50 Best Dive Bars in San Francisco

Mr Bing's Cocktail Bar • $
201 Columbus Ave, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Root of All Evil
Liberty Ale
Bada Bing

“I have never been inside for a drink , but I absolutely love their choice of music which is piped into the parklet ; they play songs by Natural Milk Hotel, and The Sundays; and for this I thank them. I shall visit soon.I am also impressed with murals on their parklet.“

4.7 Superb42 Reviews
The Cinch Saloon Gay Bar • $
1723 Polk St, San Francisco

“I know where Lucy Borden’s remains are. She was delicious. Barbecue was great, but the menudo was the best!“

4.1 Good47 Reviews
Red's Java House Hamburger • $
pier 30 The Embarcadero S, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Double Cheeseburger with Mustard
Double Cheeseburger and Fries
Chili Cheese Fries
Breakfast Sandwich
Fish and Chips
Fish & Chips
Onion Rings
Hot Dog

“I've been eating at Red's for 45 years. What a treasure. Even as early as 1982 there were rumors it was going to be torn down and yet somehow it manages to survive SF development madness year after year. My faves are the tuna sandwich and chili cheeseburger.“

4.3 Superb106 Reviews
Buddha Lounge Lounges • $
901 Grant Ave, San Francisco

“Friendly staff who are happy to give reccomendations for the area (both for food, bars etc as well as "cultural" advice).

Reasonably priced.

Nice vibe. Music, but not too loud. Cool rural on the floor you enter in.“

4.1 Good70 Reviews
Li Po Cocktail Lounge Cocktail Bar • $
916 Grant Ave, San Francisco

“A must stop when in the area. Nothing fancy, dive bar feel, but always a good time.“

4 Good198 Reviews
Noc Noc Bar • $
557 Haight St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

White Apple Cideo

“Great bartender & sours. FYI - they don't serve any liquor, just beer & wine

Parking: You will likely have to drive around the neighborhood for a while and walk a few blocks to park which will be time limited.“

4.9 Superb51 Reviews
Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe Bar • $
12 William Saroyan Place, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Cheese and Crackers

“Best place ever. Real humans being real beautiful weirdos. Music sometimes. Eye candy always. Specs’ is one of my favorite places on earth.“

4.7 Superb47 Reviews
The Sea Star Bar • $
2289 3rd St, San Francisco

“Great venue. L, X“

4.7 Superb46 Reviews
Bender's Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $
806 S Van Ness Ave, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Jalepeno Cheddar Tots
Chicken Schnitzel
Bender Burger
Fried Pickles
Tater Tots

“Good hangout place especially for people who loves pool. I am not sure how crowded this place can be but we got a table and play several games when we arrived around 4 pm on Saturday. It is only 2 dollars a game and you can purchase food and drink easily. You can even go to play a pool without food, but you will feel like you want to support the business. And the food is legit! I got a burger and it is delicious. I wish the patty is bigger even if a higher price. Still it is a solid burger with bacon and cheese. Tater tots is also great, crispy from the outside, piping hot and soft inside. Definitely a good place to hang out with a pub vibe.“

4.6 Superb50 Reviews
Last Call Bar Bar • $
3988 18th St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Baby Bottle

“Funny I have been living for some time in SF and never stepped inside the Last Call. Luckily I didn't wait until the last call to give this place a try. I love the fact that it's low key, no drama. Great selection of top shelf spirits and many brands which you typically don't get to see in other bars. In addition, very knowledgeable bartenders who know and love their craft. Four thumbs up, oops I see double, two thumbs up.“

4.6 Superb45 Reviews
Gold Cane Cocktail Lounge Lounges • $
1569 Haight St, San Francisco

“great place and the prices are even better. The owner is so nice. This is our new go to bar when we come to San Francisco. They rhave happy hour prices all the time. love the drink he made me“

4.5 Superb60 Reviews
The Rumpus Room Bar • $
10 6th St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

It'll Do Combo
Nothing Fancy

“Great bartenders, so welcoming& makes an awesome Old Fashion, makes you feel like a family“

4.5 Superb54 Reviews
13

Hanaro

Hanaro Cocktail Bar • $$
939 Geary Blvd, San Francisco

“Great watering hole in the TL, especially if you're early for a show at GAMH. If you go between 2-8pm, there is a lovely Korean bartender who will teach you Korean while you drink. Solid jukebox, clean restroom, and entertaining regulars.“

