Get Lost in the Sauce at the Best Bars in San Francisco Right Now

San Francisco’s best bars include secret speakeasies, botanical delights, and naughty natural wine bars.

Heartwood
Photo by Albert Law, courtesy of Heartwood
Photo by Albert Law, courtesy of Heartwood

Considering SF was built around its saloons during the Gold Rush and, 150 years later, was a pioneer in the craft cocktail movement, it’s unsurprising that this town is full of fantastic drinking destinations for imbibing. From dive bars to cocktail dens to everything in between, the hardest part is narrowing down the choices when it comes to going out for a drink.

You’ll find many excellent options on this list of bars with quality, not quantity, in mind, as we tried to keep the list as digestible as a shot of Fernet. Ranging from dives to glittering rooftops, hopefully, the entries will inspire you to get out, revisit an old favorite, discover a new one, and toast to one of the things that San Franciscans do best—drink.

Heartwood
Photo by Albert Law, courtesy of Heartwood

Heartwood

Financial District
$$$$

The apple doesn’t fall from the tree when it comes to this new nature-inspired cocktail escape from the team behind The Treasury, Third Rail, and The Beehive. Like all of the industry vet’s drinking destinations, upon entering, you immediately want to sidle up to the bar and put down roots while sipping expertly-crafted drinks with flavors derived from plants, fruits, herbs, and spices, many of which also have delightfully clever names, like, “Pretty without the R,” which is made with vodka, hibiscus sage, bergamot, baijiu, caraway, and soda, and “Apple Propaganda,” which is made with Botanist Gin, green apple, juniper, pisco, bay leaf, and elderflower tonic), and is a play on Johnny Appleseed. You may plan to pop in for a drink, but be prepared: Heartwood is the kind of bar that makes it very easy to forget about the outside world and passing the time, in part because of the cozy exposed brick walls/wood beams and floors/high tin ceilings aesthetic, but also because of the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and tasty snacks, such as pigs in a blanket, mushroom satay with peanut sauce, smash burger sliders, and bite-sized fried chicken are all worth an order.
How to book: Walk in.

Rendezvous
Photo by Albert Law, courtesy of Rendezvous

Rendezvous

Marina
$$$$

We appreciate a mean cocktail, but we equally appreciate enjoying it in a bar that doesn’t take itself too seriously. This is precisely what Rendezvous, a new afternoon to late-night watering hole on Lombard Street, delivers. Shaher Misif, the award-winning bartender at the helm of this new spot, is all about cocktails without the pretense, and with each new delightful and kitschy moment, such as Espresso-tini shots served in everything from mini honey bears to tiny toilet bowls and the “Netflix and Chill,” made with butter-washed bourbon cocktail served in a popcorn box with popcorn garnish, we were more and more inclined to agree. The “intimate” bar seats about 35 people in total, but it’s less about the space and more about the fact that the smaller size allows the friendly bartenders to interact with the patrons in a way that one doesn’t usually see in SF these days. While it doesn’t look like “Cheers”—a neon sign lights up the entrance, windows are draped in sheer, sequin-covered cloth, and the back bar is full of My Little Ponies, Rubber Duckies, and other knick-knacks—it’s not hard to imagine walking in and hearing everyone cheer your name.
How to book: Walk in.

Sluts

SoMa
$$$$

In any other place than San Francisco, a wine bar called Sluts might raise an eyebrow, but in this town, it barely elicits a reaction even though most natural wine bars don’t lean into the bawdier side of life. Sluts, however, definitely does, in all of the best ways possible. Seriously, forget every wine bar stereotype you’ve ever known because this bar, the brainchild of chef and owner Imana (Hi Felicia), is playful and a little naughty. There’s no shortage of fun moments to be enjoyed in the moody space, including on some nights, very impressive performances on the bar’s stripper pole (there’s even an “open pole” night!), a neon “spit or swallow?” sign making the obvious double entendre of wine-tasting and, well, you get it, and, confetti bombs for celebratory moments. There’s also no shortage of fun things to drink, assuming you’re into natural wine (there are also some non-alcoholic versions available). As far as food, well, what’s not fun about Cup O’ Noodles, Chips Ahoy!, Eggos, and Tostino Pizza Rolls?
How to book: Walk in.

