Happy Hour

This low-lit bar is one of the few places in the neighborhood to feature local DJs spinning hip-hop and world beats. Pack yourself in with the regulars for the $2 happy-hour special, or cruise by on a Sunday for live Brazilian music courtesy of Pagode da Paz Pureza with Grupo Da Sete.

Just a home run away from AT&T Park, this casual spot is always happening after ball games, with TV's tuned to ESPN for all the highlights. The amber-hued bar has six or seven flavors of house-infused vodka, from vanilla bean to pineapple and even jalapeño (perfect for Bloody Marys).

This bar is standing room only on Friday and Saturday nights. Regulars crowd the bar like sardines to see the game playing on the big-screen TV. Specials—$2 bar fare on "Twosday," for example—keep things hopping in off hours.

Although co-owners Jon Gasparini and Greg Lindgren's newest bar, Rye, has been stealing the limelight, don't forget this gem, a short but steep trek up from the busy Broadway strip. Scan the savvier North Beach types reclining in plush velvet booths and choose your soundtrack from a jukebox blaring eclectic selections.

Although co-owners Jon Gasparini and Greg Lindgren's newest bar, Rye, has been stealing the limelight, don't forget this gem, a short but steep trek up from the busy Broadway strip. Scan the savvier North Beach types reclining in plush velvet booths and choose your soundtrack from a jukebox blaring eclectic selections.

The dark and groovy space lends a modern speakeasy vibe to this signless hideaway. Neighborhood regulars toast with Champagne-laced mojitos or Belgian beers as the flicker of candles illuminates the moody art.

In the shadow of the 101 overpass, you'll find this open industrial space decorated with original art, a single chandelier and a flat screen that plays an image of an aquarium on a loop. Mellow grooves are spun for the early crowd, but later on, the controls are given to an array of rotating guest DJs who turn the restaurant into a full-on club.

An obvious play on Playboy, and very testosterone-heavy, this glowing purple venue is a happening spot for the late-night crowd cruising Sixth Street. Lots of cool cocktails—the Absolute peach cosmo is excellent—and groovy beats.

The colorful walls and wraparound leather couches make for a swank retro feel.

The colorful walls and wraparound leather couches make for a swank retro feel.