GREENS SPORTS BAR
Read moreSports fans of all kinds, hello! Here you'll find a multitude of screens showing non-stop baseball, golf, American soccer, tennis, field hockey and more. Every type of ball is an excuse to drink a nice cold beer at the bar, and victory or defeat is always celebrated in good spirits, or almost! The bar boasts 17 different draught beers, so it'll take you a while to get through them all... Friendly atmosphere, small outdoor terrace on Polk Street.
THE DRESDEN ROOM
Read moreOpened in 1954, The Dresden has been the setting for numerous films, from Swingers (1996) and Anchorman (2004) to What Women Want (2000) and That Thing You Do! (1996). It's a legendary restaurant with an elegant sixties decor, featuring large white leather banquettes and retro chandeliers. However, it's not for the food that you come here, but for the fabulous lounge bar, where musicians are invited every week. They follow in the footsteps of the legendary couple Elayne and Marty Roberts, at the microphone for over 35 years.
THE WELLESBOURNE
Read moreThis is a beautiful 19th century English manor house, named after a small village near the birthplace of William Shakespeare. As soon as you cross the threshold, you are immersed in an atmosphere of its own. Intimate lighting, a crackling fire in the fireplace, bookcases overflowing with old books, a large tropical wood counter: the atmosphere of the Wellesbourne is unique. This environment and the wide selection of beers contribute to make it a popular place to go out, in an area of Los Angeles that is considered to be an "early bird".
PATTERN BAR
Read moreLocated in the heart of the Fashion District, Pattern Bar celebrates textiles in a vintage setting of old sewing machines, fabric samples and fashion magazines. We love its very lounge-like atmosphere, embodied bya large open space with high ceilings and subdued lighting. From electro to RnB to hip-hop, be sure to check out Pattern Bar's Instagram page, where upcoming events are announced. On the agenda: the weekly Catch A Vibe Thursdays and the many DJ sets, organized throughout the week.
SWIG
Read moreA trendy bobo bar, Swig is a good address in the Tendernob (contraction of Tenderloin and Nob Hill which means in the heights of Tenderloin). Brick walls and a fireplace (with gas flames dancing on fake wood, like everywhere) set the mood while DJs regularly come to mix good music from the 1970s and 1980s. Be careful, the music is loud and there is not much room to sit, here we come more to dance than to talk about our lives! A good bar to end your evening.
THE CINCH SALOON
Read moreBehind the saloon doors is a friendly gay bar with pool tables, strong drinks and a relaxed atmosphere that flirts with the half-century. The average age here is slightly higher than most San Francisco gay bars, but it's a breath of fresh air for those who are tired of the Castro. Look up to the ceiling, which features colorful paper fliers. Mondays are happy hour all night long while Fridays are reserved for drag shows, which we highly recommend of course.
AUNT CHARLIE’S LOUNGE
Read moreThis is the leading destination for drag shows: the artists have been on the scene for decades, and you can trust them, because when it comes to showmanship, they know their stuff! Thursday evenings feature the Tubesteak Connection, a night of 1980s disco music for young and old (free before 10pm). But the house is most famous for its Hot Boxxx Girls, a show initiated by Vicki Marlane (1934-2011),and held every Friday and Saturday evening. Unforgettable!
SANTA MONICA BREW WORKS
Read moreCraft beer lovers won't want to miss a visit to this remarkable Santa Monica brewery. The decor is perfectly suited to the theme: you sit on large wooden barrels, surrounded by gleaming stainless steel tanks. A total of five beers are brewed on site, to be drunk here on draught, or taken away in cans. To accompany all this, food trucks are invited every evening of the week, according to a schedule posted on the establishment's website. On the menu: tacos, poutine and burgers.
Noble Experiment
Read moreHidden in a restaurant, Noble Experiment is a speakeasy as we like them, in the image of the famous bars of the Prohibition. Subdued light, chandelier hanging from the ceiling and candles on the tables: the atmosphere is intimate and muffled, while a wall made of skulls attracts curiosity. Once installed, there are two options: choose one of the excellent cocktails on the menu, or share your tastes with the chef, then let your talent express itself. Be careful, the room being relatively small, it is better to book online before coming.
SMUGGLER'S COVE
Read moreOne hundred percent pirate-style decoration for this unique themed bar, which plunges us immediately into the bowels of an old galleon where we willingly let ourselves be carried by the waves of the Caribbean Sea! Behind the counter, more than 200 types of rums from all over the world, as well as a menu of 70 cocktails, many of which come straight from the Caribbean. This bar also produces its own rum, 100% Californian... Expect to see Johnny Deep in full dress, he is not hidden far away! A must see!
