San Francisco's Best Over-30s Singles Scene 2008

An elegantly appointed, retro lounge ticking to the time of the Eisenhower hour.

Reviews:

• “most welcoming neighborhood bar”
• “I like it here”
• “Avoid, Boring, Messy”
• “Great Neighborhood Bar”
• “Let me say….then……..”

Tips: This is a cocktail-oriented bar, featuring drinks like a guava drop, but happy hour (Mon-Fri, 4pm-6pm) features $3 tap beers: Sierra Nevada, Widmer Hefeweizen or Stella Artois.

Tony Niks or email Tony Niks

Young professionals pack this renovated SoMa warehouse for a little food, wine and conversation.

Reviews:

• “Great fun buzz, fabulous food, killer wine list and just a hot place to be in the city.”
• “You don’t have to go all the way to Napa for a good wine tasting…”
• “Awesome place for wine and snacks”
• “Great wine tasting menu!”
• “Great Wine and Food”

Tips: In effort to create a meeting-place, neighborhood appeal, reservations are not accepted.

District

Live music, a buzzing bar scene and a good selection of seafood on ice make this a popular Marina hangout.

Reviews:

• “fun but rude”
• “Disgraceful Service”
• “AVOID THE FOOD”
• “Terrible customer service”
• “drinks not dinner!!”

Tips: Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4pm to 7pm, with $1 oysters and $2 draft beers.

Eastside West Restaurant & Raw Bar

Locally sourced, Cal-Med cuisine and late-night hours make this lively “North of Panhandle” eatery the it-spot for restaurant industry insiders.

Reviews:

• “Simply brilliant…”
• “Late night feasting left me full and wanting more!!”
• “disappointing”
• “Excellent all around”
• “I know its trendy but its an awesome restaurant!”

Tips: The restaurant offers reservations a month out; be sure to secure one ahead of time or risk facing a long wait or a seat at the communal table.

NOPA

An old-school Financial District bar and grill with strong drinks, gigantic burgers and fine brews.

Reviews:

• “Best Burger Around”
• “Sardine City”
• “best pub experience”
• “Huge Selection Of Beer”
• “Classic Happy Hour Spot!”

Tips: Royal Exchange is open Mon-Fri, and reserved for private parties on weekends.

Royal Exchange or email Royal Exchange

Unlike other bar/restaurants near the ballpark area, Nova is a casual neighborhood spot that caters to locals.

Reviews:

• “Happy hour with great food”
• “Quality Ambiance, Food & Service”
• “best Sunday brunch”
• “NO 50 Cent Wings, Bad Service”
• “Great Bloody Mary’s, nice/cute staff”

Tips: Happy hour (Mon-Fri 3pm-6pm) features $3 beers, $5 wines, $4 well drinks.

Nova Bar & Restaurant or email Nova Bar & Restaurant

Visiting celebs and locals who love them drop serious cash at the Clift’s showpiece bar.

Reviews:

• “the good and bad”
• “Good to be posh!”
• “Cliche’”
• “Great time”
• “Super Fabulous”

Tips: Score coveted couch space by making reservations: (415) 929-2344. Otherwise, the Family Room section of the hotel lobby allows drinks and provides ample, comfy seating (no reservations needed).

Redwood Room

An edgy SoMa art gallery by day; uber-hip club by night.

Reviews:

• “This is an awesome venue! And no, the bartenders are NOT rude!”
• “cool place with one exception”
• “Best place on a Wednesday”
• “Classic SF!!!!”
• “This place oozes style”

Tips: Many nights feature a cover charge. On Wednesday and Saturday, expect to pay $5-$10 cover.

111 Minna Street Gallery or email 111 Minna Street Gallery

The California-style Vietnamese cuisine and opulent French-Colonial setting make this a popular downtown destination.

Reviews:

• “TO DIE FOR MELT IN YOUR MOUTH YUMMY!”
• “Unbelievable food, impeccible service. "
• “Good Food, Very Bad Service”
• “Expected surprise!”
• “Definate recommendation”

Tips: During warmer weather, sit on the outdoor veranda, away from the rush inside.

Le Colonial or email Le Colonial

Spacious, inviting bar and dance lounge with a sophisticated, underground vibe.

Reviews:

• “DO NOT GO THERE”
• “Rude, stuffy and bad music”
• “Like to get beaten up? Vessel’s your place!”
• “It’s ALRIGHT”
• “Exclusive POSH Lounge. Ultra chic”

Tips: Though exclusive in feel and decor, the bar charges no cover.

Vessel

Two sparkling tiers of champagne, live music and savory hors d’oeuvres.

Reviews:

• “bubble lounge”
• “bar staff is a joke…crowd is horrible”
• “Best Nightclub in SF!”
• “Best Romantic Primer!!”
• “The UN of SF nightlife”

Tips: For men: No hats, tennis shoes or weathered jeans. Women can sport jeans and sandals—as long it’s a “well-put-together outfit,” according to staff.

Bubble Lounge