12 Dive Bars That Locals Don’t Even Know About in San Francisco: Find SF’s Best-Kept Secrets

Introduction

San Francisco is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with countless bars and clubs to choose from. However, some of the best spots are hidden gems that only the locals know about. In this blog post, I’ll be sharing 12 dive bars in San Francisco that are off the beaten path but definitely worth a visit.

1. The Phone Booth

Location: 25th Ave, San Francisco

The Phone Booth is a true hidden gem in San Francisco. Tucked away on 25th Ave, this dive bar has a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. The best part? It’s never too crowded, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back evening with friends.

2. The Saloon

Location: Grant Ave, San Francisco

The Saloon is one of the oldest bars in San Francisco, but many locals still don’t know about it. With live music every night and a great selection of beers on tap, this dive bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of old-school San Francisco.

3. The Riptide

Location: Taraval St, San Francisco

The Riptide is a hidden gem located on Taraval St, serving up strong drinks and a laid-back vibe. This dive bar is known for its friendly staff and killer jukebox, making it a favorite among locals in the know.

4. The Ha-Ra Club

Location: Geary Blvd, San Francisco

The Ha-Ra Club is a true dive bar experience, with cheap drinks, dim lighting, and a no-frills atmosphere. If you’re looking for an authentic San Francisco dive bar, this is the spot for you.

5. Gold Cane Cocktail Lounge

Location: Haight St, San Francisco

Gold Cane Cocktail Lounge is a hidden gem on Haight St, serving up delicious cocktails in a laid-back setting. With friendly bartenders and a diverse crowd, this dive bar is a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique nightlife experience in San Francisco.

6. Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe

Location: Columbus Ave, San Francisco

Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe is a quirky dive bar located on Columbus Ave, filled with vintage decor and a laid-back vibe. With a rotating selection of beers on tap and plenty of interesting artifacts to look at, this dive bar is a must-visit for history buffs and casual drinkers alike.

7. Tunnel Top

Location: Bush St, San Francisco

Tunnel Top is a hidden gem located on Bush St, with a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of drinks. The bar is located underground, giving it a unique vibe that sets it apart from other dive bars in San Francisco.

8. Edinburgh Castle

Location: Geary Blvd, San Francisco

Edinburgh Castle is a hidden gem on Geary Blvd, offering a cozy atmosphere and a great selection of beers on tap. With live music every night and a friendly crowd, this dive bar is a favorite among locals looking for a laid-back night out.

9. Silver Crest Donut Shop

Location: Bayshore Blvd, San Francisco

Silver Crest Donut Shop is not just a place for delicious donuts – it’s also a hidden dive bar with a great selection of drinks. The retro decor and friendly staff make this dive bar a unique spot to grab a drink in San Francisco.

10. Broken Record

Location: Geneva Ave, San Francisco

Broken Record is a dive bar and restaurant located on Geneva Ave, serving up delicious comfort food and strong cocktails. The bar has a cozy vibe and plenty of seating, making it a great spot for a casual night out with friends.

11. Delirium

Location: 16th St, San Francisco

Delirium is a hidden gem located on 16th St, serving up craft cocktails and a laid-back atmosphere. The bar is known for its creative drink menu and friendly staff, making it a favorite among locals in the know.

12. Doctor’s Lounge

Location: Mission St, San Francisco

Doctor’s Lounge is a quirky dive bar on Mission St, known for its strong drinks and eclectic decor. The bar has a fun and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot to unwind after a long day.

My Thoughts

Discovering hidden dive bars in San Francisco can be a fun and exciting experience. These 12 spots offer a unique glimpse into the city’s local nightlife scene, with each bar having its own charm and character. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot for drinks with friends or want to explore the city’s best-kept secrets, these dive bars are definitely worth checking out.