If you want something to get done, you often have to do it yourself. For us San Francisco singletons, if we want a romantic night on the town, it’s up to us. Thankfully SF is a city that warmly embraces the solo diner. Put on your best outfit, spray on a little confidence, pack some entertaining reading material and take yourself out. You deserve it.
Gary Danko Snagging a seat at the bar of one of the most famous restaurants in the country is a lot easier than getting a table. And since you’re only paying for one, it might be possible to swing dinner at the high-priced palace. There is no way not to look chic and mysterious when dining alone here—plus, one never knows who one might meet. Do it.
Castro Theater Our perfect solo date night involves getting a deli sandwich from Ike’s Place, five (yes, five) cookies from Hot Cookie and settling in for a double feature at the historic venue. One of life’s great pleasures is heading to the movies alone, and there’s no better setting than the Castro.
Swan Oyster Depot Sure, oysters are an aphrodisiac, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go it alone. Swan Oyster Depot is a tiny landmark with a huge reputation for some of the best seafood on the planet. Patrons have to eat at a counter, meaning everyone looks like they could be alone anyway.
Badlands You don’t need a date to go dancing. This popular Castro gay bar has a dance floor toward the back where everyone shakes it like no one’s watching (why bother with a partner?). Badlands’ strong drinks provide extra liquid courage, but you really won’t need it at this friendly nightspot.
Epic Roasthouse One of San Francisco’s finest steakhouses, Epic Roasthouse has a stellar vibe and a striking view of the Bay Bridge. While this certainly makes for a romantic setting, the restaurant is still a popular destination for business travelers (meaning you won’t be the only table for one). Bring a book and a big appetite.
Stinking Rose Since there will be no kissing at the end of the night (let’s be honest), a garlic-filled extravaganza is in order. Snag a dark and cozy booth, a carafe of wine and a big plate of something stinky.
Martuni’s This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a social night out. Located just on the border of the Castro, Martuni’s is technically a gay bar with a very mixed crowd and very big martinis. Make your way to the second room toward the back and grab a seat around the piano. Amateurs and seasoned professionals alike flock to the open mic to strut their stuff. The crowd around the piano become best friends forever by the end of the night.
Tataki Sushi for one means you can eat all the rolls you want and no one can judge. Head to the 26-seat Pac Heights spot, where you’ll find reasonably priced wines by the glass and a staff that’s happy to leave you and your iPad alone.
Taj Campton Place It’s been one of those weeks/months/years, and you deserve to splurge. Take yourself on the ultimate date night and book yourself a room at the Taj Campton Place. Champagne, a bubble bath and a king-size bed are the makings of a perfect staycation for one. Indulge in a fancy dinner downstairs at the Michelin-starred Campton Place, or simply lounge around in that plush robe and get food delivered to your door.