatbread and unique dips. The eggplant appetizer and shakshouka were highlights, and don't miss out on their expertly blended house cocktails.“

“Pagan Idol is a fun tiki bar with a tropical atmosphere, offering a variety of cocktails and a lively atmosphere with friendly wait staff. The bar is larger than expected, with two bars open at once, and has plenty of fun photo opportunities. While it can be loud and dark, making it an attraction-like experience, it's still a great spot for a night out or to grab a drink.“

“DAMNFiNE pizza is a restaurant known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, often compared to a thinner version of Costco pizzas. The crust is praised for being paper-thin yet soft, perfectly holding the toppings. The flavors are highly regarded, particularly in the simple margarita and pear, gorgonzola, and prosciutto options. The service is commended for being sincere, capable, and efficient. Staff members like Sydney and Katie have been recognized for treating customers like family. The "slow n low" and Ralph Macchio pizzas are specifically mentioned for their exquisite flavor profiles. The restaurant is located in San Francisco and offers a unique dining experience for both locals and tourists.“

“Sorella is an amazing Italian restaurant with authentic and delicious dishes, especially the pasta cooked "Al dente". The cocktails are a must-try, along with the great selection of wines and Amari. The staff is attentive, fun, and friendly, with special mention of the exceptional server Johnny. The meatballs and bread are excellent choices, and don't miss out on the tiramisu or semifreddo for dessert. This place offers authentic Italian cuisine that is definitely worth the price.“

“Red Window is a charming restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The interior is beautifully designed, and guests can enjoy their meals either indoors or in the lovely outdoor seating area. The menu features a variety of delectable dishes, including an exceptional lamb pasta and delicious smoked salmon crostini. Attentive service and special accommodations from the chef make for a memorable visit.“

“Nopa is a vibrant restaurant serving refined and delicious food with a focus on sharable plates. The menu changes daily, but popular dishes include Warm Goat Cheese crostinis, Trout, Meatballs, and the ridiculously tender and juicy Pork Chop. The staff is kind, respectful, and works well together to provide excellent service. With a lively atmosphere, Nopa is perfect for groups and loud conversations, making it an ideal spot for special gatherings.“

“The Morris is a lovely and comfortable restaurant with a rotating menu and delicious cocktails. The staff are kind and attentive, making guests feel at home. The food is incredible and of high quality, with highlights including charcuterie, pork cracklins, and steak. The restaurant has a cozy neighborhood feel, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or casual gatherings.“

“Good Good Culture Club is a restaurant located in SF that offers unique and memorable Asian fusion dishes. The restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere and provides great service. It offers a variety of delicious and thoughtfully-prepared dishes, such as the paradise tea, Good Good Culture chicken wings, Crying Tiger Shrimp Salad, pandan bibingka, and tuna tataki with kumquats and sweet and spicy ponzu. The whole fried petra sole, with its crunchy fish bones and savory sauce, is a must-try. Vegan options are available, and the hodo yuba and grilled oyster mushrooms are highly recommended. The restaurant also offers dietary-friendly mocktails. The Crying Tiger Shrimp Salad and green curry are popular dishes among customers. One of the highlights of the restaurant is its emphasis on closing on time, showing respect for their staff. Overall, Good Good Culture Club is a great spot for fun and unique Asian fusion dishes, offering a great dining experience with delicious food and drinks.“

“Uma Casa is a Portuguese restaurant located in San Francisco. The restaurant offers a cozy and enjoyable ambiance, making it a great spot for dates or group dinners. The menu features traditional Portuguese dishes with a touch of modernity, offering a unique dining experience. Some customers have noted inconsistencies in service, with slow ordering processes and rushed endings to meals. However, the food has been praised for its delicious flavors and satisfying portion sizes. Standout dishes include the potato soup, cod and potato fritter, bacalhau à Gomes de sá, carne de porco à alentejana, and the pastel de nata. Although some dishes may be pricey, the overall dining experience is worth the cost. Uma Casa is a great option for those seeking authentic Portuguese cuisine in the Bay Area.“

