Sid's Bar

Sid the Cat, a longtime local promoter, finally found a home in a former school's auditorium last year. Sid's Bar is the first to open out of a few businesses aiming to fill the rest of the space (another Villa's Tacos location is close behind). The former classroom has a DJ booth that keeps vibes high on show nights and weekends while slowing the tempo for the more intimate locals nights. A stone's throw away from the most bustling parts of Mission Street, Sid's Bar embodies the best parts of what a local cocktail dive should have: quality, consistency, approachability, and prices that won't make you pull your hair out. Where similar venue bars will end up charging you at least $17 for a simple G&T, Sid's offers a floral take on a Rattlesnake (Spring Break) for the same price. If you are looking for something a bit more luxurious, we were surprised to find four excellent Japanese whiskies and a sub $20 highball. The cocktail menu and the draft beers rotate out seasonally, and the wine list is more interesting than some wine bars. There are also a few zero-proof beers, and their refreshing take on a Dirty Shirley, the Dirty Sid, can be made without alcohol.