Persona

382

188

9 days ago

Always a great experience at Persona in San Francisco! Things haven't changed from three years ago. The atmosphere is a vibe. Definitely a spot I'd recommend if you're looking for a fun night out in the city. Shoutout to Dragos for the quality service. read more

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Rachael G.

Elite 23

339

1020

5853

19 days ago

We made our way down the stairs into Persona and found a couple of seats near the bartender, Jake. We chatted with him for a few minutes before ordering, and after he took care of everyone else waiting for drinks, we got the chance to talk with him more about the bar--which is always one of our favorite things to do when visiting a new spot. We tried the Intersection, Room Service 75, Last Word Mezcal, I Love Yolanda, and Body Double, and every drink was absolutely delicious. The cocktail menu was amazing, with so many unique and interesting options that it was hard to choose! Jake provided outstanding service and made the whole experience even better. Between the atmosphere, fantastic cocktails, creative menu, and great conversation, Persona was an awesome find and definitely a bar worth checking out! read more

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Diana C.

133

1 month ago

Love the atmosphere and service! Great drinks, music and vibes!! Highly recommend the green door cocktail with matcha! read more

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Yuri H.

109

163

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5 days ago

Persona - Fresh Popcorn - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Unknown Cocktail This was the 3rd Bar on Our Pub Crawl - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Matcha Cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Whiskey & Soda - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - I was captivated with the soft lighting - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Entrance - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Cynthia W.

196

220

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2 months ago

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Megan T.

147

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1 month ago

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Emily V.

118

386

3 months ago

Atmosphere: 5/5 aesthetic fits the theme very cool vibe Customer service 5/5 very friendly helpful and attentive Outside: it is non assuming but beware of the steep staircase read more

Persona - Dj booth - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Bar area - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Signage - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Kathy ..

6 days ago

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Dominic B.

4250

717

8891

5 months ago

Persona - The devil in Miss jones - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Patricia R.

108

177

2 months ago

There were many unique options and a happy hour deal. The drinks were tasty and the staff were very friendly. I would come back again. read more

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Jen S.

264

15 days ago

Good food , good popcorn. Good service by Alex :))) he made the best on earth we will be back for his amazing drinks. He made sure we were taken care of. read more

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kim d.

113

201

4 months ago

Beautiful drinks with the nicest bartenders + Marcus The drinks are super creative & I loved the inclusion of bitters + the passion fruit flavor/prominence in the Pleasure Palace. read more

Persona - Sweet Paradise - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Carmen 77, Pleasure Palace, Green door - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Lasya R.

161

4 months ago

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Gisela C.

1 month ago

Persona - Red table wine - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Cami R.

158

5 months ago

Persona - drink and popcorn - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Becky V.

169

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33410

6 months ago

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Ziyan C.

3073

12612

3 months ago

Such a hidden gem! * Green Door ($19) - 5 stars. Fantastic. Not too sweet, well balanced, tasty for all parties whether they like lighter or heavier drinks. Just enough of a hint of matcha. Live jazz music on a Monday night! At 11:30pm they were medium busy but still seating available to watch the jazz band. read more

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Nancy D.

151

317

6 months ago

Definitely a bar to visit if you are in the Union square area. There is live music throughout the week and plenty of seating. The drink menu is fun and i love the matcha cocktail. The staff, Juan, greeted us right away and even gave us popcorn and recommended drinks to us. We got the matcha (perfectly balanced), pleasure palace (so refreshing), and the cafe noir (the coconut was amazing). All around great ambience with mood lighting. read more

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Allie G.

221

453

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1 month ago

Underground bar with a great bar, lots of seating and yummy drinks! It definitely gets busy and that combined with the music makes for a loud environment but it's fun! Although it's underground it's not stuffy however it might not be the best if you're claustrophobic. The music selection was good and overall we had a great time. read more

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Hope D.

296

530

5 months ago

Off the bat, there were drunk girls lingering outside that the bouncer allowed to "check" our IDs. I didn't appreciate that the bouncer was so lenient with them this past Sunday I came in. The crowd is interesting lol, but the vibes itself are so relaxing and different. There are LED lights inside, but overall it's very dim lit and gives sexyyy. Their drinks seem to be based off everything erotic, which I didn't realize until I got there. The drinks are delicious though, so I can't even complain. I will be back very shortly!! read more

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Aarin P.

174

5 months ago

Juan was amazing and made delicious margs with the tajin rim. It was my first time here at Persona. The service was amazing and good energy in the bar! I love that there's more than enough seating! Me and my homegirl were able to sing a seat and enjoy our drinks! read more

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Anh T.

576

980

11 months ago

Persona had both a bar and a club vibe that my friends and I enjoyed this past weekend! When our group of 10 walked in, we ordered our drinks along the bar & then found seating in a more secluded area. There's plenty of space available for seating & a small area in front of the DJ booth for dancing. Overall the music was a bit loud, but great vibe. My friends and I ordered a few drinks, with my favorite being their Matcha Mirage! The drinks were decently priced and all unique, and they were depicted accurately by photo & description in their extensive menu. I loved the strong matcha taste that paired well with the gin base. Friendly bartender! read more

Persona - Matcha Mirage on the left - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Madison B.

186

604

11 months ago

This place is located underground and you are greeted with these cute neon letters! We went on a Sunday night and they had a live latin band which I loved. We started with the espresso martini and this other one where the rosemary lit on fire which was cool. This was a good an espresso martini so I enjoyed this one. We asked for a recommendation from the bartender so he made us the Porn Star I think is what he called it and it tasted great! They also decked with some Halloween decorations, it seemed to have a lot of seating and space, I would definitely come back here! read more

Persona - outside - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Porn Star - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - espresso martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Erica C.