“Piccino is a highly-regarded Italian restaurant in San Francisco, serving fresh and beautiful ingredients in a stunning setting. The kitchen team works together like a family to prepare delicious and healthy meals, including thin-crust pizzas and house-made pastas. The wine list is well-rounded and varied, with great recommendations from the friendly waitstaff. Whether for a special occasion or casual dining, Piccino is an excellent choice.“

“Violet's offers delicious and unique dishes like chilled asparagus with egg grabichi and Pittsburgh salad. The Tavern Burger and Mac&Cheese are also favorites. The homemade key lime pie is a must-try. The atmosphere is lively and great for a casual dinner with friends, although it can get noisy. The service can be a bit slow due to limited staff, but the waitress is friendly and efficient. The swanky bar with hanging plants adds to the ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a date night.“

“Pacific Cocktail Haven is a cozy and upscale bar with a fun atmosphere and creative, delicious drinks. The servers are friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate, making it an enjoyable experience. However, it can get noisy during peak hours and seating may be limited. Drinks are around $20 each and can take some time to prepare. While the waiter's attitude may be slightly off-putting to some, the unique and carefully crafted cocktails make it worth a visit.“

“The Royal Cuckoo in San Francisco's Mission district offers a cozy, retro charm with its vintage decor and dim lighting. The live jazz music performed by professional musicians creates an electric atmosphere, making it a welcoming spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet drink. The bar is known for its great quality, well-made cocktails at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.“

“The Korner Store Bites & Vibes is a restaurant that has been a popular choice for some time. The owners, Ina and Nick, are known for their hospitality and care for customers. The menu offers a variety of dishes, including the wasabi octopus appetizer, hangover soup with chubby noodle, spicy pork belly, and monster tater tots. The spicy pork belly and wasabi octopus are particularly praised for their taste, but the price of some dishes is considered a bit high. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere with music, but the vibe can depend on the day and time of visit. The place is recommended for Korean food lovers looking for a fun dining experience.“

“Bar Iris is a top Asian cocktail bar offering unique drinks like the Seaweed and tonic, featuring local seaweed and yuzu. The 9-seat bar and 11 tables provide a comfortable, fancy vibe with top-quality service. Enjoy fun mocktails and a swanky atmosphere, with accommodating servers and some vegetarian options.“

“Casements Bar in SF is known for its friendly and dedicated staff, creating a welcoming atmosphere. With a killer cocktail menu and delicious food like Guinness beef stew and soda bread, it's a favorite spot for date nights or celebrations. The back patio offers a beautiful setup for special occasions, with the owner going above and beyond to ensure a memorable experience.“

“Evil Eye offers fantastic and creative cocktails, with a great table service even on busy nights. The atmosphere is like being in someone cooler's living room, with good cocktails and a cozy ambiance. They have great martinis, delicious food, and an open pool table. It's a perfect spot to start or end the night, where you can relax, enjoy a drink, and chat with friendly locals.“

“15 Romolo is a hidden gem in North Beach, tucked away in an alley. This intimate bar offers a super chill atmosphere, dimly lit but lively, perfect for a night out. The bartenders are excellent, friendly, and hilarious, making great drink recommendations. With a good number of people, but not too packed, 15 Romolo is an ideal spot to spend the night, and is highly recommended for its unique and lively vibe.“

“Macondray is a favorite spot in SF for high-quality cocktails in a relaxing oasis on Polk Street. Lobster Mac and Cheese and Lobster Roll are delicious but slightly pricey. The 1.50 oysters deal was a hit, with excellent service from server Josalyn, who made the experience even better. Can't wait to return to this lovely place.“

“The Bottle Club Pub offers a warm and inviting ambiance, with soft lighting, mahogany, and leather furnishings, creating a masculine yet welcoming atmosphere. The knowledgeable and patient bartenders are happy to guide customers through their extensive selection of liquors, including a impressive carousel shelves display. The prices are reasonable, and the small food menu looks appealing. With ample but cozy seating and perfectly volumed music, the Bottle Club Pub provides a delightful dining and drinking experience.“

