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The 16 Best Speakeasies in San Francisco

Discover the hidden gems of San Francisco's nightlife scene with a visit to the city's iconic speakeasies. These covert bars offer a unique blend of history, charm, and craft cocktails that transport patrons back to the Prohibition era. From secret entrances to carefully crafted drink menus, each speakeasy in San Francisco has its own story to tell.

Whether you're a local looking for a new after-hours haunt or a visitor seeking an authentic experience, San Francisco's speakeasies have something for everyone. Get ready to step back in time and enjoy a night of clandestine cocktails in the heart of the city.

Explore the underground world of speakeasies in San Francisco and uncover the best-kept secrets of the city's nightlife scene. Whether you're in search of a classic cocktail or a modern twist on a Prohibition-era drink, these 16 speakeasies are sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail connoisseurs.

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

Local Edition#1
What stands out
  • Unique ambiance with a cave-like setting

  • Live music adds a nice touch

  • Desire for improved service

Local Edition

4.52,357 reviews
691 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Local Edition is a popular cocktail bar located in the heart of San Francisco. With a rating of 4.5 stars based on 2357 reviews, it is clear that this establishment has made a mark on the nightlife scene. Some of the highlights of Local Edition include fast service, a great selection of beer, cocktails, and wine, as well as live music and performances.

Customers have shared their experiences at Local Edition, with a few key points standing out:

If you are looking for a cozy and trendy spot to enjoy great drinks and music, Local Edition is the place to be. So, head over to 691 Market St and experience this hidden gem for yourself!

Bourbon & Branch#2
What stands out
  • Customers rave about the exceptional service that makes them feel like they have traveled back in time to the era of speakeasies.

  • The diverse cocktail menu, with a strong emphasis on bourbon-based drinks, caters to all types of drinkers.

  • The cozy and trendy atmosphere, along with the option to book tables in advance, ensures an unforgettable night out.

Bourbon & Branch

4.51,616 reviews
501 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Bourbon & Branch is a renowned cocktail bar located in San Francisco that offers a unique experience for its customers. With a rating of 4.5 stars from 1616 reviews, it is clear that this establishment is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to enjoy delicious cocktails or want to immerse yourself in the ambiance of a bygone era, Bourbon & Branch is the place to be. Visit their website for more information and contact details.

Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency#3
What stands out
  • Great service and enjoyable environment

  • Fun bartenders and good drinks

  • Remarkable cocktails that make you question other bars' abilities

Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency

4.6134 reviews
505 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency is a bar located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services including alcohol, cocktails, and food. The atmosphere is described as cosy, trendy, and upmarket. One of the highlights of this establishment is the fast service and great cocktails.

Some customers have left positive reviews, mentioning the following key points:

The Barrel Room#4
What stands out
  • Customers enjoyed a lively and bustling atmosphere, with excellent starters and mains. The pork chop and bavette steak were exceptional.

  • One customer praised the wide selection of wine but mentioned disappointment with the burrata toast. The service was good, and the wine selection stood out.

  • A patron was pleasantly surprised by the cozy atmosphere of The Barrel Room and highlighted the delicious Argentinian cuisine, especially the wagyu steak.

  • Another customer raved about the unique wine tasting experience and delicious food. The rotating wine list and menu featuring wines and cuisine from around the world stood out.

The Barrel Room

4.4371 reviews
415 Sansome St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

The Barrel Room is a renowned restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Known for its fast service, great cocktails, and great desserts, it is a popular spot for dinner and solo dining. Customers have left glowing reviews of their experiences at The Barrel Room.

With a rating of 4.4 stars and over 371 reviews, The Barrel Room is a top choice for those looking for a memorable dining experience in San Francisco.

Cold Drinks Bar#5
What stands out
  • Impressive cocktails and friendly bartenders

  • Relaxed and upscale atmosphere

  • Well-executed and creative drinks

Cold Drinks Bar

4.5195 reviews
644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Cold Drinks Bar is a popular cocktail bar located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. This hidden gem offers a variety of services and features that set it apart from other bars in the area. Some of the available service options include takeaway and dine-in experiences, ensuring customers can enjoy their favorite drinks at their convenience.

