“This place is very special to me. In the 70's my dad lived above this bar and worked below in the bar. It is the only physical connection that I have of my father. I live on the East Coast and have always wanted to be here for years. Well we did it. We came here on what would have been my dads 100th birthday just to have that beer and share his space. Truly a personal bucket item. So you may ask "what does this have to do with the current business?". You must understand the level of anxiety I had for years before coming here let alone that day. So the two people working the bar were so welcoming and made my experience a lot more comfortable for me. Great guys (Ryan and Doc). My anxiety was quickly washed away. Now it's a small little place and the parking (for now) can be a bit challenging but they just started renovating. New kitchen equipment, brand new floor and new taps getting installed. If you LOVE a cozy little bar with great service and ice cold drinks then here you are. This place has been here for many many years and there is a good reason it still stands.Good or bad this little place will always be a very special spot for me and I am extremely proud to add that there was not a bad thing about it.“
“Great atmosphere, feels like I'm back home en Mexico. The service is great, very friendly owners and good selection of beer and tequila. I come here all the time to watch the latest boxing fights and soccer matches. Viva Las Chivas!!!!!“
“All the bartenders here have a great vibe and all are ready to help you have a great night out. Really love the vibe and drink menu of this place. Find my way here at least once a week… larger crowds on nights with chase or oracle events, more mellow on other nights. If you’re in the hood don’t miss out!“
“The burger was really great. Different taste from other options around. Problem is that I was given the wrong beer, a lager and not a stout that has the same name. Others in our group had their orders incorrect for their burger toppings. But we just dealt with it.“
“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.“
“Great spot with a bit of a punk rock vibe.Excellent pool tables mostly for sharks. They have cool shows, and play good music even when they dont. It can get a bit crowded just like any spot in the city but it's never too overwhelming. The staff are always friendly and cool. They pay attention to taking turns ordering but are also quick enough you often don't have to wait too long. Beer selection is a decent range, not sure I've tried much of anything else in my visits but have heard they have a good burger. It's one of the highlights of first moving to SF and remains a favorite even though I don't always make my way over there.“
“Came on a Tuesday night for my little sister's 21st birthday. Just a stop on our long night. I'm not sure if it was the owner that served us but he has a long beard. We explained to him how there was a man at the door that followed us from the pizza place next door and was acting really weird. We were honestly ready to fight this guy. But the man that served us said he'll walk outside and handle it. He's been outside this whole time just to make sure this guy doesn't bother us anymore. Excellent service. He even let us try the sour beer to see if we liked it. I'd recommend this place fasho ?✊“
“The ambiance here is totally old school San Francisco and an experience in itself. Cozy - okay a bit tavernish - but very welcoming. Drinks are far more reasonably priced than the nearby establishments and tables were full of friends (all ages) socializing or like us waiting to go on to their dinner reservation. Only food is saltines and a wedge of cheese - it's hilarious but works. In a city where so much has become the same with cool restaurants and stylish bars - it's a breath of fresh air - something I never thought I would say. We loved it and will be back.“
“This place is all about the history. When you walk in you can feel the history pictures everywhere giving you the vibe that if the walls could talk which they really can because the pics have archived the history around the building.The foodIs good but it’s not about the food it’s about where you are eating the food.We had pancakes with eggs and bacon (wish the pancakes were softer or fluffier.Also a sausage patty breakfast sandwich with egg and cheese on sourdough bread. (I wish there was more meat on the sandwich)The vibeThat’s why you should come here is because you want to experience eating right of the water, reviewing all the history stored in the photographs.Wheelchair accessibility: Mostly flat surfaces no steps at all“
“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.“
“Dive bar with history. $12 famous trademarked “Chinese Mai Tais”. Rated by Anthony Bourdain and Eater. What more do you need? Has TVs to watch games - came in handy for the Warriors Lakers game tonight.Service isn’t white glove but it’s a dive bar and it’s just fine.“
