Welcome to the lively city of San Francisco, where you can enjoy a night out without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option to unwind, socialize, and have a great time, you’re in luck.
This article guides you to the best cheap bars in San Francisco, where you can sip on affordable drinks, enjoy a lively atmosphere, and make the most of your night without emptying your wallet.
From cozy neighborhood dives to trendy spots with happy hour specials, these bars offer a fantastic range of options for those seeking a fun night on a budget.
So, whether you are a local or a visitor looking to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife without spending a fortune, join us as we explore the top cheap bars San Francisco offers.
The Riptide
3639 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA 94116
Phone: (415) 681-8433
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Just a few blocks from the ocean in the Sunset District neighborhood, you will find the Riptide.
This easy-going bar and lounge has an outstanding selection of spirits, beer, and wine.
Depending on the night, you can sing karaoke, listen to live music or dance the night away.
There are always fun events here. You can also try out bingo night and an open mic night.
The fireplace adds a unique aesthetic to the venue, and the pizza is outstanding.
Blackbird
2124 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Phone: (415) 872-5310
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The Blackbird is at the Mission District’s far end but is considered a neighborhood bar in the Castro.
This rustic-modern bar has lounge seating, a list of creative cocktails (including seasonal treats), and craft beer.
I highly recommend coming for the happy hour.
Not only is the happy hour one of the longest in the city but there is an excellent drinks selection and food.
Pool tables are in the back if you like playing a game with friends.
The crowd is welcoming, so it’s easy to strike up a conversation and make new friends.
Harper & Rye
1695 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (415) 562-7493
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If you are in the Nob Hill neighborhood, head to Harper & Rye.
This bi-level bar has a piano, pool table, whiskey, and scotch. It’s a welcoming atmosphere and perfect for chill cocktails.
This bar attracts a wide variety of people. You will see how people are dressed casually as well as in fancier outfits.
However, everyone is friendly and willing to have a conversation.
El Rio
3158 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: (415) 282-3325
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You can find El Rio between the Dolores Heights and Bernal Heights neighborhoods.
This bar has been a Mission standby since 1978. It has an expansive outdoor patio which draws a diverse crowd of people.
It is one of the most popular gay bars in the Mission District.
There are often live bands which creates a vibrant atmosphere. I highly recommend the oysters, which are served fresh.
There are shuffleboard tables in the back if you need a break from the conversation.
They have a cocktails collection, draft beers, and even bottles and cans.
Hi-Lo Club
1423 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: (415) 885-4788
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The Hi-Lo Club is an industrial-chic lounge with a small but inventive list of cocktails and rotating California craft beers on tap.
Many consider this bar the best in the lower Polk neighborhood. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the atmosphere is always inviting.
My favorite part of the Hi-Lo Club is the decor.
It stands out from the other bars in the area and illuminates shelves, and the brass bar creates a classy vibe.
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