Top Bars in San Francisco – Most Viewed (2025)

Since opening in 2009, Smuggler’s Cove has become a pilgrimage site for rum and tiki lovers worldwide. The multi-floor hideaway in Hayes Valley marries vintage Polynesian-pop artifacts with weather-beaten nautical relics, creating the feeling that you’ve ducked below deck on a pirate brig tossed onto a tropical reef. Behind the bar, staff tap what the owners tout as the largest rum collection in the United States—hundreds of bottles spanning three centuries of history—while the menu revives classics like the Zombie and Jet Pilot alongside modern originals served in flaming mugs or seashells. Despite its fame (World’s 50 Best Bars alumni, multiple James Beard and Tales of the Cocktail accolades), the vibe stays welcoming: no reservations, just first-come camaraderie over meticulously crushed-ice drinks. Crowds gather as soon as doors open at 5 p.m., so arrive early or be ready to queue outside the porthole-framed entrance. Once inside, wander up the rope-lined staircases to explore each level’s unique vantage, join the “Rumbustion Society” passport program, or simply sink into the low light and let the island soundtrack carry you away until last call at 1:15 a.m.

At Bourbon & Branch, located at 501 Jones Street in San Francisco’s Tenderloin, you’re stepping into a piece of living history. Operating since the late 1800s and running as a speakeasy during Prohibition (1921–1933), this bar nails authenticity with hidden entrances, password-only access, and hush-hush rules that transport you straight back in time. Your entry starts with a discreet buzzer, followed by a whispered code—“books” if you're heading to the Library—to reveal a hidden door tucked behind book-lined walls. Once inside, you'll be enveloped by plush booths, dark wood finishes, warm lighting, and shelves of vintage spirits glinting in the dim light. Discreet prohibition-era music plays gently in the background, and staff enforce house rules like no cell phones, no standing at the bar, no ordering Cosmopolitans, and no photography—creating a hushed, timeless hush. Reservations are strongly recommended for the main bar. Guests will be given personalized service, a table, and their own password—creating a sense of exclusivity that complements the speakeasy charm. On the other hand, the Library room welcomes walk-ins (with password), offering a more casual, standing-room experience with a pared-down cocktail list. Craftsmanship is at the heart of Bourbon & Branch. Their cocktails are made with house-made mixers and fresh ingredients—no packaged syrups or juices. The drinks are exquisitely curated across categories like “Spirit Driven” and “Fresh & Fancy,” delivering an elevated drinking experience. In sum, Bourbon & Branch is a masterclass in immersive, speakeasy-style hospitality—whispered passwords, thematic secrecy, finely honed cocktails, and an ambiance that revives the Prohibition era in every detail.

The Interval at Long Now isn’t your typical bar—it’s a cultural hub, cocktail lounge, and intellectual playground nestled within Fort Mason Center in San Francisco. Created by The Long Now Foundation, this venue is designed as a salon and museum for long-term thinking, where patrons can sip finely crafted drinks surrounded by mechanical prototypes of 10,000-year clocks, rare books on science and history, and immersive art installations. The bar’s design is stunning—industrial yet warm—with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, brass fixtures, and a two-story “Library of the Long Now.” It's as much a space for contemplation as it is for conversation. Guests can enjoy unique cocktails inspired by science and history, from the “Martian Tea” to the “Manhattan Project,” all created with precision and care. More than just a bar, The Interval hosts public talks, salons, and showcases ideas that span centuries. It’s a meeting ground for futurists, artists, scientists, and curious minds from all over the world. Whether you're here to drink, read, or just reflect on humanity’s long arc, this is one of San Francisco’s most thought-provoking hidden gems.