“Charmaine's Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers good comfort food with warm fire pits and friendly staff. While the noise level can be a bit loud and rooftop views vary, the overall experience is worth trying at least once. The restaurant accommodates late guests with reserved tables and attentive service, including blankets for outdoor seating. Guests praise the all-you-can-eat paella and appreciate the staff's friendliness, making celebrations like birthdays extra special.“

“Comstock Saloon is a charming bar offering a variety of drinks, including creative cocktails. The friendly staff are happy to make recommendations, and the historic interior is quaint and cozy. The menu features delicious options, including gluten-free empanadas, and the service is superb from start to finish. The atmosphere is perfect for a date night or catching up with friends, with live music and great food to boot.“

“The Alembic is a popular spot for craft cocktails and bites on Haight Street. The bar offers a range of creative cocktails, including the "Good Soup" inspired by Tom Yum soup. The menu also features delicious small plates, such as polenta fries and buffalo wings. With a friendly bartender and owner, this spot is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink.“

“Li Po Cocktail Lounge is a historic venue and cultural landmark in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown. Established in 1937, the lounge is famous for its signature Chinese Mai Tai, a potent and secret blend of ingredients. The decor combines traditional Chinese elements with modern touches, reflecting the evolving neighborhood. The lounge also features a hidden bar beneath, offering a more vibrant and gritty atmosphere with music and comfortable seating. With friendly service and delicious cocktails, Li Po Cocktail Lounge is a must-visit spot for any night out in Chinatown.“

“Holy Water is a unique restaurant with a great atmosphere. The decor is fun and the mood lighting sets the perfect tone. Guests can enjoy craft beer and fruity cocktails like the piña colada. The staff are friendly and make stiff, delicious drinks like the After the Gold Rush cocktail. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Holy Water is worth a visit for a lively ambiance and great drinks.“

“Foreign Cinema is a gem of a restaurant that stands out from the crowd. With its exceptional menu, setting, quality of food and beverages, and service, it provides an excellent overall experience. The restaurant has been consistently innovative and of high quality over the years, making it a great choice for special occasions. The outdoor patio is a lovely spot to enjoy a warm evening, and the service is always attentive and charming. The menu features dishes such as Estate caviar, mushroom soup, five spice duck, pasta, and burrata with peaches, which are all delicious and reasonably priced.“

“Smuggler's Cove is a unique bar in San Francisco that transports you to a swashbuckling era of Caribbean pirates and rum. With a decor straight out of a pirate's dream, the atmosphere is electric, filled with the sounds of sea shanties and clinking glasses. The extensive menu boasts over 400 rums from around the world, and the bartenders are true mixologists, crafting exquisite cocktails that showcase the rich world of rum. From classic Mai Tais to signature creations, every sip is a voyage of discovery. With its perfect tiki vibes, extensive rum menu, and exceptional cocktails, Smuggler's Cove is a must-visit for rum and tiki lovers.“

“Propagation is a trendy bar with a great atmosphere and fantastic specialty cocktails. The bartender, Rochelle, is friendly and welcoming, making the experience even more enjoyable. The music choices are on point, and the overall ambiance is top-notch. A must-visit spot in San Francisco for a great time with delicious drinks.“

“El Buen Comer is a delightful restaurant known for its delicious sopes and exceptional house-made tortillas. The pork ribs in green sauce and the fresh, citrusy virgin margarita are must-tries. The ambiance is warm and friendly, with a live band occasionally stopping by. This establishment is a great option for families and offers a taste of the Bay Area's vibrant food scene. Remember to tip generously as the cost of living is high and compensation for servers is tightly budgeted.“

“Aphotic, located in the former Palette restaurant space on Folsom, offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, complete with open wood-fired ovens and a cozy ambiance. The 13-course prefix menu, featuring seafood-based dishes, is creative and richly flavored. While cocktails may be a bit pricey, the service is exceptional, and the overall experience is well worth the cost. With a focus on sustainable seafood and a commitment to sustainability, Aphotic is a great choice for special occasions.“