4.9 Superb19 Reviews
Louie's Bar Bar & Grill • $$
55 Stevenson St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Sour Cream and Onion Popcorn
Sweet Lou's Bangkok Wings
Caesar Salad with Chicken
Summer Chicken Sando
Louies Buffalo Wings
The Burger and Fries
Fully Loaded Potato
Pastrami Sandwich
Tecate and a Shot
Chicken Nuggets

“awesome place! I highly recommend!“

4.4 Superb84 Reviews
Wild Side West Bar • $
424 Cortland Ave, San Francisco

“Wild West Bingo on Mondays at 6pm is authentic san francisco bar charm at its best, with an over the top drag queen hosting while patrons play to win free drink tokens and mystery prizes! Flashing lights and disco music gives a Vegas off strip appeal to the whole thing...“

4.4 Superb58 Reviews
Black Magic Bar • $
1400 Lombard St, San Francisco

“4 cocktails for 40USD (incl. tips) was a nice experience.
Unfortunately not so many "magic" drinks and exotic liquors, so the black magic is limited. More Voodoo theme for the cocktails I'd expected.
But bartender was very entertaining.“

4.4 Superb41 Reviews
The 500 Club Bar • $
500 Guerrero St, San Francisco

“Great experience!!! Loved it m/“

4.3 Superb52 Reviews
Tempest Bar & Box Kitchen American • $
2940 431 Natoma St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Box Burger and Garlic Parm Fries
Pork Belly Potato Skins
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Chicken & Waffles
Burger and Fries
The Potato Skins
Garlic Fries
Burger Box
Tacos Al
Burgers

“Good drinks, great atmosphere, best food!!“

4.2 Good121 Reviews
The Bitter End Bar • $
441 Clement St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Bitter End Sampler
Fish and Chips
blt

“It was my first time going in there, and the service was awesome even though they had a big football game thing going on they made sure I was comfortable for my to go order. I ordered the better in simpler and they made it just the way I liked it and substituted the things that I didn’t like without any hesitation, I will be going back there“

4.3 Superb43 Reviews
Hockey Haven Bar • $
3625 Balboa St #2603, San Francisco

“Misery loves company. If you're done with life, this is the place for you.Perfect place for a few hundred post-breakup/divorce cocktails. If there’s a Nobel prize for depressing ambiance these guys deserve it- I mean this sincerely because I absolutely love this place! A++ service and“

4.3 Superb40 Reviews
Il Pirata Bar • $
2007 16th St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Stella Artois

“Can’t believe this place is still open!Just stopped by cause the outside light was on. Got 2 Anchor Steam beers on draft. Bartender remembers me after all these years. Beers are only $6 each!Great spot as a low key, neighborhood bar.Stop by for a chill time!“

4.6 Superb11 Reviews
22

El Rio

El Rio Bar • $$
3158 Mission St, San Francisco

“I went on a weekend during an event, it was pretty packed. The service was faster in the front than the other bar (they have two). They do have food. More rave vibes I would say. The drag show was alright but it all depends on when you go and who you with. I recommend going with a group of friends because people are pretty clicky.“

4.2 Good59 Reviews
Kung Fu Action Theatre Bar • $
841 Larkin St, San Francisco

“Super fun place. Old school decor from old kung fu movies all over the walls ceilings and floors, giant animatronic dragon head, mirrored dance floor area, cheap drinks, what more could you ask for? Totally worth the visit, one of my favorite bars in the city late “

4.3 Superb22 Reviews
Flanahan's Pub Bar • $
3805 Noriega St, San Francisco

“Great old Skool bar. Bartender rocking on Spotify! good times! good drinks! Good peeps!“

4.3 Superb22 Reviews
Silver Spur Bar • $
1914 Irving St, San Francisco

“Either an FML type dive or a fun place to meet friends for a drink. No in between. A souped up version of Hockey Haven on Balboa. Solid service; love this place!

Parking: Street parking is available but can be tough in the afternoons.“

4.4 Superb14 Reviews
Pitt's Pub Bar • $
4207 Judah St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Mellow Corn

“Not sure if Dan is still the owner but he is a huge Steelers fan- he has a “Terry Bradshaw Sings” LP on display at the bar. This place used to named Pittsburgh’s but after a bit of Covid-era trouble, a name change/reboot was warranted. As far as I can tell it’s still the same nice neighborhood vibe.“

4.1 Good46 Reviews
Knockout Bar • $$
3223 Mission St, San Francisco

“Watch out for the spicy drinks......they are SPICY!! It was very good. The staff were nice and fast. It's a bar so I don't expect a clean bathroom let's just say it needs a lil help and I was there early. Would go back with a different dj“