178

188

295

6 months ago

I stumbled upon this bar on a night out. It looked cute on TikTok. I go down some stairs and the ambience was cute. My friends and I tried a bunch of different drinks and my favorites are the one with matcha or passionfruit. Service by Marcus was great. He recommended the best drink for me based on my usual taste preferences. The only thing I would change is the music. Needs to include Bay Area music and mainstream music. I'll be back! read more

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Christine T.

345

361

372

11 months ago

This is such a cute cocktail lounge. Very trendy and minimalist inside and their drink selection is great. There are some very creative and unique drinks on the menu. I saw the Matcha Mirage from other photos on Yelp and wanted to order one for myself as a matcha lover. My husband got the Intersection, even though he's not a fan of bourbon, but hey, thai tea in a cocktail sounded like a fun drink to try. It did take a while for the server to take our drink orders and bring out the drinks, but maybe that was intentional, so we could pace ourselves with the drinks. The Matcha Mirage was soo freaking good, it tasted very refreshing with the mint and you could barely taste the gin. All of our friends also liked what they ordered as well. It did get a little hot after a while, so that was the only issue and we ended up heading out after another round of drinks. Would recommend this place if you're looking for fun, creative drinks that are delicious. Perfect for a date night or chill night with friends. read more

Persona - Matcha Mirage - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Ami J.

458

112

11 months ago

Such a vibe! My girls and I had a GNO a few weeks ago and we wanted to find a place with enough room, able to order a drink without screaming over the music, and have a sultry ambiance. We appreciated the staff who helped us with our drinks/shots. There is also fresh popcorn for purchase! (Unique - I've only seen that in one other bar in SoCal) Highly recommend this place for a GNO or date night! read more

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Isela G.

15 days ago

Best drinks by Alex :) :) come by , relaxed atmosphere. Good music. Good popcorn. Specialty crafted cocktails. read more

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Thang N.

3 months ago

Big Shoutout to Aliah for her hospitality and service!! Drinks were top tier and quick! read more

Persona - Body double - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Luis G.

147

765

1 year ago

Persona has become one of my go to bars in San Francisco. I come here often, it's a great spot to have a good conversation or to enjoy a fun night out. The low lighting sets the mood perfectly, giving the place a relaxing, almost intimate atmosphere. The bartenders always make the experience better they're welcoming, easy to talk to, and their recommendations are always on point. You can tell they know their craft. The drinks themselves are creative, balanced, and just good every time. It's one of those places that feels stylish without being over the top. Definitely one of my favorite bars in the city! read more

Persona - Yolanda with a shot of tequila - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - A night out - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Chang L.

6 months ago

Was here on Valentine's Day weekend and was chill. Good drinks in general and nice space. Was sat at a table because we had a reservation which was nice at first. But then big groups kept trying to take up tables meant for 2 people and taking up as much space as they can for themselves. Bunch of middle aged people making out too. read more

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May D.

177

179

3 months ago

my favorite place to go to. i always order the sultry scarlet from here! vibes are always chill and ambiance is great. bartender juan was so quick and sweet. haven't ordered the popcorn but definitely smells good. read more

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Caili C.

207

1261

3194

1 year ago

Loved the vibes at Persona! We came early before 9pm after having dinner nearby so the bar was still pretty empty but we enjoyed having more of a quiet, intimate to chat. There's a good mix of tables, bar seats and lounge chairs to choose from so it's definitely a nice mix between cool and lowkey. I got the matcha mirage which was delicious with a good amount of sweetness while being really matcha forward. Loved this as a post-dinner drink! Definitely would come back on a date or with friends! read more

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Jessamyn W.

2 months ago

Great live music and jazz Marcus was an excellent bartender super cool bar dark sultry vibe read more

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Kelse S.

4481

719

8412

1 year ago

Second year in a row at Persona and it delivered once again! I absolutely love this bar. It has the underground element to it, it's laid back, but the drinks are insane and so elevated. The small touches of decor and lighting make this spot memorable, as well as their extensive drink menu. We had so much fun checking out the variety of special cocktails, sitting and enjoying company, and chatting with the bartenders. I love Persona and would definitely recommend it to locals and out of towners- it's one to experience! read more

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Izzie L.

362

1056

1 year ago

With a bustling crowd and live DJ until 2AM, the vibes here late at night are great-- Persona is the best for staying open past midnight in an area that's usually a little more dead! We ordered the Espresso Martini [5/5] and the Intersection [4/5]. I would definitely order the espresso martini again for its sweet and creamy taste. The Intersection was also pretty good with a sweet & sour citrus taste as well as a refreshing egg white on top, but it wasn't good enough that I would order it again. On a Friday night at midnight, there was plenty of seating which is quite unique for a bar. Persona cleverly organizes the space so that the loudest standing area is further from the seating area, so the volume is great for conversation. I would definitely come here again for a dancey night or to bring a group of friends to catch up! read more

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Terence L.

680

310

4 months ago

Such a great bar. I love the vibes and drinks here. Very good service. The matcha drink especially is good. Highly recommend. Juan was the best! Make sure you ask for Juan! read more

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Roger P.