THE VARNISH
Read moreStraight out of a Prohibition movie, this beautiful, dark and authentic establishment is a Downtown institution; here, the bartenders themselves don't skimp on the 1920s look. A young and hip clientele comes here to enjoy excellent cocktails and fresh juices against the backdrop of live jazz played by talented musicians every weekday. If you can't decide which combination to choose, just tell the bartender which alcohol or flavor you prefer, he'll surprise you.
The Holding Company
Read moreIt's not necessarily for the restaurant part of this Ocean Beach landmark that we recommend you visit, but for its trendy, convivial bar, with DJs and live bands. There's also a fine cocktail menu, with Margarita "rounds" alongside house specialties such as the La La Land, made with coconut rum, lemon, guava and syrup - among others. The icing on the cake: a pleasant rooftop on warm summer evenings.
BURGUNDY ROOM
Read moreSelf-described as "the oldest, darkest bar in Hollywood," this friendly, rootsy, rock'n'roll, unpretentious establishment caters to a fairly gothic crowd. With the bar covering half the space, you'll have to squeeze in close together - if only to hear each other - before continuing the conversation in the only alcove, lit by the dim light of a small candle conducive to confidences. Burgundy Room often organizes events, such as Bring back the 90's and Emo Night.
ANGEL CITY BREWERY
Read moreHoused in a former red-brick warehouse in the trendy Arts District, this huge brewery offers a delightful selection of craft beers. On the mezzanine floor, comfortable sofas invite conversation with friends before challenging each other to a game of darts or cornhole - each player in turn throws bags of corn onto the opposite inclined platform, pierced by a hole - to the sound of indie rock. Angel City Brewery also organizes events such as yoga sessions, taco nights and DJ sets.
THE DRIFTER
Push a secret door to access this bar, housed in a basement where a real ...Read more
FRANKIE’S TIKI ROOM
Read moreHere's an authentic bar, without the craziness of the Strip... But no less crazy in its decoration. Big names like Shag, Bosko Hrnjak and Crazy Al Evans have all contributed. The owner is so passionate about Oceania's island totems - tikis - that he serves his cocktails inside. A great atmosphere reigns among the bamboo. You can sip drinks all night long, as Frankie's Tiki Room never closes. A place not to be missed, especially on First Friday in the Arts District, when many artists exhibit their work.
THE LIBRARY ALEHOUSE
Read moreMayberry IPA, Viking Blonde, Strand Throwback Lager, Dead Cowboy, Allagash White, Pranqster, Chronic Amber Ale... Here's a real brewery offering no less than thirty different beers, most of them local. To top it all off, The Library Alehouse also offers a selection of sandwiches, salads and burgers, particularly popular with locals. Special mention must be made of the old-fashioned style of the premises, as well as the outdoor patio, which is pleasant at any time of day. A little corner of paradise for bon vivants!
AMÉLIE LE BAR À VIN
This establishment offers wine and delicious platters of charcuterie and ...Read more
REDWOOD ROOM
Read moreWithin the luxury hotel Clift, this sumptuous bar has kept its 1930s decoration. The woodwork is original and the walls are decorated with paintings by Klimt's students which are absolutely magnificent. Probably the most popular place in the city, and in particular for the celebrities, the designer Philip Starck had renovated the whole hotel in the 80's, but under the pressure of the regulars he could not touch this little treasure miraculously preserved since the interwar period. Inventive cocktails around twenty US$.
R BAR
Read moreTiny bar in the Tenderloin hidden behind a brick wall, you'll have to elbow your way to the zinc on weekend nights. Beer in hand, you can enjoy a relaxed evening among a crowd of thirty-somethings happy to meet here with friends while keeping an eye on the US soccer or basketball games on the screen. The small, simple and warm neighborhood bar that you like to have downstairs. And if you like vintage video games, there are even arcade terminals at the back of the bar.
RICKHOUSE
Read moreIn the heart of the Financial District, Rickhouse opens its heavy wooden door on a majestic bar. Brick wall on one side, huge bottle cupboard behind the bartender, wooden lamps on the ceiling that look like astrolabes... The cocktails are fresh and without fructose, the wines come from small producers, the beers are also local! And the bar is also specialized in its very imposing whisky list.... Live music on Saturdays, from 10 pm to 1 am. A nice typically American address, we recommend it to you.