the Felix
Photo by Erin Ng, courtesy of The Felix

The Felix

Union Square
$$$$

There’s nothing SF loves more than a “secret” bar. But in the age of the Internet, nothing stays a secret anymore, so instead, we’ll call describe The Felix as more of an underground cocktail den. To find it, you’ll first need to spot a neon Felix the Cat. You’ll then be asked to find a framed photo of the bar’s actual namesake (we won’t ruin all of the fun moments), which will open a door that takes you down a staircase to a glamorous basement bar with graffiti-covered Prohibition-era photos, velvet couches, and Mahjong-tiled tables. The drinks all feature Asian spirits and ingredients, like the Bohemian Rhapsody with Sông Cái Floral (a Vietnamese gin), green chartreuse, chrysanthemum syrup, and a Crème de Cassis float. In fact, if you like chartreuse of any color, you’ll be happy to know it’s featured in several cocktails (the Felix Swizzle with green chartreuse, yellow chartreuse, Malibu rum, ginger beer, and cardamaro is especially tasty and maybe even too drinkable). The snack menu is limited right now, but don’t sleep on the tom yum-flavored Chex mix. And while The Felix is only open (for now) on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the mood, while always a little sexy and a little sultry, is definitely also dependent on the time of day and which DJ is in the booth.
How to book: Walk in.

Cavaña
Photo courtesy of Cavaña

Cavaña

Mission Bay
$$$$

SF went a while with its same handful of rooftop bars, but within the last couple of years, they seem to be popping up everywhere, and as denizens of a town with probably the most gorgeous views in the country, we couldn’t be more elated. The newest addition, Cavaña, sits atop the brand-new 17-story LUMA Hotel, and the indoor-outdoor space has views of the city, the Bay, and Oracle Park. The bar was created as a love letter to the cultures of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. You’ll find that inspiration throughout, from the decor and lush greenery to the fun and unique cocktails that showcase Latin ingredients in the cuisine. The arepas cooked over a budare and filled with a mouth-watering brisket are a must-order. And though it’s SF, so one pretty much never leaves home without a warm jacket, there’s no need to worry about the infamous weather spoiling your evening. Cavaña is completely weatherized with retractable glass doors and fire pits that are perfect for a cozy evening out.
How to book: Book online.

Available for Reservations

Bar Sprezzatura

Financial District
$$$$

If you aren’t already enamored with Italian aperitivo culture Bar Sprezzatura with its chic gold and sky blue accents, plush velvet seating, and a long bar with swiveling stool, will immediately change your mind. Perfect for a leisurely lunch, post-work drink, or a romantic date, this stylish bar is truly great for any occasion when cocktails are in order. The cocktail menu spans some inventive Italian-inspired takes, such as the Cicchetti Martini, with vodka, Carpano Blanco, and olive brine, that’s served with an anchovy-stuffed olive, pepperoncini gran ripieno, and freshly shaved truffle, but there’s also a full negroni menu, a selection of spritzes, and a handful of Italian wines and beers. Snack on savory cicchetti options at the bar, like Guanciale Meatballs and Scalia Anchovies, or make your own charcuterie plate with their salumi and cheese selection. There’s also pizza by the slice, crudo, fresh salads, and pasta and risotto, should you decide to tuck into a full meal.
How to book: Reservations can be made via SevenRooms.

Bar Agricole
Photo by Eric Wolfinger, courtesy of Bar Agricole

Bar Agricole

SoMa
$$$$

Thad Vogler is known for being a pioneer of thoughtful cocktails made with high-quality ingredients, so it only makes sense that, despite its new(ish) location on Mission Street, his James Beard Award-winning cocktail bar continues to showcase his passion and dedication to seasonal and ingredient-driven drinks and food. The drinks are, of course, the hero, with the 34-seat (all booths) “tasting room” built to showcase a center island where the drinks are (mostly) concocted. The space awash with pale wood is sleek and beautiful, if not also a little stark. This is not a place where you settle in for a night of raucous drinking with friends. It’s a quiet, almost meditative setting where you go to appreciate serious cocktails, many of which showcase single-origin spirits from Bar Agricole’s spirits line. There’s also a front bar for walk-ins, perfect for those times when you still want a quality cocktail but with slightly more casual vibes.
How to book: Make reservations on Tock.

Pacific Cocktail Haven
Photo courtesy of Pacific Cocktail Haven

This tropical cocktail haven, which moved last year to bigger and swankier digs just a few doors down from the old space, continues to be one of SF’s best bars thanks to the creativity and passion of award-winning bartender Kevin Diedrich and his team. Grab a seat at the expansive wooden bar, in one of the cozy banquettes, or on the outdoor patio, and enjoy a cocktail featuring Asian and Pacific Island ingredients guaranteed to be thoughtful, well-balanced, and unlike anything you’ve ever had before.
How to book: Walk in.

