Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Cafe

Discover the Hidden Gem in North Beach, San Francisco

Those who may not be familiar with Specs' Twelve Adler Museum Café might either miss it entirely because it is hidden in a busy corner of North Beach or bypass it altogether because it may not look inviting at first glance. So, let me tell you a little about its history and try to convince you that it is worth at least one visit, especially if you are into urban history, in this case, that of San Francisco.

Adler Museum is not exactly a dive bar, but it is a watering hole that comes close to it in some respects! It has been a North Beach watering hole for many artists, poets, and musicians for over 50 years and was a bar for years before that. According to some accounts, it was also one of San Francisco's first lesbian establishments.

The founder, Richard Simmons, nicknamed "Specs" because of the glasses he wore, was born in the Roxbury neighborhood of Boston in 1928. He left Boston in 1948, became a merchant marine, and spent time in Europe. The first time he visited San Francisco was as a merchant marine. He returned to San Francisco in 1951 and eventually met his wife, Sonia Marantz. Fast forward to 1968, when the couple opened the bar in William Saroyan Place (Back then, it was called "Adler Place"). According to legend, Simmons got the money from royalties from the "MTA" song performed by The Kingston Trio, but this is another story in itself!

Since its opening, Specs' has been a cultural institution and a beloved watering hole for a wide range of patrons. It started as part of the Beat and counterculture movement of the 1960s and has continued to attract a diverse crowd, reflecting San Francisco's vibrant community.

The walls of the bar are covered with a wide variety of artifacts from around the world. Many of these items came from Simmons' personal collection and gifts from patrons and friends. Sailors who frequented the bar in its early days often brought souvenirs from their travels. The decor includes flags, political posters, nautical relics, Northwest Coast art, San Francisco and California history pieces, musical memorabilia, and more.

Specs' is one of many historic North Beach businesses, including Vesuvio Cafe, City Lights Books, Caffe Trieste, and The Beat Museum. Together, they are a significant part of the neighborhood's unique history. In 2016, the City of San Francisco recognized Specs' as a Legacy Business, acknowledging its importance in the city's history.

The bar is now owned and operated by Richard Simmons' daughter, Elly Simmons, and granddaughter, Maralisa Simmons-Cook, making it a women and family-run business. The cafe continues to uphold its founding values and remains a member of the hospitality workers' union, Unite Here Local 2.

Not convinced yet? Well, what if I told you they have an excellent draft and bottled beer collection and make delicious cocktails?! They also feature a diverse monthly calendar of events, including live music, poetry readings, book parties, and more.

Stop by for a beer next time you are in North Beach, and let me know what you think."

Kid-friendliness: Not for kids! It’s a bar!

Wheelchair accessibility: Wheelchairs can be rolled in and situated by tables.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 3

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Cheese and Crackers

WOW MOM WOW!

Check with the bar or online fore LIVE MUSIC!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Don’t leave your card open. The bartender charged my card for someone else’s tab and gave them my card. And honestly wasn’t very apologetic. He did say my drink was on the house…I’d hope so since he gave away my method of payment.

If you do go, bring cash, it’s safer and you don’t pay tax with cash.

Edited to add - I emailed them and the owner responded with a lovely email and a a gift certificate to come back.

Atmosphere: 4

Service: 2

Great little place we got to meet Mike the bartender and get the history on the place!!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

Nice and cozy place to have a beer and talk with friends, music not so high ,the only problem is when there a lot of people one bartender is not enough

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

As an elderly person, I appreciate the mature atmosphere here. Going back tomorrow night.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

I come here occasionally when the bourgeois in me wants to be bohemian . A BoBo - that’s what I really am. This place is throwback to the 60s ; they have open mic night for beat poets who are unreadable but bearable only when they recite their poem ; there is a democratic spirit here that sends good vibes - but after 45 mins it tests my patience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

My favorite tucked away writer's and arm chair philosopher's hideaway in N. Beach!

Atmosphere: 5

Great atmosphere! The decor seems like a few generations' travel memorabilia collection. We had a pint of their IPA from draft each and it was absolutely delicious.

My favorite tucked away writer's and arm chair philosopher's hideaway in N. Beach!

Atmosphere: 5

Divey historic beat bar. Understaffed but great vibe with interesting scenery and friendly folks. Took a while to get served but the bartender was doing all she could under the circumstances.

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

The ambiance is wonderfully nostalgic, reminiscent of classic San Francisco. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to soak in the rich, bohemian atmosphere that’s become increasingly rare in modern-day bars.The drinks at Specs’ are as exceptional as its ambiance. Whether you’re a fan of classic cocktails or prefer to try something new and adventurous, the bartenders here mix drinks with an expertise that’s clearly born from a passion for their craft.But what truly sets Specs’ apart is its sense of community. It’s a melting pot of artists, writers, locals, and tourists, all coming together to share stories and laughs. The staff are not just friendly, they make you feel like a part of the Specs’ family.In a city that’s constantly evolving, Specs’ Bar stands out as a bastion of authenticity and timeless charm. It’s more than just a bar; it’s a San Francisco institution that embodies the soul of the city. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, a visit to Specs’ is an unforgettable experience.This review is entirely fictional and designed to capture the essence of a beloved local bar with a rich history and unique atmosphere.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Now this is a bar. An SF institution of the highest order.

Super cool little hidden gem. Best dirty martini Ive ever had!

Atmosphere: 5

Service: 5

It’s simply a great bar for grownups who want a lively adult vibe with reasonable size (or small to some) drinks at very reasonable prices . It was SantaCon in SF and two patrons placed themselves outside to say “ no santa hats allowed” . Hallelujah! No Dinner here unless you consider a wedge of cheddar and crackers with a cocktail dinner. Good old fashioned but if you are expecting a trendy Negroni be prepared for a lower level Vermouth. Regardless, this is a truly great bar a block from Columbia & Broadway, a Block from the Hilton Financial District & a block from Chinatown. Full of locals, tradition and full of life.