754

1049

2914

1 year ago

Persona gives off a lounge-y, with a splash of club, vibes. It's dim with lots of seating but it's so hard to hear each other over the live DJ. If there was enough space, I'm sure people would eventually turn it into a dance floor. And on a Friday night, the place was packed! It took awhile for us to settle down and find a place for our group. Be prepared for bad cell service since it's below ground! A lot of their cocktails are inspired by Asian flavors. I ordered the Matcha Mirage which sounded so good. The drink itself smelled like matcha but unfortunately, it didn't taste like matcha...or maybe it was too subtle for me. It had stronger notes of mint and lime. Bartenders are extremely efficient and I was checked on multiple times while someone was already making me a drink. I wanted to stay and try more drinks but it just got really crowded and warm so we left after one round. And it was just too hard to hear each other over the music...this wasn't really the vibe we were looking for to catch up with each other. If you're still interested in visiting, try making a reservation for a good seat. And the dress attire is casual but a lot of people were dressed up for the night. read more

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Renee L.

251

654

1 year ago

I stopped by with some friends to grab some drinks and have a place to chat. The staff member who helped us was very welcoming and helped us with our drinks. Every drink we ordered was amazing. I tend to go for fruity and sweeter drinks many of them were just that. This spot has dim lighting and different types of seating: at the bar, booth seats, and table seating. The vibe is intimate and a great place to have a conversation with some music playing in the background. The only food they sell is popcorn. They also have a pool table as well. read more

Persona - Vibe - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Spritz - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Drinks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Persona - Pleasure Palace - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Jennifer W.

117

9 months ago

The ambiance is very up beat and chill! It's a great place to add to your bar hopping itinerary. My friends and I came here on a Saturday night and it was quite packed. We got to grab a table 5 minutes in so it wasn't too bad. Their winter drinks are amazing though, especially their Hot Chocolate and Pear-tastic. read more

Persona - Winter Sour, Hot Chocolate, Pear-tastic, Inflection(?) had thai tea in it - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Meg B.

No answers yet. Be the first to answer.

2081

1297

16723

1 year ago

So nice, we came back twice. We came here last year for a work party, this year the party was elsewhere but we insisted on coming back, as this is a great spot for gathering. The bar and service is great, the menu is good but not trite. There is plenty of seating for intimate conversations, and enough space for groups to gather and converse, we spent a lot of time here both nights and I can't wait to come back again. read more

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More info about Persona

685 Sutter St
San Francisco, CA 94102
Lower Nob Hill, Union Square
Directions
(415) 400-4598
Call Now
Visit Website
https://www.persona-sf.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Persona open?

Persona opens at 5:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Persona close?

Persona closes at 2:00 AM (Next day) on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Sun 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Next day)

Payment methods

Does Persona take credit cards?

Yes, Persona takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Persona have a happy hour?

Yes, Persona has a happy hour.

Does Persona serve alcohol?

Yes, Persona serves alcohol. Full Bar

Services

Is Persona by appointment only?

No, Persona is not by appointment only.

Indoor Amenities

Does Persona allow dogs?

Yes, Persona allows dogs.

Does Persona have TVs?

Yes, Persona has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Persona have bike parking?

Yes, Persona has bike parking.

Does Persona have outdoor seating?

No, Persona does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Persona have parking?

Yes, Persona has parking options. Garage Parking, Street Parking

Other Amenities

Is Persona wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Persona is wheelchair accessible.

Does Persona allow outdoor smoking?

Yes, Persona allows outdoor smoking.

Does Persona have free WiFi?

Yes, Persona has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Join us for Happy Hour. Smokin' cocktails with an amazing staff!

More Info

Health Score

Persona Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Persona

I've heard this place has great music and ambiance; is there any dancing?

Generally not a dancefloor kind of place, but I have sometimes seen small groups dancing in the open areas.

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Do you need to have a reservation? I have an informal group of folks who want to meet up for cocktails (around 25-30) but don't want to "rent" a space.

Can we bring cake or desserts inside if we're celebrating a birthday?

We preffer cupcakes as we don’t allow kniefes on premises and desserts are ok.

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Review Highlights - Persona

“Aliah was the best bartender - gave us a couple of recs based on what we liked and read us perfectly!”

Mentioned in 32 reviews

Lore Speakeasy and Escape Room

4.5(102 reviews)

1.7 mi•Mission

What a cozy bar! If you like intimate, chill, and cozy places with board games and unique drinks…read morethis is the place to go! My party and I didn't get the chance to experience the escape room but would love to try it out the next time we come back. The staff are amazing, especially Chloe. Such a sweetheart. Loved her energy! Highly recommend the Mango Sago and Crab Rangoon Nachos!

Really unique, immersive speakeasy. Came for a birthday and opted for their escape room, which is…read morealso a really cool feature for a speakeasy bar. The escape room is Alice In Wonderland themed and includes three drinks as part of the experience. Arrived on time for our reservation but were held in a waiting room for about 30 min before we could start. Didn't seem like anyone else was doing the escape room but it was also the week of their biz anniversary so maybe they were just super busy. Phoenix led our escape room and was such a delight. Friendly, great banter, helpful throughout the escape. The escape game is split across multiple rooms with a good diversity of puzzles. Don't want to spoil too much here but they were good challenges. Drinks we incorporated throughout and presented like test tubes that were drinkable in a gulp, kind of like a cocktail shot. Personally, I found the first two drinks to be a bit too sweet, but I liked the third, which was coconut forward. The price is definitely a bit more costly. It was $100/person for a party of five. I understand that it was an escape room + the staff + the cocktails. If you max out the party size, it's about $85-ish per person which I think is pretty solid. Still very unique and fun and glad I got to try it

Cool Middle Earth themed room with lots of seating! Plenty of board games available to play as well

Our Pineapple Cake cocktail is an ode to Taiwan.

