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The 16 Best Happy Hour Downtown San Francisco

For those looking to unwind after a long day in the bustling city, exploring the variety of happy hour options in downtown San Francisco can be a delightful adventure. With countless bars, restaurants, and lounges offering their own unique specials, there is no shortage of places to choose from.

Whether you prefer a cozy pub with craft beer on tap or a chic cocktail lounge with specialty drinks, downtown San Francisco has something for everyone. From discounted appetizers to 2-for-1 drink specials, the possibilities are endless. So why not gather your friends and colleagues and enjoy a couple of hours of good company and great deals?

So, without further ado, here are The 16 Best Happy Hour Downtown San Francisco for you to explore and enjoy. Cheers!

How we chose and ordered them

An editorial pick of places in San Francisco, ordered by how well visitors regard them and what each one offers.

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
  • The menu is filled with a variety of rump-forward drinks that are mixed perfectly, satisfying even the pickiest of taste buds.

  • The authentic tiki vibe of the bar, along with the three floors dedicated to this theme, creates a memorable experience for all visitors.

  • The friendly and skillful staff ensure that every drink is crafted with care and attention, despite the constant line out the door.

  • The ambiance of the bar, reminiscent of a pirate ship, is truly unique and adds to the overall experience of enjoying expertly-crafted cocktails.

Smuggler's Cove

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

Smuggler's Cove is a renowned bar in San Francisco that offers a unique experience for all its patrons. With a rating of 4.6 stars, it is clear that customers love what this establishment has to offer. Here are some key points from their 2868 reviews:

Don't miss the chance to visit Smuggler's Cove and immerse yourself in a world of great cocktails and unforgettable ambiance!

Cityscape, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • Customers rave about the amazing panoramic views of San Francisco.

  • The staff is praised for their exceptional service, making special occasions memorable.

  • Guests love the cozy and trendy atmosphere of the rooftop bar.

  • The extensive wine list and tasty cocktails are definite crowd-pleasers.

Cityscape

4.61,723 reviews
333 O'Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Cityscape: Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Cityscape is a vibrant rooftop bar offering breathtaking views of the city. With a solid rating of 4.6 based on 1723 reviews, this establishment is known for its fast service, great beer selection, cocktails, and wine list. It is famous for being a great spot to unwind with friends or colleagues.

Whether you're looking for a casual hangout or a trendy spot for drinks, Cityscape is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. Make sure to stop by to savor the stunning city vistas and enjoy a delightful dining experience.

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

  • A welcoming and friendly establishment with delicious food and a diverse crowd.

  • Great atmosphere, beer, food, and service!

  • Beautiful interior, warm staff, and good food make it worth the visit.

Louie's Bar

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

Louie's Bar is a popular spot located in San Francisco offering a range of services and amenities. Customers can enjoy Takeaway, Dine-in, and even reserve a table by calling ahead. The bar is known for its Fast service, extensive selection of beer and cocktails, making it a go-to spot for people looking for a good time.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.5, it's no surprise that Louie's Bar continues to be a favorite among locals and visitors alike. So whether you're looking for a casual hangout or a place to catch up with friends over great food and drinks, Louie's Bar has got you covered.

Orbit Room, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Great spot for late night pizza & cocktails with good music.

  • Fun place with the best conversations and unique planetary-themed taps.

  • Small local bar with very friendly staff that go above and beyond.

  • Bartenders are outstanding and make you feel like you're at your local watering hole.

Orbit Room

4.5341 reviews
1900 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Orbit Room is a popular cocktail bar located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services that cater to different preferences. Customers can either takeaway, dine-in, or enjoy their delicious food and cocktails at the bar. The bar is known for its great beer selection, quiz night, and sport events.

Some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere with great service, Orbit Room is the place to be!

Charmaine's Rooftop Bar & Lounge, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • Beautiful atmosphere, ambiance, and vibes. Phenomenal drinks and friendly staff make celebrations special.

  • Upscale experience with pricier cocktails, but worth it for the quality and service.

