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The 16 Best Happy Hour Bars in San Francisco

Looking to unwind after a long day in the bustling city of San Francisco? Happy hour bars are the perfect spot to relax, socialize, and enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers. Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor exploring the city, San Francisco has a wide variety of happy hour bars to choose from.

From cozy neighborhood pubs to upscale cocktail lounges, there is something for everyone in San Francisco. With so many options to consider, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect spot. That's where this list comes in handy - offering a curated selection of the best happy hour bars in the city.

Take a look at the list below to discover some of the top happy hour bars in San Francisco and find the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a long day.

How we chose and ordered them

This selection of happy hour bars in San Francisco weighs each business's reputation, which anyone can check online, against how much of its work is devoted to this service. Those that do exactly this, and have done it well for years, come first.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Smuggler's Cove, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • This place is a gem for rum lovers, with perfectly mixed drinks and a menu that caters to pirate enthusiasts.

  • The authentic tiki vibe, friendly staff, and extensive drink selections make it a top choice for cocktail aficionados.

  • Guests appreciate the themed decor and strong, well-crafted cocktails at fair prices.

  • Visitors commend the atmosphere, service, and fascinating collection of tiki culture artifacts that enrich the bar's ambiance.

Smuggler's Cove

4.62,868 reviews
650 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Smuggler's Cove is a renowned Bar located in San Francisco, offering a unique experience for all rum enthusiasts and cocktail lovers. The bar is known for its authentic tiki vibe spread across three floors, creating a cosy, trendy, and casual atmosphere that transports visitors to a pirate's treasure trove. With a rating of 4.6 based on 2868 reviews, it's clear that customers love the ambiance and superb drinks offered at Smuggler's Cove.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you are looking to enjoy a classic mai tai, explore exotic concoctions, or simply revel in the maritime decor, Smuggler's Cove promises a memorable experience for all patrons.

Elements Bar & Lounge, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • Top-notch drinks and innovative cocktails

  • Spot-on bar food like charcuterie board and crispy onion tart

  • Seasonal menu changes for a fresh experience

  • Chill ambiance and excellent service

Elements Bar & Lounge

4.785 reviews
165 O'Farrell St 4th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Elements Bar & Lounge is a sophisticated establishment in San Francisco that offers a wide selection of whiskey, wine, and signature cocktails. The cocktails menu here features elemental themes like Air, Water, Fire, and Earth, all presented beautifully. Customers rave about the innovative and delicious drinks, along with the spot-on bar food like the charcuterie board and crispy onion tart. The establishment also changes its menu with the seasons to match the environment outside, ensuring a fresh experience every time.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Louie's Bar, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • This place has the most delicious burgers and amazing food overall.

  • Great atmosphere, beer, food, and service.

  • The staff is friendly and welcoming, making customers feel at home.

  • Nice diverse crowd and energy that adds to the overall vibe of the place.

Louie's Bar

4.5979 reviews
55 Stevenson St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Louie's Bar, located in San Francisco, offers a variety of services and features that make it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. The bar provides options for Takeaway, Dine-in, and Accepts reservations, ensuring a convenient and enjoyable experience for customers. With highlights like Fast service and a Great beer selection, customers can expect top-notch service and a wide range of drink options to choose from.

Customer reviews rave about Louie's Bar, with key points including:

Whether you're looking for a casual hangout spot with friends or a cozy place to grab a drink after work, Louie's Bar delivers on all fronts. With a 4.5-star rating and a loyal customer base, it's no wonder why this bar is a go-to destination in the San Francisco area.

Owl Tree, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Great selection of beers and cocktails

  • Warm and friendly bartenders

  • Cozy and beautiful space

Owl Tree

4.5535 reviews
601 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Owl Tree is a popular cocktail bar located in San Francisco that offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere. Known for its warm ambiance and welcoming staff, this bar is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Customers rave about the fun and welcoming vibe at Owl Tree, with many praising the attentive service and the overall experience. If you're looking for a place to unwind with delicious drinks and good company, Owl Tree is the place to be!

Last Drop Tavern, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • Cozy ambiance, reasonable prices, but do check the liquor prices before ordering.

  • Fresh food available even during late hours, with friendly staff and great prices.

  • Great bar and music, but cleanliness concerns in all-gender restrooms, impacting the overall experience.