“Always right on time and never a disappointment. Merchants is a total essence of dive bar and no comparison to others who claim to be100 years and counting- say what???? But welcoming to old and new, stop by Merchants if your in Jack London. Put money in the meter if you arrive 9-5ish. And remember where you are, have nothing visible in your car to avoid break ins.“
“They really know their whiskey! Came here for their whiskey 101 class (found on Eventbrite) and it was interesting. The information was a bit all over the place, but what a great opportunity to taste test different whiskeys against each other. The bartender was also super knowledgeable and readily answered our questions.Would recommend if you want to get into whiskey, I had a great time!“
“I only recently discovered The Cinch this year, and omg, it's amazing. The decor, the vibes, the back patio, and the staff are all amazing. I went last night for my birthday with a group of friends, and the bartender who helped us, David, was unbelievably kind and thoughtful and made us all birthday shots. And then when we were leaving and I was thanking him, he told me how nice our group was and was just overall incredibly kind and welcoming. Trust me, my entire group could not have higher praise for this bar, we had such a great time and we'll definitely be back!! Thank you!!“
“From the interior vibes to stellar staff who all have great personalities, this place is a gem! If you’re a fan of dive bars that have character, satisfying food, and that are grungy but not dirty or sticky — I believe you’ll love this place, “
“A bar that feels like the embodiment of a Dive bar (in the best way possible) My girlfriend and I stopped by here for drinks while waiting for a table at The Laundromat up the street. The bar itself is a quintessential Sports/ Dive Bar - TV's every where playing different sports, some small tables to sit at, and a pool table in the back corner. My girlfriend and I ended up grabbing a beer and a gin and tonic respectively and just chatted and watched the PBR (professional bull riding) event that was airing on one of the TVs. Also - that gin and tonic was one of the best I've had in a *l o n g* time. Staff here were friendly (notably the bar tender and the guy working the front door) and a lot of the patrons were amicable and easy to talk to. I don't find myself out in this neighborhood often but, if I did, I could easily find myself being a regular here. 5/5 just purely based on the vibes alone.“
“Not really a hole in the wall but a little bit out of the way from well trafficked areas. Spacious bar. Real fireplace. Very friendly staff that seem to each have a following but don't seem to treat non-regulars any differently. Good selection of liquors. Heads up no menus here but the staff is eager to help you get what you'll like. Gets a preett hot inside but they run fans to help keep it cool.Wheelchair accessibility: Nob Hill itself could be called not wheelchair friendly since the streets are so steep. But the bar itself is ADA compliant with clear pathways and a single level throughout.“
“This Bernal Heights spot has been a lesbian bar since it first opened in 1962. When I paid my first visit quite recently, the irony was that most of the customers were guys. It was a chill vibe, and the bartender Heather had a been-there, done-that sense about herself which I quite respected. She made a fine $8 Tequila Sunrise (photo: which I promptly took out to the back deck. There was a female customer sitting contently on a couch, and she shared her long history with the place and generously walked me down to the large bucolic garden downstairs. I was surprised how large and private it was with lots of outdoor sculpture and various art pieces scattered among the foliage. I sat peacefully in my own private enclave. What a nice find on a mellow afternoon. DRINKS - 4 stars...the drink provided a nice balm AMBIANCE - 5 stars...definitely an unbeatable garden SERVICE - 4 stars...not much conversation but quick TOTAL - 4 stars...the secret garden, for sure RELATED - Exploring Bernal Heights? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed:“
“If you come to Chinatown for a drink, there are several choices, but to me, the focus always seems to stay on Buddha Lounge (review: and Li Po Cocktail Lounge (review: since they both have prime locations on Grant Avenue and serve their own signature Chinese Mai Tais. This one happens to be Chinatown's oldest bar, so you'd think I would've been here before. However, despite passing by it dozens of times, nope, I had not been here until I decided to drop by on a random Thursday afternoon. Pretty quiet in here. First things first, there was nothing inside that would make you think you're in Chinatown except the greasy container of chicken chow mein a regular customer was eating at the bar. It was definitely the kind of place that attracts regulars regularly. No tourist magnet for sure, and that was a major plus. No Chinese Mai Tai either, but I'm not a huge fan of them anyway. I had a $10 Tequila Sunrise that the bartender mixed quite meticulously (photo: Her name was Amy, and she was chatty and friendly. The regulars not so much as they just talked just to each other despite Amy's best efforts to engage everyone. Well, Norm and Cliff weren't that friendly to everyone either. DRINKS - 4 stars...Amy made a fine Tequila Sunrise AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...oh yes, it's a dive but with character and the smell of takeout SERVICE - 5 stars...giving it up for Amy TOTAL - 4 stars...the place to get a stiff drink in Chinatown RELATED - Exploring Chinatown? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed:“