Since its 2016 inception by acclaimed bartender Kevin Diedrich, Pacific Cocktail Haven (P.C.H.) has become one of San Francisco’s most celebrated cocktail destinations. After a devastating fire in 2021, the bar returned a few doors down in 2022, preserving its legendary spirit while moving into a slightly larger, refreshingly inviting space. The bar’s aesthetic is understated yet elegant—curved banquettes, a glowing front patio, and an immaculately stocked back bar create a refined, comfortable atmosphere that feels like your favorite lounge channeling a tiki-infused cocktail sensibility. What truly sets P.C.H. apart are its cocktails, which showcase Diedrich’s Filipino roots and his flair for islands-inspired innovation. Expect standout creations such as the pandan Leeward Negroni, the playful Thrilla in Manila, or the vegetal-fresh Oh Snap!, blending gin, sherry, sugar snap peas, absinthe, and citrus. The hi-ball hour before 7 p.m. delivers fizzy fan favorites like the Toki and Banana Hi-Balls—creative starters at approachable prices. P.C.H. has earned rave global recognition: ranked No. 16 in North America’s 50 Best Bars in 2025 (up from No. 38 in 2024), winner of the Tales of the Cocktail’s “Best American Cocktail Bar,” and a James Beard finalist for Outstanding Bar in 2024. Locals and cocktail enthusiasts love it too—Reddit users praise its unique flavor profiles and ambiance, recommending arriving early to avoid the evening crowd.

Housed in a repurposed factory with soaring ceilings and a mezzanine overlooking the bar, Trick Dog (opened 2013 by Josh Harris and the Bon Vivants team) has cemented its place among San Francisco’s top creative cocktail destinations. Known for its playful, biannual themed menus—past iterations have riffed on airline safety cards, conspiracy theories, and Pantone swatches—each menu is a full immersion: drink names, garnishes, even visuals spin around that theme. The drinks are as clever as they are complex. Signature cocktails like the “Commune Life” (gin, herbal liqueur, Chartreuse, burnt honey) and the more recent “Bee Bearder” and “Ring Master” show off flavors from fish sauce and mango to shochu and coffee, always surprising without alienating. The menu features SFW non‑alcoholic options, highballs, shots, and even boilermakers. The food offering isn’t merely an afterthought: kale salad with pepitas and slow-cooked egg yolk packs a punch, while bar bites like loaded fries and the signature Trick Dog burger (in a hot‑dog bun) blend effortlessly with the cocktail program. Despite its acclaim and occasional crowds—especially during Friday/Saturday evenings—it retains a neighborhood bar vibe. Music is loud, bartenders are welcoming (you may need to work a bit for their attention), and the crowd is as diverse as its menu—locals, cocktail nerds, art-lovers and visitors alike. Recent honors include ranking #71 in North America’s 50 Best Bars and Food & Wine naming it among the top‑10 U.S. bars—validating more than a decade of innovation and cultural relevance. Trick Dog is more than a cocktail bar—it’s a rotating creative showcase, a communal late-night hangout, and a place where expectation is skewed into delightful discovery—with every menu drop promising something new.

Located in the heart of San Francisco’s Financial District (375 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94104), Pagan Idol is a full-blown tiki fantasy brought to life by the team behind Bourbon & Branch. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted by the bow of a wooden ship-hull style bar with portholes overlooking underwater scenes. Beyond that, you venture into a back room that opens into a star-lit night sky above, thatch tiki huts, massive wood totems and a dramatic volcano that periodically “erupts” with fog and mythic flair. The vibe is unapologetically theatrical and fun, with surf beats, exotic music grooves, and a crowd that’s ready to “escape what’s out there”. Drinks lean heavily on rum (often big pours), classic tiki formulas and whimsical presentations—with some served in coconuts or intricate tiki mugs for extra flair. While the décor is immersive, the menu makes clear the focus is on the cocktails—not full meals—so it’s smart to grab dinner elsewhere first. Whether you’re after a late-night blow-out with friends, an Instagram-worthy aesthetic, or simply a tropical escape without leaving the city, Pagan Idol delivers a high-energy, high-fun concept. Just be aware it’s more about frivolity and vibe than ultra-intimate whispers—and the price reflects the setting.

Tucked on Mission Street in SoMa, The Pawn Shop transforms the idea of a pawn shop into a theatrical, immersive dining & drinking experience. The exterior plays the part: old bowling balls, vintage TVs, dusty odds & ends behind windows, signage like “Money Loaned” that nods to its past life — but the real fun starts when you interact with the gatekeeper or Pawn Master, bring (or pretend you have) a trinket to pawn, then pass through a hidden door into a lush bar-dining room. Inside, the décor blends tropical wallpaper, exposed brick, wood paneling, and stained glass; the lighting is moody and inviting, creating a semi-secret ambiance. The menu is Spanish-inspired tapas and pinchos: pulpo a la plancha, lamb lollipops, skewers, various flatbreads, croquettes, pan con tomate, all meant to share. Drinks focus on wine (Spanish & others), beers, sangrias, and cocktails (especially lower-ABV, wine-based or lighter concoctions) so the pairings with small plates shine. The Pawn Shop is ideal for evenings where you want something fun, atmospheric, and social. It bridges food + drink + secret entrance theater. Service tends to be warm with a sense of show: you feel part of something playful. On busy nights it can get lively, so arriving earlier helps if you want relaxed conversation.