  • Fast and friendly service, large food portions, limited menu options, perfect for late-night dining.

Last Drop Tavern

4.4886 reviews
550 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Last Drop Tavern is a popular bar & grill located in San Francisco. The place offers a variety of services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Known for its fast service and sports atmosphere, Last Drop Tavern is a go-to spot for many customers looking for a quick bite or a relaxing meal with a drink. The place is particularly famous for its lunch and dinner offerings, making it a great option for solo diners or groups.

Some customer reviews highlight key points about Last Drop Tavern:

With a solid rating of 4.4, Last Drop Tavern continues to attract patrons looking for a casual and welcoming spot in San Francisco to enjoy a meal, have a few drinks, and unwind after a long day. Check out their website for more details and plan your visit today!

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • This is my favorite bar in the city. The cocktails have fresh fruit/herbs and are amazing without being too sweet. Bartenders are all cool. Divey but clean. It's perfect.

  • Great music, great drinks, and amazing prices. They offer flights of rare whiskeys at a great price.

  • Dive bar with surprisingly good cocktails and a vast beer selection. Friendly staff, nice vibes, and good music.

  • The owner brings a warm, personable touch to the venue. The atmosphere is unmatched and the view of the bustling street below is perfect for a night out.

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 known for its Great beer selection and Great cocktails. The bar offers a cozy and trendy atmosphere, making it a popular choice for groups to gather and enjoy drinks. Customers praise the fast service and the variety of spirits available, from rare whiskeys to creative cocktails.

15 Romolo, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • Last stop during the night out, perfect chill vibes, and hilarious bartender.

  • Cool place with chill vibes, busy bartenders, and strong yet tasty drinks like the paper plane.

  • Unwinding spot after long adventures, refreshing drinks, and exceptional bartender Gabriel.

  • Excellent bartenders, great patron interactions, and instant favorite drink recommendations.

15 Romolo

4.4500 reviews
15 Romolo Pl, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

15 Romolo is a renowned cocktail bar located in San Francisco. Known for its great beer selection and delicious cocktails, this bar offers a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd, including groups, LGBTQ+ friendly individuals, and tourists. The bar provides various service options such as dine-in, and accepts reservations for those who prefer planning ahead.

Customers have raved about their experiences at 15 Romolo, with some key points highlighted in the reviews:

Sugar Lounge, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Fun little cocktail bar with great vibes on a Friday night

  • Good drinks and cool decor

  • Dark and moody atmosphere with reasonable seating

  • Perfect place for both locals and travelers to enjoy fantastic drinks

Sugar Lounge

4.4529 reviews
377 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Sugar Lounge is a popular bar located in San Francisco, offering a variety of services and features to its customers. The lounge is known for its fast service, great beer selection, and excellent cocktails. The atmosphere at Sugar Lounge is described as casual, cosy, and trendy, making it a favorite spot for many.

Customers have left positive reviews, highlighting the overall experience, quality of drinks, and the welcoming ambiance of the lounge. If you're looking for a place to relax, socialize, and enjoy delicious cocktails, Sugar Lounge is the place to be.

620 Jones, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • The food and cocktails are excellent, making it a must-visit bar in San Francisco.

  • Great location with tasty treats and lovely libations.

  • Perfect stop for post-work drinks with friends, offering unique and reasonably priced drink options.

  • Perfect spot for private events with excellent service, tasty food options, and a full drink menu.

620 Jones

4.31,063 reviews
620 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

620 Jones is a popular cocktail bar located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services and features that make them stand out in the area. Some of the key highlights include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, dine-in, fast service, great bar food, great beer selection, great cocktails, great wine list, live performances, rooftop seating, and sports viewing.

Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at 620 Jones. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a rating of 4.3 out of 5, based on 1063 reviews, 620 Jones is clearly a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a casual hangout spot or a place to host your next event, 620 Jones has something for everyone.

Alchemist Bar & Lounge, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • This is such a hidden gem with amazing cocktails and great food. The staff is friendly and the service is top-notch.

  • The bartender was amazing and the signature cocktail was fantastic. The food, especially the Brussel sprouts and wings, was highly recommended.

  • Despite a misunderstanding about Happy Hour, the food and drinks were enjoyable. Clear communication about specials would be appreciated.

  • The place has an interesting array of drinks on the menu, making it worth another visit when in the neighborhood.

