Paul Kushner
In the San Francisco area, a treasure trove of pubs awaits those seeking an authentic and lively experience.
From cozy neighborhood taverns to stylish gastropubs, the city boasts an impressive array of establishments that cater to every taste.
Join us as we raise our glasses and embark on a journey to explore the best pubs in San Francisco.
Immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the hidden gems that make these establishments the ultimate destinations for pub enthusiasts.
The Napper Tandy
3200 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: (415) 550-7510
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The Napper Tandy is one of the best pubs in San Francisco due to its amicable atmosphere, Irish grub, lively sports bar area, and hilarious trivia nights.
I have so much fun at this bar, located near Parque Ninos Unidos, on any given day of the week.
However, I especially enjoy it before, during, and after Trivia on Wednesdays.
If you’re wondering where to get a drink with delicious Irish food like Shepherd’s Pie and Corned Beef, and, of course, the Guinness, then look no further than The Napper Tandy.
Irish Times
500 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: (415) 217-5060
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Irish Times, located downtown near the Wells Fargo Museum, is a lively, warm place to go all hours of the day.
If I’m there in the morning, I’ll treat myself to a delicious Irish coffee and a full Irish breakfast.
But later in the day, I enjoy their happy hour beers, nachos, and usually a sporting game on one of their many TVs.
And they even serve drinks and food until after midnight, making it one of the most fun places to go out late at night.
The Plough and the Stars
116 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118
Phone: (415) 751-1122
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The Plough and the Stars, located in the Richmond District, is one of the most fun places to get drinks for a homey, down-to-earth atmosphere.
I appreciate that they have live Celtic music on most nights, giving the space a very traditional and authentic feel.
My friends and I love coming here for friendly chats and to enjoy a pint of Guinness (or two or three) and maybe even a cheeky dance.
The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant
198 5th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: (415) 615-0916
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The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant, located in the SoMa area near the Museum of the African Diaspora, is a highly-rated and well-loved establishment.
You’ll find plenty of beers on tap, sports on TV, and people enjoying their time at this bustling, vibrant Irish Pub.
I recommend their Irish Bangers and Mash or The Chieftain Shepherd’s Pie if you’re hungry!
And in addition to beer, you’d be remiss not to try their delish Irish whiskeys!
Johnny Foley’s Irish House
243 O’Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 954-0777
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Johnny Foley’s Irish House, in a similar area near Union Square, is another fun and lively Irish pub that’s popular among tourists and locals alike.
I love going here with a big group of friends because it’s simultaneously spacious and cozy, making it comfortable enough to hang out for hours on end.
I also love going to their dueling piano shows, which are wildly entertaining and super funny as well!
The Irish Bank
10 Mark Ln, San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: (415) 788-7152
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If you’re hoping to find an Irish pub with outdoor seating, check out The Irish Bank, located near the Dr. Sun Yat Sen Statue.
It has an enormous selection of beer and an even larger selection of Irish whiskey, so self-described whiskey connoisseurs like myself adore this place.
Plus, I appreciate sitting outside in an alley because it gives off a truly European feel that’s hard to find otherwise in SF.
Sutter Pub & Restaurant
700 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (415) 400-5840
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Sutter Pub & Restaurant, near Huntington Park, is one of the coziest pubs in town and caters to those who appreciate classic English food like Bangers & Mash or Fish & Chips.
I recommend both those dishes as they’re excellent and taste very similar to how they taste in England.
I also recommend heading there during happy hour if you’re looking for a particularly vibrant and cheerful crowd.
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