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Borscht: Gin, beets, apple, citrus, dill, egg white ($20) + Korean Cold Noodles w/ brandy, pear, pineapples, cucumber, sesame ($19)

The Beehive

4.3(457 reviews)

2.1 mi•Mission

This is by far my favorite bar in SF. I used to drive up here weekly with my coworkers for Friday…read morenights almost 4 years ago. This place has not changed much (in a good way.) The atmosphere is so lovely, there's good music that gradually turned into old school hiphop as the night grew longer. The servers were so kind and came by all the time to refill water and make sure everyone was happy. Little shoutout to the server that took care of us all night Kimberly! She was so amazing and had the best service. (: It may be a bar but the food is so good, we got a little of everything to share. As a regular of lounge-style bars, this place has good lighting if you like taking pictures of your drinks, a good surprise! I really appreciate all the staff for being so kind and attentive on a busy Saturday night. We had a party of 12 that took up a little two-couch area with no issues at all! If I can make a recommendation for anyone that reads this, get the Thunderbird!

Cool bar with bites in the Mission District. We got there shortly after it opened at 4pm on Friday…read moreafternoon. I was craving a refreshing craft cocktail and got one with the Green Emmanuelle. I liked the cardamom in the Beauty Mark as well that my partner ordered. We ordered shishito peppers and mushroom bahn mi sliders. The mushroom bahn mi sliders were amazing - the quality fillings and taste of the soft bun - I was unexpectedly hit with a bite of spice from maybe jalapeño seeds left but didn't sour my experience. The shishito peppers ended up being extremely spicy as well, those are usually just a few spicy and not the majority. The roasted lemon and salt was a wonderful combo but just too spicy to eat. However, the server very kindly removed it from our bill without us asking. We order the crostini because we were still hungry and that was an absolute hit. Delicious med-soft crostini with luscious berries and sweet honey. I didn't care my hands got sticky as it was soooo good! Great experience, I would be weary if the peppers as I'm a bit spice-intolerant but everything else was spot-on.

Cocktail Menu

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Cocktail Menu

Blind Pig Speakeasy Lounge

4.7(202 reviews)

0.5 mi•Lower Nob Hill

Omg, first of all, I love bars that are innovative, ESPECIALLY if it's Asian themed drinks! The…read moreBlind Pig is If not more! Our bartender, Andrew, The Wild Pig's Flights is very cheerful and is one of the best bartender I've ever met! ADHD on steroids, in a good way! Love the decor with all the monkey king and piggies! My first drink was The Sticky Rice (secret menu #3) and it has Whiskey in it and I'm not a whiskey gal but it was delicious! The pandan flavors were a surprising finish! I almost just finish the finish the Hi-Chew for pig (secret menu #6) was very very refreshing! Slightly creamy in a good way (giggity) For someone who hates Gin, it was flavorful and easy to drink! Piggy - light, easy to drink. You get the dill taste first then the cucumber and a small hint of bitter melon at the end. It really stimulates my adhd brain Pineapple bun - a little sweet and citrusy. The coconut whipped cream on top was a perfect topper! I never thought I would taste these type of flavors in a cocktail! Definitely a must when coming to SF every time now!

one of the finest cocktail bars in the city…read more intimate, friendly, well crafted, passionate, and impressive. have been coming here for a little while now, and their drinks never fail to amaze. leo, pedro, and andrew in particular really make the establishment shine, and truly do make this place special. they are always kind and attentive no matter how busy it may be. don't forget to roll the dice.

1.1 mi•Embarcadero, Financial District, SoMa

Festive Cocktails

Christmas special

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Monkey King

Terrene

4.1(212 reviews)

Great ambiance and cocktails! We had the kampachi crudo, Brussels sprouts, za'atar fries with…read moreharissa ketchup, skewered steak, and the lamb hache. Three of us split the food family style and it was the perfect amount! We enjoyed most of it -- but we were on consensus that the lamb hache wasn't what we expected or something we would order again. The steak was PERFECTLY cooked to medium rare and the fries stayed crispy the whole dinner. What made this five stars for sure is the service! Our server was so helpful and checked in on us the right amount. Overall, will keep coming back!

The food was amazing and everything is well seasoned. I ordered the mushroom salad with chicken…read moreskewers and red wine. The service was ok. They weren't attentive but they were nice. I don't like how they kept going from speaking English to me to speaking Spanish to each other about other customers. Maybe even me. The ambiance was nice.

Terrene Lounge

Steak and eggs

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Amalfi Spritz (N/A)

Lost Resort

4.4(281 reviews)

2.0 mi•Mission

They've got a lovely cozy and casual patio in the back, with funky chairs and benches, though it…read morewas full when we arrived and thus quite loud, too many people in a small space and something about the enclosure really amplified the sound. Ordered the heirloom and kale salad which was absolutely delicious, I added grilled chicken and shrimp and look, I don't normally rave about grilled chicken, but this chicken was perfectly cooked and juicy and crisp, which is tough to do. Would order again.

Baked oysters tasted really good, but they were small oysters. The Mac n cheese had real crab meat…read more(not imitation crab) and some bacon bites, but the cheese flavor was not strong enough. Cocktails were nice. Love the decor, the fish tank. Staff were very friendly, but food took a little while to arrive.

Bar

Crispy Coconut Chicken Sando

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Yacht rock

Pacific Cocktail Haven

4.5(776 reviews)

0.1 mi•Union Square

Can see why this bar gets so much praise and love how it focuses and utilizes asian ingredients…read more They have a great outdoor space with tables and the setup inside maximizes how many people could sit + stand. Thats how I know asians own this place lol. Appreciate this level of intention. Made it feel more intimate and cozy. Everyone was very friendly and attentive. Immediately when you walk in the staff is on it. There was a handful of pandan drinks and our server explained each one perfectly and gave his recommendation. I forgot what I got but it was delicious. My cousin got a matcha one which was interesting and strong! Their menu was refreshing (no pun intended) and the type I love to see that are actually creative and culturally inspired. Got lucky with standing seats then moved over to the bar. It wasnt that packed on a Saturday evening assuming bc it was OSL weekend. They were playing great music at a good volume. But golly hella expensive. 2 drinks with the service charge and tip was over $60. Guess thats SF. Would definitely return but for a special occasion.