Alchemist Bar & Lounge

4.3950 reviews
679 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

Alchemist Bar & Lounge is a trendy cocktail bar located in San Francisco, CA. With a rating of 4.3, this gem offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, delivery, and takeaway. Customers rave about their great beer selection and unique cocktails.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a fun night out with friends or a unique spot for a networking event, Alchemist Bar & Lounge is a must-visit destination in San Francisco.

83 Proof, San Francisco#11

83 Proof

4.3548 reviews
83 1st St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

83 Proof is a popular bar located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its fast service, great beer selection, and great cocktails, this bar offers a cozy and trendy atmosphere for its patrons. The bar is wheelchair-accessible, with a nice selection of alcohol, beer, cocktails, food, and wine available. Customers can enjoy happy-hour drinks and spirits in a casual setting, making it a great spot for groups to gather.

Customer reviews highlight the unique and delicious cocktails served at 83 Proof. One patron recommended trying the basil gimlet, mentioning the bartender's talent in creating personalized cocktails. Another customer praised the whisky selection and the attentive service provided by the bartender. A group that hosted a company happy hour raved about the delicious cocktails and the helpful staff, recommending the bar for future events.

Overall, customers appreciate the inviting atmosphere and the variety of drinks available at 83 Proof, making it a popular choice for a night out in San Francisco.

Harry's Bar SF, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • Great food, friendly service, and delicious cocktails.

  • Perfect spot for watching sports on TV with a diverse menu appealing to everyone.

  • Good brunch options with a mix of sports atmosphere and indoor/outdoor seating.

  • Special mention for the Spanish G&T, chicken & waffles, smoked salmon Benedict, and bourbon French toast.

Harry's Bar SF

4.2530 reviews
2020 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Harry's Bar SF is a popular sports bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of exciting services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The bar is known for its fast service, great bar food, great beer selection, great cocktails, quiz night, and a welcoming atmosphere. Some of the other amenities include gender-neutral toilets and free Wi-Fi.

With a rating of 4.2 based on 530 reviews, Harry's Bar SF has received positive feedback from its customers. Some key points summarizing the reviews include:

If you are looking for a lively sports bar with excellent service and a diverse menu, Harry's Bar SF is the place to visit!

District San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Came for happy hour before a game and it was great. Good cocktails and the wings and arrancini were nice small plates to share.

  • Hands down the best Saturday night special in SF. Amazing happy hour deals. Great wine selection.

  • Great wines and cocktails, chill environment, and delicious food. A neighborhood favorite and a great date night spot.

District San Francisco

4.4615 reviews
216 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94107, United States

District San Francisco is a renowned restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. With a rating of 4.4 and 615 reviews, it's clear that this establishment is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

District San Francisco offers a variety of services that cater to different preferences, including Kerbside pickup, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Moreover, the establishment is known for its fast service and features a great beer selection, cocktails, and an impressive wine list. It's a popular spot for dinner and solo dining, making it ideal for various occasions.

If you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere with delicious food and a fantastic drink selection, District San Francisco is the place to be.

Royal Exchange Restaurant, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • Great bar with delicious burgers and outstanding french fries.

  • Large beer selection, excellent service, and tasty Impossible burger.

  • Fast service, fresh food, and top-notch sandwiches and salads.

  • Amazing food, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive staff.

Royal Exchange Restaurant

4.3704 reviews
301 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

Royal Exchange Restaurant is an iconic establishment in San Francisco, offering a wide range of American cuisine options. With services like Kerbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, they cater to every customer's needs. Visitors can expect fast service and a sporty atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or even solo dining.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're in the mood for a casual dining experience or looking to catch the latest game, Royal Exchange Restaurant has you covered. Don't miss out on their signature dishes and refreshing beverages next time you visit San Francisco!

Azúcar Lounge, San Francisco#15
What it does well
  • Customers appreciate the friendly bartenders who go above and beyond to offer recommendations and make their visit special.

  • The vegan and vegetarian options are a hit among guests for being tasty and imaginative.

  • The lounge is praised for its super friendly staff, attentive service, and decent food that leaves customers with a nice buzz.

  • Guests enjoy the unlimited tacos deal on Tuesday and the opportunity to indulge in delicious beef or vegetable tacos.