Established in 1948 by Swiss artist Henri Lenoir, Vesuvio Cafe stands as a testament to San Francisco's rich literary and artistic heritage. Nestled in the heart of North Beach, directly across from the renowned City Lights Bookstore, this historic saloon became a haven for the Beat Generation luminaries, including Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, and Lawrence Ferlinghetti. The bar's unique charm is amplified by its vibrant murals, eclectic decor, and an interior that exudes bohemian flair. Vesuvio's two-story layout offers patrons a choice between the lively downstairs bar and the more intimate upstairs seating, providing a perfect perch to observe the bustling scene below. The walls are adorned with artwork, photographs, and memorabilia that pay homage to its storied past, creating an ambiance that's both nostalgic and invigorating. The drink menu features a selection of classic and inventive cocktails, such as the Averna Gimlet and the Mezcal Negroni, alongside a curated list of wines and beers. While Vesuvio doesn't serve food, its focus remains on delivering quality beverages and fostering a sense of community among its diverse clientele, which ranges from artists and writers to tourists and locals seeking an authentic San Francisco experience. Adjacent to the bar is Jack Kerouac Alley, a pedestrian walkway adorned with literary quotes and murals, further cementing Vesuvio's place in the city's cultural landscape. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply in search of a unique watering hole, Vesuvio Cafe offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of San Francisco's artistic soul.

Nestled in San Francisco’s Mission District at 16th & Guerrero, Elixir claims its place as the city’s second-oldest continuously operating bar, with origins stretch back to at least 1858. Nearly obliterated in the 1906 quake and fires, it rose again in 1907 under the stewardship of architect Brainerd Jones—and that building still serves as its home. Entering Elixir is like stepping into a time capsule. Walls bristle with relics: original architectural plans, artifacts, even the women’s entrance that once let early female patrons in discreetly. Dark Victorian wood, a grand mahogany back bar, and shelves packed with over 600 whiskies—accessible only via a library ladder—set the mood. Owner H. Joseph “H.” Ehrmann revived the bar in 2003, transforming a neglected relic into a pride of the cocktail renaissance—earning accolades like GQ’s “Best Cocktail Bars in America” in 2008. Patrons can enjoy expertly crafted classic cocktails, an impressive whisky selection, slushies, drafts, and even low/non-alcoholic libations. Despite its historical charm, Elixir is a relaxed neighborhood hangout, complete with dartboard antics and loyal regulars. Its warm lighting and vintage decor make it ideal for intimate drinks or unguarded conversations. Elixir is equally a museum and a living bar, the kind of place where every bottle and artifact tells a story—and where the past and craft converge in every pour.

From the street, The Pawn Shop still looks like the gritty “Money Loaned” storefront that long occupied 993 Mission Street—but step inside and you’ll discover one of San Francisco’s most mischievous dining experiences. Guests hand a small item to the resident “pawn master,” who stays in character behind cluttered shelves of oddities. After the mock transaction, a hidden door swings open, ushering you into an Art-Deco dining room glowing with stained glass, brick arches, and a long bar. Opened in 2019 by the teams behind Monarch and Beso, the concept mashes up Spanish tapas with speakeasy theatrics. Chef Damien Chabaud-Arnault’s menu roams from classics like patatas bravas and gambas al ajillo to larger plates of pulpo a la plancha and hanger steak, while vegan options such as crispy cauliflower keep plant-eaters happy. Drinks lean lower-proof: red or white sangria, cava spritzes, and sherry-forward cocktails, plus more than 50 wines and 20 beers for pairing. The vibe balances cheeky fun with date-night intimacy—reservations are accepted, but walk-ins can queue outside under the neon pawn sign. Inside, patrons watch newcomers negotiate through a one-way mirror, creating a constant buzz of anticipation. Hours run Tuesday – Saturday until 10:30 p.m., offering a rare late-night bite in SoMa. Whether you go for the immersive entrance, the communal tables, or simply a glass of Rioja and churros, The Pawn Shop turns a casual night out into a story you’ll retell.