Pacific Cocktail Haven (PCH) is an absolute must for anyone who appreciates creative, exceptionally…read morecrafted cocktails! We stopped in for drinks and Tina started us off with outstanding customer service. She was incredibly welcoming and made the experience great from the very beginning. We made our way through an impressive lineup of cocktails, including Get Him to the Fenugreek, Extra Fancy, Apple Bottom Beets (one of my favorites!), Barley and Me, Tropical Gangsta, Que Pop Limon Hunters, Mo Mole, Mo Problems, and more. Every drink was unique, beautifully crafted, and absolutely outstanding. Apple Bottom Beets was definitely a standout for me, but there honestly wasn't a bad cocktail in the bunch. We ended the night with Laura closing us out, and her service was just as exceptional. From the moment we walked in until the moment we left, everything was 10/10. If you're looking for superb cocktails, creative flavors, and fantastic service, PCH is definitely a place you need to check out!

Silk Street: Song Gin, amaro, jackfruit-coconut cream, sudachi, longan, pandan - Perfectly balanced, not too sweet

Envy in bloom

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Full moon

Starlite

4.1(227 reviews)

0.2 mi•Union Square

Views were awesome. Upscale setting, creative drinks and unique glassware. Service was chill and…read morewe didn't feel rushed or pressured. Cool date spot if you want a fancy cocktail and a birds eye view. To drink, I had a manhattan and a man you don't meet every day, and something else which I have now forgotten. I also had some furikake fries. Not much else to say. You are probably better off to have a reservation or to arrive early as it gets full as the evening wears on.

So. Much. Crushed. Velvet…read more I mean like, in the best way! Coupled with endless city views and well-crafted cocktails. I can spend hours here kiki-ing with the crew. I'm so impressed by their detailed cocktail menu. I've enjoyed selections from both their boozy and NA sections. They're also known to feature some of our favorite bartenders and mixologists from across the Bay. Music can be loud, not great for conversation after 8pm or so. Parking is trash, like everywhere else downtown. Reservations definitely recommended!

Inside

Colorado bulldog

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Toddy Highball

Holy Water

4.4(331 reviews)

3.4 mi•Bernal Heights

On a visit to San Francisco after an evening at a brewery nearby, we weren't ready to let the night…read moreend so we walked to Holy Water. This is a gorgeous spot; the detail from the welcoming greens sign, to the cozy lighting, tasteful religious kitsch, and well thought out style, we had a wonderful visit. The decor made us explore the bar before we sat down; they have tables and different seating areas around, but it seemed like the bar was the place to be. They have a full selection of liquor, plus a cocktail menu, and killer tap list of mostly local draft beer. I absolutely loved their glassware too! The bartender was very friendly; I failed to notice the tap list above the bar was different from the menu so I was glad that was pointed out for my second beer. Prices are reasonable for the experience of being here. The other clientele at the bar were also friendly, it has a neighborhood vibe but is welcoming to all.

Love the dark ambiance feel inside…read more Cocktails were all strong. Very spirit forward and we ordered a total of about 6 different cocktails and it was the consensus from our whole group.

2.3 mi•Dogpatch, Potrero Hill

IPA

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Inside view of bar

Third Rail

4.5(258 reviews)

We stumbled upon Third Rail after watching a basketball game at Chase Center, and it ended up being…read moresuch a gem! The atmosphere was great. It was busy on a Saturday night without feeling overwhelming and the whole place had a really fun relaxed energy to it. The staff was also fantastic and super helpful with all of our questions. We tried an Old Fashioned and the Third Rail cocktail, which was similar to a sour, and both were phenomenal. Seriously some amazing drinks. We didn't get a chance to try any of their jerky this time around, but we'll definitely be back for it!

Girl dinner: cocktails and jerky. What's not to love? We…read moreordered: - The yuzu cute cocktail: perfectly refreshing and tart, not too sweet from the pineapple - A mango coconut horchata cocktail: good but a bit sweet and bland. Needed a kick - The jerk jerky: goddam this was spicy! From someone with a medium spice tolerance! Good thing I had the cocktail to wash it down haha. The parts that weren't tongue burning spicy were so flavorful though - The red eye: the espresso rub was subtle but a fun contrast - The thicc Jim: better than any slim Jim or chomp stick you'll ever eat. Fresh pork and that hot honey garlic essence Logistics: - Indoor and outdoor seating - Limited street parking nearby but right next to the light rail and buses along third street and the bay bike trail - Non alcoholic options available

0.6 mi•Financial District, SoMa

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Third rail shot

Shoji

4.2(577 reviews)

•$

Such a cool Japanese bar with a great atmosphere! Make sure you bring your ID, because they will…read morecard you at the entrance as if you're going into a club. The inside has a really cool, stylish vibe, with a great selection of drinks and very good bartenders. The food was amazing too, especially the sando -- honestly, it might be the best sando I've ever had in San Francisco! Excellent service all around and a fun, comfortable place to meet up with friends for drinks and some seriously good Japanese food. Definitely a spot I'd come back to!

