Speciality Beer Bars in SF
Updated: October 20, 2009
Back when a man's appreciation of beer was measured by the size of his belly, few could have imagined the quintessential everyman drink being judged on its nose and finish and paired with gourmet food by beer stewards. But several new beer halls are doing just that--and packing in crowds of discerning brew-connoisseurs who come for rare American craft beers and obscure foreign suds. Of course, there are still a few local institutions that offer 100-plus bottles and drafts, but leave the sniffing and pairing to the Napa crowd; take your pick.
On this page:Esoteric Beer Halls, Old-School Beer Bars.
Esoteric Beer Halls
-
BIN 38
Read Reviews3232 Scott Street, San Francisco, CA 94123 (map)
Every item on the critically lauded Cal-Mediterranean menu here comes with interesting beer pairing suggestions--Abita Purple Haze beer and eclairs, anyone?--and there's a large, heated patio out back that's ideal for mingling and relaxing.
-
City Beer Store
Read Reviews1168 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (map)
At this SoMa shop and tasting room, beer gets the kind of respect usually reserved for fine vintages and spirits, with kegs of connoisseur-grade foreign and domestic brew on tap for gratis gulping.
-
Church Key
Read Reviews1402 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133 (map)
An international roster of 50 craft beers--from Oatmeal Stout to Belguim Apple Beer to Allagash--and simple, manly-yet-cozy surroundings make this bi-level North Beach bar a beer-snobs dream.
-
Monk's Kettle
Read Reviews3141 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (map)
This clean-lined, modern Mission district pub serves artisan brews, including two dozen draughts and 100 bottled varieties from around the world, although there's a strong Belgian influence. Beers are served alongside elevated pub grub like artisan charcuterie plates and pretzels with cheddar ale sauce.
-
Trappist
Read Reviews460 Eighth St, Oakland, CA 94607 (map)
Again with the Belgian beerhouse... This Oakland beer shrine may have 140 bottles and 15 rotating taps, but the influence is predominantly from that tiny European country. Look also for frequent tastings and classes--a must for any beer snob.
-
La Trappe
Write a review800 Greenwich St, San Francisco, CA 94133 (map)
Specializing in Belgians, this lively North Beach spot keeps a few on tap and hundreds more in bottles, which can be enjoyed in the distinctive cellar styled like a medieval rectory. Suitable pairings like plates of mussels or pork chops come from the upstairs restaurant.
Old-School Beer Bars
-
Lucky 13
Read Reviews2140 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114 (map)
As if the extensive beer list and strong drinks weren't enough, this Castro dive also offers free popcorn, a petite smoker's patio out back, a photo booth and one of the best juke boxes (with lots of old school punk rock favorites) in town.
-
Toronado
Read Reviews547 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117 (map)
This gritty, Lower Haight classic offers one of the best beer selections in town (plus some interesting additions like warm mead and pomegranate cider). They might slap you if they heard you say "pairing," but they won't bat an eye when you bring in a sausage from Rosamunde next door.
-
Zeitgeist
Read Reviews199 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94103 (map)
With 25 taps and 30 bottled options, this Mission staple is any beer lover's dream. On warm days (and most cold ones as well), people flock to the outdoor patio and share picnic tables and pints while digging into the giant burgers from the barbecue.
-
Tommy's Joynt
Read Reviews1101 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94109 (map)
The Tenderloin hofbrau is known for their kitschy decor and hearty meals of carved turkey with all the trimmings, but regulars come back for the globe-spanning 100-plus beer menu. Make sure to bring your cash, though, as cards aren't accepted.
Follow Us on Twitter