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The 16 Best Bars in Chinatown San Francisco

For those seeking a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, Chinatown in San Francisco offers a unique array of bars and lounges to choose from. With its rich history and bustling atmosphere, this neighborhood is the perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a night out in the city.

Whether you're in the mood for craft cocktails, live music, or a laid-back dive bar experience, Chinatown has something for everyone. From trendy hotspots to hidden gems, you'll find a variety of options to explore in this vibrant district.

Discover the best that Chinatown in San Francisco has to offer with our list of the top 16 bars in the area. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, these establishments are sure to provide a memorable night out on the town.

How this guide is ordered

Our San Francisco editors picked these businesses citywide, giving priority to a reputation earned over time, details we have verified and strong, consistent work. Lists are revisited regularly, and we act on readers' notes about closures and moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Compare 16 local options

Vesuvio Cafe#1
What stands out
  • Customers love the cozy atmosphere and unique decor, feeling like they have stepped back in time.

  • Many appreciate the affordable prices, such as $20 pitchers of beer, making it a budget-friendly option.

  • The bar's historical significance as a Beatnik hangout and its ties to famous personalities like Bob Dylan and Jack Kerouac add to its charm.

Vesuvio Cafe

4.61,621 reviews
255 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Vesuvio Cafe is a historic cocktail bar located in San Francisco. The bar offers a variety of services and features, including dine-in options, great beer selection, and great cocktails. Customers have mentioned a few key points in their reviews:

These positive reviews reflect the bar's appeal to both locals and tourists, offering a glimpse into San Francisco's rich cultural history. Don't miss out on experiencing the casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere of Vesuvio Cafe.

The Saloon#2
What stands out
  • Wonderful live music vibe and friendly customers

  • Small and cozy gathering place for lovers of live music and cheap drinks

  • Extensive bar menu with a fun vibe

The Saloon

4.6926 reviews
1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

The Saloon is a vibrant bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of exciting services and features to its customers. With a rating of 4.6 out of 5, it is clear that patrons have had memorable experiences at this establishment.

Customers have highlighted the casual and cosy atmosphere of The Saloon, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. Whether you're looking to enjoy live music, great cocktails, or a night of dancing, this bar has something for everyone. Don't miss out on a memorable night at The Saloon!

Comstock Saloon#3
What stands out
  • A customer mentioned the wonderful variety of drinks and special cocktails, always leaving them delighted.

  • Another patron highlighted the superb service and delicious gluten-free options, recommending it for a meal, live music, and exploring the beautiful architecture.

  • A regular visitor praised the friendly staff, live music, and the best cocktails in SF, along with the delicious food options.

Comstock Saloon

4.5899 reviews
155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Comstock Saloon is a delightful cocktail bar located in the heart of San Francisco. With a rating of 4.5 stars, it is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. The bar offers a variety of services such as dine-in, takeaway, and happy-hour drinks for those looking to relax and enjoy a good cocktail.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing evening with great cocktails, live music, or a tasty meal, Comstock Saloon has it all. Check it out when you are in the area!

Rickhouse#4
What stands out
  • Great drinks and an awesome vibe! The bartenders are attentive and friendly.

  • Excellent place to go with nice cocktails. The bartender is extremely kind and recommended tasty cocktails.

  • A great place to get well-crafted cocktails with efficient bartenders. The selection of spirits is better than most places.

  • The personalized drink crafted by the bartender was not only delicious but a testament to their expertise in bartending.

Rickhouse

4.4982 reviews
246 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Rickhouse is a popular bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of services and features to cater to its diverse clientele. Some of the highlighted services and features include fast service, a great beer selection, an extensive cocktail menu, and live performances. The cozy and trendy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for groups and tourists to unwind and enjoy a memorable night out.

Li Po Cocktail Lounge#5
What stands out
  • A charming dive bar with captivating vibes

  • Historic venue with a rich history dating back to 1937

  • A speak-easy atmosphere with fantastic music and energetic crowd

  • Notable for the famous trademarked “Chinese Mai Tais”

Li Po Cocktail Lounge

4.4865 reviews
916 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Li Po Cocktail Lounge is a renowned establishment nestled in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown. This cocktail bar has garnered a rating of 4.4 based on 865 reviews. Highlighting fast service and great cocktails, this lounge offers an authentic decor that combines traditional Chinese elements with modern touches. The signature Chinese Mai Tai is a fan-favorite, known for its unique and powerful blend of ingredients.

Lion's Den Lounge and Bar#6
What stands out
  • I love this bar/lounge! Great place for drinking and dancing with a diverse crowd. Rent private tables for live music downstairs.

  • Drinks are sugary, but live music is excellent. Considered a fancy dive bar with a mix of young and old patrons.

  • Great spot for live music on Saturdays with local artists. Arrive early for seating and enjoy the amazing decorations and clean bathrooms.

  • Nice place to grab a drink with friends or coworkers. Great DJ and music selections. Vip room available for a more exclusive experience.