came with my friend for the drinks and got an additional side of disrespect…read more first impression of the place, very aesthetic. the cafe decoration felt minimalistic. the cafe is connected to the bar which was lowly lit and felt cozy and classy. the pretty decoration was honestly the only good thing about this place. the customer service is terrible. when i ordered, i didn't realize i was supposed to grab a guest pager. after sitting down, i noticed my friend had one so i got worried, but i also gave them my name, so i thought it would be fine. i didn't think much of it until her pager started beeping and then i also heard my name being called, which is where the confusion started. i ordered a houjicha to go and i saw just that on the counter, so i grabbed it. however, my friend who ordered a matcha to go did not see her drink on the counter. there was only a matcha with a dine in cup. so she asked the staff about it, explaining to them about the situation where she might have mistaken grabbed my pager, trying to clarify if the matcha on the counter was her's. in response, the staff (with curly brown hair and black glasses) rudely brushed her off and was very dismissive in tone, urging her to grab the matcha drink with a dine in cup. as a result, she had to down her drink in the restaurant, which was not what she wanted. besides the horrible customer service experience we had, we also found the drinks to be mid. they were filled with so much ice that the last few sips just tasted like water. i would not recommend coming here.

Instagram: TianTianEats

Uni Amaebi Don: Soy marinaded raw sweet shrimp, santa barbara uni, ikura, soy marinated yolk ($44 +$3 nori)

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Matcha einspanner

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229 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Lilian W.

229

805

5385

2 years ago

Persona is a stylish and classy bar located in Lower Nob Hill, San Francisco. The entrance is marked by stairs that lead you downstairs, where you're welcomed by neon lights and a sleek atmosphere. The bar sits at the center, facing the DJ setup, with plenty of seating and tables scattered around the space. I visited on a Monday after work, and it was completely empty--definitely a place to check out on a weekend for live music and a livelier vibe. I visited Persona to inquire about hosting a larger event, and here's what I found: - For 100 people, there's a larger space to the right of the bar (with a pool table), requiring a $3,000 minimum spend. - For 75 people, there's a more enclosed area, with a $2,000 minimum spend. To track spending, guests simply need to give the host's last name when ordering. If you're planning to reserve the space, note that while there is a DJ, you won't have control over the music selection during events. The bartender was efficient and provided clear information about the booking process, though I found them to be a bit unpersonable (a little ironic for a place called Persona). Overall, Persona is one of the more affordable venues in the area for hosting events, with a sleek ambiance and great setup for gatherings. Definitely worth considering if you're looking to host something in the city! read more

Dianna H.

See more unrecommended reviews

180

1867

11306

2 years ago

I recently visited Persona and had a great time! My friends and I came Friday evening, a little after 11 pm, for some Friday night drinks. It was my first time here and I was surprised by how large the place is and how much seating is available. We were able to place two tables together and create a comfy cornerfor the 7 of us. The lounge area is perfect for chilling with friends, whether you're in a big group or just a few people. It wasn't too crowded, even on a Friday night, which was a pleasant surprise. The music was at a reasonable level until around midnight when they cranked it up, making it hard to have a conversation. We finally left around 12:30 as it got too loud for us. The cocktails were reasonably priced (most were around $15-16) and looked amazing. I opted for a mocktail called the Cozy Cool ($10) and it was delicious as well. Overall, Persona is a great spot for a casual night out with friends. I would definitely recommend checking it out. read more

Lyndsey M.

Elite 25

213

559

2 years ago

Persona is easily one of the coolest speakeasy-style bars in San Francisco. From the moment you walk in, you're hit with a sexy, upscale vibe that sets the tone for a perfect night out. The space is large and thoughtfully designed, featuring a big, sleek bar as its centerpiece, with couches and intimate sections scattered throughout--ideal for lounging and soaking in the atmosphere. The bartenders are incredibly talented, crafting both unique twists on classic cocktails and creative new drinks that push the envelope. Whether you're a fan of the tried-and-true or looking to explore something different, the drink menu is sure to impress. The attention to detail and presentation really sets the bar apart. Overall, Persona delivers a memorable experience with its blend of style, comfort, and top-notch cocktails. It's a must-visit if you're looking for a sophisticated, speakeasy spot in SF. read more

Jacob R.

6 months ago

I always have a great night at Persona! From the moment you walk in, the vibe is on point: stylish but still relaxed, with a great crowd and live music that adds to the atmosphere without overpowering it. The drinks were fantastic, seriously well-balanced and beautifully presented, but what really made the experience stand out was the service. Marcus, our bartender, was incredible! He was friendly, attentive, and clearly knows his craft. He made thoughtful recommendations based on what we liked, checked in at the right times, and kept the energy upbeat all night. You can tell he genuinely cares about making sure guests have a good experience. It's rare to find a spot where both the drinks and the service are consistently excellent, but Persona absolutely delivers thanks to bartenders like Marcus. I'll definitely be back and hoping to see him there! read more

Stuart Q.

6 months ago

Always such a fantastic experience at Persona! From the moment I walk in, the atmosphere is vibrant, and just the right balance of upscale and relaxed. The music sets a great vibe, the drinks are beautifully crafted, and the overall energy makes it a place you don't want to leave. A huge thank you to Queenie and Jonathan for making the night amazing. Queenie was incredibly attentive...one can tell she cares about guests having a great time. Jonathan absolutely crushes it behind the bar. The drinks are not only delicious but made well, and his recommendations are spot on. It's not easy to find a spot that nails ambiance, service, and quality all at once, but Persona truly does. Whether you're going for a fun night out with friends or a chill evening with great cocktails, this is the place. I'll definitely be back! read more

Brian N.