One of the highlights of Cold Drinks Bar is its reputation for fast service and great cocktails. Customers rave about the impressive drink selection and the expertly crafted cocktails served by friendly bartenders. The atmosphere is described as cosy, trendy, and upmarket, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed evening out or a special celebration.

Accessibility is also a priority at Cold Drinks Bar, with wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet. Additionally, the bar offers a variety of offerings including alcohol, beer, cocktails, food, spirits, and wine, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Customer reviews praise Cold Drinks Bar for its creative cocktails, high-quality drinks, and elegant atmosphere. Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.5 and 195 reviews, Cold Drinks Bar continues to delight customers with its exceptional service and diverse drink selection. Whether you're looking for a casual drink with friends or a special night out, Cold Drinks Bar is a must-visit destination in San Francisco.

83 Proof#6
What stands out
  • A customer shared a cautionary experience about safety concerns at the bar.

  • Another patron suggested trying the unique cocktails and praised the wine and beer selection.

  • A regular visitor highlighted the great whisky selection and friendly service.

  • One reviewer recommended 83 Proof for post-work drinks or small gatherings.

83 Proof

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

83 Proof is a vibrant bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of services and features to cater to its diverse clientele. The establishment provides dine-in options and boasts a selection of alcohol including beer, cocktails, and wine. Customers can enjoy fast service and a great atmosphere that is casual, cosy, and trendy.

Here are some key takeaways from customer reviews:

Experience the warm ambiance and top-notch offerings at 83 Proof for a delightful evening out.

The Library#7
What stands out
  • Customers praise the friendly and welcoming bartenders who go above and beyond to make their experience special.

  • They appreciate the intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a great cocktail.

  • The diverse and creative drink selection, coupled with the unique speakeasy vibe, sets this bar apart from the rest.

The Library

4.758 reviews
510 O'Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

The Library: A Hidden Gem in San Francisco

Located in the heart of San Francisco, The Library is a unique speakeasy bar that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for its patrons. With a rating of 4.7, it is clear that customers rave about their time spent here.

Whether you're looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or simply unwind after a long day, The Library is the perfect spot. Don't miss out on this hidden gem in San Francisco!

Linden Room#8
What stands out
  • Located in the heart of Hayes Valley

  • Intimate, Elegant Setting

  • Innovative Cocktails

  • Great cocktails and varied menu

Linden Room

4.5155 reviews
292 Linden St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Linden Room is a top-rated cocktail bar located in San Francisco. The bar offers a variety of services and features that make it stand out among its competitors. Customers have praised Linden Room for several key points:

The bar is known for its creative and seasonally changing cocktail menu made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The cozy and trendy atmosphere, along with its LGBTQ+ friendly crowd, makes Linden Room a favorite spot for a sophisticated evening out. With gender-neutral toilets, the bar promotes inclusivity and accessibility. Despite a small space and limited seating, the bar's excellent service ensures a memorable experience for all patrons. So, whether you're looking for a perfect date night spot or a classy evening with friends, Linden Room is the place to be.

Anti-Saloon League#9
What stands out
  • I love everything about it! The concoctions are amazing!

  • Great place

  • No specific comments provided

Anti-Saloon League

5.03 reviews
506 O'Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Anti-Saloon League is a renowned bar located at 506 O'Farrell St in San Francisco. The establishment prides itself on offering a wide range of alcoholic beverages and wines in a casual atmosphere. One of the highlighted features of this bar is its fast service, ensuring customers have a pleasant experience. Additionally, there are toilets available for the convenience of guests.

With a perfect rating of 5.0 stars, customers have expressed their satisfaction with the bar. Some of the key points from the reviews include:

Experience the exceptional service and atmosphere at Anti-Saloon League for yourself!

