21 Best Pubs in San Francisco

“The friendliest staff in the city work here. Also, a killer cocktail menu and the food was superb, we had a proper Guinness with a beef stew and fresh soda bread and it was absolutely delicious, one of our favorite date night spots in the city!“

“Spent a great evening a the Mad Dog in the Fog. Good food. Good trivia. Great people. Thanks to Killian for making our night sensational. Best Irish pub in San Fran.“

“What a warm and inviting ambience. Soft lights, mahogany and leather, very masculine vibe, but welcoming to all. The bartenders are knowledgeable and patient. I asked for a mid priced bourbon or rye and I got to try several before making my decision. The carousel shelves of liquor are definitely a flex, very cool. The prices are reasonable. They offer a small selection of food that looks pretty good. The music is perfectly volumed, seating is ample but cozy. Nothing but good things to say!“

“Got a great parking spot across the street in front of Now Valley Bakery, which is not always the case on 24th Street. We were meeting friends there in the back outdoor area. TVs at every booth and you just ask the server to change the channel - we wanted to see the Giants. Midday beers on St Patrick’s Day weekend and it was lovely out. Lots of locals go there, so we saw a few friends. Service was great and I was introduced to the Black Velvet: Prosecco and Guinness! Sounds kind of awful but it was great. Our server was Shanna and she’s so much fun and works hard. Took great care of us!“

“If you find yourself in San Francisco, don't miss the chance to visit The Monk’s Kettle, an unassuming gem that delivers an epic culinary experience. Tucked away in the corner of this cozy bar, you'll find a scratch kitchen that churns out food of astonishingly high quality for a tavern.From the moment you walk in, the warm, inviting atmosphere sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. The Monk’s Kettle excels in showcasing local flavors, with a menu brimming with fresh, locally sourced ingredients transformed into mouthwatering dishes. Each bite is a testament to the chef's dedication and skill, turning traditional tavern fare into gourmet delights.Complementing the exceptional food is an impressive selection of local beers, carefully curated to pair perfectly with the menu. Whether you're a beer aficionado or just looking to enjoy a refreshing pint, The Monk’s Kettle offers something for everyone.The true magic of The Monk’s Kettle lies in its ability to surprise and delight. It's rare to find such high-level quality food in a bar setting, making this spot a must-visit for anyone who appreciates great food and drink. So, if you're in San Francisco and looking for an amazing dining experience, make sure to stop by The Monk’s Kettle – it's a culinary adventure you won't want to miss.“

“Joe is great. After our Uber drive dropped us in the wrong place, Joe would tell us how to get there, he took us there. It was only at the end of the block, but meant the world to us. He wouldn’t accept a tip, so went back to have a beer after dinner. He remembered our name. He is the true meaning of customer service and I’ve told all of my friends to go see him at the Showdown. Thanks again, Joe“

“This is my go-to spot in the Castro for a well crafted cocktail, good conversations and fun. I always end up meeting with and talking to so many random people. And the fact that I can order a Paper Plane, Naked and Famous, Aviation, or a Last Word with the bartenders not blinking in confusion is priceless - CJ in particular is the BEST.Bonus points for the content on their TVs where you never know what random movie on DVD will be playing from Death Becomes Her to Rat Race to random horror flicks.“

“I've had the good fortune of experiencing The Napper Tandy both as a patron as well as a music performer. As a patron, I can tell you that the food here is the BEST pub food you will ever find (I particularly recommend the reuben - the best I've ever had, hands down!)! As a performer, the staff as well as the crowd have always been extremely friendly, accommodating, and inviting. There's just something about the vibe of this place that seems to make people happy! The managers, Marissa and Nicola, are are absolute gems of human beings and their staff reflect their personal awesomeness! I'm looking forward to my next meal as well as my next show at The Napper Tandy. Hope to see ya there!“

“If you are in the know, Black Horse London Deli is the smallest coolest bar in SF and around the world possibly. The King, James has run this place for a couple of decades, it is the most unique bar spot in SF, fits only 2 handfuls of dedicated patrons, a special brand of humans indeed, the service is unsurpassed. After shelter in place, James turned it into a gourmet sandwich and hot dog kitchen, this King knows how to cook as well. So all you peeps who uses Postmates, grubhub etc. This place rocks and the food he serves is just super delicious, end of story“

“The food and drinks were excellent. ..“

“Great pit stop when you flight is delayed from SF to LA. The staff is really friendly and the food is delicious. The manager Michael is an Angel. Very customer centric and takes care of his patrons. It you're flight is delayed at SFO airport you cheouls visit This place.“

“I've been a Shotwells customer for over a decade. They have a great selection of beer, a pool table, a conversational atmosphere, and great bartenders and regulars. If you live in the neighborhood, you owe it to yourself to stop by, enjoy a pint, a good conversation, and on a sunny day, be sure to sit outside in their beautiful parklet.“

“The grilled salmon is spectacular!“

“Irish is spoken here. Join in discussions, stay away from politics, mind yourself, and they always take care of you. Misbehaving will not be tolerated and they don’t care if your great grandparents ran a chinky takeaway in Cork City.“

“This is our 1st time to San Francisco from from Washington and were able to watch the Seahawks game among all the other games with a great crowd of football fans! Food and service was amazing especially during such a crowded busy time!!! Thank you!!!“

“Out with Hoboken Joe leaving our mark on a few watering holes, even had a few with Crazycat and his lil Pleasure Point Attagirl down at Goosebump Charlie's. Then Attagirl yells out she wants a big ol sausage!Well, that was our clue to Lickity Split outa there, so we headed straight to Schroeder's for a Bratwurst.And, I'll tell you what....it was Amazing! 5 Stars ☆☆☆☆☆“

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

“The beer geek's first choice in SF is Toronado, a no-nonsense dive bar featuring many great local beers on tap, and an impressive selection of highly sought after bottles. A great place to mingle with an alternative, peace-loving crowd.“

“I think either the oldest or 2nd oldest bar in SF (maybe in California?). Great bar. A true classic.“

“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“

“A great experience… staff are amazing and welcoming ..“