You know those people who are perfectly happy with themselves and can have fun without alcohol? I am NOT one of those people. I'm not ashamed to admit it, I mean, looking at it from a practical point of view. Life is short and my single years? even shorter. I'm not going to waste a day off doing chores and relaxing at home when I can go out and have cocktails with friends! Blackbird is not one of those bars where you get your usual drink. The brave and savvy will order off the the butcher style paper menu hanging on the wall. This cocktail menu changes every few months and last month, they even offered barrel aged gin! * LOVE * You'll be wowed by the use of fresh ingredients, different bitters and premium liquor. Start with the Early Bird, made with St. Germain elderflower liquer, lemon juice and vodka. I drank it fast because it tasted like lemonade! Can you say dangerous?!? I followed that up with a Tourniquet, I had 2 because it was so good! It almost has the profile taste of an Aviation, a little floral but more subtle. The hefty Beefeater gin balanced by Lillet blanc and finished with a spray of Laphroaig (Blackbird bar concentrated the Whiskey Laphroaig and turned it into a spray as an added dimension to the drink) This was garnished with a brandied cherry. I appreciated the casual chic atmosphere with the red leather booths and rustic wood cut tables. There is a pool table and a photo booth towards the back for more added fun! But obviously, the stars of the show are the bartenders (shout out to Tori) who are knowledgeable and intuitive about their drink suggestions. Needless to say, Blackbird has a customer for life! read more

Blackbird - Tourniquet -- with gin and lillet - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

A friend wanted to drop by for a quick drink before heading to dinner. We met up on Saturday, March 5th around 4:15pm. It was pouring rain that day, so we easily found a table. He ended up getting the Cool as ice: white whiskey, amaro nonino, vanilla, aveze ($10) and I got a Manhattan. I liked my manhattan as it wasn't too sweet. (I think they used rye? Sometimes I find bourbon a little too sweet.) Their specialty cocktail Cool as ice was different. Due to the vanilla, it reminded of ice cream. Granted, alcoholic ice cream, but my friend seemed to like it. Another friend showed up later and ordered an Old fashioned. The space is nice. There's a long bar to your right when you walk in and tables along the wall to your left. I also saw a pool table in the back. The tables are kind of rustic. I think they were pieces of cut tree trunks, so I found placing my drink on the table a little scary. It's not a flat surface, so you've gotta be careful. I did love the look and concept of it though. Nice bar with a cool laid back atmosphere. Saw a couple people just hanging out, working on their laptops. Me? I had fun with my drink and some good company. read more

Blackbird - Cool as ice: white whiskey, amaro nonino, vanilla, aveze ($10) & Manhattan - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I've been back to Blackbird several times since my initial review so I had to update. Blackbird is a great place to meet and grab a drink. You'd be lucky to grab a seat or booth and once you do, hold onto your cocktail lounge real estate. The location by so many restaurants, public transportation and has a beautiful list of cocktails and handsome selection of brews. While I was waiting, I watched the bartender crank out some sexy looking cocktails. I selected the Mai Tai for myself, large glass of water on the side. It was pretty strong with a rum floater. I hardly ever drink rum, but I wanted just one really good drink. I always judge a good bar by the drinks and in my opinion, Blackbird deserves 5 stars. read more

Blackbird - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I love this bar! The dim setting, swanky atmosphere with a neighborhood feel to it, makes this cocktail bar a great one. The paintings are unique, dark, but enticing. I love the large menu posted against the wall for everyone to see instead of fighting for a menu. They have a pool table and good music for others to dance & vibe to! Their tables are cobble-stone which makes their interior decor super unique. I have to say, my favorite cocktail in SF right now is located in this bar and it's the Cold Brew Cocktail which is Verve's cold brew and a shot of bourbon I think? With a lemon peel mixed inside. It's definitely a unique cocktail with a strong punch. This cocktail is so far my favorite in the SF area! read more

A really great new spot to see and be seen. If you go during the day it is very chill, but if you go on the weekend nights be prepared for a crowd, a very well dressed good looking crowd. The specialty drink menu is awesome there are some really yummy and posh little drinks on the menu. I LOVE the way they have all the garnishes fresh and actually zest the lemon or the twist right when they make the drink. It is a higher level for sure and makes a difference.. someone said it takes too long, but I appreciate the level of service even if you have to wait a little longer. It is not a dance club ... more of a meet spot before the dance club.. If you want something extra special - make sure to look for TK, she is the STAR bartender and will make you something unforgettable! Some people classify this as a gay bar and it's location near The Castro does mean there is a predominantly gay clientèle, but it really is actually quite a mix of gay/straight looking stylish and having fun. I think my fave drink was the 1845, i think... i forgot, but you will recognize it from the menu.. so YUM... read more