6 months ago

My last experience here was a blast!! The music, ambience, vibes etc are exceptional but nothing beats the drinks. I dont know much about cocktails, but Markus, one of the bartenders was so kind and patient that I didn't feel rushed to order my drink. Instead, he asked me a few questions and provided suggestions which made my experience seamless given my little to no knowledge about cocktails. And trust me when i tell you the drink he made tasted EXACTLY how i wanted. I called him a magician haha Also had a great convo with him.Cool guy. Ive been in the bay for 3 months and Im happy I've found place where i made a friend and can have great drinks read more

Daniel N.

6 months ago

I've been searching for a chill Sunday night spot until I found out that Persona had free live music on Sunday nights. Turns out I recognized the local SF musicians on Sundays--they play Latin jazz, salsa, even some pop covers (with a Latin feel). They have an extensive cocktail menu, and shoutout to the bartenders Marcus and Queenie who were both friendly and provided great service. Sunday nights are a great night to hang with friends at the private booth, or for a date night by the bar. It's not as crowded as a Friday or Saturday night, but has a nice mix of good atmosphere great for having conversations. Thanks Marcus and Queenie! read more

Romario B.

6 months ago

I had an amazing experience at Persona, and Marcus truly made the night unforgettable. From the moment we walked in, his energy was welcoming, professional, and on point. He was attentive without being overbearing, made great recommendations, and made sure our drinks were perfect every time. What really stood out was how he treated everyone like VIP -- you can tell he genuinely cares about giving people a great experience, not just serving drinks. The service was fast, friendly, and consistent all night. If you're heading to Persona, definitely ask for Marcus. He'll take care of you and make sure your night is top tier. Highly recommend! read more

Ella S.

6 months ago

Popped in for a drink and had an absolutely fantastic time at the bar. Dragos, our bartender, was absolutely amazing. He was super nice, made our drinks quickly, and was a breeze to chat with. The cocktails were expertly crafted, and the service was flawless throughout. He greeted us warmly and immediately put us at ease. The drinks were top-notch, and he consistently checked in to ensure everyone was happy. The overall ambiance of the bar was laid-back and delightful. It's so wonderful when the bartender helps set a chill vibe, and Dragos nailed it. I'd definitely return with a smile on my face. read more

Nielle Anne D.

6 months ago

Had to leave this because it's so deserved. Marcus makes the best espresso martini I've ever had in the city! Not even exaggerating. I like its sweetness- it's perfectly creamy but not heavy, smooth and a good strong I also love their passionfruit shot and the Intersection! Service is 5/5 + love that there's fresh popcorn hihi And the vibe at Persona just hits! I love the dim lighting, good music, cute crowd, and it has that cozy but still lively energy. We always go for a chill drink and somehow end up staying almost all night! read more

Aurora G.

5 months ago

Persona Bar has such a great ambiance--laid back, intimate, and just the right vibe whether you're catching up with friends or just trying to unwind. I came on a Tuesday night, and it was especially nice--lowkey, relaxed, and easy to enjoy without a big crowd. Juan was a standout bartender. Super friendly, attentive, and clearly knows what he's doing. He really elevated the experience with his great service and welcoming energy. Overall, a really solid spot if you're looking for good vibes and even better service. read more

Kathie L.

120

166

2 years ago

I had a fantastic time at Persona! The friendly and personable bartender made us feel right at home, crafting well-made and visually stunning drinks that were as delightful to look at as they were to drink. The ambiance was perfect, with a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The DJ kept the energy up with great music all night, making it impossible not to have a good time. Plus, there was plenty of seating available, so we could comfortably enjoy our evening. Highly recommend this spot for a night out! read more

Deepak G.

Elite 24

128

2 years ago

I recently checked out Persona and I have to say, it's a pretty solid spot for a night out with friends. The drinks and cocktails were top-notch - I highly recommend trying out their specialty cocktails, they're definitely worth it. The place has a great vibe for a large night hangout - it's spacious and has a cool, laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for kicking back and relaxing with your crew. Plus, the staff is super friendly and attentive, which always makes for a good time. read more

Shenna L.

2 years ago

This place is great for having a big party and wanting to bring them in to a basically private hangout! The drinks were unique too. I had a drink, the sweet paradise, that even was burned right in front of us to get the fresh taste of herbs while drinking. The combination of festive elements, friendly service, and well-crafted drinks creates a complete and satisfying experience. I wouldn't hesitate to suggest this place to anyone in the area looking to enjoy a memorable right. read more

Naomi G.

4 months ago

We had an amazing night at Persona in San Francisco. The atmosphere is effortlessly cool dim lighting, great music, and a vibe that makes you want to stay for hours. The cocktails were creative and clearly crafted with care. Our bartender, Jonathan, was exceptional. He was friendly, attentive. If you're looking for a place with great drinks and even better service, Persona is absolutely worth checking out. Ask for Jonathan you won't be disappointed :) read more

Abenaa B.

6 months ago

Persona's definitely on my top 3 list for cocktail bars in the city. Partially bc the cocktails are real good + there's fresh popcorn, pool, and live music. And partially bc it doesn't feel like an SF bar. But mostly because of Marcus! He always takes good care of me + my friends, can free style a drink you'd like based on a couple of words (no matter how buzzed I am), and is just an all around good person in general. read more

Johnnie R.

5 years ago

Don't let the small store front or bouncer scare you this is a great, elegant speak easy that has just started to make an impression on SF. Bartender incredibly kind and warm. Made excellent drinks with a clear sophistication. Great venue for a business after hours event. We came after a play at the San Francisco Playhouse. We will make this our night cap any time we come to the city for a performance. read more

Antoine M.

6 months ago

Persona has quickly become my favorite bar in the city. Between the ambiance, the different activities throughout the week, and the pool table at the back--not many other places compare. To top it all off, Marcus is the highlight of the show! His hospitable presence, succinct commentary on the menu, and overall class act is a breath of fresh air. Hope this place continues to elevate in this fashion! read more

Amanda R.