Lion's Den Lounge and Bar

4.882 reviews
57 Wentworth Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Lion's Den Lounge and Bar is a popular spot in San Francisco known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique offerings. With a 4.8-star rating from 82 reviews, it's clear that customers enjoy the experience. Some key points from the reviews include:

Whether you're looking for a casual night out with friends or a lively weekend with live performances, Lion's Den Lounge and Bar offers something for everyone. Experience fast service, great cocktails, karaoke, live music, and more in a trendy and LGBTQ+ friendly setting. Check out their website for more information and plan your visit now!

Mr Bing's#7
What stands out
  • Visitors appreciate the great music selection and murals in the outdoor parklet.

  • Guests enjoy the vibrant vibe, excellent drinks, and friendly staff at Mr Bing's.

  • Customers love the cool atmosphere, cold drinks, and loud music at the bar.

Mr Bing's

4.5385 reviews
201 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Mr Bing's is a popular cocktail bar located in San Francisco. The bar offers a variety of services and features to its customers. Some of the highlights include outdoor seating, dine-in options, and great cocktails. Customers can enjoy fast service and a cozy atmosphere while sipping on their favorite drinks.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar#8
What stands out
  • This is a favorite bar in the city with amazing cocktails and a perfect divey but clean vibe.

  • Great music, great drinks, and amazing prices make it a must-visit spot.

  • The owner brings a warm, personable touch to the venue, ensuring a unique and welcoming experience for all guests.

  • Fast service at the bar, enjoyable atmosphere, and a great location create a memorable experience for visitors.

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar

4.4596 reviews
601 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar is a beloved spot in San Francisco, offering a range of services and features that keep customers coming back for more. They are known for their great beer selection, crafted cocktails, and fast service. With a casual and trendy atmosphere, it's the perfect place to unwind with friends or catch up on the latest game.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Red's Place#9
What stands out
  • Customers appreciate the bar's history and the cool stories shared by the owner.

  • The barback is welcoming and helpful, making it a nice place to stop for a beer while exploring Chinatown.

  • Visitors enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and friendly staff, describing it as a gem in Chinatown.

  • Great selection of beers and happy hour specials make this a popular spot to watch games and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Red's Place

4.6181 reviews
672 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Red's Place is a historic bar located in the heart of San Francisco's Chinatown. Known for its fast service and great beer selection, this bar offers a unique atmosphere that combines old-world charm with a friendly and welcoming vibe. Customers have praised the great cocktails and the opportunity to enjoy karaoke nights while sipping on their favorite drinks.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Buddha Lounge#10
What stands out
  • Great old bar remodeled in the past few years.

  • The service is so fast it's like your Wi-Fi on a sugar rush.

  • It was very clean, the countertop felt very clean, and the vibe was good.

  • The bartender is awesome and quite fun.

Buddha Lounge

4.4414 reviews
901 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Buddha Lounge is a popular bar in San Francisco known for its great cocktails and fast service. The atmosphere is described as casual and cosy, making it a favorite spot for a wide range of visitors, including LGBTQ+ friendly and tourists. The place is wheelchair-accessible, offering a range of alcoholic beverages like beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine. Customers have praised the friendly and fun bartender "Mark," who has been there for over 30 years.

Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge#11
What stands out
  • Customers praise the friendly people and self-service karaoke experience at Bow Bow.

  • Some mention occasional slowness in service but overall encourage others to visit.

  • One negative review highlighted a rude encounter with a staff member, affecting the overall experience.

Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge

4.5187 reviews
1155 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge is a popular cocktail bar located in San Francisco. The lounge offers a variety of services and features to its customers, including fast service, great cocktails, and karaoke nights. The atmosphere is described as casual and cosy, making it an ideal spot for hanging out with friends or colleagues.

Sool Bar and Lounge#12
What stands out
  • The staff is incredibly kind and goes above and beyond to make patrons feel welcomed and valued.

  • The atmosphere is cozy, classy, and perfect for a night out with friends or a special event.

  • The selection of drinks, including unique options like cider soju mixed drinks and strawberry Yakult drinks, is impressive and delicious.

Sool Bar and Lounge

4.748 reviews
323 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Sool Bar and Lounge is a hidden gem in the heart of San Francisco. This Asian-owned bar offers an array of services and features that make it a must-visit spot in the city. From fast service to great cocktails, karaoke nights, and live performances, Sool Bar has something for everyone.

Customers rave about their experiences at Sool Bar, praising the friendly staff, delicious food, and fantastic vibe. Whether you're looking for a new go-to karaoke spot or a place to enjoy a night out with friends, Sool Bar and Lounge is a top choice in San Francisco.

Moongate Lounge#13
What stands out
  • Cocktail menu is quality over quantity with Asian influences

  • Charming location on top of Mister Jius with trendy and Asia-inspired ambiance

  • Reservations accepted, and red velvet booths available

Moongate Lounge

4.4135 reviews
28 Waverly Pl, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Moongate Lounge is a trendy cocktail bar located in San Francisco, CA. This lounge offers a variety of services, including dine-in options and a cozy atmosphere that is both cosy and trendy. Customers have praised the fast service and the quality of the cocktails, highlighting the unique Asian influences found in the cocktail menu.

