If you're bracing for a week packed with family and shopping, you just might want to slip away to these hidden SF bars for a break and a stiff drink.
The Den at WesBurger ’N’ More
2240 Mission St (Mission)
Closet-sized and standing room only, The Den is the kind of place that’s so tiny, it’s easy to miss. With Lo-Fi Aperitif punches and other low ABV pours, you can try multiple drinks off the menu without getting too buzzed. Glowing red lights, bamboo and a tropical vibe set the tone for this month’s new late night menu—only available Friday and Saturdays (10:30pm–3am) with treats like brisket sausage corn dogs, double smash burgers and Nashville chicken & tot skewers.
Holy Mountain at Hawker Fare
680 Valencia St (Mission)
Hawker Fare serves some of SF’s most fiery, authentic fare from northern Thailand. But concealed above the colorful, festive, light-strewn dining room is Holy Mountain, a dark, roomy escape with just as festive drinks. Plus, the current cocktail menu mocks political dictators from Mussolini and Stalin to, yes, “Drumpf."
398 Geary St (Union Square)
Benjamin Cooper, hidden upstairs in Hotel G, is a dim, inviting watering hole with a wrap-around bar, pristine oysters and cocktails that show off unusual spirits like kummel, rancio and slivovitz. Just a stone’s throw from Union Square, it’s the ideal respite from tree lighting and shopping madness.
Linden Room at Nightbird
330 Gough St (Hayes Valley)
Tucked away down an alley from the Nightbird front door, Linden Room is so small it always fills up fast. Through the porthole door, a few leather stools and soft record player tunes greet you; head to the bar to order seasonal cocktails which are heavy on local herbs and ingredients.
408 Merchant St (Tendernob)
For over a decade, The Hidden Vine has offered an extensive international bottle list and wine flights in its cozy basement setting. Feel free to bring the whole family.