San Francisco, a city celebrated for its diverse cultural tapestry, boasts a vibrant Irish presence, woven into the city’s very fabric. A testament to this heritage is the abundance of Irish pubs scattered throughout the various neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience and a taste of the Emerald Isle. You’d be hard-pressed to walk more than a few blocks without stumbling upon one, a beacon of warmth, camaraderie, and, of course, perfectly poured pints. From the bustling tourist hotspots to the quieter corners of residential districts, the Irish spirit thrives in San Francisco.
Before embarking on your Irish pub crawl, it’s worth noting that San Francisco’s bars, in general, tend to draw significant crowds, especially on weekends. If you’re planning a Friday or Saturday night outing, be prepared for a lively atmosphere and potential waits. However, the energy and conviviality are often part of the charm.
And for the truly dedicated, March in San Francisco is synonymous with the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration, a vibrant spectacle that engulfs the city in a sea of green. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Irish culture and celebrate alongside locals and visitors alike. But even without the parade, San Francisco offers ample opportunity to "Get Your Irish on".
Here’s a curated selection of Irish pubs in San Francisco, each offering a distinct flavor of Irish hospitality and charm:
Buena Vista Cafe: A Landmark of Irish Coffee
No exploration of Irish San Francisco would be complete without a visit to the Buena Vista Cafe. While not a traditional Irish pub in the strictest sense, it holds a special place in the city’s history and the hearts of many. Situated in the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, at the turnaround point for one of San Francisco’s iconic cable car lines, the Buena Vista is undeniably a popular tourist destination. Yet, its enduring appeal lies in its unique offering: the legendary Irish Coffee.
The Buena Vista Cafe holds the distinction of introducing Irish Coffee to the United States in 1952. Inspired by a recipe from Ireland’s Shannon Airport, the cafe meticulously recreated the drink, establishing a consistent and delicious standard. Today, the Buena Vista’s bartenders operate an almost theatrical assembly line, crafting each Irish Coffee with precision and care.
The ingredients are simple, yet the result is sublime: Irish whiskey, coffee, sugar, and a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. In 2006, the cafe made a subtle but significant change, switching from its proprietary Buena Vista blend of whiskey to Tullamore Dew, a renowned Irish brand. The result is a rich, warming beverage that perfectly complements a chilly waterfront day. It’s a great spot to "Get Your Irish on".
Address: 2765 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: +1 415-474-5044
Johnny Foley’s: Union Square’s Lively Hub
Located in the heart of Union Square, Johnny Foley’s Irish House offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Its central location makes it a popular spot for tourists, expats, and locals alike. While it may not be a hidden gem frequented solely by locals, its prime location makes it an ideal place for people-watching.
Johnny Foley’s is conveniently located near Union Square’s renowned shopping district, making it a perfect respite for weary shoppers seeking a refreshing pint. The pub often features live music in the evenings, creating a lively ambiance. However, the music can sometimes be quite loud, making it challenging to hold a conversation. Weekends are particularly crowded, so if you’re looking for a quiet catch-up with friends, this might not be the ideal choice.
However, for those seeking a lively atmosphere and a taste of Irish hospitality in the heart of San Francisco, Johnny Foley’s is a solid option. Its central location and energetic vibe make it a popular destination for those looking to "Get Your Irish on".
Address: 243 O’Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: +1 415-954-0777
The Phoenix Irish Pub: Mission District Charm
The Phoenix Irish Pub, situated in the vibrant Mission District, is a popular choice for its delicious pub fare and its authentic neighborhood ambiance. The menu extends beyond traditional Irish cuisine, but it does offer classic favorites such as Irish breakfast, lamb pot pie, and fish and chips.
The Phoenix attracts a diverse crowd, creating a welcoming and unpretentious atmosphere. It embodies the spirit of the Mission District, offering a relaxed and authentic experience. The pub also offers a happy hour special, with a dollar off on pints.
For a taste of Irish hospitality with a Mission District twist, the Phoenix Irish Pub is a great choice. Its diverse menu, friendly atmosphere, and happy hour specials make it a popular spot for locals and visitors looking to "Get Your Irish on".
Address: 811 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA 94110
Phone: +1 415-695-1811
Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub: North Beach Entertainment
Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub, located in the historic North Beach neighborhood, offers a unique blend of classic Irish pub charm and lively entertainment. This multifaceted venue boasts a killer dance floor and hosts comedy nights, making it a popular destination for a fun night out.
Six nights a week, Kells transforms its downstairs space into a vibrant dance party, featuring house music. Upstairs, patrons can catch the game on large LCD TVs, making Kells a popular spot for watching Sunday Night Football. This blend of traditional pub elements and modern entertainment makes Kells a standout among San Francisco’s Irish establishments, and a great place to "Get Your Irish on".
