San Francisco has plenty of wonderful bars, and two were recently honored on a list of the top 50 bars in North America. The two bars were ranked in the top 20, among many other prestigious bars from cities like New York, Mexico City, Los Angeles, New Orleans, and more. The two bars from SF that made the top 50 list were Pacific Cocktail Haven and True Laurel at #16 and #17, respectively. Neither bar is new to the list, although their standings have improved from last year. In 2024, Pacific Cocktail Haven was ranked #38, and True Laurel was awarded #30.
Pacific Cocktail Haven
Also known as P.C.H., the upscale cocktail bar is famous for its creative craft cocktails. The bar is first-come, first-served, and it’s not unusual to see a line outside. Bartender Kevin Diedrich even won the “Best American Bartender” award in 2020, and is consistently considered a must-visit bar in SF. P.C.H. features a small area for outdoor seating, with a cozy and stylish indoor space. During the holidays, the bar is well-known for its decadent seasonal decor. We recommend their delicious Porn Star Martini or their Miso Old Fashioned if you decide to check it out.
đź“Ť Location: 550 Sutter St
Hours: Monday- Saturday: 5 pm to Midnight
True Laurel
Located in the Mission District, True Laurel was recently a semifinalist for the James Beard Outstanding Bar award. Complete with an outdoor patio, bar seating, and a stylish dining room, the bar is always busy. True Laurel offers a menu of unique cocktails and their interpretations of classic drinks like their Laurel Martini, along with a select wine and beer list. We recommend trying their food menu, which has bar bites and shareable plates like Kanpachi Crudo and Roasted Sunchokes.
đź“Ť Location: 753 Alabama St
Hours:
- Tuesday/Wednesday: 4 pm-10 pm
- Thursday: 4 pm-11 pm
- Friday: 4 pm-midnight
- Saturday: 11 am- midnight
- Sunday: 11 am-10 pm