MADRONE ART BAR
Read moreA space designed by young interior architects, exhibitions by emerging and established artists, Madrone Lounge is a contemporary art bar/gallery. You can drink vodka distilled on the spot, listen to trendy live bands and dance to the wild mixes of DJs. Events are organized every night, whether they are sporting, musical or culinary! Every Monday, for example, we go wild on the good vibes of Motown. A really nice trendy address. Check out their website for the program.
STOOKEY'S CLUB MODERN
Read moreIf you'd like to step back in time and find yourself in the middle of the 1930s, in a speakeasy atmosphere that's as good as it gets, but with oddly pop electric blue touches. Then Stookey's Club is the place for you. The very Art Deco decor immediately transports you to another world, thanks in particular to the magnificent period furniture, just like the bar, and the deliciously retro lettering. And the cocktails of yesteryear take you on a journey to equally successful taste worlds. Delicious!
NO VACANCY
Read moreThis speakeasy-style bar is one of our favorites in the neighborhood. After a secretly staged entrance, you'll arrive in a huge early 20th-century house. Dotted with fireplaces, the large patio is pleasant and full of charm. To get the most out of the place, it's best to arrive before 10pm. Finally, to get out, it's up to you to find the secret access, different from the one by which you arrived. One last tip: follow No Vacancy on Facebook or Instagram to see several stars having their photo taken there.
RYE
Read moreNice cocktail bar all in brick, rough concrete and wood with subdued lights. Small candles on the bar, big trays with bottles. Smokers will be delighted to know that there is a very elegant smokers lounge here, which is increasingly rare in San Francisco where cigarettes are not really welcome anywhere, not even on the terrace. The specialty? The cocktails, each one as good as the other. A must? The Basil Gimlet with gin and basil or The Flash with cucumber and kiwi.
THE ALEMBIC
Read moreRenowned address in the Haight district, where the bartenders master the preparation of cocktails. They guide you in the choice of whiskies, bourbons and scotches. And the decor is up for auction, with fleecy leather sofas, prices chalked on large blackboards and an incredible selection of bottles. The bar is very busy on weekends, so you'll have to be patient to sit there or come back during the week to enjoy a less hectic atmosphere!
SPECS’
Read moreHistorical bar of North Beach where the beatniks, but also the musicians Theolonius Monk, the poet Jack Hirschman and the journalist Warren Hinckle, spent their evenings chatting around a beer or a whisky, the Specs' has kept an artistic and bohemian atmosphere, without really changing its decor since its opening in 1968. The frontage is a bit old-fashioned, but give it a chance, once installed at the counter, the welcome is warm and the meetings very nice! Moreover, the glasses are rather cheap for the district.
BIX
Read moreHidden in a small alley in the Financial District, this cocktail bar recreates the speakeasy atmosphere of the bars of the 1930s and 1940s. Large space, dim lights, live jazz band and bartenders in white contribute to this very dandy atmosphere that appeals to the 35-55 year olds. Trust the bartenders who concoct delicious cocktails that are famous throughout the city. The dining experience is also very good, with Chef Bruce Hill receiving three stars from the local SF Chronicle newspaper. An excellent address for a dinner for two.
BLUE LIGHT CAFÉ
Read moreFor over twenty years, The Blue Light has been a popular gathering place on Union Street in San Francisco. Warm and welcoming, the bar's atmosphere attracts locals and visitors alike. A very student bar where people come to drink cheap beer, dance and play pool, while watching soccer and basketball games on one of the 19 high definition screens in the house. All in a very relaxed atmosphere for the neighborhood... And if you like to sing at the top of your lungs, they organize karaoke nights on Thursday nights.
PERRY’S
Read morePerry's is a restaurant, a bar and a coffee shop, all in one, made legendary by Armistead Maupin's San Francisco Chronicles. In the 1980s, it was a place to pick up girls. Today, fans of the Chronicles come there as a pilgrimage. For holiday makers, you can also come and enjoy its happy hour, every weekday from 3 to 6 pm. Copious food and seafood menu with lots of lobsters and crabs, slightly greasy fries but very good onion soup. You will leave the table full!