Marianne's#10
What stands out
  • Intimate wedding lunch for 17 people with amazing food and attentive staff

  • Swanky speakeasy with good drinks and tasty bites

  • Great cocktail selection and happy staff with a unique retro decor

  • Comfortable speakeasy vibe with incredibly kind and talented bartenders

Marianne's

4.475 reviews
360 Jessie St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

Marianne's Lounge: Located on 360 Jessie St, San Francisco, Marianne's offers a unique lounge experience in a cozy and trendy atmosphere. With a rating of 4.4, it is highly regarded by its customers. Here are some key points from their reviews:

From great cocktails to cozy ambiance and friendly service, Marianne's is the perfect spot in San Francisco for a chill night out or a special event. Embrace the diverse offerings from bar games to gender-neutral toilets, and enjoy the impeccable attention to detail at this women-owned lounge. Make sure to check out their website for reservations!

The Speakeasy#11
What stands out
  • A disappointing experience due to disorganization at the entrance, unprofessionalism, and amateur performances.

  • A meh experience with a lack of engagement, cultural jokes that may not make sense, and overall boredom.

  • A stellar experience with fabulous performers, period details, and a promise to return for more fun.

The Speakeasy

4.467 reviews
644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

The Speakeasy is a captivating Theater production located in San Francisco. The business offers an immersive experience full of surprises and entertainment. Customers have left reviews highlighting key points:

The venue provides a unique atmosphere reminiscent of a historic speakeasy, offering guests a memorable night filled with twists and turns. With a rating of 4.4 stars, The Speakeasy promises an unforgettable experience for those looking for a night of immersive theater and entertainment.

Lower Mason#12
What stands out
  • Great speakeasy feel

  • Terrific craft cocktails

  • Amazing ambiance

Lower Mason

5.01 reviews
140 Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

Lower Mason is a popular bar located in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With a rating of 5.0, it is clear that patrons have had exceptional experiences at this establishment. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Customers praise the fast service and great cocktails offered at Lower Mason. The bar provides a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, making it a versatile spot for any occasion. Whether you're in the mood for beer, wine, spirits, or cocktails, Lower Mason has something for everyone. Additionally, the bar offers amenities such as toilets for added convenience. If you're looking for a top-notch bar experience in San Francisco, Lower Mason is a must-visit spot.

The Hideout#13
What stands out
  • One reviewer noted the unpleasant customer service experience, urging others to explore different options in the area.

  • Others appreciated the laid-back atmosphere, great drink selection, and the quirky movies playing on the back wall.

  • The cozy and intimate space in the back bar was a standout feature for many visitors, making it an ideal spot for meeting up with friends and enjoying specialty cocktails.

  • Some patrons particularly enjoyed the quiet conversations and the special drink crafting process, emphasizing the uniqueness of The Hideout as a must-visit spot in the Mission district.

The Hideout

4.289 reviews
3121 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

The Hideout is a popular bar located in San Francisco, CA. Offering a range of service options, including fast service and a great selection of beer and cocktails, this cozy and trendy establishment provides a casual atmosphere for its patrons. With amenities like toilets and wheelchair-accessible car park, it ensures a comfortable experience for everyone.

Customer reviews rave about the great cocktails served at The Hideout and recommend trying the celery cocktail at the back bar. The ambiance of the back bar is noted for being dark and classy, providing a cool vibe for visitors. Another highlighted feature is the unique "Hideout" room that offers more interesting drink options for those looking for a fancy experience.

Finders Keepers#14

Finders Keepers

4.56 reviews
1000 Larkin St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Finders Keepers is a trendy cocktail bar located in San Francisco, offering a cozy atmosphere and great cocktails. Customers have highlighted the fast service, live performances, and a nice selection of food. The bar provides dine-in service and has a variety of offerings like alcohol, beer, cocktails, and more. Additionally, Finders Keepers accepts reservations and credit cards for payment.

Customer reviews praise the bar for its nice and aesthetic ambiance, with one mentioning the delicious steak frites and the Professor Plum cocktail. Another review simply states the positive experience without providing specific details. Multiple customers have given a 5-star rating, with positive comments about their visits.

