AFTER WORK SPOT (5 stars) As much as I like to be as far as possible from FiDi after I've clocked out, I don't mind walking around the corner to grab a well crafted cocktail! First timer here and it will not be my last. Great service, great bar, great drink. My teammates all settled for beers and I settled for a nice fancy "fufu" cocktail to close up the week. I ordered "something fruity" and the bartender asked me several questions to narrow down my vague request. I was handed a beautiful drink, very much up my alley, called GIN DOMINATRIX (minus the pepper) garnished with a basil. Ohmy! Purple drink, classy look, fresh fruit taste, and refreshing. It was a nice way to wrap the end of the week with my cool coworkers. No work, just cheers and laughing. I need that. Jaba approved. Until the next review... read more

83 Proof - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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A wall of booze is an boozaholic's dream, they can stare at the wall like a Henri Matisse masterpiece. These booze technicians can make anything you ask for. Anything and everything booze related. Since I'm not good at making up delicious cocktails, I copied fellow yelp tips and ordered the basil blueberry gimlete. And it was perfect! Cool vibe, good mix of people, comfortable environment. read more

Zach (Zack?) is the best! Love the atmosphere almost as much as the bartender. Always a good time here with or without company. read more

83 Proof - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is a cute cozy place. They served Suzie cakes one night. I've never had one before so it was a pleasant surprise.

Cheers to a wonderful happy hour at 83 Proof!! Met here with some classmates earlier today to celebrate a birthday. A little surprised to see the place filled to the brim with people (last time I came we were the sole patrons), but it created for a very lively vibe and made me miss working in FiDi. The happy hour menu was incredible- we had 9 drinks (4 of which were delicious Washington Apple shooters- perfectly made) rounding out to $60 with tax. Service was quick despite the number of people crowded around the bar. Looking forward to coming back soon! read more

83 Proof - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Drinks were great. Atmosphere felt like they were trying to go for a speakeasy vibe but looked more like a corner bar.

A solid cocktail bar in SOMA that looks to be very popular with the after-work crowd. My friend graciously introduced me to not only the place, but one of the awesome owners as well. While my Manhattan was finely executed, I was left a bit perplexed by one of the bartender's take on an Old Pal. He described the cocktail as it's traditionally made - rye, dry vermouth, campari. Yet he made it with bourbon...usually fine as the two are often interchanged, but the final product was sadly watered down even from the very first sip. In terms of atmosphere, definitely try and find a spot upstairs as the main bar is very busy and noisy enough to almost have to shout to have a conversation. For the atmosphere and price point, I have to be completely honest and say that there are better options in the area. read more

I've been coming here for a couple after-work meet-ups and I am liking the casual atmosphere; it's not a pretentious place at all. While I know it can be hard to manage with your boss, I would recommend a pre-5pm drink, as this place is much less busy at that time. Anyone in the mood to meet up tonight ;-) ? read more

Really cheap drinks! The place is a bit crowded and loud for me, but I would definitely come back. I ordered two vodka cranberries. It was decent tasting. read more

After a couple times here I can't get past the sense that this bar is over crowded, and the staff rude, despite the drinks being of high quality. After waiting a very long time for a drink, and being overlooked by the bartenders a couple times, I observed the bartenders just struggling with the crowd. But not in a "sorry it's taking so long, I'll be with you soon" kind of way, but in a "WTF do you want now" kind of way. Bottom line is with so many options around, I recommend taking your hard earned happy hour dollars elsewhere. read more

Cozy place for after work drinks. Service is only at the bar. There's a second floor loft that oversees the main floor. This floor would be best for larger groups. Otherwise there are small tables and bar space in the main level. Good selection of wine, but vast selection of spirits and butters for cocktails. Ambiance is warm with a urban rustic vibe. Very centrally located especially if you work close to trans bay terminal. read more

83 Proof - Lots of bitters! - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I hate it when I watch movies where the genie grants three wishes. The fictitious characters always wish for stupid things, like "I wish my teacher would not show up for school today", or "I wish my dog didn't run away". I'm there yelling at the screen "wish for unlimited wishes, dammit"!!! My wishes are simple: good company, good drinks, good atmosphere. 83 Proof fits this bill. Thanks to the bartender, I found my new economy go to Scotch, Springbank 12 Cask Strength. It's scary, the more places I go to, the more favorites I find. Bartenders are also knowledgeable, just tell them your flavor profile, they'll mix up something for you. All I wish were for more places like 83 Proof...and unlimited wishes. read more

Great vibe, outstanding bartenders and cocktails. Always try to make a stop when in SF.

