Food and Happy Hours in SF

Cheers to the weekend! If you're more than ready to kick off the weekend, why not begin with one of our city's many happy hours? Even if you have a go-to place after work, try something new! Where will we see you this weekend?  SFist recommends these happy hours, which also include food:

ICHI Sushi + Ni Bar
It's been almost exactly a year since this subtle sushi operation moved to its larger Mission Street location, but don't worry, it's remained a Bernal happy hour favorite. From 5:30 to 7 p.m. pop in for $1 oysters, half off appetizers, $4 Fort Point beers, and cold sake and white wine for $6. That all goes down in the Ni Bar subsection, so sidle up to that back bar. — Caleb Pershan
3282 Mission Street at 29th Street

Pesce
In Italy, they've got this awesome thing called aperitivo hour, where you get FREE FOOD with your drinks. How civilized is that? You can take advantage of this brilliant concept at Pesce in the Castro, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. every night of the week. There are drink specials, of course, but also free cicheti (snacks, to you) including bruschetta with smoked salmon, goat cheese-stuffed peppers, and meatballs in marinara. Also, on Tuesdays, they do $1 oysters and $5 martinis. — Lauren Sloss
2223 Market Street near Sanchez

Bar Agricole
Tuesday to Saturday from 5 to 6 p.m., and all day Sunday, Bar Agricole offers up $2.50 oysters as well as some delicious $2.50 sausages with house-made mustard and sauerkraut. Also, there's $6 glass of Riesling and $3 beers to wash that down, as well as their sophisticated cocktail list, at full price, should you want to head that direction. — Jay Barmann
355 11th Street at Harrison

Park Chalet
On a sunny afternoon there's no more suitable post than at Park Chalet, where you'll find $3.50 pints house-brewed beers every Wednesday to Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Taco Tuesdays ($2.40 each) also feature two-for-one margaritas, free live music and a happy hour that runs until midnight.
— Caleb Pershan
1000 Great Highway between Upper Great Highway and Lincoln Way

Gaspar Brasserie
One of the newer happy hour deals around town is at this stylish French spot. Monday to Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. they're offering $1 oysters and deviled eggs, as well as $3 pomme frites, $5 glasses of wine, and a couple of $6 cocktails, including one called the Ma Cherie (vodka, lemon, honey-ginger, hibiscus tea).
185 Sutter Street at Kearny

El Techo de Lolinda
This rooftop spot in the Mission has some tasty bites, and their happy hour runs from 4 to 6 p.m. on weeknights. On offer: $5 guacamole, beef empanadas, fried green plantains (with black beans and queso fresco), and fried chicken thighs with habanero salsa. Also, $7 margaritas and $18 sangria pitchers. — Lauren Sloss
2518 Mission Street at 22nd

UVA Enoteca
UVA is on our list for the second year in a row for good reason, as it's still one of the best deals around. From 5 to 6:30 Monday to Thursday, and 3 to 6:30 Saturday and Sunday, cans of beer (but they pour it into a glass, so you still feel all grown up) are $2, petite carafes of wine are $5, and there's a limited (and cheap!) selection of pizza, pasta and nibbly things to soak it all up. Get their early—UVA's prime seats at their lovely marble bar fill up fast. — Eve Batey
568 Haight at Steiner

Boxing Room
Blessed with a new full liquor license to complement their solid beer offerings from the local to the New Orleanian (Abita, anybody?), the Absinthe Group's Boxing Room also cuts you a break with half off oysters from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cajun boiled peanuts and $4 Turbodog beers or $5 Cava should go with that nicely. — Caleb Pershan
399 Grove Street at Gough Street

Bar Crudo
Crudo's oyster, chowder, and fish taco happy hour always makes our lists, and it's still one of the best deals in town for a cheap date or after-work treat. Happy hour is 5 to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday, and weekend evenings tend to have folks outside waiting for the doors to open right at 5. In addition to $1 oysters, there are $1 jalapeño marinated mussels, 2-for-$10 local rock cod tacos, and a few other seafoody delicacies. Wash it all down with a $3 pint of beer or $5 glass of wine See the full happy hour menu here. — Jay Barmann
655 Divisadero Street at Grove

Mission Rock Resort
On sunny days, especially, you want to be sitting out on a deck, sipping cold beer and slurping oysters, and this is the place for that. At happy hour (3 to 7 p.m.), Mission Rock Resort has four hours worth of 99-cent oysters, as well as $5 draft beers, and $6 cocktails and wine. You won't find a more sun-drenched and relaxing spot, assuming you score one of the tables on the deck, and it makes for a perfect pit stop before a Giants game. - Jay Barmann
817 Terry A Francois Blvd (between Mariposa and 16th Street)

