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Local picks

Cocktails and beer in San Francisco

Choosing between a cocktail and a beer is a dilemma that disappears when both are available.

Based on 764 Opinions
+761
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Updated May 2026
01
The Halfway Club image 1
The Halfway Club image 2
The Halfway Club image 3
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American restaurant

Bar space divides into distinct vibes across front, middle, and back areas, including a back patio and a room with a projector. Atmosphere stays warm and inviting with live jazz music at a volume that allows conversation. Crowd enjoys upmarket yet relaxed neighborhood energy with a mix of classic and creative drinks.

Cocktails come with fun curveballs like the Alaska Cocktail and pair well with excellent food. A mini-library of cocktail history sits next to the register, adding a unique touch.

Cold beers come in a short, rotating selection of solid, diverse local options. The list includes non-alcoholic beers and regular beers, plus a $23 pitcher of hazy IPA.

People are saying

"This bar has a cozy interior and friendly, competent service."

"The beer selection here is great, with good local options."

"The cocktails were super tasty and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Food can be ordered directly from your bartender or server.

3

Dogs are allowed on the patio, making it a pet-friendly spot.

02
Fifty Vara image 1
Restaurant

Space features high vaulted ceilings, natural light through huge windows, and abundant green plants creating a comfortable neighborhood vibe. Atmosphere balances cozy and upscale with a well-designed, clean aesthetic. In-house brewing and a beautiful bar add to the inviting, community-focused energy.

Cocktails come with great flavors and a yummy taste. They pair well with the good vibes and food.

An impressive lineup of in-house brewed craft beer shows real passion for brewing. The hazy IPA and Oktoberfest beer stand out with strong flavors. A wide selection covers many preferences.

People are saying

"The flatbread here is really flavorful and delicious."

"The hazy IPA here is best in class."

"The cocktails here are spot on and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and abundant, making it convenient to visit.

2

There are a surprising number of vegan and vegetarian options.

3

The portion sizes were rather small for the cost.

03
Moez Tavern image 1

Simpsons-themed bar with quirky neighborhood charm and themed drinks like Flaming Moe and Duff beer. Atmosphere feels like a Christmas wonderland enhanced by occasional light shows synced to music and indoor snow effects. Crowd enjoys a chill vibe with unique decor and pop-up events.

Bartenders craft really tasty cocktails with a great selection of specialty drinks. Cocktails look as good as they taste, delivering a spot-on experience.

Duff beer is available here and served well. The Flaming Moe cocktail stands out alongside the beer options.

People are saying

"This Simpsons-themed bar is a super cool experience."

"The decor and themed drinks here are super cool."

"I found it a very nice place to drink a Duff beer."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every other Tuesday at 8pm.

2

Prices for drinks are around $17 each.

3

Cash is preferred for payment; credit cards may not be accepted.

04
Bar49 image 1

Space feels like a modern apartment with brick walls and natural light from full windows. Atmosphere stays cozy and chill, inviting for relaxed hangouts without hustle. Crowd is friendly, enjoying good music and occasional sports on TV.

Cocktails here stand out for their unique flavors like the Empress and the 7x7 mezcal with raspberry. Drinks such as the margarita slushie offer a refreshing twist alongside tasty bites.

Offers a huge beer selection with standout hazy IPAs. Combines solid beer choices with good prices and a nice variety.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and the service was spectacular."

"The staff at this Bar are genuinely the nicest and take extra care of their guests."

"I found the cocktails here to be especially good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required for dining, making it easy to drop in.

2

Large food orders arrive quickly, so no pre-orders are needed.

3

Expect the bar to get crowded during peak hours, especially on weekends.

05
Fin Thai SF image 1
Thai restaurant

Modern space blends tropical theme with Japanese-style wooden slats and cocooned lampshades creating an upscale, inviting atmosphere. Music and lighting add a chill, pleasant vibe that feels both trendy and warm. Late hours attract a crowd seeking a relaxed yet refined dining experience.

Cocktails come with beautiful presentation and strong flavors. The menu includes creative options like the Tasty Dragon alongside a solid wine selection.