In a Ferrari or Tesla, switching four lanes, with the top down screaming out "Money ain't a thing!" 83 Proof is where you can chill with a cocktail and just hang out. We rolled into this place and never felt intimidated by the crowd or bartenders. Everyone was into their own business with an extensive cocktail and beer selection. I've had this place bookmarked because of the infamous "Basil Gimlet." Now I know you're thinking "basil in a cocktail?" Yes! Think of it as a light gin inspired cocktail with a basil leaf to naturally sweeten the drink. I ordered one and was completely satisfied because it didn't leave that heavy feeling taste but rather a clean refreshing essence because of the fresh basil leaf. Would I order it again? Definitely! My friend's Bourbon was smooth as ice. The wall of liquor bottles was impressive and showed that only the best was served here. The bar style tables were closer to the front where more comfortable seating were located in the back and upstairs. They have a balcony with a perfect view of the downstairs. In the middle of the room were two beautiful chandeliers which dimly lit the room. One thing I really appreciate of this bar is the lack of judgement. The bartenders were friendly and attentive but most guests kept to their parties. Nobody was trying to be better than anyone else. We hung out chatting and enjoyed the atmosphere. They started yelling "last call" at 11:30. So be prepared to order your drinks at least 30 minutes before they close. Another top place to hang out where nobody cares who you are. read more

83 Proof - Basil gimlet - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

First time here and the service was excellent and the bartender went above and beyond with drinks. Very knowledgeable with everyone's different pallet. Even made a nice cocktail with vodka and raspberry. read more

Enrique & Zach provided quality hospitality, good vibes, and A+ service. We ended up having to wait over an hour for our ride to come get us and they made sure we were taken care of, regardless of the time. Appreciate you guys! read more

Why haven't I written a review about this place yet? HMm hard to notice on one of the busiest streets in SF. It's direction is towards the bay bridge. With excellently crafted cocktails, a professional staff and a swanky yet casual atmosphere. Small venue but perfect for an after work drink =) Ps. If work crowds aren't in your immediate bag of tricks, don't bother coming here. Hours of operation: M-Tuesday 2p-12am Wed-Thur-2p-2a Fri-12p-2a Sat-8p-2a read more

83 Proof's low key space is dramatically anchored with a wall of alcohol. Everybody say it with me: "Oh hello, gorgeous bottles of alcohol!" 300 bottles of social lubricant, mostly dominated by whiskey. I'm a gin girl through and through, they've got quite the selection of the premium stuff. There isn't a cocktail menu to be found (there's only a beer list on the wall) so come with an open mind and a thirst for adventure. Tell the barman what your preferences are and surely he'll craft you a balanced cocktail and at a price of less than $10! (I had a delicious Corpse Reviver #2) Weekdays are deafening in here due to the financial district crowd. Speaking of which, most are men, so ladies if you and your girlfriend are standing up in your heels holding your drinks, you don't need to breathe down on someone's back to get seats, they'll just be graciously offered to you ;-) Love the vibe here and it's not an aggressive scene even with the after work crowd. I'll be seeing you soon! That wall of alcohol left a lasting impression on me. read more

Bartenders and music are two key things that can make or break a bar. A warm smile from the person that will quickly serve you a killer drink, while bumpin tunes echo around you, is what separates the good bars from the great bars. 83 Proof's staff, and constantly diverse music - propel it into a solid five star standing. I like to stick to their adapted Gin Fizz (meaning no egg whites) with lots of lime. It provides a sharp buzz, without the strong bite of most drinks, while still being refreshing. This drink, coupled with their beautiful interior, crafted from soft homey and elegant woods, and their blindingly well stocked bar, is the perfect backdrop for hanging out with some close friends, or co-workers on an electric San Francisco night. Though the bar can get crowded and the space is slightly narrow, as are most San Francisco bars, try to sneak in early, so you take advantage of the chic overlooking balcony area above. read more

