Dive into the Depths of San Francisco’s Watering Holes
Where do you go when you want to experience the heart and soul of a city? Why, to its pubs and taverns, of course! As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of dive bars and hidden gems, I’ve made it my mission to uncover the stories that lie within the walls of San Francisco’s most iconic watering holes. Join me on this pub crawl through the vibrant tapestry of the city’s drinking establishments.
A Toast to History
Let’s start our journey with a trip back in time, shall we? Nestled in the heart of the Financial District is the Old Ship Saloon, which lays claim to being the oldest bar in San Francisco. Its origin story is the stuff of legends – when a Gold Rush ship named the Arkansas ran aground on Alcatraz in 1849, it was towed to shore and transformed into a makeshift booze-slinging establishment. Over the decades, the building has been renovated and rebranded, but the spirit of those early pioneering days still lingers.
Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find the Saloon, a tiny Mission District watering hole that’s been around since 1861. Sure, its claim to being the city’s oldest bar is disputed, but what’s indisputable is the sheer energy and character that oozes from this place. Think sultry blues music, raucous dancing, and a touch of grit and grime that reminds you you’re in the right spot.
Preserving the Past
As the city has evolved, many of San Francisco’s beloved dive bars have faced the threat of extinction. But thankfully, there are those who have fought to preserve these icons of the past. Take, for instance, the saga of Doc’s Clock. When this beloved Mission Street dive was forced to relocate a few years ago, owner Carey Suckow refused to let the flashing neon sign that had become a landmark disappear. After a yearlong battle, she managed to reclaim the iconic sign and light it up once again, much to the delight of locals.
Similarly, the Gold Dust Lounge has endured its fair share of hardships, being booted from its longtime Union Square home and resurrecting in Fisherman’s Wharf. While some may scoff at its new location, I say we should all make the pilgrimage to pay our respects to this no-frills dive that’s been part of the fabric of San Francisco since 1967.
Dive into the Dive Bars
Of course, no pub crawl through San Francisco would be complete without a stop at a good old-fashioned dive bar. And let me tell you, this city has no shortage of them. Take Clooneys, for instance – a true dive in every sense of the word. This 6 a.m. watering hole on 25th and Valencia is the domain of hard-drinking regulars, where the barbecue is top-notch and the atmosphere is decidedly gritty.
Then there’s Riptide, a beacon of the Outer Sunset that bills itself as being “on the edge of the Western world.” With its vaguely nautical-themed interior, cheap beer, and ever-present pups, this is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. And let’s not forget about Shotwell’s, a 19th-century grocery store-turned-saloon that’s managed to withstand earthquakes, Prohibition, and gentrification to maintain its divey charm.
Tapping into Tradition
Of course, San Francisco’s drinking scene isn’t all about the dives. There are also those establishments that have elevated the art of imbibing to an entire experience. Take Trader Vic’s, the iconic tiki bar that’s been transporting patrons to a Polynesian fantasy since the 1930s. Or Zam Zam, a hidden gem in North Beach that blends Deco and Persian influences to create an intimate, martini-fueled oasis.
And let’s not forget Tommys Joynt, the original San Francisco beer bar that’s been serving up cheap drinks and surprisingly good pastrami for generations. As the self-proclaimed “civic treasure” of the city, this hofbrau-style joint is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple pleasures and good company.
Neighborhood Gems
But San Francisco’s watering hole wonders aren’t limited to the well-trodden tourist spots. Oh no, the real magic lies in the neighborhood haunts that have become the de facto living rooms for their communities. Take Marina Lounge, for instance, a Marina District outlier that’s managed to retain its old-school charm and bartenders who know your name. Or Dogpatch Saloon, a Glen Park institution that’s become a hub for dog-watching and free-flowing conversation.
And let’s not forget about Elixir, a Mission District staple that’s been through more incarnations than you can count, yet has managed to remain a beloved local’s spot, complete with a whiskey selection that would make any connoisseur swoon.
The Spirit of San Francisco
As I reflect on my pub crawl through San Francisco’s vibrant tapestry of watering holes, I’m struck by the way these establishments serve as windows into the city’s ever-evolving identity. From the historic relics that have stood the test of time to the neighborhood gems that anchor their communities, each bar I’ve visited tells a story – of perseverance, of reinvention, of the enduring spirit that makes San Francisco such a captivating place.
So the next time you find yourself in the City by the Bay, I urge you to ditch the tourist traps and venture off the beaten path. Belly up to the bar at The Up and Under Pub, trade stories with the locals, and let the rich history and character of these timeless establishments wash over you. After all, what better way to experience the true heart and soul of San Francisco than through the eyes of its most beloved pubs?