Address: 530 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94133
The Irish Bank: A Dublin Escape
Nestled between Union Square and the Financial District, The Irish Bank offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The interior is adorned with antiques and photographs, creating a warm and homey feel. The comfortable seating arrangement, featuring a mix of bar stools and wooden tables, encourages relaxation and conversation.
The Irish Bank is a popular after-work destination, attracting a diverse crowd of professionals and locals. As the evening progresses, the atmosphere becomes even more vibrant and eclectic. The bartenders are known for their knowledge and friendly service.
The true gem of The Irish Bank is its outdoor patio, which stretches along the length of Mark Lane. Sitting on the patio, sipping a pint, one can almost imagine being transported to the streets of Dublin. The Irish Bank is also renowned for its exceptional Irish coffee, rivaling those of the Buena Vista and O’Reilly’s, with brown sugar being the key ingredient.
For an authentic Irish experience, complete with a Dublin-esque patio and exceptional Irish coffee, The Irish Bank is a must-visit, and a place to "Get Your Irish on".
Address: 10 Mark Ln, San Francisco, CA 94108-3703
Phone: +1 415-788-7152
Parkside Tavern: Outer Sunset Comfort
Located in the Outer Sunset neighborhood, Parkside Tavern offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features delicious comfort food, including cottage pies and bangers and mash.
Parkside Tavern is a popular gathering spot for locals, who often greet each other warmly while watching sports on the projector and multiple TV screens. The domestic beers are also affordably priced. This neighborhood joint is a great option to "Get Your Irish on"
Address: 1940 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA 94116-2214
Phone: +1 415-731-8900
Durty Nelly’s: Sunset District Warmth
Another Outer Sunset favorite, Durty Nelly’s, is particularly popular for its fireplace, offering a warm reprieve from the neighborhood’s often chilly weather. When "Karl the Fog" rolls in from Ocean Beach, the fireplace at Durty Nelly’s provides a cozy refuge.
Durty Nelly’s serves Jameson and shepherd’s pie to Irish expats and San Francisco locals alike. The pub can get quite lively on weekends, with live music and large crowds.
Address: 2328 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122-1621
Phone: +1 415-664-2555
Little Shamrock: A Historic Gem
The Little Shamrock, located in the Inner Sunset, holds the distinction of being one of San Francisco’s two oldest bars (the oldest being The Saloon in North Beach). Stepping into this pub feels like entering a cozy living room, albeit one that has been well-loved over the years.
The Little Shamrock features clusters of sofas with game tables and a welcoming hearth. The bar offers a friendly atmosphere and a good selection of Irish whiskey and, of course, Guinness on tap. Its proximity to Golden Gate Park, the San Francisco Botanical Garden, and the de Young Museum makes it a convenient stop for those exploring the area, and looking to "Get Your Irish on".
Address: 807 Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA 94122-2305
Phone: +1 415-661-0060
The Blarney Stone: Richmond District Staple
The Blarney Stone is a beloved neighborhood pub in the Richmond District. However, it’s worth a trip even if you’re not a local, especially if you’re exploring nearby attractions such as Baker Beach or the Sutro Baths.
The bartenders at The Blarney Stone are Irish and knowledgeable about their stouts and whiskeys. The pub is popular and tends to get crowded, but that’s a common trait of many great spots in San Francisco. The Blarney Stone also features John Campbell’s Irish Bakery, offering Irish soda bread and scones fresh from the Blarney kitchen.
Address: 5625 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94121-2214
Phone: +1 415-386-9914
The Plough and the Stars: Inner Richmond Music
The Plough and the Stars, located in the Inner Richmond, is consistently praised for its Irish music and its generous Guinness pours. The pub has a full entertainment calendar, with performances most nights (except Mondays).
The Plough and the Stars offers a laid-back atmosphere, although it’s best to avoid weekends if you prefer to avoid crowds.
Address: 116 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118-2420
Phone: +1 415-751-1122
Ireland’s 32: Political and Musical
Ireland’s 32, named after the 32 counties of a politically united Ireland, is located in the Outer Richmond. The pub’s political leanings are evident in the paraphernalia adorning the walls.
Ireland’s 32 also serves as a venue for live music, having helped launch the career of Zoo Station, a Bay Area U2 tribute band. While the regular band performances tend to attract a younger crowd, the pub also functions as a neighborhood gathering spot, conducive to leisurely Guinness consumption during less crowded hours.
Address: 3920 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118-3219
Phone: +1 415-386-6173
This curated list offers a starting point for exploring San Francisco’s vibrant Irish pub scene. Each establishment offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to neighborhood favorites, ensuring that there’s a perfect spot for everyone looking to "Get Your Irish on". So, raise a glass, enjoy the craic, and immerse yourself in the rich Irish heritage that thrives in the heart of San Francisco.