I started off my morning pricing boob jobs. I mean, if I ever come back to 83 Proof a nice rack and a vagina are the only things that are gonna help me get a damn beer in under 10 minutes. What? I could skip the procedures and just not come back? Well I guess that could work too.. *cancels newly booked surgeries* Seriously you broseph bartenders, I know you saw me. You walked over twice to shuffle around some dirty glasses, then went right back to the same two giggly chicks. They had drinks already. Which they were drinking. You can get me a beer and THEN go back to flexing your biceps oh so obviously while crossing your arms across your chest. Or maybe some slicked back hair, a striped button up shirt, and some BMW car keys conveniently placed on the bar for all to see might work? Damn shame too, I really liked the whole setup. Dimly lit, very nice lounge feel upstairs looking down on the bar. Decent beer selection too once I got one. Finally, thank the lord and his unicorns a third bartender or possibly manager showed up and I gave him the "what the fuck dude" look and he jumped into action and was quite polite. Too bad I'd been standing there forever already. I could possibly be back some day if people make me come here, I'm just going to ask a female sidekick to snag the drinks. Sorry, I just get sick of getting blown off by dude bartenders simply because I have a penis. read more

For my 199th Review, I'd like to tell you about my love affair with 83 Proof. It started earlier this year, being so close to my work - we arranged a happy hour get together. The interior is very attractive, with shelves and shelves of liquor neatly arranged - you caught my eye. Since then I've been coming back for more, I bring people so they also know how good you are. The after work crowd seems to love you too. I've been here when it's crowded and I've been there later when the 9 to 5'ers have had enough. Despite the crowd the bathrooms stay clean, we can tell you care. The dim interior and candles on tables surrounding the room, set the mood for great cocktails and conversation. Although they dont have a printed cocktail menu, the bartenders are mix masters with great taste. I asked them to make me something good and was given a basil vodka gimlet that was very pleasing. I've had others, but I keep going back for more to the one that treats me right and keeps me satisfied. read more

I like this happy hour spot. Not sure why, but I think it's like a cool pair of shoes. They are pretty uncomfortable and impractical, but still have enough of an allure that you keep on wearing them... Well let's start with why not 83 Proof? Hmm well very little seating, often packed, usually takes a while to get drinks, very loud. But true to those damn good looking shoes, it's got some benefits that keep me coming back... like a nice mix of people (not too hipster, not too Marina, juuuuust right). Reasonably cool space, oh and it's only a few blocks from my office. So if the shoe fits... read more

Didn't spend a lot of time here, as we had some time to kill and wanted a quick drink. This seems to be a local spot and it was packed at around 6:30 or so. I mean packed! Like you could hardly move or hear someone even if they yelled in your ear. Still, there drink selection is amazing. The gf got some sort of berry drink and it was top notch. They must have used some special alien alcohol for this one as it was fantastic. My drink was good as well. While, not cheap, it is cheaper than most of the bars that serve these types of specialty drinks. If you like you're drink in an environment which is really loud and rowdy, then sign up for this place. Only qualm I had. read more

Reliably good service. Nice bourbon and beer selection. Better prices than much of those in the area

83 proof can be a tough place to find, there are no outdoor signs. Very few visual cues other than a large 83 outside the door. If you didn't know the address of the place and didn't hear the boisterous crowd inside you might just walk past it unknowingly. That being said there was plenty of parking on 1st Street even on Friday night which is a huge plus. This makes it terribly convenient to not so subtly have a few drinks in the car from the flask before entering this lovely establishment. Once inside I was amazed at the huge crowd of people inside, the place was packed (understandable for a Friday night). The gents had dark slacks with pinstripes, and the ladies (many azns) were dressed all sophisticated. Juxtapose that with an image of my business-casual-biotech-from-the-north-bay look, I was like a fish out of water. Luckily for me, I was a bit drunk.. and therefore handsome and charming. I wandered my way upstairs where a gang-load of yelp people were reveling in this weekly event they call a DYL. The upstairs loft had a great view of the entire bar, and conjured up mental images of Orson Wells on top of the Ferris wheel in the Third Man. After gorging myself on some kind of delicious cupcake, and accepting a free drink from Matt H. I started getting into my rhythm of greyhounds, and cranberry vodkas. At a point in the night the 4 bartenders became overwhelmed. I got impatient after waiting 5 minutes for a drink, so I went outside, took 10 steps and was drinking from a flask in the car. I keeps it real. When I closed out my tab it came out to 14 dollars (???!). Don't really know how that happened, but I'll take it. read more