3 years ago

This place has a great cocktails. I really liked their concept. The ambiance is great. But the service effort is what really stands out The lady taking care of us made the effort to get the cocktail how we wanted and gave us different options. The combination of festive elements, friendly service, and well-crafted drinks creates a complete and satisfying experience. read more

Kennya T.

6 months ago

I've been coming here for over 5 years to see Marcus and it's still one of my all-time favorite bars/bartender. The vibe? Immaculate. The drinks? Next level. My absolute favorite is the "Intersección" -- it never disappoints. If you're looking for a cute spot with amazing energy and cocktails that actually hit, this is the place. Come see Marcus 10/10 recommend. read more

Persona - cocktailbars - Updated September 2026

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Novela

4.0

(1.5k reviews)

Loved, loved, loved this cute and super asteric bar! Their happy hour hits hard. Mon-Sat until 7…read morepm. Staff was super attentive and had beautiful descriptions of the ingredients for the drinks (I always love a little dive into how spirits are produced and from where!) The HH punches were delicious and a little dangerous (winky face). Highly recommend!

I've gotta say, I love the intimate vibes of this bar! Though we did sit in the middle of the…read moreplace, there are plenty of spots and corners to make it feel as cozy as the library aesthetic that they are going for. It's dark but still well lit inside. Bathrooms are nice and clean, too. Service was okay. What we got: - Punch on Tap flight - sampled four drinks, pretty good especially if you have FOMO like me or are scared to spend money on a drink that you might not end up liking! I think we ended up liking 2/4 of - Mini churros - pricey for what you get (basically one churro cut up into four pieces), but it was our choice so we must now live with it lol Overall, I'd say it's great to visit once since it's an interesting concept for a bar. I've gotta say, I love the intimate vibes of this bar! Though we did sit in the middle of the place, there are plenty of spots and corners to make it feel as cozy as the library aesthetic that they are going for. It's dark but still well lit inside. Bathrooms are nice and clean, too. Service was okay. What we got: - Punch on Tap flight - sampled four drinks, pretty good especially if you have FOMO like me or are scared to spend money on a drink that you might not end up liking! I think we ended up liking 2/4 of - Mini churros - pricey for what you get (basically one churro cut up into four pieces), but it was our choice so we must now live with it lol I'd say it's great to visit once since it's an interesting concept for a bar.

Soundtrack

4.5

(40 reviews)

Sydnie is the cutest and sweetest bartender!…read more This spot is always bumpin on the weekends and its fun coming on weekdays when things are much slower. Music is always your old and new rnb hits and a little dance floor for you to get down. They now have ice cream! Havent had yet but 10/10 for drinks and vibes.

Spontaneous pop-in for a friends birthday. Friday evening around 12pm. Sister bar, Skylark, was…read moresuper busy but Soundtrack, about a block away, was pretty chill. Live DJ playing hip hop and the music was good. Menu's placed on the bar and also a TV display of it on the back bar for easy viewing. - donna summer - gin, mango, honey, lemon, egg white - my favorite drink here. Really distinct mango flavor, but not too sweet. Balanced out by the citrus and egg white

Madarae

3.9

(84 reviews)

Enjoyed the fun drinks and food here…read more We tried the galactical, tea, lavender, mezcal and Japanese cocktails. Some came with fun things like fortune cookies, butterflies, flowers and a keychain. Drinks were good. I liked the food, with the standouts being the meatballs and shrimp. It's a club vibe with two floors.

I met up with my friends here over the weekend, and the vibe was so mid that we dipped before even…read moregetting to see the DJ we came for. On the dance floor I got smacked in the face by another patron with zero spatial awareness doing full on arm rotations like at the gym. I don't think he intentionally hit me but still doesn't excuse the behavior. At the bar, I ordered a drink that straight up tasted like medicine. While trying to down the astringent cocktail, yet another patron started chatting me up while I waited for my friend to finish a conversation with someone else before we returned to the dance floor. The stranger claimed to be friends with one of the DJs who performed early in the night and said he was trying scope out the general crowd, but I found his approach intrusive and just wanted to return to my friends. When I first arrived, I thought this bar seemed really nice. It's very clean and has a vibrant atmosphere, so it definitely has potential. However the crowd that it attracts and the underwhelming cocktail really brought down the mood and influenced my friends and I to bounce and go elsewhere.

Smuggler's Cove

4.1

(2.1k reviews)

Smuggler's Cove is always a standout. Their Suffering Bastard is phenomenal -- perfectly balanced…read moreand easily one of the best versions I've had anywhere. The interior design is gorgeous, layered, and full of character. Even though the space is surprisingly small, the three levels make it feel easy to move around and get a bartender's attention, especially on a Thursday early evening when the crowd isn't too heavy. I do wish the bar were a bit bigger, but the overall experience was fantastic. Great drinks, great atmosphere, and a great night with friends visiting from out of town. Five stars.

This place opens at 5pm, showed up at 4.45 on a Saturday and the line was already big. Took us…read moreabout 30 min to get in, 10 min to order at the bar, and 30 more min to get our drinks. The drinks were fine, decor on point but they gotta get a few more bartenders cause the wait is absolutely crazy.

Propagation

4.5

(185 reviews)

Loved all the plants inside…read more Good beers on tap. They bartenders were so nice. Quiet in our corner.

Dog-friendly bar, lots of plants, fun cocktails? Yes please!…read more Loved their aperol spritz and friends enjoyed other creative cocktails (the menu does change seasonally.) Comfy seating and clean bathroom. Friendly service and good vibe.

Kona's

4.4

(181 reviews)