Cold beer pairs well with crispy fried chicken. Happy hour features discounted beers that complement the menu.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be excellent and authentic."

"I loved their beautiful and tasty cocktails."

"The beer here is great, especially the crispy fried chicken."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Bottomless mimosas are available every hour during brunch.

3

Desserts are served with a candle for special occasions like birthdays.

06
Question Mark Tavern image 1

Neighborhood lounge with eclectic vibe and unique decor offers a chill atmosphere and live music. Space includes private karaoke rooms and a tech-savvy buzzer entry system. Regulars enjoy perks like key fob access, while views of the skyline add to the roomy, welcoming feel.

Fun cocktails come at reasonable prices with a bartender who is friendly and attentive.

A diverse selection of draft and bottled beers fills the taps and shelves. The spot pairs well with burgers and cocktails, offering a relaxed vibe with folk music in the background.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was surprisingly superb."

"The bartender April makes amazing cocktails and is super friendly."

"They have a great, diverse selection of beer."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

3

Karaoke starts at 10pm on Tuesdays with a two-drink minimum.

07
Fermentation Lab Japantown image 1

Space combines high ceilings and elegant decor with varied seating options including lounge and bar-height seats. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively with music at a level that allows conversation even when crowded. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, adding to the friendly vibe.

Unique cocktails stand out with the lychee martini offering a sweet and balanced flavor. The Bees Knee and other drinks show a strong grasp of classic and creative mixes, with options to customize or replicate favorite cocktails.

A great bar offers a wide range of craft beers including an imperial stout and tangerine wheat. The beer selection pairs well with specialty cocktails and food options.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and delicious."

"The squid ink pasta and Katsu Loco Moco were standouts for dinner."

"The beer selection here is great, especially the craft options."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with a selection of food and drinks.

2

They offer $2 oysters during happy hour, making it a great deal.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly before your visit.

08
Per Diem - Transit Center image 1

Cozy space blends clean modernism with casual warmth, featuring cushioned seats and wood shutters. Atmosphere shifts from intimate and sophisticated to busy and lively, often accompanied by jazz tunes. Front area offers urban street views and shelter, making it suitable for both casual drop-ins and corporate events.

Bartenders craft fresh cocktails and can customize drinks without vermouth. The build your own Manhattan option offers a pricey but excellent choice alongside a solid beer selection.

Draft beers come in small but strong pours. The selection pairs well with burgers and includes some solid mixed drinks.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are excellent."

"I enjoyed the cocktails and food here."

"I enjoyed the good beer selection here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect a 6% service charge added to your bill.

3

Happy hour features live music and runs from 5-7pm.

09
Hotel Drisco Pacific Heights image 1

Historic building offers quiet luxury with stunning city and bay views. Atmosphere feels elegant and cozy, enhanced by complimentary breakfast and evening wine reception. Small, intimate setting attracts guests seeking refined hospitality without typical large-hotel amenities.

Evening cocktail hours feature a self-serve bar where guests make Manhattans and enjoy beer and wine. Small touches include a make-your-own-cocktail bar during receptions and complimentary snacks alongside drinks.

Evenings feature a self-serve bar with beer and cocktails. Daily receptions include a variety of beers paired with food. Weekend stays offer beer during happy hour and breakfast.

People are saying

"The included breakfast was terrific, with omelettes made to order."

"The evening cocktail hour with snacks was truly phenomenal."

"The beer selection here is excellent, with easy access to many neighborhoods."

Good to know

1

Evening cocktail hour features beer, wine, and a self-serve bar at 5 pm.

2

Breakfast and happy hour wine, beer, and appetizers are included on weekends.

3

Wine tasting events are held with various tapas for guests.

10
The Fly Trap image 1
Californian restaurant

Cozy, historic restaurant with charming decor and a heated alleyway patio offers a relaxed atmosphere despite loud acoustics. The space feels snug with indoor and outdoor seating, including a dog-friendly area. Drinks feature unique cocktails and a great wine selection.

A full bar offers a big selection of cocktails with first-class service. Unique drinks like a melon ball cocktail with watermelon, citrus, and soda stand out.

