An Undercover Guide to San Francisco's Speakeasies

In a city known for innovation and reinvention, San Francisco's speakeasy scene pays homage to the clandestine drinking establishments of the Prohibition era, all while adding distinctly modern twists. Behind unmarked doors, through hidden passages, and up dimly lit staircases lies a world of surreptitious sips and the thrill of being "in the know". Visitors seeking experiences beyond the ordinary will discover that these hush-hush hideaways offer a glimpse into San Francisco's more secretive side. 

So pull up a barstool as we unveil some of the city's most intriguing speakeasies. Just remember to keep these treasures between us…

Bourbon & Branch SF

B&B stands as the authentic godfather of San Francisco's modern speakeasy movement. Occupying a space that actually operated as an illicit drinking establishment during Prohibition, this Tenderloin gem requires passwords (obtained through online reservations) and adherence to house rules that include "no cell phones" and “keep your voice down (a.k.a "speak easy"). Once inside, you'll discover multiple rooms with distinct personalities — including the intimate Library — where a hidden bookcase door adds to the establishment's mystique. Their expertly crafted cocktails featuring house-made ingredients have set the standard for the city's craft cocktail scene.

501 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Wilson & Wilson Private Detective Agency

Connected to Bourbon & Branch through a secret passageway lies Wilson & Wilson, styled as a Noir-feel P.I. firm where the cocktail menu resembles a hard-boiled case file. This bar-within-a-bar concept offers a three-course cocktail flight that guides adventurous drinkers through aperitifs, mains, and digestifs crafted with rare spirits and unexpected flavor combinations.

501 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94102

The Pawn Shop

This spot in SoMa requires visitors to enter through an actual pawn shop storefront, complete with vintage guitars and jewelry in the windows. After being evaluated by the "pawnbroker," guests are directed through a vault door to reveal a lively tapas bar with Spanish-inspired cocktails and a vibrant social scene, unlike the hushed tones of more traditional speakeasies. Insider tip: bring an interesting trinket to help barter your way in. This is a “resale retailer”, after all…

993 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103

The Felix

The Felix conceals itself behind a functioning umbrella shop in the Mission District. The tropical-themed cocktail menu features rum-forward concoctions that transport drinkers to Caribbean destinations, while the moody lighting and plush seating invite lingering conversations that last late into the night.

138 Mason St. San Francisco, CA 94118

Cold Drinks

Perhaps the most elaborate cloak-n’-dagger disguise belongs to Cold Drinks, tucked away on the second floor of China Live. With no signage except a small gold bat emblem, this Scotch-focused bar blends Shanghai-inspired décor with Art Deco elements to create an atmosphere of international intrigue. Their expertly prepared classics and signature drinks served in custom glassware elevate the experience beyond mere novelty.

644 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133

Linden Room

The Linden Room, hidden within Nightbird Restaurant in Hayes Valley, seats just eight guests at its marble bar. The botanical-focused cocktail program complements the restaurant's farm-to-table ethos, utilizing seasonal ingredients, house-made tinctures, and small-batch spirits in its ever-changing menu. The jewel-box setting with its vintage glassware makes each drink feel like a special occasion.

292 Linden St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Left Door

This secret spot maintains such a low profile that many locals walk past its unmarked entrance daily without noticing, adding an extra layer of meaning to the name. Inside, the six-seat bar offers bespoke cocktails tailored to individual preferences rather than a fixed menu. Conversations with neighboring patrons and the bartender's personalized attention create an experience reminiscent of drinking in someone's elegant living room.

1905 Union St, San Francisco, CA 94123

Smuggler’s Cove

Smuggler's Cove presents a multi-level tribute to rum in a space outfitted like an elaborate tiki bar crossed with a pirate ship. With over 500 rum varieties and a cocktail list that serves as an education in the spirit's history, it offers both entertainment and enlightenment. Despite its popularity, it maintains its hidden credentials with an unassuming exterior and no street signage, so look sharp.

650 Gough St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Last Rites

Last Rites transforms drinking into an escapist adventure. Its airplane fuselage seating and jungle-feel tiki-temple décor suggests you've landed in a mysterious lost world. The dramatically presented cocktails also incorporate unusual ingredients like grilled pineapple, black sesame, and various smoke elements...so prepare for a unique journey.

718 14th St, San Francisco, CA 94114

Horsies Saloon

At a mere 8 seats, the extremely intimate Horsies Saloon plays with Western aesthetics and contemporary art behind its unassuming entry. The inventive menu features unexpected combinations like mezcal with purple sweet potato or bourbon infused with toasted rice, while the curated music program showcases vinyl-only DJ sets. Want to go? Head to Royal Cuckoo Market in the Mission District to see if you can find your way inside.

3202 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

 

Blind Pig Speakeasy Lounge

Blind Pig pays homage to authentic Prohibition-era recipes while incorporating modern techniques. Their house specialties include barrel-aged cocktails and clarified milk punches prepared through labor-intensive historical methods. When you go, if you think you’re in the wrong place? You’re not. Once you push past the unassuming exterior (designed to secret the inside from prying eyes), be sure to offer them the password for entry. Hint: follow their Instagram to see if you can’t divine it.

1113 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109

The Hideout

The Hideout embraces minimalism in both décor and menu, focusing on perfectly executed classics rather than flashy presentations. The stripped-down approach highlights the quality of ingredients and craftsmanship without distractions. If you want to make it a stop on your list, you can start your hunt at Dalva. Best of luck from there. 

3121 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94110

 

The Remedie Room 

Here, the barkeeps approach drinking from a wellness perspective, incorporating adaptogens, herbal tinctures, and homemade bitters into their low-ABV creations. The pharmacy-inspired interior features apothecary bottles and vintage medical charts that complement their "medicinal" approach to mixology. Rumor has it you might find this place in the basement of The Devil’s Acre, but these whispers are largely unsubstantiated. 

256 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133

Marianne’s

We’ve heard that Marianne’s is accessible through a blue door inside The Cavalier Restaurant. If you can find your way inside, you’ll encounter an atmosphere reminiscent of a 1970s rock star's living room, complete with animal prints and scandalously dim lighting. The retro vibe extends to their cocktail program, which reimagines classics from past decades with contemporary techniques and ingredients.

360 Jessie St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Your Hidden Headquarters at Hotel Caza

After an evening exploring San Francisco's hidden drinking dens, Hotel Caza offers the perfect Fisherman's Wharf retreat. Our convenient location provides easy access to public transportation and ride-sharing services, ensuring safe returns from your speakeasy adventures across the city. Our friendly staff can even help with insider tips to enhance your exploration of San Francisco's clandestine cocktail scene.

Ready to discover San Francisco's hidden side? Check out Hotel Caza's special travel offers to find the perfect deal for your speakeasy tour of the city. Just remember: it's our little secret.