True Laurel, located in San Francisco’s Mission District, is a cocktail bar founded by the team behind Michelin-starred Lazy Bear. It opened in 2017 and has since become a beloved destination for both serious cocktail lovers and curious explorers. The design is art-forward and intentional: the bar is fashioned from a fallen laurel tree, lending both character and narrative. You’ll find sunlight filtering through skylights and shadows dancing across concrete walls, soft wood, sculptural shelving, and botanical accents. The space feels both modern and grounded — stylish but not precious. Cocktails here revolve around local and seasonal ingredients. Team members among the bar and service staff have gardens, forage, and work closely with farmers to source ingredients. The rotating menu includes cocktails like “Under the Palms” (coconut-infused rye, gin, vermouth, arāk, redwood tips) and “Pea-Casso”, which features snap pea, vodka/aquavit fusion, citrus, and flat tonic. The drinks lean layered, balanced, and elegant — appealing to both cocktail nerds and those who prefer something more approachable. Although it’s primarily a bar, the food program is no afterthought. Their bar bites & small plates are sophisticated — think loaded baked potatoes, cornmeal pancakes & caviar, hen-of-the-woods mushrooms, gougères with tomato jam, and more. The food complements the drinks, not competes with them. True Laurel’s schedule adapts through the week: Tues & Wed: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM Thu: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Fri: 4:00 PM – Midnight Sat: starts at 11:00 AM (brunch) and goes until Midnight Sun: brunch + evening service until ~10:00 PM Closed on Mondays True Laurel has gained recognition: in North America’s 50 Best Bars 2025, it ranked #17. It is also lauded for sustainable practices: renewable energy sources, low waste efforts, and actively working with local growing initiatives. The vibe is warm, curious, artful, and unpretentious. It’s the kind of place to settle in, sip slowly, and let the details — drinks, ingredients, lighting, conversation — speak to you.

Nestled in the historic Fairmont Hotel atop Nob Hill, the Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar has thrilled guests since 1945, charming locals and tourists alike with lush Polynesian décor, a 75‑foot indoor lagoon (once the hotel’s plunge pool), and theatrical rain‑and‑lightning storms. Originally designed by an MGM set maestro, the space is steeped in island fantasy—complete with carved tiki totems, thatched huts, and a floating bandbarge where the “Island Groove” quartet delivers nightly 60s‑80s tunes with a $15 cover charge. Its cultural legacy runs deep: Anthony Bourdain famously called it “the greatest place in the history of the world,” and it’s recognized as a historic resource by San Francisco’s planning department for its rarity and iconic “high‑style” tiki theming. Whether you're drawn by nostalgia, novelty, or a taste for tiki‑style cocktails, Tonga Room offers a one‑of‑a‑kind experience—complete with rainstorms, floating musicians, and immersive ambiance—making it essential on any SF itinerary.

Nestled discreetly behind an unmarked door at 505 Jones Street (enter via 501 Jones), Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency takes the concept of a speakeasy to another level: it’s a “speakeasy within the speakeasy” inside Bourbon & Branch. From the moment you step into its hush-toned world, you’ll sense the theatrical flair: soft lighting, a vintage detective-agency aesthetic (think velvet-flocked wallpaper, antique glassware, subdued brass accents), and a compact space reserved for intimate groups of 1-4 guests. The cocktail menu is hidden inside a “case file”, the drinks themselves carry names that evoke clandestine intrigue, and some are served in teapots as a nod to Prohibition-era craft. The bar is designed for revelation rather than crowd energy: you won’t find booming music or sprawling crowds, but rather a few well-chosen seats, highly trained bartenders who work like investigators of flavour, and an experience that makes each drink feel like part of a story. For example, TimeOut described it as having “small two-tops, candlelight, pressed tin ceilings and an extensive drink menu.” The atmosphere is partly mysterious, partly luxurious: you’ll likely whisper the password, be led down a hallway, and find yourself in a world apart from the busy streets of the Tenderloin. Once inside, the order may be unconventional (expect presentation quirks, rare spirits, theatrical touches), but the result is serious craft. One review noted: “Drinks you just can’t find in any ol’ secret bar… the bartenders are making it next-level.” Because of the small size (around 20 seats) and the focused experience, reservations are essential—and in most cases limited to groups of 1-4. In short: Wilson & Wilson is not just a bar—it’s an immersive evening out. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a memorable date night, want to dive into serious cocktail craft, or simply want to say you’ve found one of San Francisco’s most intriguing hide-outs.