A limited number of beers on tap includes a hazy IPA that stands out. The beer selection pairs well with meals and complements cocktails like the Tongue Teaser.

People are saying

"I found the food here delicious, especially the risotto."

"The outdoor seating has an amazing atmosphere and beautiful decor."

"The beers on tap were great."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. with great deals on drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy evenings.

3

The full menu is available starting at 7 p.m.; only bar snacks are served before then.

11
The Club SFO image 1
Travel lounge

Spacious lounge with modern decor and plentiful comfortable seating offers a relaxing atmosphere despite occasional crowding. Amenities include showers, yoga room, and private spaces, supporting both work and relaxation. The bar serves notable cocktails, enhancing the overall experience.

Signature cocktails stand out with amazing mixed drinks and a customizable menu. The bar offers a solid selection of beverages including beer and wine, served by skilled bartenders.

Beers on tap come ice cold and are table delivered for convenience. The selection pairs well with food and sits alongside solid cocktails and wine choices.

People are saying

"The Day Lounge staff, especially Mei and Michelle, are so friendly and attentive."

"I've never had better cocktails; they were perfectly crafted."

"I enjoyed the good beer selection and table-delivered drinks."

Good to know

1

Entry is free with a LoungeKey or Priority Pass card.

2

There was a 30-minute wait to get in during peak hours.

3

The lounge is not ADA friendly, making access difficult for those with disabilities.

12
Big Finish Wine Tavern image 1

Restaurant blends Star Trek theme with warm, inviting atmosphere and Michelin-level food. Crowd enjoys wine and cider on tap alongside standout dishes like pork chop and pappardelle. Space feels cozy with Tiffany lamps and exposed brick, creating a casual yet classy vibe.

Creative low-abv cocktails stand out alongside a great selection of wines, beers, and wine cocktails. Drinks named after Star Trek references add a unique twist to the menu.

Selection includes hazy IPA on tap, draft beers, and a variety of wine cocktails. Options cover wines, beers, and non-alcoholic drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the wine selection was incredible and well-paired."

"The beer here is outstanding, especially the crispy, seasoned fries."

"I loved the creative low-abv cocktails."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $7 wines and bar snacks for a quick bite.

2

A mandatory 20% service fee is added to all checks.

3

The wine list features 46 options, organized by intensity.

13
Mother image 1

Huge, airy room with purple lighting and a big screen playing movies creates a warm, welcoming vibe. Space feels easy and unpretentious, attracting a friendly queer crowd focused on women. Music plays loudly, and amenities include a photo booth and gender-neutral bathrooms.

Cocktails feature balanced flavors and avoid excessive sweetness. The menu includes custom beer, playful names, top-shelf spirits, and fun shots. The esta madre cocktail stands out with fresh lime.

Draft beer selection includes a custom Mother beer and an IPA from the only women-owned brewery in San Francisco. Beers cost around $3 each and are cheaper than most restaurants.

People are saying

"It's a warm, inclusive LGBTQ+ community space with great vibes."

"The cocktails here feel easy, with good energy and a welcoming vibe."

"The beer here has good vibes and electric energy."

Good to know

1

Mother is a cash-only bar with an ATM available at the entrance.

2

The bar hosts unique events like drink & draw, dance parties, and tech networking mixers.

3

Expect a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ individuals, especially women and nonbinary folks.

14
Holey Moley Golf Club San Francisco image 1

Miniature golf course features 18 creative holes with video-game themes and a mix of retro arcade and modern golf vibes. The atmosphere blends party energy with occasional disruptions from kids' events downstairs. Magic performances add a unique entertainment layer alongside food and drinks.

Fun cocktails offer a tasty experience with a variety of flavors. The bar serves drinks that pair well with activities like mini golf, making the atmosphere lively and enjoyable.

A good beer tower offers a solid selection for sharing. The spot pairs well with casual drinks while playing mini golf or grabbing a burger in a chill environment.

People are saying

"The mini golf here is super fun and unique."

"I thought the cocktails tasted really good."

"I loved their beer tower."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

2

Joshua Andrew performs magic shows every Friday night at the venue.

3

The venue closes at 12 AM, so plan your visit accordingly.