Overall, the customers have given Moongate Lounge a high rating of 4.4 out of 5, with comments praising the beautiful design, good cocktails, and delicious food. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind with friends or enjoy a unique date spot, Moongate Lounge offers a memorable experience.

Grasslands#14
What stands out
  • Friendly bar with great drink selection

  • Vibrant and beautiful staff

  • Good prices and not too crowded

  • Great atmosphere and service

Grasslands

4.561 reviews
905 Kearny St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Grasslands is a welcoming neighborhood bar located in San Francisco. Known for its great selection of drinks, including beer specials and cocktails, this place is a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind and have a good time.

Some of the highlights of Grasslands include fast service, a great beer selection, delicious cocktails, and a sports-friendly atmosphere. The bar is wheelchair-accessible and welcomes outside food, making it a versatile option for all customers.

Customer reviews rave about the friendly bartenders, reasonable prices, and overall enjoyable atmosphere. Here are some key points summarized from recent reviews:

If you're in the area, don't miss out on the experience at Grasslands for a fantastic time with friends or family.

CHI Lounge#15
What stands out
  • Great experience at a corporate party

  • Super professional staff

  • Beautiful ambiance in Chinatown

CHI Lounge

5.01 reviews
818 Washington St 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

CHI Lounge is a premier event venue located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. Known for its top-notch service and beautiful ambiance, CHI Lounge is the perfect spot for hosting a variety of events and gatherings.

With amenities like gender-neutral toilets and wheelchair-accessible entrance, CHI Lounge prides itself on being inclusive and welcoming to all guests. The friendly and professional staff create a memorable experience for anyone who walks through the door.

One satisfied customer remarked, "This spot is the best. Joined the corporate party here and it was awesome. Super professional and a great experience in Chinatown."

Key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're planning a corporate event, a birthday celebration, or a wedding reception, CHI Lounge has everything you need to make your event a success. Visit their website or give them a call at +1 415-702-0273 to book your event today.

718#16
What stands out
  • Delicious cocktails with unique Asian flavors

  • Heartwarming service and talented bartenders

  • Central location perfect for casual drinks and live music

  • Cozy ambiance for drinks and quick bites

718

3.1158 reviews
718 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

718 Bar is a vibrant spot located in San Francisco, offering a range of services and features for its customers. Visitors can enjoy fast service and sip on great cocktails in a casual atmosphere. The bar provides takeaway and dine-in options, along with a selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, food, and wine.

Customer reviews highlight several key points:

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Vesuvio Cafe 4.61,621
#2The Saloon 4.6926
#3Comstock Saloon 4.5899
#4Rickhouse 4.4982
#5Li Po Cocktail Lounge 4.4865
#6Lion's Den Lounge and Bar 4.882
#7Mr Bing's 4.5385
#8Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar 4.4596
#9Red's Place 4.6181
#10Buddha Lounge 4.4414
#11Bow Bow Cocktail Lounge 4.5187
#12Sool Bar and Lounge 4.748
#13Moongate Lounge 4.4135
#14Grasslands 4.561
#15CHI Lounge 5.01
#16718 3.1158

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Map of Bars in Chinatown San Francisco

Explore the vibrant bar scene in San Francisco's historic Chinatown! With a rich history and diverse cultural influences, the bars in this neighborhood offer a unique experience for locals and tourists alike. Whether you're looking for traditional Chinese cocktails or trendy craft beers, Chinatown has something for everyone. Check out the map below to plan your next night out!

How to choose Bars in San Francisco

  1. Unique cocktail offerings.
  2. Live music and entertainment.
  3. Cozy dive bar atmosphere.
  4. Outdoor patio areas.
  5. Happy hour specials.
  6. Authentic Chinese-inspired drinks.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most popular bars in Chinatown?

Chinatown in San Francisco boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with several popular bars worth exploring. Some of the must-visit bars in the area include Li Po Cocktail Lounge, Buddha Lounge, Red's Place, Mr. Bing's, and Bamboo Hut. Each bar offers a unique atmosphere and specialty drinks that cater to different tastes. Whether you're in the mood for craft cocktails, live music, or a chill dive bar experience, Chinatown has something to offer for every bar-goer.

Are there any rooftop bars in Chinatown?

While Chinatown in San Francisco is mainly known for its bustling streets and incredible food scene, it is not particularly known for having rooftop bars. If you're looking for a rooftop bar experience, you may need to venture outside of Chinatown to nearby neighborhoods such as SoMa or Union Square, where you can find rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city's skyline.

What is the nightlife like in Chinatown?

The nightlife in Chinatown is a unique blend of traditional and modern influences. While the area is known for its historic landmarks, bustling markets, and authentic Chinese cuisine, it also houses a variety of bars and lounges that cater to locals and tourists alike. Visitors can expect to find a mix of dive bars, speakeasies, and cocktail lounges that offer a glimpse into San Francisco's diverse nightlife scene.

Can I find live music venues in Chinatown?

Chinatown in San Francisco may not be the first neighborhood that comes to mind when you're looking for live music venues. However, there are a few hidden gems in the area that host live music performances on select nights. International Cafe and Grant & Green Saloon are a few venues where you can catch live music acts in the heart of Chinatown.

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