The Remedie Room#15
What stands out
  • Everything was going great until I went up for my second round. After tipping the bartender 60%, he still let some Karen cut me in line.

  • Cool spot. Hard to find (not posted, go downstairs).

  • Cool bar

  • The best

The Remedie Room

4.25 reviews
256 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

The Remedie Room is a popular bar located in San Francisco, offering a range of services to its customers. With a rating of 4.2 stars, this establishment is known for its fast service and great cocktails that keep patrons coming back for more.

Customer reviews highlight a few key points:

Whether you're looking to dine in or just grab a drink, The Remedie Room has you covered. So, head over and experience the casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere while enjoying some delicious food and drinks.

718#16
What stands out
  • Asian-inspired cocktails with interesting flavors pairings

  • Heartwarming service and flexibility from the bartenders

  • Delicious cocktails with unique Asian flavors

  • Cozy atmosphere for drinks and quick bites

718

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

718 Bar is a popular spot in San Francisco known for its great cocktails and fast service. Offering a range of options including takeaway, dine-in, and alcohol, this bar caters to a diverse crowd looking for a casual atmosphere to enjoy some drinks with friends.

Customer reviews highlight the delicious cocktails, talented bartenders, and great vibes at 718. Some key points from the reviews include:

If you're looking for a new spot to enjoy quality drinks and good company, 718 Bar is worth checking out!

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Local Edition 4.52,357
#2Bourbon & Branch 4.51,616
#3Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency 4.6134
#4The Barrel Room 4.4371
#5Cold Drinks Bar 4.5195
#683 Proof 4.3548
#7The Library 4.758
#8Linden Room 4.5155
#9Anti-Saloon League 5.03
#10Marianne's 4.475
#11The Speakeasy 4.467
#12Lower Mason 5.01
#13The Hideout 4.289
#14Finders Keepers 4.56
#15The Remedie Room 4.25
#16718 3.1158

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Map of Speakeasies in San Francisco

San Francisco has a rich history of speakeasies dating back to the Prohibition era. These hidden bars served as secret havens for patrons seeking to indulge in alcoholic beverages illegally. Today, many of these historic establishments still exist, offering a glimpse into the city's past and a unique drinking experience for visitors and locals alike. Explore the map below to discover all the hidden gems scattered throughout San Francisco.

How to choose Speakeasies in San Francisco

  1. Hidden entrances.
  2. Craft cocktails.
  3. Unique atmosphere.
  4. Live music.
  5. Prohibition-themed decor.

Frequently asked questions

What is a speakeasy?

A speakeasy refers to an establishment that illegally sold alcoholic beverages during the Prohibition era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. These venues were often hidden and required a password or secret knock to enter. Despite Prohibition being over for nearly a century, the term speakeasy has been revived to describe modern bars that evoke the style and atmosphere of these clandestine establishments.

Are speakeasies legal in San Francisco?

Yes, speakeasies are legal in San Francisco. However, the term is now used more to describe bars that offer a unique, retro experience rather than establishments that operate outside the law. You can find several speakeasies in San Francisco that pay homage to the Prohibition era with hidden entrances, craft cocktails, and a nod to the past.

How can I find a speakeasy in San Francisco?

Finding a speakeasy in San Francisco can be an adventure in itself. Many of these bars have hidden entrances, secret passwords, or unique directions to locate them. Some popular methods for discovering speakeasies include asking locals for recommendations, using online guides, or simply exploring the city's neighborhoods to stumble upon hidden gems.

What should I expect at a speakeasy in San Francisco?

When visiting a speakeasy in San Francisco, you can expect a unique and immersive experience. These bars often have a retro or vintage decor, crafted cocktails made with premium ingredients, and a sophisticated ambiance. Many speakeasies also have a strict dress code, a limited number of seats, and may require reservations, so be sure to check the establishment's policies before visiting.

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