15
PLS on Post image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant offers a clean and modern space with a hippy tribute theme and 60s musician art. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and relaxed to fun and lively with a full bar and TV. A game room and billiard table add to the casual vibe.

Offers a great selection of cocktails alongside a solid beer and cocktail list. Drinks complement the casual burger spot vibe well.

Cold beer comes with a nice selection of California brews. Servers offer free samples of lesser-known beers before ordering. The beer and cocktail list stays solid and straightforward.

People are saying

"I thought the smash burger was one of the best I ever had."

"You've got to try the smash burgers and milkshakes here."

"You can grab a good burger and a beer without the fuss."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is a great time to visit after work or shopping.

2

Prices are generally affordable, but some items can be steep.

3

Vegetarian burgers and gluten-free buns are available.

16
Harrington's Bar and Grill - Irish Pub image 1

Irish pub with historic charm and comfortable booths offers a cozy, inviting vibe that shifts to lively and noisy when crowded. Proper Guinness and Kilkenny on tap complement a menu featuring standout dishes like fish burrito and spiced popcorn chicken. Sound system delivers clear audio, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

A great beer selection complements a tasty cocktail menu here. Cocktails come well-crafted and flavorful.

Cold beer comes with a great selection alongside a cocktail menu. The beer pairs well with the food offered.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be surprisingly awesome."

"I came in for the great beer selection and cocktails."

"I enjoyed the great beer selection."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available for larger groups, making it a great spot for after-work gatherings.

2

The venue can accommodate large parties, ideal for events like wedding rehearsals.

3

Lunch specials change frequently, offering a variety of options at reasonable prices.

17
440 Castro image 1
Gay bar

Small, narrow bar with inside and outside seating offers a lively, energetic atmosphere filled with pleasant music and friendly, active clientele. Crowded yet cozy, it features retro videos and a parklet space that invite conversation and socializing. Affordable drinks like $3 beers add to the casual vibe.

Cocktails show good flavor but sometimes lack the proper amount of liquor. They offer a decent variety with consistent taste.

$3 beer offers a budget-friendly option. Some beers served can be flat.

People are saying

"I found this bar to be a fun and lively place with great service."

"You can grab a beer here for three bucks."

"I enjoyed the cocktails; they made good ones."

Good to know

1

The bathrooms at 440 Castro are gender neutral.

2

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks on weekdays.

3

Underwear night happens on Mondays, attracting a fun crowd.

18
Music City Starfactory (formerly Music City San Francisco) image 1

Multiple stages and rehearsal studios create a dynamic live music environment with amazing acoustics. The space buzzes with a creative community vibe and features music-themed decor that celebrates legendary figures. A special karaoke room and a bar add to the inclusive and fun atmosphere.

Creative cocktails stand out here with a high-end yet affordable feel. The bar offers a solid mix of beers, ciders, and cocktails that taste delicious.

Offers affordable beer alongside ciders and cocktails at the bar. Beer quality is consistently great, with options that fit a range of tastes.

People are saying

"The vibe here is so cool and inviting."

"I loved the live music and comedy shows while enjoying cocktails."

"I found the beer here to be great and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with food and drink specials.

2

Karaoke takes place on Sundays, offering a fun night out.

3

Open mic nights are held regularly, showcasing local talent.

19
Splash Sports Bar at Thrive City image 1

Large space with wall-to-wall screens and a sports ticker creates an immersive viewing experience. Multiple game activities like foosball, shuffleboard, and a golf simulator add interactive fun. Outdoor seating with fire pits and heat lamps offers a comfortable spot to relax.

Cocktails feature well balanced flavors and creative touches like cantaloupe balls shaped as basketballs. Drinks taste sublime but come with a higher price tag.

Beers start at $11 before tax and tip with a 5% surcharge on food and drinks. The beer quality is okay and pairs with items like a double smash burger.

People are saying

"It's a great place to watch the game with good food and drinks."

"The spacious, multi-level atmosphere here is ideal for hanging out."

"The cocktails here were great and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends by 5 PM on weekdays.

2

Expect large crowds during playoff watch parties.

3

Getting there early on game days is recommended to avoid long waits.

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