Two Sisters Bar & Books
It's pretty tiny, and quite popular, so swinging in on the early side for happy hour is probably one of your best bets for getting a seat at this Hayes Valley spot, or even ample standing room. Tuesday to Friday they do it from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., and the deal is $3 draft beers, and $5 cocktails, which means their delicious concoctions are half price. And that deal runs all afternoon, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., on weekends.
579 Hayes Street at Laguna

Hi Tops
This popular Castro sports bar has, $3 well drinks like the rest of the neighborhood before 8 p.m. But, there's the added bonus of 25-cent Buffalo wings on Mondays, which tend to draw serious crowds of sports fans who are also spicy wing fans, given that you can order yourself a dozen for three bucks, and then get drunk, all for less than $15. — Jay Barmann
2247 Market Street, between Noe and Sanchez

Noise Pop is in San Francisco

The 23rd annual Noise Pop Festival will be coming to San Francisco February 19th until March 2nd. There are over 150 acts over the two week festival occurring all over the bay.  The festival is also headquartered at the Swedish American Hall.  Here are some of the great acts that will be coming this year.  You can either buy tickets individually or do the Super Fan Badge for one price.  You can learn more at SFist.


Noise Pop upped the ante for their 23rd annual festival with a new HQ at the Swedish American Hall and a sizable lineup of over 150 acts sprinkled around the Bay. If you haven't got a (now sold-out) regular badge, you're probably picking shows a la carte, so here's a little guidance if you need it. That said, you can still throw down $400 for a Super Fan Badge and really make it count. As an aside, there are lots of music-focused films to be watched, but here we'll concentrate on nine live acts not to miss. In some cases we just had to highlight a sold-out show, which is fine if you're going the badge route or can otherwise make it work (Stubhub links provided). The music starts this Thursday the 19th and doesn't stop until March 2nd.

Thao Nguyen (of Thao & The Get Down Stay Down)
SF-based Thao Nguyen gets a lot of the Fiona Apple/Regina Spektor/Cat Power comparisons, but I'd say she's got a different energy than any of them (not that those three have the same energy, they're all quite different). Nguyen is a little looser and maybe even more enjoyable, with arrangements that make me think of upbeat Modest Mouse. She's going it alone for this performance, but will have openers like the Mynabirds, who are also excellent, bouncy fun. — Caleb Pershan
Tuesday, February 24th, Swedish American Hall, 2174 Market Street between Church and Sanchez Streets 7:30 p.m., $20

Flight Facilities
Darlings of the electro-blogosphere, Hugo Gruzman and James Lyell combine forces under the banner “Flight Facilities” for the purpose of producing bubbly electronic synth sounds that eschew the fist-pumping brash of their rave brethren for a more relaxing and comfortable mood. “Crave You” is a crowd favorite with a cocktail of stirring piano chords, sparkling drum hits, and hypnotic vocals. If you’re looking to go up on a Tuesday, the Regency will be the place to be. — George McIntire
Tuesday, February 24th, The Regency Ballroom, 1300 Van Ness Avenue between Bush and Sutter Streets, 8:00 p.m., $23-25

Giraffage 
The track "Feels" gives me lots of them, in part because the lyric — which is sometimes hard to hear, but is "grow old with you" — becomes refreshing and earnest as the pitch jumps around. "Close 2 Me" and other tracks are cut from the same cloth, as San Francisco producer Charlie Yin grabs and remixes choice bits of R&B. This is one of those sold out shows, but if you've got a badge and it wasn't on your radar, or if you're willing to brave Stubhub, this is a push in that direction. — Caleb Pershan 
Thursday, February 26th, The Independent, 628 Divisadero Street between Hayes and Grove Streets, 8 p.m.
$45 (Stubhub)

Tony Molina
If you prefer your music with deafening electric guitars 60-70 seconds at a time, Tony Molina is the right act for you. The Millbrae rocker takes literally the name Noise Pop with his fancy and loud guitar-work. If you pine for San Francisco’s rich, rough-and-tumble garage-rock past, show up to absorb the nostalgia emanating from Tony Molina’s speakers.— George McIntire
Thursday, February 26th, Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street between Franklin Street and Van Ness Avenue, 8:00 p.m., $12-14

Les Sins
All shoes can be dancing shoes at a Les Sins show, where you'll inevitably be shuffling, twisting, and gyrating from start to finish. The side project of Toro Y Moi’s Chaz Bundick is the type of infectious disco-r’nb hybrid that bestows upon you more confidence in your moves than booze ever could. — George McIntire
Thursday, February 26th, The New Parish, 579 18th Street Oakland between San Pablo Avenue and Jefferson Street, t8:00 p.m., $20