Harlan Records

Union Square
$$$$

The folks behind this bar (in the former Bar Fluxus space) want imbibers to “listen more,” making them a dream drinking destination for audiophiles. Inspired by Japanese listening bars, the intimate venue features over 2,000 vinyl records lining the walls. The playlist ranges from Charlie Parker to The Beach Boys to The Cars, and as far as what you’ll be drinking, think music-inspired cocktails and classics, like a Sazerac or just a great glass of cabernet.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

Kaiyō Rooftop
Photo by Anthony Parks & Emilio Salehi, courtesy of Kaiyō Rooftop

There is much to appreciate about Kaiyō’s second location atop the Hyatt Place Hotel. The most obvious one is clearly spelled out in the name. And as far as SF rooftops go, Kaiyō is up there with the best of the best. The tropical space is filled with lush greenery, amazing views (seriously, you can see Twin Peaks and the Bay Bridge), and while we love the restaurant space for a sit-down meal, the bar area is where it’s at, in part because it’s very pretty to look at—emerald green tiles, arches over the back bar, Japanese lantern lampshades—but also because of Nikkei-inspired cocktails (including several in large format), pisco sours, and an extensive list of Japanese sake and whisky. There’s also a wood panel roof above the bar area, which allows for plenty of built-in heaters—a key to any true SF rooftop enjoyment.
How to book: Book online.

Available for Reservations
Li Po Cocktail Lounge
Photo by Daisy Barringer for Thrillist

Anthony Bourdain put this come-as-you-are dive bar on the map when he famously imbibed (perhaps one too many) of the infamous (and yes, we are using that word properly) Chinese Mai Tais in a San Francisco episode of his Travel Channel show TheLayover. But even before he brought widespread attention to this spot, those in the know headed through the red-lacquered double doors under the (somewhat recently restored) neon lantern sign for stiff drinks at the wraparound bar in the front and dice games in the back. Like, long before. As in: since 1937.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

Dalva

Mission
$$$$

If you haven’t been to Dalva in a while, it’s time to change that. The beloved neighborhood bar reopened after the pandemic with a lighter, airier feel and inventive cocktails, like the Garibaldi Sunrise (Campari, tequila, fresh orange juice, “sangrita fluff,” and an orange wedge sprinkled with Tajin), as well as a couple of highballs, plus beer, cider, and vermouth on tap. And for everything we love about its new and improved look, what we also love is that its not-so-secret hidden back bar, the Hideout, feels much the same. With dark, moody, cozy, and casual, with red walls and cushy banquettes, the only major change is its menu of classic cocktails. Change is hard, but in this case, the Dalva folks got the balance just right.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

Trick Dog
Photo courtesy of Trick Dog

Trick Dog

Mission
$$$$

If there’s one bar in SF everyone will agree should be on a “Best Bars in SF” list, it’s Trick Dog. The printed drink menu changes every six months or so, with fun takes on an old letterpress broadside, a dog calendar, and an airline in-flight safety pamphlet, but the food menu stays pretty much the same, so you can consistently get your Trick Dog and Caesar fix (the Trick Dog is a hamburger that comes on a hot dog bun hence: Trick Dog). And for fans of Quick Dog, the kid-friendly, fast-casual operation serving hot dogs, nuggets, and (adult-friendly) bottled cocktails that popped up during the pandemic—it’s still there, and a new permanent location is in the works.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

Aub Zam Zam

Upper Haight
$$$$

It’s a rite of passage for any booze-drinking human who would like to refer to themselves as a San Franciscan to enjoy a martini at Aub Zam Zam, a bar that was once known for its cantankerous (yet beloved) owner, Bruno Mooshei, who had very specific rules about bar etiquette and was not afraid to ask someone to leave who did not live up to his standards (a martini is made with gin, not vodka, for instance). Since his passing, things at the dimly lit watering hole with a Middle Eastern ambiance have mellowed out a little bit. Yes, you’ll still need to have cash, but you don’t need to have it immediately ready to place on the horseshoe-shaped bar, and you can certainly ask what the bartender recommends, though the only real answer is a dry martini made the way Bruno liked, which is the same way his father made them when the bar first opened in 1941.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

Moongate Lounge
Photo by Patricia Chang, courtesy of Moonlight

Moongate Lounge

Chinatown
$$$$

Right above Mister Jiu’s, the Michelin-starred, upscale Chinese restaurant from chef/owner Brandon Jew, is a former banquet hall transformed into a stylish salon with mid-century modern flair, a retro color palette that was modern at the time, cushioned seating, and moon gates throughout. The space is, dare we say it, sexy (at least for SF) and almost makes you wish you’d worn something other than sneakers and a puffy jacket, a thought that will likely dissipate as soon as you start sipping the Chinese lunar calendar-inspired cocktails and/or organic and natural wines available by the glass.
How to book: Book online.

Available for Reservations
Daisy Barringer is an SF-based freelance writer who is taking advantage of these strange times by exploring San Francisco on foot. Follow her on Instagram to see where she goes next.