Top Ten Happy Hours in San Francisco

by viola on Wed Jul 18 15:12:00 -0700 2007

Looking for a bit of pause after a long and tiring day? Want to get together with friends to catch up and reminisce? Hoping to do so on the cheap? The answer to all three is an easy one: Happy Hour -- an inexpensive, reliable tonic for all that ails you, and in San Francisco, you'll find a heady mix of the trendy (540 Club), the funky (Boom Boom Room), the surprising (Hi-Dive), and the popular (The Tonga Room). Indeed, the following Top Ten offers a proper blend of social scene and smooth deals, infused with just the right amount of memorable, spirited kick.

10. The Irish Bank

Located in Nob Hill near the Financial District, this pub is a favorite stopover after work. With historical photographs, documents, and antiques lining the walls, The Irish Bank wears its heritage proudly and welcomes all to raise a pint. On Fridays, be prepared for a major crowd starting at Happy Hour (3-6 p.m.), going well into the night.

9. Boom Boom Room

The cool, inviting ambiance is a constant at this blues club on Fillmore St., founded by legend John Lee Hooker. During Happy Hour, enjoy a seamless "flow" of music, drink and soul.

8. 540 Club

Attracting the collegiate crowd, this club is on the trendy side but because so, its atmosphere is never lacking in energy. Its drinks are also on the cheap, with $3 wells and most tap beers. Location: Inner Richmond.

7. Zebulon

The first of the SoMa destinations on our list, Zebulon is indicative of the neighborhood: trendy and laid-back. Groove to the DJ's spinning while sipping $3 well cocktails or $4 house wine. Complement it all with some spicy sweet-potato fries.

6. Jade Bar

Located in the city's Western Addition, Jade Bar is all about the calm and when you go here, it's to relax and chill with friends. At Happy Hour, soak in the zen with $2 cocktails and Asian-fusion appetizers.

5. HI-Dive

This unassuming "dive" is located right on the Embarcadero, under the Bay Bridge, a short walk from the ballpark, making it the perfect hangout before and after a game. Happy Hour offers $4 drafts and well drinks with a waterfront view.

4. Mars Bar & Restaurant

Another South of Market pick, this bar always overflows once the workday ends, thanks to its great selection of drinks and appetizers. Order pints for $2.50, wells for $4. Small plate selections include quesadillas and mozzarella sticks.

3. WISH

This lounge is a place to let it go, with a house DJ providing the beats. Recline on one of the couches and even wait to be served as your WISH is granted: Happy Hour is here. Enjoy $3 wells, $2 beers, and $1 off specialty drinks.

2. The Public

Set among the warehouses of San Francisco's SoMa district, The Public is "industrial chic" with its loft-like space, designer couches, and hearty American fare. Not only does it offer a cool Happy Hour, but it offers a "Happier Hour" Thursday thru Saturday, with a $5 food menu and even more drink specials.

1. The Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar

Recognized as "San Francisco's Best Happy Hour" by several publications, including San Francisco Magazine, The Tonga Room is also our pick for the top Happy Hour in the city. A winning combination of style and ambiance, consistency and quality, makes The Tonga Room of the Fairmont Hotel an easy choice. For a very reasonable $7 and the price of one drink, enjoy the bar's famed buffet of Pacific Rim delicacies while you unwind amidst the grass huts and electric tiki torches.

Check out the Unthirsty San Francisco Home Page, and be sure to find more happy hours on the San Francisco Happy Hour Map!