From the look of it, 83 Proof is just another FiDi bar watering hole for the after work crowd. But upon closer inspection, it isn't just that, it offers a little more, and can be a later night drop in joint, especially if you like creative drinks and personal service. They have a huge collection of spirits on the wall behind the bar. If it isn't too crowded and crazy, you can talk to the bartenders and tell them what kind of things you like as far as taste, and then they will concoct a special drink to match your taste. So it is sort of like Omakase Sushi meets FiDi Spirits Mixologist. Like in Omakase sushi, you trust the sushi chef to prepare something delectable, and the same goes here. The bartenders are very knowledgable and customize your drink. This is great for the SF drinking crowd of today, many of which are self proclaimed foodies who desire a personalized custom experience with their food and their drinks, and because the trend is you have to try special drink concoctions like you have to try specially prepared dishes. Only difference here is there isn't necessarily a Pris Fixed tasting menu here like your foodie chic resto. Maybe that is the next trend? I found that this trend is popular especially with the young ladies, so that they have ample fodder to share on FB to their friends to show they have discerning taste and know how to get around town and have a good time. And of course, where the ladies go, the men will follow, so this place should keep doing well, despite being inauspicious from the street in signage and detail. 83 proof is known by the Dot Com techy types that now populate a large part of FiDi and who replaced the Insurance and Financial suits in many places, so the vibe is a little more casual then 25 years ago when 3 piece Suits and 3 martini expense account lunches predominated, especially the later in the evening you drop in. They are well known for their Basil Gimlet, but don't stop there on your Social Lubrication Safari. Try an Omakase with the sushi chef, er I mean, Personalized Spirit with your Spirits Mixologist. read more

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83 Proof is a pretty small, unassuming bar that's pretty easy to walk past if you're not looking for it! But that's something that I love about it! I pass by it almost everyday on the way to grab lunch and I didn't even know it was a bar until some friends I met there for happy hour drinks one day. In terms of happy hour, I'd say 83 Proof is one of my favorites in the area for cheap drinks and fast service. My go-to well drink is a gin & tonic and I got 2 for $10 (because their credit card minimum is $10). Hey, not complaining about that at all! The beers are also generous portions and my friends enjoyed theirs. We came on a Thursday early evening and it wasn't too crowded although the bar was definitely lively. It wasn't too loud either so you could have a conversation without screaming at each other. The only thing is that the space is a little small so I'm sure it could get stuffy on days/times that are more popular for drinking. Definitely an amazing happy hour spot though. I can't wait to come back! read more

Great small place, when you just want to stop by and grab a drink or 2+. happy hr is frm noon to 7pm M-F can get really crowded around 5pm cheap drinks too. read more

83 Proof - Anchor porter & - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I came here for a Yelp DYL happy hour and had a blast. It was a great little spot. I loved the upstairs area. The bartenders, male and female, were good looking and friendly. The drinks were not outrageously priced. This is right down the street from my office so I would definitely come back for a happy hour. read more

Solid. Brilliant drinks. Experienced mixologists. A friend in SF loves this place, so we'd come here from time to time. I learned about Rye Whiskey here, and learned I have a lot to learn. We also came here for a few birthday (or otherwise) parties / friends' get-togethers - in both the upstairs area, and the downstairs bar. Friendly atmosphere. Chill ambiance. Warm decor. Friendly staff. A true gem in an unexpected block of town. read more

I am kind of a huge fan of this place despite it's awkward position and severe lack of everything else nearby. This place definitely lives up to its name, 83 proof is full of amazing whiskeys, rums, and all kinds of other liquors that I care slightly less about than the first two. I love that the bartenders are very knowledgable and definitely know all of the liquor they have on the shelves. They can make great recommendations, great drinks as well as help you do a progression, an almost whiskey tasting if you will if you so desire. The location is a little weird, there is a large bar, comfy seats and lots of standing room but I can't imagine this place getting insanely crowded at any one point. In general, I'm a big fan of places that can create drinks because the bartenders know more than just what is on the menu. When they realize that you're a serious [insert liquor name here] connoisseur they don't give you that "did you look at our menu" crap and just make you something interesting. read more

This place is super annoying to find and not in the cool speakeasy way. You just have to count up (or down) the numbers on the adjacent buildings. On the other hand, I hope this keeps this place less crowded because I would actually come back here again. There is some bar seating, seating for twos along one wall of the bar, and upstairs seating too. My friend and I came here during happy hour. We figured there was happy hour, even though it was not advertised anywhere. I wish they had signs or menus or something. We just had to ask the bartenders. Speaking of which, the bartenders on this particular day neglected the sides of their bar and only focused in front of them, not even acknowledging their other customers. It took forever to get a drink even when the bar was not very busy, but the bartenders were pretty nice. I was slightly annoyed, but 83 Proof does have a decent selection of beers, wines, and spirits. Happy hour prices are amazing and I would definitely come back for those. $2 off draft beers! Chill after-work vibe. Just your average FiDi bar but still a good place to hang out. read more