GOLDEN GATE GRILL & TAPROOM
Read moreThis pub offers typical American dishes with a touch of California influences. More than a hundred local and international beers on the menu, including a nice selection of IPAs. In the evening, this sportsbar comes alive with game tables like the shuffle board, or in front of the twenty or so giant screens set up in the bar to follow the games... You can also nibble on typical Californian pub snacks(nachos, quesadilla, chicken wings, sandwiches...).
PAGAN IDOL
Read moreAloha! Pagan Idol is a huge, spectacular Hawaiian tiki bar. Colored lights highlight the decor, which combines tiki elements such as totem poles, aquariums and gigantic plants behind glass canopies... It's almost an attraction in itself. Lean against the counter in one of the bars, or simply stand on weekend evenings when the bar is full, to sample fabulous cocktails where rum is king, including the famous zombie of course. Some are flambéed for added spectacle.
HARLAN RECORDS
Read moreTucked away on a side street in Union Square, this little vintage neighborhood bar is warm and inviting because music is at theheart ofthe project. DJs who are friends of the bartenders and the owner play vinyls from their collection on turntables on the mezzanine floor of a small dancefloor. The atmosphere is rather groovy and calm during the week, but livens up at the end of the evening on weekends. On Wednesdays, a small band plays at the beginning of the evening, creating a really nice atmosphere: either jazz (but not daddy-style jazz) or reggae.... The cocktails are delicious.
THE TRAILS CAFÉ
Read morePerfect for hikers strolling through Griffith Park, The Trails Café has been designed to enhance picnic baskets with fresh, gourmet products. On tables in the shade of the pines or to take away, you can enjoy an avocado or chickpea salad sandwich, a hot dog, a frittata - an Italian dish similar to an omelette - a quiche, or an egg in a basket, all homemade. Also on the menu: desserts such as cookies, granola, vegan apple pie and lavender shortbread.
DEDALUS WINE SHOP MARKET & WINE BAR
Read moreWine and cheese lovers, come to Dedalus! For wines, choose from France, Italy, Spain, the USA, Germany and Australia. All good vintages. As for cheeses, you'll have the chance to try Vermont cheeses and many others. Tapas and charcuterie round off the tasting experience. And for those who'd like to sit down a little longer, the menu offers a number of more substantial dishes. A much sought-after address.
Go Get Em Tiger
Read moreIn addition to its relaxed atmosphere and cutting-edge music, Go Get Em Tiger is famous for its coffee. It also serves good desserts, such as the dark chocolate cookie with fleur de sel and the banana bread with walnuts. A plus: the establishment displays a list of its suppliers. We know that the bread comes from the excellent Cadoro Bakery in Inglewood, that some of the produce is bought weekly from the Santa Monica Farmers Market, and that the coffee is imported from Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras.
Café Telegrama
Read moreOpened in October 2023, this friendly café with its impeccable aesthetics and music is the perfect place to start your day. Don't forget the pancakes: they're without doubt the best we've tasted on our trip. Very fragrant, cooked with a little extra "je ne sais quoi"... We loved them! You'll also find a number of pastries - chocolate croissant, blueberry muffin, chocolate cookie and vegan spice tea cake - salads and sandwiches, which you can order all day long.
Beachwood Cafe
Read moreIn the heart of Hollywoodland, Beachwood Cafe boasts a cosy interior, with patterned wallpaper and wooden tables. From salads and sandwiches to pizzas and meat and fish dishes, the place is perfect for lunch. Nevertheless, we recommend it for a sweet break in the afternoon. You'll understand why when you see the tempting array of cakes on display... Fruit tarts, carrot cake, brownies, peanut butter cookies and, above all, mouth-watering cheesecakes. A real treat!
Kreation Organic Juicery
Read moreFor the past fifteen years, Kreation has been steadily expanding in and around Los Angeles. Marina del Rey, Venice, Beverly Hills, Downtown L.A., West Hollywood... We dare you to find a neighborhood where the brand isn't present! Wherever you buy them, these 100% fruit and vegetable juices are real shots of well-being. We tried the Serenity, with water, lemon, agave, ginger and cayenne pepper. Delicious! Special mention goes to the friendly Bryan, who you might bump into in one of the Los Angeles boutiques.
Mosaic Locale
Read moreWe love the concept of Mosaic Locale, a kind of condensation of excellent addresses: the place serves coffees from Old Town Coffee & Roasters, delicious empanadas from Buena Onda - an Argentinian restaurant - and beers from microbrewery Draughtsmen Aleworks. While it's possible to eat indoors, we highly recommend taking a seat in the charming little courtyard. Bonus: jazz concerts on some evenings and afternoons. Visit the restaurant's website to check the calendar.
