What is it? Kona’s Street Market is more than a cocktail bar: It’s a passport to global flavors, tucked under neon lights in SoMa.
Why we love it: Backed by Andy Chun and award-winning bartender-owner Kevin Diedrich of the greatly lauded Pacific Cocktail Haven (P.C.H.), Kona’s is named after Diedrich’s beloved pup and welcomes in a street market–inspired space filled with film posters, vibrant signage and an international menu of cocktails inspired by ingredients from Southeast Asia to the Caribbean.
Here, you might sip a pandan- and calamansi-laced classic rarity, a gin-based Boracay Old Fashioned, or the crushable Calpico Cat of Nikka Gin, midori, makrut lime, Calpico and soda water. Cocktails are flavor journeys crafted with precision, playfulness and an open-armed hospitality that reflects Diedrich’s signature style. Their 3–6pm happy hour offers some affordable highballs, spritzes, wine, beer and a couple bar snacks like cup of noodles or flavored corn nuts (otherwise, there is no food).
Kona’s quickly earned national acclaim, becoming a 2022 Spirited Awards nominee for Best New U.S. Cocktail Bar in the West. Pull up to the green-tiled bar under a glowing marquee or cozy up with friends along banquettes under twinkling street lights. The bar’s namesake pup, Kona, watches over the scene, his silhouette glowing in neon.
Time Out tip: Over December, their Sippin’ Santa tropical Christmas-themed popup cocktail bar is a magical holiday respite they’ve become known for.
Address: 32 3rd St, San Francisco, CA 94103
Opening Hours: Tue–Thu 4–10pm, Fri 4–11pm
Expect to pay: Cocktails run $12–$18; only snacks rather than dishes