4.1 Good38 Reviews
Kozy Kar Bar • $
1548 Polk St, San Francisco

“Way to be different lol“

4 Good40 Reviews
Mauna Loa Club Bar • $
3009 Fillmore St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Soap in the Bathroom

“One of my top bars I go to with my friends when I’m out in the marina. The place has an old-school aesthetic, but it’s always lively and they have a mix of oldies and new music playing. Also note this is more of a party/dive bar not really a fancy type classy bar. They got two bars and a pool table and a basketball hoops in the back. It is a fun place to go with friends and they’re always seems to be a medium sized crowd. Ive taken some of my friends parents in their 60s here on a night out. It’s fairly diverse with people in age groups ranging from 20s to 30s ages. Sometimes the people there in their younger 20s can be a bit stuck up or act a bit insecure which can be a bit annoying, but other than that, the bartenders are awesome and it’s overall a good time.“

4 Good39 Reviews
30

Trax

Trax Bar • $
1437 Haight St, San Francisco

“Was visiting with my wife today.
We had a drink at the bar.
We were served in a friendly and courteous manner. We even got a pork bun from a guest.
Thank you very much for your acquaintance.
Dieter & Romy Switzerland ??“

3.9 Good45 Reviews
2211 Club, LLC Bar • $
2211 Polk St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Friendly Atmosphere
Full Service Bar
Friendly People

“Nikki, what a gem! She knew all of my friend's drinks that are regulars at this bar and I'm the new guy of the crew! Totally amazing, prompt and fun service. She totally makes the place what it is, crowded or not too busy my friends always make a point to come into Crestas for the great service and good vibes.“

3.8 Good17 Reviews
Toronado Bar • $
547 Haight St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Lost Abbey Cable Car
Pint of Beer
Beer Sausage
Craft Beer
Dry Cider
Blind Pig
Burger

“Went here on a Wednesday afternoon. Parking not too hard to find and it wasn't too busy.

What can be said about this place? It's legendary in the craft beer industry! Great, hard-to-find beers on tap, reasonably priced, a good to-go selection, great vintage bottle list and very dive-bar environment. CASH ONLY!

Overall, this is one of the mecca destinations for craft beer bars. Go!“

3.9 Good109 Reviews
Molotov's Bar • $
582 Haight St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Shot of Bulleit Bourbon w Pint on the Side Ahhhhhh

“I don't want to tell you about this place, because I don't want it to be too crowded next time I go. This is a neighborhood bar for regulars. We loved it! Tip the bartenders generously, and make a point to be social with the locals if you go invade this space :)“

3.8 Good33 Reviews
540 Rogues Bar • $
540 Clement Street, San Francisco

“Not many bars out there make you feel so welcome that even their regulars welcome you with open arms. This is one of those spots! Incredible owners, amazing selection of beers, and fantastic cocktails made with love.“

4.8 Superb43 Reviews
The Summer Place Cocktail Bar • $
801 Bush St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Mezcal Margherita
Brett Special

“Brett. A great guy, a great owner, an amazing singer with little hands. A great guy, truly. Go Brett!“

4.6 Superb88 Reviews
36

Pagoda

Pagoda Dive Bar • $
1704 Post St, San Francisco

“Bartenders are all nice. Shirley is great she's my friend anyway so maybe biased. They actually have a lot of Chinese karoake songs too. My friend lives close so we go there kinda often. Always have a blast, and go home wasted after a great night haha“

3.9 Good55 Reviews
Red's Place Bar • $
672 Jackson St, San Francisco

“If you want to sit on a throne in San Fran“

4.7 Superb35 Reviews
Chelsea Place Bar • $
641 Bush St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Sausage and Cheese Omelette

“A local hangout full of characters who are not only friendly and entertaining, but welcoming. The kind of place that evokes the vibe of the TV show Cheers with a much more diverse clientele. Bartender was attentive and poured a great G&T. Classic. Dive. Bar.“

4.6 Superb52 Reviews
Hi Dive Bar Bar • $$
28 Pier, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Stella Artois Pilsner
Fish and Chips
French Fries
Fish & Chips
Burger
Nachos

“This was my 1st visit to San Francisco on my birthday! Hidive was welcoming, with great staff, good drinks, and a great bar top food menu! Started the day out there with margaritas, and stopped back in for some wings and a nightcap at the end of the day. It was great!“