Azúcar Lounge

4.3503 reviews
299 9th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Azúcar Lounge is a popular Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The lounge is known for its fast service, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, or even solo dining. Customers rave about the fun yet chill atmosphere, making it perfect for a good conversation over delicious margaritas and churros.

With a rating of 4.3 stars, Azúcar Lounge continues to attract customers with its vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent service. Visit their website for more information and to make reservations.

Sam's Cable Car Lounge, San Francisco#16
What it does well
  • A cool spot with a huge selection of spirits and a variety of cocktails

  • Efficient and friendly service with complimentary popcorn and nuts

  • Great sports bar ambiance with multiple screens and a selection of cigars available

Sam's Cable Car Lounge

3.8474 reviews
222 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Sam's Cable Car Lounge is a popular bar located in San Francisco that offers a range of services and features for its customers. From a diverse selection of spirits and cocktails to a welcoming atmosphere, this place has something for everyone.

Customers have praised the efficient and friendly service as well as the great variety of drinks available at Sam's Cable Car Lounge. Whether you're looking for a casual hangout spot or a place to catch a game, this bar has it all.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Smuggler's Cove 4.62,868
#2Elements Bar & Lounge 4.785
#3Louie's Bar 4.5979
#4Owl Tree 4.5535
#5Last Drop Tavern 4.4886
#6Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar 4.4596
#715 Romolo 4.4500
#8Sugar Lounge 4.4529
#9620 Jones 4.31,063
#10Alchemist Bar & Lounge 4.3950
#1183 Proof 4.3548
#12Harry's Bar SF 4.2530
#13District San Francisco 4.4615
#14Royal Exchange Restaurant 4.3704
#15Azúcar Lounge 4.3503
#16Sam's Cable Car Lounge 3.8474

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Map of Happy Hour Bars in San Francisco

Looking for the best happy hour spots in San Francisco? Look no further! Whether you're in the mood for craft cocktails, local beers, or delicious bites, this map has all the information you need to plan your next night out. Check out the map below to discover all the top happy hour bars in the city!

How to pick Happy Hour Bars in San Francisco

  1. Location.
  2. Drink specials.
  3. Food offerings.
  4. Ambiance.
  5. Outdoor seating.

Common questions

What are the best happy hour bars in San Francisco?

When it comes to finding the best happy hour bars in San Francisco, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some popular choices include The Monk's Kettle, Blackbird Bar, Barbarossa Lounge, and Bourbon & Branch. These bars offer great drink specials, delicious appetizers, and a fun atmosphere for enjoying after-work drinks with friends. If you prefer rooftop bars with a view, make sure to check out El Techo or The View Lounge. And if you're looking for a more casual vibe, Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem and Shotwell's Bar are also great options. Keep in mind that happy hour specials and times can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the bar's website or give them a call to confirm their offerings before heading out.

What are the typical happy hour specials at bars in San Francisco?

Happy hour specials at bars in San Francisco can vary, but some common offerings include discounted drinks like beer, wine, and cocktails. Many bars also offer discounted appetizers and small plates to enjoy while you sip on your favorite drink. Some bars may have daily specials or specific themes for their happy hours, such as Taco Tuesdays or Wine Wednesdays. You can usually find information about the specials on the bar's website or social media pages. It's also worth noting that some bars in San Francisco have extended happy hours on certain days of the week, so you can enjoy discounted drinks and food for a longer period of time.

Are there any happy hour bars in San Francisco with outdoor seating?

If you're looking for happy hour bars in San Francisco with outdoor seating, you're in luck! Many bars in the city offer outdoor spaces where you can enjoy your drinks and appetizers al fresco. Some popular bars with outdoor seating for happy hour include Novela, El Rio, and Bartlett Hall. These bars provide a great atmosphere for soaking up the sun and enjoying the city views while sipping on your favorite cocktail. Outdoor seating can be especially popular during the warmer months, so make sure to arrive early to snag a table on the patio or rooftop.

Do happy hour bars in San Francisco require reservations?

While some happy hour bars in San Francisco may accept reservations, it's usually not necessary to book a table in advance for happy hour. Most bars operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially during happy hour when the crowds may be larger. However, if you have a larger group or want to secure a table at a popular happy hour spot, it's always a good idea to call ahead and inquire about making a reservation. Some bars may have private event spaces that you can book for special occasions or gatherings. For a more casual happy hour experience, you can usually find seating at the bar or at high-top tables without the need for a reservation.

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