“Hits the sweet spot for what it is. Simple dive bar, small area for dancing (presumably), Good cocktails, and intriguing decorations all come together to create the perfect atmosphere for a casual hang or regular haunt. A couple TVs keep locals engaged on the big games but leave the back of the bar undisturbed for private conversations away from bright screens. A bartender that can make a good negroni is a rare find as well. Could be a lot cheaper, especially for the area, but the prices weren't offensive (2 rounds for 2 people for $50 with tip). No food that I was aware of, so couldn't rate that.“
“We were here at past 9pm on a weekday and it didn't really fail to give us more ideas of how things can really be in this part of SFO. The lady bartender was friendly and helpful. We just had a round of drinks and then left after. It was becoming too noisy for comfort outside, although our hotel is not even 4 blocks away. We enjoyed our time just the same.“
“Bucky''s is a great bar that serves reasonably priced drinks. I usually go a couple Tuesday nights a month and enjoy the service there from Meagen. Bucky's also has an back patio that's great if you want to enjoy your drink with some fresh air. If you are looking for a low key atmosphere and a good time, Bucky's could be the right spot for you.“
“There are a number of dive bars on Haight but Murio's is by far my favourite. First, Russian River on tap. Usually, Pliny the Elder or Bling Pig, but during that special time of the year you can even find the Younger. Second, the bartenders at Murio's are all really great folk. Just as friendly towards and happy to serve locals or tourists. And finally, the ambiance! There are some bars that still feel like old school SF and this is one of them. The print on the walls in the back, cozy seating, and rad light fixtures. Check it out next time you're in the Haight!“
“This is a great place to drink with awesome prices. The manager Mark is a sweetheart. He made me a special drink, because I can't have carbonation... but I wanted a fruity tasing drink and, it's now my favorite drink . My new go to bar when I visit San Francisco. . They have happy hour prices all the time. I highly recommend.“
“My favorite bar from comedy night , dj's , to hanging out with my neighbors this dive bar exceeds expectations . The staff always remembers my name and is welcoming / engaging in conversation .... a true gem in regards to service. The Ave is and will always be the best bar around and a place that I call home.“
“Happy Lounge is the jam! Patty is the best bar owner in SF. You want to play pool or darts, they got you. You want a great drink they got you. You want a great local bone, they got you. Seriously, for place is so unassuming yet delivers great caliber service.“
“This is not a review, but a memory. In the 1960s, I lived at 47th and Lincoln. My older sisters and I would wait in front of the bar for the streetcar to go to church on Sundays. The bar was always open and the old men inside would throw pennies out the front door at us! We would get a good laugh out of it!“
“This is my absolute favorite diner anywhere on earth. And for so many reasons.1. Atmosphere: is it a bar? A diner? A pinball machine warehouse? A little bit of all this things, really. Cozy, weird, and vaguely threatening, there isn't any risk that you'll be outclassed by your surroundings. More likely, you'll find yourself wanting to stay well after you're done eating. And no one will be rushing you to leave.2. Service: i was better attended than in most of the "better" restaurants I've been to, and Pamela actually boxed my leftovers for me. Love that!!3. Food: perfectly simple, simply perfect. Pancakes were incredible.“
“visiting san francisco for the weekend and we walked in this spot on a whim to grab a drink and had the best time! Gordon & the other bartender (didn't catch his name) were so friendly, funny, and hospitable. they took the time to give us SO MANY great recommendations for our weekend visit from restaurants and bars to museums and attractions. Genuinely some of the nicest bartenders i've met, definitely recommend a visit if you're in the neighborhood!“
“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.“
“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!“
