Steer clear of these guys...
Don’t get us wrong, the parade of aesthetically pleasing humans jogging their way through the Marina on Saturday mornings is great. And really - the glimmering greens, sun-soaked babes, and killer views of the Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Mason are a nice change of pace from Dolores. But as many of you may know, a day of Fort Mason's well-intentioned spike ball tournaments can turn the neighborhood's infamous crew of recent grads into havoc wreaking bar-goers. Whether you’re a San Francisco newbie looking to throw one back in peace, or the weather's got you itching to head towards the water, we’ve got you covered with our guide to bars in the Marina that don’t suck.
For decently priced drinks, lots of local love, and a little bit of history, head to the Horseshoe Tavern at the end of Chestnut’s main drag. The bar, which affectionately named itself “the non-Marina, Marina bar,” has been housing a slew of level-headed locals since 1934. It’s no-frills decor and commitment to dutifully serving it’s regulars will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into a San Francisco-sized episode of “Cheers.”
When Monaghan's remodeled in 2015 they did so with purpose. With a couple of slabs of reclaimed wood and a fresh list of cocktails and craft beers, it transformed from a rowdy college hangout into the comfy neighborhood bar it always wanted to be. Fully equipped with pool tables, a jukebox, and free popcorn (!), Monaghan's is the perfect place to let a Friday afternoon slip into a Friday night. Shout out to all of you Chicago transplants too - don’t miss the chance to cheer for the Blackhawks or Bulls here.
Though “Marina” and “Lounge” might sound like a haven for over-priced cocktails and Lululemon wearing brunchers, this dimly lit haunt is the opposite. The beloved dive bar, with its green glass lamps and slew of sports memorabilia, is a favorite for locals who love a game of pool and a cheap pitcher of beer. Stop in to watch a Giants game or just to give your wallet a break - but don’t forget - it’s cash only.
The Marina’s cash-only Mauna Loa Club brings a little bit of “aloha” to a neighborhood plagued by $13 cocktails and cover charges. Arcade games and a curved wooden bar where you can watch people trek from Lombard to Union - what more could you ask for? Scream at the TV's with amiable regulars whenever the Warriors are on. And keep an eye out, from time to time the kitchen will dish out heart-warmers like corned-beef hash and pork sliders.
The fact that this bar is listed on “notfortourists.com” should speak for itself. But since it can’t, we’re here to give love to Lombard’s very own voodoo lounge. The New Orleans inspired bar buzzes with festive dolls, live jazz, and proudly touts itself as San Francisco’s very own headquarters for the New Orleans Saints. Perfect for a casual first date (with someone obviously cool) or getting drunk to live saxophone, Black Magic transports its patrons outside of San Francisco without the jet lag. Don’t forget to hit the ATM before - it’s also cash only!
If the variety of yoga pant retailers on Union Street is giving you anxiety, fear not! The Blue Light has been saving people with an old-fashioned good time for over 20 years. Though the crowd can err on the younger side, it's never a bad thing with their awesome happy hour, friendly bartenders, and fedora-wearing doorman. Pop in for an easy Sunday game of pool, tipsy Taco Tuesday, or just the beginning of a Saturday night. Who knows - you might even lock eyes with the love of your life during one of DJ Felipe's notoriously good sets chock full of early 2000's hip hop bangers.
Final Final (2990 Baker St)
And finally...Final Final is a true San Francisco gem going on its fourth decade of darts, pool, and 24 beers on tap. Right outside of the Presidio Gates, it’s a great place to grub on wings, pizza, or hotdogs, while catching your favorite team on any of Final Final’s 11-flat screens. Like a lot of other bars on this list, Final Final has it’s own favorite teams - Nebraska Cornhuskers and Iowa Hawkeyes are known for sticking here all day for all things college sports.
Written by Reilly Ryan
Looking for another great neighborhood bar? Check out our guide to Barhopping the Haight!