Cathedrals
For all you homers out there, bust out your reminder app for Mission-based electronic pop duo Cathedrals, who are the city’s biggest on the bill this year. Much like San Francisco’s geography, Cathedrals’ sound oscillates between up and down, sunny and foggy. Halfway through “Harlem” they sharply pivot from sultry jams and nosedive into a body-clattering guitar solo accompanied by bellowing vocals. Show the home team your support and turn The Independent into AT&T Park. — George McIntire
Friday, February 27, The Independent, 628 Divisadero Street between Hayes and Grove Streets, 7:30pm., $45 (Stubhub)

Wet
On paper, Wet come across as another garden variety indie pop group from Brooklyn, but don't be so quick to pigeonhole this trio, who promise to bring the charming sway-inducing rhythms of their 2014 self-titled EP to the compact mattress-walled venue of Rickshaw Stop. Wet’s two biggest hits to date, “Don’t Wanna Be Your Girl” and “You’re The Best”, are great pick-me-up tracks. And don’t forget to bring some change for the coat check because it will be definitely be getting steamy in the Rickshaw. — George McIntire
Friday, February 27th, Rickshaw Stop, 155 Fell Street between Franklin Street and Van Ness Avenue, 9 p.m. $13-15

The New Pornographers, How To Dress Well
It’s the granddaddy of them all and fortunately for you, not sold out (yet). One man groove factory How To Dress Well is worth the price of admission by himself. His 2014 LP “What Is This Heart” lit up end-of-the-years lists with its dramatic new age R’nB sounds complemented by an angelic voice. Indie rock veterans several times over, The New Pornographers, will be playing in support of their latest effort “Brill Bruisers” making for a genre-diverse show, perfect for that person who brags they listen to “everything except country.” — George McIntire
Saturday, February 28th, Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Avenue Oakland between 18th and 19th Streets, 7:30 p.m., $35

Caribou
Caribou's best tracks, like the dislocating "Odessa," "Can't Do Without You," and "Our Love," feature incredible arrangements with house baselines and vocals from somewhere in the ether. For gigging purposes, Caribou — who is Dan Snaith of Ontario, Canada — performs with a live band, taking the lead on his creative percussion. As he readies his fifth album for release, expect more soulful, head-nodding grooves. — Caleb Pershan
Sunday and Monday, March 1st and 2nd, The Fillmore, 1805 Geary Boulevard at Fillmore Street, 8 p.m. $25

Spoil Your Loved One This Valentine's Day

The weekend is almost here. Do you have your Valentine's Day plans figured out yet? San Francisco has some amazing locations to have a romantic and memorable Valentine's Day.   If you are looking to wine and dine or an amazing overnight stay, San Francisco probably has the perfect place for you.  Keep reading to learn about your various options, and you can learn more by visiting San Francisco Travel. 




For those looking to wine and dine:

Cocktails and a View at Top of the Mark
Known for their signature martinis and magnificent views of San Francisco, the Top of the Mark rooftop bar is the perfect place to complement the most romantic evening. Arrive for pre-dinner drinks and experience the sun setting on the San Francisco skyline, or linger for a nightcap with the twinkling lights of the city beckoning.

Urban Wineries
No time to head to wine country? Enjoy a first-class wine tasting experience at one of the many new urban wineries located within San Francisco’s 49 square miles. Bluxome Street Winery offers weekend tours and tastings of 5 wines paired with charcuterie.

Illuminate Your Night
Lovers can gaze upon artist Leo Villareal’s monumental light sculpture known as The Bay Lights, illumining the western span of the Bay Bridge. Dine at Epic Roasthouse, Waterbar or Chaya Brasserie for a five-star dining experience, complete with a beautiful view of this stunning lights installation.
For the arts lovers:

Mozart for Valentine's Day
Feb. 13–15
Treat yourself and someone special to a romantic Valentine’s date night at the San Francisco Symphony. Snuggle up in a Side Box or Loge seats and sip La Marca Prosecco, chocolate covered strawberries and truffles while enjoying one of three special concerts.

Doodling Around with Mike Dutton
Feb. 14, 3–5 p.m.
Creativity sparks with renowned illustrator Mike Dutton comes to the SFMOMA Artists Gallery at Fort Mason to teach a lesson that promises to stretch your sketching skills and deliver a deeper love of doodles. Bring your loved one, as this lesson works well for pairs.
For the adventure-seekers:

Golden Gate Bridge
Take a romantic stroll on San Francisco's most famous bridge. Or for the more adventurous couple, rent a bicycle built for two with Blazing Saddles or Bay City Bike. Bike over the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco to Sausalito and enjoy a quaint, waterfront lunch. Too tired to bike back? Take the ferry from Sausalito to San Francisco.
Sail the Bay with Your Sweetheart

For a romantic evening out on the water, San Francisco Bay offers a variety of Valentine’s Day cruises.

Hornblower’s Valentine's Dinner Cruise
Feb. 13 and 14
Love is on the water this Valentine’s Day. Set sail for a special Hornblower Valentine’s dinner cruise and feast on a delicious buffet dinner while sipping your choice of wine and beer. You and your sweetheart can dance the night away to the DJ entertainment or step outside to enjoy the best views of the breathtaking San Francisco city skyline. Delight in the entire experience of this romantic dinner excursion for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day.