  • Attractive ambiance with an excellent view. Wait times may vary, make early reservations for a nice spot.

  • Great wine selection, vegan menu options, and quick, kind service from doormen to waitstaff.

Charmaine's Rooftop Bar & Lounge

4.41,745 reviews
45 McAllister St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Charmaine's Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers a selection of great beer, cocktails, and a wine list that patrons rave about. The outdoor seating and rooftop ambiance provide a trendy and upmarket atmosphere for guests to enjoy. The service includes options for delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, accommodating different preferences. Customer reviews highlight the friendly staff, phenomenal drinks, and beautiful views from the rooftop. From celebrating birthdays to enjoying delicious bites and drinks, visitors recommend this chic spot for a great time.

The Madrigal, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • Unique and inventive cocktails, with a standout being the Forbidden City.

  • High-quality food, especially the lobster dog and fried calamari.

  • Great ambiance and beautiful views of downtown San Francisco.

The Madrigal

4.5102 reviews
100 Van Ness Ave, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

The Madrigal is a chic cocktail bar located in San Francisco that offers a range of services to its customers. With the option for dine-in service, patrons can enjoy the great cocktails and food at the bar while taking in live performances. The bar is known for its fast service and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Overall, The Madrigal is praised for its exceptional craft cocktails, delicious food offerings, and top-notch service. Whether you're looking for a casual hangout spot or a trendy night out, this bar caters to a diverse crowd and ensures a memorable experience for all visitors.

Last Drop Tavern, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • Cozy bar with good pricing, perfect for a New Year's Eve countdown.

  • Fresh and tasty fish tacos late at night with cold beer.

  • Great food and service, but the cleanliness of restrooms needs improvement.

  • Fast and friendly service, large portions, and a cozy atmosphere.

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, CA. The tavern offers a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy fast service and catch a game due to the available sports highlights.

Customers have left 886 reviews praising the tavern with an impressive 4.4 rating. Some key points from the reviews include:

Visit Last Drop Tavern today for a casual and enjoyable dining experience!

District San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Came for happy hour before a game and it was great. Good cocktails and the wings and arrincini were nice small plates to share.

  • Hands down the best Saturday night special in SF. Amazing happy hour deals and a great pizza. Excellent service and staff.

  • Amazing wine bar! Creamy arancini, crispy fries, and insane pork belly brussel sprouts. Fun variety of wine flights to choose from. Highly recommend this place.

  • Impressive food menu with reasonably priced options. Solid cocktails and pleasant atmosphere. Excellent service and ambiance.

District San Francisco

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

District San Francisco is a top-notch restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Known for its fast service and great beer selection, this spot is a favorite for many locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a casual meal or sip on delicious cocktails, District San Francisco has it all.

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar, San Francisco#9
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.

  • Great music, great drinks, and even more amazing prices. Check out their top shelf for rare whiskeys.

  • Dive bar but the cocktails and beer selection is surprisingly good and vast. Friendly bartender and nice vibes.

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar

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

Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar is a popular spot in San Francisco known for its fast service, great beer selection, and great cocktails. The bar is casual, cosy, and trendy, making it a favorite among different groups of people.

Customer reviews rave about the fresh fruit/herb cocktails, the diverse beer selection, and friendly bartenders. Some even mention the amazing prices for rare whiskeys like Pappy and Thomas H Handy.

Whether you're looking for a cozy place to enjoy unique drinks or a lively atmosphere to catch a game, Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar has something for everyone.

Sugar Lounge, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • Great vibes on a Friday night

  • Reasonable amount of seating

  • Comfortable couch seating in the front

  • Great music selection and fantastic drinks

Sugar Lounge

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

Sugar Lounge is a trendy Bar located in San Francisco, offering a cozy and casual atmosphere for a great night out. With a focus on cocktails and beer, customers can enjoy a fast service and a great beer selection in a welcoming environment.

