Bar 821

If you’re trying to impress someone, stop Googling “best cocktail bars in San Francisco.”

Go here.

This is a Good Bar.

The first thing you’ll notice is that you have to ring a doorbell to get in. I don’t know why that makes the cocktails taste better, but somehow it does.

Bar 821 is quiet, cozy, and probably one of the best places in the city to actually have a conversation. Revolutionary concept, I know.

The cocktails are funky and juicy, especially if you appreciate amaro. In fact, if you don’t know what amaro is, this is a pretty good place to find out. The bartenders won’t judge you. Probably.

This isn’t the place for your birthday party with twelve people. Four is perfect. Two is even better.

Good conversation. Great drinks. Zero pressure to be anywhere else.

Certified Good Bar.

THE VIBE

Neighborhood

• NOPA/Divisadero

Occasion

• Date night, cocktails with a friend, catching up, quiet celebrations

Energy

• Relaxed, intimate, conversation-first

Food

• Excellent light bites

TV Situation

• Thankfully, no.

Best Drink

• Whatever seasonal cocktail catches your eye, or let the bartender steer the ship.

GOOD BARS PRO TIP

Ring the bell, trust the bartender, and don’t make dinner plans immediately afterward. You’ll probably stay longer than you expected.
Certified Good Bar.