Located at 718 14th St in San Francisco’s vibrant Castro neighbourhood, Last Rites is not your typical bar: it’s an immersive “Polynesian-Noir Adventure” cocktail lounge where you’ve seemingly crash-landed into tropical ruins. From the moment you step inside, the décor transports you — airplane seats from a 1960s fuselage serve as bar chairs, massive banyan-tree roots spread across the space, stacked-stone booths nestle into foliage, and two 9-foot fire-breathing skull idols loom overhead. The lighting and sound design enhance the effect: thunderstorm effects, ambient jungle insect sounds, and a mood that shifts from clandestine lounge to full-on adventure. Reviewers describe it as “jungle crash site meets tiki bar” and say that the vibe alone is worth the visit. On the drinks front, Last Rites offers over 150 rums and a menu of potent, theatrical cocktails. For example: the “Last Rites” (rum, lime, passion fruit, salted molasses, secret mix of amaros & spices) clocks in at around $16, with optional souvenir glass. Larger share-drinks for groups (serving 4+) also feature heavy tropical flavours, onboard sacrificed banana leaf garnish and fire-topped presentation. The bar operates on a first-come, first-served basis (no standard reservations) though private areas for groups of 8–60 can be arranged. This space is suited for a date night with a twist, a fun outing with friends seeking theatrics, or simply a cocktail lover wanting something far beyond the ordinary. Just go in knowing it’s more about the mood, theme and drink experience than a quiet, refined lounge.

Hidden on the second floor of the China Live complex at 644 Broadway in San Francisco, Cold Drinks Bar is a cocktail lounge crafted for aficionados of fine spirits and atmospheric escapes. Upon ascending the staircase, patrons pass under the subtle iconography of bats and a discrete door—befitting the bar’s speakeasy-style mystique. Inside awaits a dimly-lit, velvet-lined interior evoking 1930s Shanghai jazz-era glamour combined with old-school San Francisco charm. The bar specializes in whiskies — especially Scotch — and cocktails built around rare or aged spirits. On the drink menu you’ll find names like the “Sometimes Old Fashioned” (duck-fat-washed whisky) and “Silk Degrees” (coconut-washed Johnnie Walker Black, pineapple & coconut) among other creative pours. Seating is intimate and upscale; many reviewers mention dress-up appropriate attire and a refined yet relaxed crowd. The food menu is light (snacks served, coming from the Eight Tables kitchen) and the focus squarely on craft cocktails and ambience. Whether you’re beginning your night in Chinatown, seeking a refined after-dinner drink, or marking a special occasion, Cold Drinks Bar provides a well-executed mix of clandestine charm, serious spirits and memorable décor.

Tucked on a quiet street in San Francisco’s Bernal Heights neighborhood, Holy Water invites you in with a low-lit, intimate interior where carved wooden pew-like benches meet whiskey barrels repurposed as tables. The space evokes a warm, rustic tavern meets sacred hall — with baptism murals, religious art prints and vintage glass-decanter chandeliers creating a unique, soulful vibe. Behind the bar, you’ll find one of the Bay Area’s most thoughtfully curated selections of craft beers, rare bourbons, ryes and house cocktails. From rotating taps of West Coast IPAs, sours and stouts to barrel-aged whiskey pours, Holy Water balances variety with quality. Cocktails stay true to classic, timeless recipes — think gimlets, Moscow mules, Boulevardiers — often with fresh juices or house-made syrups. Despite its un-pretentious charm, the vibe leans stylish: the ceiling is painted like clouds, fairy lights glow softly overhead, and the murmurs of conversation mix with mellow music. On most nights you can settle in to sip slowly — though Fridays and Saturdays tend to draw a livelier, more social crowd. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, a whiskey lover, a cocktail purist, or just someone looking for a welcoming bar with character — Holy Water delivers. It feels like a neighborhood institution, where regulars return week after week, and newcomers are welcomed like congregation.