Customer reviews rave about the cool decor, good drinks, and fun vibes at Sugar Lounge. Here are some key points from the reviews:

Whether you're looking to unwind after work or enjoy a night out with friends, Sugar Lounge promises a memorable experience with top-notch drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

Phonobar, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • I wouldn't have ordered the clam chowder if left to my own devices, but I'm so glad it happened. The food was rich without being overly heavy and full of flavor.

  • The cocktails are creative and tasty. The staff, particularly Sam, is attentive and charismatic. It's a favorite happy hour spot for many.

  • Great house music, but the dance floor could be more accessible. The drinks were excellent, and the overall decor was fantastic.

  • Awesome happy hour until 7 p.m. on weekdays with fantastic food. It's known to be a kid-friendly place until 8 p.m.

Phonobar

4.4299 reviews
370 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Phonobar is a trendy bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of services and features to its customers. With a rating of 4.4 based on 299 reviews, Phonobar is known for its great beer selection, cocktails, and live music performances. The bar provides various service options such as delivery, dine-in, and kerbside pickup.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Phonobar offers a cosy and trendy atmosphere with casual vibes to cater to a diverse crowd that includes groups and LGBTQ+ individuals. The bar accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for customer convenience. With wheelchair-accessible facilities and gender-neutral toilets, Phonobar ensures a welcoming and inclusive environment for all patrons.

620 Jones, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • The food and cocktails are very good, making it a must-visit spot in San Francisco.

  • Great bar food and cocktails are highlights of this establishment.

  • The outdoor seating area has an awesome vibe, perfect for post-work drinks with friends.

  • Drag brunch on Sundays is a hit among patrons, with excellent service and tasty food options.

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, offering a range of services and amenities to its patrons. With a rating of 4.3, based on 1063 reviews, this establishment prides itself on providing top-notch customer experiences.

Experience the upscale decor, fun atmosphere, and excellent service at 620 Jones while enjoying tasty treats and lovely libations. Don't miss out on the opportunity to visit this trendy and upmarket bar for a memorable experience.

83 Proof, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Unique cocktails created based on customer preferences

  • Great selection of wine and beer

  • Attentive and knowledgeable bartender

  • Refreshing whiskey snap cocktail

83 Proof

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

83 Proof is a trendy and casual bar located in San Francisco, offering a great selection of beer, cocktails, and food. Customers can enjoy fast service and a cozy atmosphere while savoring their favorite drinks. The bar is wheelchair-accessible, making it convenient for all patrons.

Customer reviews highlight some key points:

Despite a few negative reviews, the majority of customers appreciate the atmosphere and the service provided at 83 Proof. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a relaxed and enjoyable bar experience in San Francisco.

Absinthe Brasserie & Bar, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • The ambiance is chic and romantic, setting the perfect tone for a memorable dining experience.

  • Professional service ensures that every need is met promptly and courteously.

  • The food is beautifully presented and delicious, with standout dishes like French onion soup and Beef Bourguignon.

Absinthe Brasserie & Bar

4.41,677 reviews
398 Hayes St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Absinthe Brasserie & Bar is a renowned French restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Known for its chic ambiance and delicious French cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy great coffee and desserts while indulging in popular lunch and dinner options.

Whether you're looking for a cozy spot for a romantic date night or a trendy venue for a business meeting, Absinthe Brasserie & Bar caters to a diverse crowd, including families, groups, and LGBTQ+ individuals. With a focus on offering vegetarian options and a variety of beverages including cocktails, wine, and coffee, this restaurant is sure to please even the most discerning diners. Treat yourself to a taste of Paris at Absinthe Brasserie & Bar and experience exceptional French cuisine in the heart of San Francisco.

Azúcar Lounge, San Francisco#15
What it does well
  • We came here two nights in a row and it was great. Fun atmosphere but also chill and good for a conversation. The bartenders are really great and friendly. Margaritas and churros are must-tries.

  • Plentiful vegetarian and vegan options along with great cocktails. The vegan tacos were tasty and imaginative, and the service was quick despite the crowd.

  • One customer highlighted the bartender's amazing recommendations and the delicious Carnitas quesadilla with cucumber.