Hornblower’s Cupid's Champagne Brunch Cruise
Feb. 14 and 15
Spend your afternoon on Hornblower’s Cupid's Valentine’s Day Champagne Brunch cruise and enjoy an elaborate buffet featuring a wide selection of brunch favorites. Sip free-flowing bubbly and bottomless mimosas. Relax to the romantic styling of the live entertainment on board, or step onto the outer deck for the breathtaking sights of the San Francisco Skyline.

Valentines Bay Lights Sail
Feb. 14 – Departs from Sausalito
Board the schooner Freda B for a most romantic sail: The Bay Lights Sail from 8-10pm. This is a perfect way to extend date night. After you take your special someone to an early dinner in one of the great restaurants in Sausalito join us for a special twilight sail around the San Francisco Bay. Take in the epic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Bay Bridge, Alcatraz, SF Skyline and Angel Island as they sparkle at night.
For the day dates:

Take a Stroll on Lover’s Lane
Take your date off the beaten path and hike through San Francisco’s historic Presidio. Open spaces, trails and inspiring vistas provide plenty of opportunity to be alone with your loved one while enjoying the quiet beauty that can only be found at the Presidio. Steal a kiss on Lover’s Lane and experience the sunset from Baker Beach. Guided tours are available through Urban Hiker SF, or explore on your own.

Ferry Building Marketplace
Sample artisan cheeses, sip Blue Bottle Coffee and feast on Tomales Bay oysters – the Ferry Building Marketplace is the perfect day-date destination.

For the Sweet Tooth
Feb. 14, tours run 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Bring your sweetie on a Gourmet Walks’ Valentine's Cupcake & Chocolate Tour. These special tours will run only on Valentine's Day weekend, featuring three gourmet cupcake stops and five chocolate tasting stops. Generous tastings will leave couples on a romantic chocolate high.

Picnic in the Park
For the budget-minded, bring a picnic lunch and rent a paddle or row boat and go for a romantic ride around the beautiful, 12-acre Stow Lake. Also in the park, share the love by making a handmade, pressed flower card at the Conservatory of Flowers and watch as the penguins build their nests out of heart-shaped valentines at the California Academy of Sciences.

Valentine's Day Gifts

What are you doing for your loved one this Valentine’s Day? Valentine’s Day can be special without spending your savings account. Here are some romantic and affordable Valentine’s Day ideas for you to try this year. You can read about some more ideas on Apartment Therapy.

Finding a creative way to spend Valentine's Day has the added benefit of avoiding the crowds at overbook restaurant and florist shops. The best way to show your sweetie you love them? Think outside the box and get creative. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

1. Get dressed up. Book tickets somewhere you might not usually go and put your fancy pants on. Try the local ballet, symphony or theater.

2. Do something creative. Attend a paint night or take a DIY class, you'll both walk away with a memento from the night.

3. Get cooking. Take a cooking class then head home and make dinner in together.

4. Get physical. Go for a hike, try kayaking, or take a bike ride. Added bonus, exercise releases endorphins and you get to enjoy the outdoors together.

5. Get an adrenaline rush. Do something that scares you, if you've always wanted to skydive or go climbing try it out together (just make sure your partner is on board first.)

6. Go tasting. You can go with the classic wine tasting or go for chocolate tasting,cheese tasting or coffee cupping.

7. Learn to dance. Don't know how to dance? Perfect, you can learn. Try out a class, be it ballroom, salsa, swing or square dancing. It's fun and a great way to learn to work together.

8. Take a tour. Instead of dining out, try a food tour—it's a meal and activity rolled into one.

9. Get a new perspective. Find out where the best views in your city are and make it a date. San Francisco has Twin Peaks and Los Angeles has the Griffith Observatory—bonus points if you pack a picnic.

10. Get lost. Grab a guide (or make your own) and go explore a part of town that you've never spent time in.

11. Get away. Book a weekend away, but look for creative lodging. You can stay in a yurt, a treehouse, a boat or even a wagon for something more adventurous, Airbnb has a whole section devoted to unique options.

12. Dwell on the past. Revisit places that were a part of your shared history, take a walk, grab a glass of wine or visit the restaurant where you had your first date. You can even have a custom map made on Etsy.

13. Do good. Take the day to volunteer together. You can visit Volunteer Matchto get matched up with a cause you both care about.

14. Have a game night. Pick a couple of favorite board games (even better if they are from your childhood), set out some snacks and a bottle of wine. "Sorry!"

15. Find a new way to explore. Try exploring a favorite place in a new way. Take a train ridethrough the Redwoods, go horseback riding, take a harbor cruise or even go for a hot air ballon ride in wine country.