“Casaro Osteria is a restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The service is consistently commendable, with standout servers like Merry making customers feel welcome and at home. The restaurant is popular, and while there may be a wait during busy times, the nearby bars provide a good place to pass the time. The menu features delicious dishes such as bolognese, cauliflower, buffalo margarita pizza with prosciutto, and ragù. The portion sizes are generous, and the Zinfandel is a recommended pairing. The ambiance is cozy and charming, making it an enjoyable spot for a meal.“

“La Société Bar & Café is a hidden gem located in the Hyatt's lobby. With fantastic service, an incredible atmosphere featuring live piano performances, and innovative cocktails, this restaurant impresses. The food is astounding, with options like the burger, which may be the best ever had. Whether you're staying at the Hyatt or nearby, this restaurant is highly recommended.“

“Lark is a charming small neighborhood Greek spot with great food and a lovely atmosphere. The staff is friendly and accommodating, providing solid recommendations and excellent service. The cocktail menu is impressive, with interesting and delicious options. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting environment, making it a great spot for date night, friends, or brunch. The menu features delicious dishes, including Shakshuka, which is a must-try. Overall, Lark is a lovely place to dine and relax.“

“Fiorella Sunset is a charming restaurant with a speakeasy on the second floor, offering a unique dining experience. Their thin-crust pizzas, including the popular Funghi pie, are a highlight, with a perfect texture rivaling New Haven's best. The Cacio e Pepe is a stellar dish, improved with a dash of Calabrian chili oil. The menu also features standout items like the Octopus Sugo with ink pasta, and the Risi E Bisi, a spring-inspired dish with fresh peas and tendrils. The pizzeria salad, available only on neighborhood appreciation night, is a must-try, with its buttermilk parmesan dressing. With excellent service, a cozy ambiance, and delicious food, Fiorella Sunset is a great spot to dine, especially on the last Monday of every month when superstar menu items are priced at $10-12.“

“Otra offers warm and welcoming service, delicious dishes, and great vibes. Enjoy flavorful plates like pozole Roja, Baja fish tacos, and mushroom tacos, as well as sweet treats like buttermilk churros and tres leches cake. With a beautiful ocean-blue ceiling, this hidden gem serves up a great brunch experience, complete with a top-notch cocktail selection and kind, fast service.“

“Elements Bar & Lounge, also known as "One 65," is a popular spot located on the upper floor of a commercial building on 165 O'Farrell, across from Macy's in downtown Union Square. The restaurant has a comfortable and spacious atmosphere, making it suitable for large groups. The bar offers a variety of drinks, which are described as being on the sweet side, and a selection of tasty dishes such as cod fried balls. Happy hour is a highlight, with great deals on drinks and highly recommended dishes like the briny and creamy oysters for $1.50 each, and the delightful cocktails at reasonable prices. The ceviche is also a standout. The service is friendly, with a manager who is known for being nice and giving tours of the French Michelin star restaurant and chocolate making level located in the building. The decor and music create a classy yet fun vibe.“

“Mamanoko on Chestnut Street offers a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for a fun and flavorful meal. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including the Wakame salad, chicken dumplings, pot stickers, Toro cakes, sushi rolls, and Brownie Roll for dessert. The chefs showcase their creativity and skill in fusion Japanese flavors. However, there have been instances where orders have been forgotten or not fulfilled, with a lack of apology or compensation.“

“A Mano is a popular restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with a lively vibe and a slight squeeze in some areas, which adds to its charm. The service is excellent, with friendly and knowledgeable staff who provide great recommendations. The menu is diverse, with dishes such as bucatini, burrata, and lamb ravioli. The portions are moderate, and the food is delicious and satisfying. The restaurant also offers a range of tasty drinks and desserts, including a decadent Nutella sundae. Overall, A Mano is a great spot for a fun evening out with friends, family, or out-of-town guests.“

“Burma Love - Mission offers a delightful culinary experience with its authentic Burmese cuisine. The tea leaf salad and tofu with fresh mint and coconut rice are standout dishes, with generous portions that are perfect for sharing. The atmosphere is beautiful, with a cozy setting and friendly service. While some dishes, such as chicken options, may need improvement, the overall quality of food is high. The restaurant's unique flavors and ambiance make it a great spot to visit, with the option to reserve ahead of time to ensure a table.“