Clubs

It may have been launched as a semi-private lounge in 2005 (and it does still host private parties), but the days of being “too cool for school” every night of the week are over. This sleek Union Square bar offers a dark upstairs lair for those who want to lounge, and a hip main floor made for dancing. Order your cocktail at the bar trimmed with peacock feathers and watch as the bartenders efficiently pour whatever your heart desires.

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.

Ms. Pac Man, bingo Thursdays, a pool table and a photo booth—really, what more could you want? How about music (live or spun) all week long? Done.

Tired of settling for indie-rock head bobbing where full-fledged dancing should be? Element offers multiple nights of Bay Area exclusives. Every third Thursday of the month, break-dancers from all over converge to compete for a $500 prize by remixing the run-of-the-mill bar scene with handstands and butterfly kicks.

SF's oldest nightclub started rocking the Tenderloin in 1907 and continues to roll with eclectic live music and private events.

Popscene has generated crowds at 330 Ritch every Thursday for the past decade-- this is the place to be if you love the Smiths. The door policy is 18-and-up, so you'll find a young crowd.

Sports fans are in luck: This place is focused on being the be-all-and-end-all of sports bars. The huge flat-screen TVs are great for any game.

Sports fans are in luck: This place is focused on being the be-all-and-end-all of sports bars. The huge flat-screen TVs are great for any game.

Grab an apple saketini or Pink Limo and groove o house beats downstairs; upstairs, feast on items such as tamarind chicken satay and ahi burgers, and fix your eyes on the amazingly credible gender illusionists' revue.

During Prohibition days, this underground space was a speakeasy accessible only by a secret slide. The savvy folks behind Ruby Skye have resurrected the slide idea along with the bar. There are no VIP rooms, but the high-backed seating offers a little privacy between tables.