“Attentive bartenders, there are billiards, a good atmosphere to watch football, a lot of energy from the customers, but you couldn't hear anything from the televisions and it wasn't because the sound wasn't as loud as the music or the noise, they were literally silenced, You can order food from the taqueria and they will bring it to you, the waiters looked very stressed and in the end they made a mistake in one of our orders and forgot to bring us takeaway boxes, cheap drinks compared to the rest of San Francisco, clean bathroom. The only thing missing was Latin music, we were there for an hour and a half and nothing else but rock in English, I like that music too but it's supposed to be a Latin bar so I want to hear my Latin music. And for the people who complain about the area outside the bar. Go complain to the city officials and the idiots who vote for them. This establishment has no control over any of that. Would I go back? Yeah.“
“Went here with a friend so the could get a drink and we could shoot some pool last night. Bartender was really really cool and very sweet. Service was great. One of the customers got too drunk and tried to pick a fight with us because we had to start turning down the shots he kept buying us. She told him he needed to leave so props to the bartender last night, but not to cool of the patrons.“
“SF hidden gem. We visit for a third time this month, our final dinner before heading back home to Utah. Food was great and service better. Love the jambalaya and my wife is a fan of the fish and chips. Had a great burger one visit and the tacos are also a meal. Service is warm and friendly. Elaina and Kelly took care for us, and they were all in. They each have two kids. How often are your servers this engaged, knowing you by name, and keeping up with your travels. We do not even live in SF, and they still invested in the relationship. It is a very unusually warm place in a cold, indifferent world. We will be back in the summer.“
“love me a small little bar! i really like the vibe here and think their buddha beer (the signature drink!) is super delicious. it's refreshing, tasty, and the price point is perfect. my only gripe is sometimes they close earlier than advertised without warning. but i get it, sometimes days can get slow. i love that they have the touchtunes in here--it's actually something i REALLY enjoy about this place. can't wait to go back!“
“This spot is divey perfection. The drinks are delicious, strong, and cheap. They fresh squeeze limes to make your margarita. Super clean bathrooms. Service is good, no nonsense, sometimes humorous and always efficient. I live nearby and have to stop myself from going too often cus I don't wanna be a lush. They're also dog friendly and I love getting some free pets from the puppers. I'm always proud to take friends to my local spot.“
“A pure dive bar to its soul. I came here on a Friday night, and Dog House has everything you want in a dive. Chill vibe and bartenders, good drink prices, and an including a variety of shot+beer combo options.I asked for “a Jameson and a beer”, getting a Budweiser and a very generous pour of Jamo for $10. Hope to grab a drink here next time I’m in the area“
“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.“
“If you're looking for a "Cheers"-type tavern with regulars who look epoxied to their seats and an interior heavy on vintage atmosphere, this neighborhood bar fits the bill. It's been in the same location since Prohibition was repealed, and the history of the bar is described in meticulous detail on the pub's website. This is definitely no trendy pick-up joint for Gen Z drop-ins. As you might expect, they have a robust calendar of events encompassing bingo, trivia, live music, and dance parties. However, more important to me, they make a half-dozen specialty cocktails and a half-dozen Bloody Mary variations. I've enjoyed the $10 Palomarg, a refreshing hybrid of a Paloma and a Margarita (photo: and the $10 Madonna Inn, a bright mix of rum, Campari, ginger beer, and orange bitters (photo: They don't know my name, but they're always glad I came. DRINKS - 4 stars...creatively good cocktails at reasonable prices AMBIANCE - 4.5 stars...if you like vintage pack rat, this'll be the place for you SERVICE - 4 stars...felt like Norm TOTAL - 4 stars...taking a break from all your worries sure would help a lot RELATED - Exploring the Outer Mission? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed:“
“What a great classic Irish bar. I love the vibe here and some of the patrons are truly characters. Great drink prices, really nice bartenders and a free pool table too! Try this place on a mellow Tuesday/Wednesday afternoon or hit it on a banging Friday/Saturday. If you want off the chain crazy try watching a Giants or Warriors game here. Good times.Oh, and the Guinness is poured correct! Take your time, Guinness, you know what’s up.“
“Had the best time in my life , in a long time at John birthday party , took my daughter and son n law and Son and his girlfriend and both love it.L.A. JoeParking: Had no problem " handy cap parkingWheelchair accessibility: It was perfect for my partner“