4.5 Superb83 Reviews
Would You Believe Cocktail Bar • $
4652 Geary Blvd, San Francisco

“Great space. Clean and inviting. Comfy booths. Great cocktails for an excellent price. Fun garnishes. Candied hibiscus and ginger. Also good mocktail list. Olympics on the TVs. Great modern jukebox with updated music and music videos. Good alcohol collection.“

4.8 Superb21 Reviews
Pop's Bar Bar • $$
2800 24th St, San Francisco

“Great local bar. Been around since 1930's.“

4.6 Superb36 Reviews
The Lucky Horseshoe Bar • $
453 Cortland Ave, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Bourbon & Brine

“My new favorite dive bar in the city. A great blues band was playing the night we went and the atmosphere was fun and full of happiness. Excellent and creative cocktails (the Bee's Knees and the ginger cocktail are very much recommended). Service was exceptional, we'll be definitely coming back! Love this place, A+++

Parking: best to get here via ride share because parking is extremely difficult to find.“

4.5 Superb41 Reviews
Murio's Trophy Room Bar • $
1811 Haight St, San Francisco

“Awesome bar :) Great vibe and great bartenders.“

4.6 Superb24 Reviews
44

Elixir

Elixir Bar • $
3200 16th St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Winning Cocktail Recipe
Non-Alcoholic Eggnog
Whiskey Tasting
Spiced Cider

“We rented out Elixir for four hours on a Saturday for our wedding reception. It was an incredible experience and one we’ll never forget. We are still receiving rave reviews from our family and friends who attended. The bar itself is fun, cozy and a slice of San Francisco history. The service was exceptional and we're really grateful for how communicative and helpful the manager (Nick) and lead bartender (Nick) were leading up to the event, and on the day of the party. The cocktails were great, and the bespoke menus that they printed out for us were a great touch. The tech worked as expected (music + slideshow + microphones), and the set up was easy. Everything went off without a hitch because of the staff’s gracious hosting, experience and attention to detail. I highly recommend Elixir for a drink or to host a party.“

4.4 Superb67 Reviews
Red Jack Saloon Bar • $
131 Bay St, San Francisco

“… Drew is coolYour friends from the east coast.Amazing bar, great atmosphere, friendly patrons. The bartender was great, and very attentive. We were visiting for the weekend with friends and he gave great recommendations for a few other spots closer to our hotel. I Will definitely make it back and recommend anyone looking for a great bar to visit this spot .“

4.4 Superb65 Reviews
Vieni Vieni Lucky Spot Bar • $
1431 Stockton St, San Francisco

“Great Juke box, cute bartender and booze! What else can you ask for?“

5 Superb7 Reviews
Dovre Club Bar • $
1498 Valencia St, San Francisco

“There is not a more special place in sf for fun, free-thinkers than #DovreClub! Stop in and find out for yourselves!! #RIPBrian“

4.5 Superb21 Reviews
El Farolito Bar Bar • $
2777 Mission St, San Francisco

Customers` Favorites

Burrito

“The asada Super Burrito was soooo goooood!! Jarritos Mandarin was a good pairing.“

4.5 Superb19 Reviews
The Ave Bar Bar • $
1607 Ocean Ave, San Francisco

“The Ave is an excellent bar. I love the vibe. Eight of us came here after our CCSF night class semester ended. One of the pupils paid for my first round of drinks. When I heard the bartender talk about Native American tacos $5 each, I knew I had to try it. They were delicious. It was a fried bread type of taco. They came in two versions, a vegetarian version and a beef version. The chef also let me take photos. It was cool to be able to talk to the chef.“

4.4 Superb29 Reviews
Happy Lounge Bar • $
3745 Geary Blvd, San Francisco

“If I could give Patty and Happy Lounge 10 stars...I would. Met some old friends here on a Friday night before heading to Night Bloom and late night dinner. But after meeting Patty and having a few rounds of beers, drinks and shots with her none of us wanted to leave...EVER! There is something special about a dive bar in the City with cheap drinks, cool vibe, pool table, darts, and a jukebox box playing 80's music...that something special is owner and bartender Patty. Patty is so warm, welcoming, and utterly candid in the most endearing way. She is the most real and adorable bartender I have ever met. She and I were instant friends...she even invited me behind the bar. Which I imagine is much like a cook letting you into her kitchen. I hear Patty used to have a Thai restaurant and still occasionally makes curry for her bar patrons. Did I tell you that Thai food is my absolute favorite food and that Thailand is my fav vacay destination? Happy Lounge is now my fav dive bar. And Patty...she's just my fave!“

4.5 Superb13 Reviews