Met a professional friend here for happy hour today at 5p. It was pretty empty when we arrived but was quite packed by the time we left around 7p. My friend had beer, but I ordered a gimlet, and the bartender suggested I order the basil gimlet. I'm not sure what type of gin he used, but the drink was really nice - tasty, balanced and not too sweet. In fact, I had to have another. I found the place refreshingly unpretentious and the service attentive and friendly, even as it got busier and busier. Definitely will check 83 Proof out again. read more

83 Proof - basil gimlet (gin) - nommy - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Aspiring mixologists (and those who just like to imbibe creative cocktails) will appreciate 83 Proof. I happened to pop in last night during WhiskyWeek and there were a number of enticing whisky-filled options on a special menu. Expect the bar downstairs to be mobbed in the after work hours. Come early to snag a couch upstairs but be prepared to yell across the table (or snuggle up and whisper in your companion's ear) as the acoustics on the second floor are not super conducive to conversation. read more

Five Stars. Why five stars? Have you seen that wall of alcohol? Clean, upscale-kind of place, while still being a relaxed bar without the pretentious feel amongst the crowd. Granted, we made up a good majority of the crowd on this Saturday night, but regardless, the place has got a good feel to it. The balcony above is a nice cozy sort of spot, but I especially like the decor of the whole place...very modern and somewhat reminiscent of drinking in someone's house. Where they would charge you for their alcohol... Friendly bartenders, a wide variety of alcohol and beer on hand, and apparently a great spot for happy hours and their Basil Gin gimlet. The only knock I could really think of is that with only two bartenders this night, the wait for a drink dragged a bit. But even then, the drinks made up for it. read more

This is a great whiskey bar if you're looking for a cocktail bar near the Salesforce Tower. It definitely has a cozier vibe to it, especially because it is a relatively small bar. It's nice on sunny days though, because their front window can be totally opened and exposed to the street Depending on the day you go, it can be completely overrun by Salesforce bros, so be conscious of the timing of your visit. Both times I've been here I've had the Whiskey Sour (especially for someone who doesn't love Whiskey drinks) and it was great every time! read more

Whenever I am in San Francisco I always stop in to have a drink at 83 Proof. Great Bar, Great Bartenders - cool atmosphere. Always enjoy the guy playing the piano in the corner (Not there every day). read more

83 Proof - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Went here on a Friday night after dinner for some drinks. The place was busy but we were able to find seating almost right away. I was very impressed with the bottle selection, the bar was extensive. Even though they seemed to have everything I couldn't make a decision to save my life. I gave a brief description of the types of drinks I like to the bartender, who was very patient with me, and she whipped up two of the best martinis! One of the people in our group was very happy to discover they had a whiskey he can never find anywhere but really enjoys. I definitely thought the price was spot on for the drinks. The ambiance was laid back and I would feel comfortable coming here under a variety of pretenses. I would definitely suggest a stop in here if you are in the area or just want to go somewhere that might carry your specialty drink! read more

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Can't believe I haven't reviewed this place. Been here tons of times, but it has definitely been a while. Gets crowded fast as others have mentioned. But good happy hour prices (haven't been in a while, so I don't want to misquote) chill casual environment and TVs with sports will keep a place packed in the fidi. Recipe for success! There is an upstairs area that is pretty chill to hang out if you are with a group. Lots of beers on tap. I remember coming here and getting pints of Lagunitas IPA for $4 and that is LEGIT! Well drinks are also pretty cheap here, I think they used to be $5. I might stop by today and watch some of the Rockets/Spurs game before heading to the Giants game. Bathrooms are always clean. Bartenders have always been cool. Check it out. Save me a seat! read more

Wonderful bar with great bartender. Mark was our bartender on a Saturday night and he took a normal bar experience to another level. My friend and I weren't sure what we felt like drinking, so he asked us a bunch of questions on what we liked and concocted two different cocktails for each of us. My friend had an egg white with gin and cracked pepper (a lot more I can't even name) and I had a refreshing gin cocktail with cucumber. We loved our first drink so much we stayed for a second, which he again, made on a whim and we were watching him make each one with love and care. The second round was also delicious, my friend having another vodka/rum cocktail with this caraway flavor (amazing) and mine was a peachy/refreshing drink. Must say this was one of the few times I was so impressed with the bartender and his level of interest in his customers and mastery of bartending. Highly recommend if you're looking to talk to some friends and have some quality drinks. read more

83 Proof - Whiskey Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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