  • The lounge vibe is excellent with super friendly staff and delicious drinks. The food is decent, perfect for a chill scene.

Azúcar Lounge

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

Azúcar Lounge is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in San Francisco. The lounge offers a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for lunch, dinner, solo dining, and more. The business prides itself on providing fast service for customers looking for a delicious meal or refreshing drinks.

Customers have shared their positive experiences at Azúcar Lounge. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Experience the delicious offerings and cozy ambiance of Azúcar Lounge for yourself!

B, San Francisco#16

B

4.2279 reviews
720 Howard St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

B is a premier event venue located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. Known for its fantastic location and outdoor seating options, it is a go-to spot for many patrons. The establishment offers a variety of delicious cocktails and appetizers, perfect for a casual meet-up or a post-work rendezvous. One of the standout features of B is its great views, making it an ideal place to unwind and relax.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

With a rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 279 reviews, B continues to attract patrons looking for a laid-back atmosphere and great drinks. Whether you're stopping by for happy hour or hosting a group event, B offers a memorable experience for all visitors.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Smuggler's Cove 4.62,868
#2Cityscape 4.61,723
#3Louie's Bar 4.5979
#4Orbit Room 4.5341
#5Charmaine's Rooftop Bar & Lounge 4.41,745
#6The Madrigal 4.5102
#7Last Drop Tavern 4.4886
#8District San Francisco 4.4615
#9Tunnel Top Lounge and Bar 4.4596
#10Sugar Lounge 4.4529
#11Phonobar 4.4299
#12620 Jones 4.31,063
#1383 Proof 4.3548
#14Absinthe Brasserie & Bar 4.41,677
#15Azúcar Lounge 4.3503
#16B 4.2279

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Map of Happy Hour Downtown San Francisco

Looking for the best happy hour spots in downtown San Francisco? Look no further! This map highlights all the top bars and restaurants with great deals on food and drinks during the happiest hour of the day. Whether you're looking for cheap eats or half-priced cocktails, this guide will help you find the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.

How to pick happy hour downtown in San Francisco

  1. Location.
  2. Specials and discounts.
  3. Atmosphere.
  4. Menu options.
  5. Reviews and ratings.
  6. Happy hour timings.

Common questions

What are some popular happy hour spots in downtown San Francisco?

Some popular happy hour spots in downtown San Francisco include Bar Agricole, Local Edition, Novela, The Interval at Long Now, and Rickhouse. These bars offer discounted drinks and appetizers during happy hour. If you're looking for a more casual setting, you can check out Co Nam for Vietnamese bites or Mikkeller Bar for craft beers. Sugar Lounge is also a great option for a laid-back atmosphere with specialty cocktails. Remember to check the specific happy hour times for each venue, as they vary from place to place.

Are there any rooftop bars that offer happy hour in downtown San Francisco?

The View Lounge at the Marriott Marquis and El Techo in the Mission district are two popular rooftop bars that offer happy hour specials in downtown San Francisco. These venues provide panoramic views of the city skyline while you enjoy discounted drinks and small bites. During happy hour at these rooftop bars, you can typically find deals on cocktails, wine, and beer. It's recommended to arrive early to secure a spot with the best view.

What can I expect from happy hour specials in downtown San Francisco?

Happy hour specials in downtown San Francisco typically include discounts on beer, wine, and cocktails. Some bars offer small plates or appetizers at reduced prices to accompany your drinks. Depending on the venue, you may find specific drink specials like $5 margaritas or $1 oysters. Some places also have daily rotating specials, so it's worth checking their menu beforehand.

What are the best days to enjoy happy hour in downtown San Francisco?

The best days to enjoy happy hour in downtown San Francisco are typically Monday through Thursday, as many bars and restaurants offer specials during the weekdays to attract customers. Fridays can also be a good day to unwind after a long week. It's important to note that happy hour times may vary by location, so it's recommended to check the specific hours for each venue before heading out. Some places may also offer weekend happy hour specials, so keep an eye out for those as well.

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