The argument has raged for decades: Who is and who isn’t a true San Franciscan? Do you need to have been born within the city limits or raised here all your life? Do you simply need to have paid rent for a certain number of years? If a real local is what you’re after, look no further than these tride-and-true hangouts (RIP Caesar’s and Clown Alley):
Philosopher’s Club Most Bay Area transplants don’t even know where West Portal is, much less to venture inside the Philly Club for some stiff drinks and slightly lecherous locals. Here, ruddy-cheeked townies reminisce about football games of yore, and talented bartenders whip up original cocktails.
Tadich Grill Sure, it’s on just about every tourist to-do list, but the Tadich Grill is legitimately San Franciscan (you can tell by the consistently local crowd at the bar). Fresh seafood and classic drinks make this ancient restaurant and bar the after-work scene for every third generation suit in the Financial District.
Red’s Place Known as the “Cheers of Chinatown,” Red’s is the oldest operating bar in the neighborhood. Regulars at this inexpensive bar are pretty chatty and often up for a game of dice with a friendly stranger.
John’s Grill Since 1908, every San Francisco grandparent has suggested John’s Grill for a special occasion dinner. The Union Square meat-and-potatoes spot was a setting in Dashiel Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon, which brings in a fair share of tourists. But old-school locals still flock here, so keep your eyes peeled for Willie Brown holding court at a prime table.
Mauna Loa In the heart of the Union Street-area circus of bars hides locals-only Mauna Loa. This tiki bar has been in the business of strong drinks since opening in the 1950s. While the Marina maintains its reputation for frat bars and mascara ladies, the real neighborhood folks still come here to play pool.
Java Beach Everyone else in San Francisco is at Blue Bottle, but longtime Sunset residents and surfers have been getting their coffee at Java Beach for decades. This beach-side cafe is a San Francisco institution and has embraced the modern-day coffee craze in true SF style. Try the Judah Tunnel Espresso Blend, a house secret specialty.
LaRocca’s Corner A bit away from the lively scene in North Beach is LaRocca’s Corner, a legendary dive bar that was once a favorite of both Joe DiMaggio and local mobsters. The game is always on at LaRocca’s, but stick around to hear vintage, often exaggerated tales of San Francisco’s cops and robbers.