AU COMPTOIR
Read moreHead to Au Comptoir for one of the best cocktails around! This pretty riverside wooden shack specializes in one-of-a-kind cocktails. La vie en rose, Manhattan Black, Ginger Margarita... Sophisticated "signature cocktails" to tantalize your taste buds and delight your spirit. Tapas and cheese platters are available to accompany these precious beverages. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, the music well chosen, the decor perfectly in harmony, and the barmaid very friendly.
BAR A VIN 1855
Read moreThis popular bistro boasts a rich selection of wines from all over the world, but its main focus is on French wines. Large and small vineyards are represented! The menu also features delicious plates to share, including charcuterie and cheese boards, as well as classic French dishes (boeuf bourguignon, bouillabaisse, canard à l'orange, etc.). Our experienced sommeliers will guide you in your choice. Elegant, relaxed atmosphere, in a setting inspired by the world of... wine. Pleasant terrace in summer.
BUFFALO BAYOU BREWING COMPANY
Read moreAn old-fashioned brewery offering inventive and very good craft beers! You can take part in their guided tours for an in-depth experience. It's also a great address for a good meal, with their famous crawfish boils on Saturdays and Sundays. The atmosphere is super relaxed, making this a popular Texan address, with a superb view of Downtown Houston.
CHAR BAR
Read moreWe love this little bar, open since 1930, in a former tailor's store in the heart of Downtown on Market Square. Some might say it's cramped, but we find it warm and, above all, unique! Martinis (or cocktails in the USA) are the house specialty, and the service is very friendly. A superb address for a more eclectic experience than the norm, as much for the age of the establishment as for the fact that it's one of a kind. A favorite with many locals.
MINTO JAMAICAN PATTIES & JUICE BAR
Read moreThis little Jamaican juice bar has just the thing to get you back on track with its vitamin-packed juice cocktails! We particularly recommend the stamina punch (almonds, peanuts, matcha, pumpkin seeds, spirulina, ripe banana, almond milk, natural spices) and the guava tam (tamarind, guava, mango and kiwi). Around the corner, at 412 15th Street, you can enjoy a delicious, spicy Jamaican jerk chicken at Minto restaurant, owned by the same owner.
OB Beans Coffee Roasters
Read moreIf you're staying in Ocean Beach, love good artisan coffee and travel while working, OB Beans Coffee Roasters is for you! Apart from the customers who come in to take their cups to go, you'll mainly come across digital nomads. It has to be said that the music, soft enough not to interfere with concentration or a call, the large, high tables that offer a degree of tranquillity, the numerous sockets and the good Wi-Fi connection are all parameters conducive to home office. Bonus: delicious acai bowls.
THE SHOUT! HOUSE
Read moreIn the heart of Gaslamp, this lively address is renowned for the show it puts on every opening night: the Dueling Pianos. Two talented players take their places at the bar's two pianos and compete in a frenzied face-off. The program ranges from rock to rap to jazz, with customers selecting the tunes. The lively show, which involves participation, calls for dancing - on the tables or on the floor - and singing along. All washed down with a draught beer, glass of wine or cocktail.
KEYS ON MAIN
Read moreKeys On Main is one of Salt Lake City's liveliest piano bars. The dueling pianos evenings are the most famous: excellent musicians revisit a well-chosen rock and funk repertoire with the help of an ever-engaging audience. A must for an evening of good humor and conviviality. The clientele includes regulars, as well as locals coming for special occasions - birthdays, hen parties, etc. Shows generally start at 8.30pm on Thursdays and Fridays, and at 9pm on Saturdays.
Copper Blues Rock Pub & Kitchen
Read moreCopper Blues is Phoenix's temple to live music. Various styles are represented: reggae, rock, acoustic - to name but a few. The bar offers a wide selection of draught beers, some from local breweries. In the kitchen, we especially recommend the house burger, which is excellent. To find out about upcoming concerts, karaoke and other events, go online. On weekdays, an intimate atmosphere is guaranteed. Our favorite!
Mothership Coffee Roasters
Read moreOpened in 2012, this excellent coffee shop is based on one principle: coffee roasting is a craft in its own right, not to be taken lightly. Mothership Coffee Roasters specializes in single-origin beans, i.e. those grown in a single geographical area. The result is a delicious beverage available in a variety of forms. In addition, several pastries and cakes are prepared daily in the bakery.