Blackbird - Slurpe - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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This place would get an extra star if they took credit cards -- it would not be bad if the drinks were inexpensive but at $10 and up a drink it's hard to buy a round for your friends. Otherwise it's a cool atmosphere nice mixed crowd but not too many locals. The cocktails are solid -- great beer selection and nice toons playing. read more

Blackbird - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Good service. Lots of pretty bottles behind the bar. Pretty lousy pop music. Sidewalk seating. Prices are about average for these days.

Nice to come back after so long away from Blackbird! Since I first came by in January, it's definitely gotten more crowded (though you can still push your way through the crowd and if you're paying attention, snag a table even at 10pm on a Saturday). The crowd is an interesting mixture of Mission/hipster and Castro. Still love the dark setting, old fashioned lightbulbs hanging by the wire over the bar, dark wood paneling, artistically cut/broken up wood board partial ceiling, and I really really like the tables that are essentially slabs of concrete that someone went to town at with a sledgehammer. The bartender was definitely a little abrupt - I said "I like something light and refreshi-" and he immediately said "Early Bird." I asked if they take card and he just said "Cash only" and stared at me. No chit chat, no smiles. In the end I really did like my drink, but he could've been a little friendlier. Shout-out to the cool dude checking IDs at the front - very chill, friendly, and I loved these awesome tattoos he had on his knees: one was the face of a lion/tiger, the other a dragon. Really unique and quite bad-ass. Cocktail menu: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/blackbird-san-francisco?select=31G3NnrZiU2rwDbUFW1oqA#31G3NnrZiU2rwDbUFW1oqA * The Sumo Wrestler - 3.5 stars (Evan Williams Bourbon, Nigori Sake, Yuzu. $9) I watched the bartender make this and he adds some sort of jam/marmalade to it! Really interesting. The flavor was very good, but bourbon always comes out too strong to me as a base. But for a bourbon drink this was quite good. * Early Bird - 4 stars (Vodka, St. Germain, Lemon, Soda. $8) Light and refreshing, nice tart taste, just what I asked for. Nice! read more

Blackbird - Friday night 2013-08-23: cocktail menu - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

The perfect date night spot for a pre or post dinner drink. Love the atmosphere. Was easy to find a table on a Saturday night. I ordered The Midnight Society cocktail which I definitely recommend (it came with a toasted marshmallow!!). Can't wait to come back! read more

Mixed crowd, mixed drinks, not bad. Blackbird is a happening spot on the San Francisco scene. The bartenders are true artists making the most interesting concoctions I've ever seen. One drink included raw egg whites, others eye droppers of spice. You can order a regular mixed drink like a vodka/soda, gin/tonic... but the truly adventurous and those in the know will order off the chalk board menu. Drink up, enjoy! Expect a small wait on weekends. Great atmosphere. read more

Blackbird - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

After a tough day at the office, sometimes you just need a stuff cocktail with a buddy to take the edge off. I pinged a pal and we decided to meet up at Blackbird's by his apartment for some happy hour. They've got a bunch of specialty cocktails that are definitely on the pricier side, but instead I looked toward the happy hour well specials. I ordered a whiskey sour which our bartender made with fresh juice, which was very welcomed. The cocktail was nice and refreshing and had the perfect combination of flavors to provide some relief. I like the scene at this bar and the mixed style of seating from front to back. Our bartender was friendly and quick, but was easily distracted while talking to some of the other guys at the bar. I like that its right next to the train station though so it's easy to get home after a few drinks. I'll be back for more happy hour soon! Food: n/a Service: 8/10 Price: $$ Atmosphere: 8/10 read more

Blackbird - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

a cocktail bar should ensure it has its basics down, the old fashioned was a disappointment. wouldn't recommend this place or go back tbh read more

Blackbird - old fashioned - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

My favorite neighborhood bar. It's never too crowded but always busy and social. The drinks are top notch. I love their whiskey sour at happy hour. It's a fantastic drink and only $8 during happy hour- decent for SF bar prices. The bar has a variety of seating, good draft beers, and the bartenders are mostly really nice and sociable. read more

I have to say I had a great time at Blackbird. On a recent trip to San Francisco I've asked the hotel concierge where she would go for some nice cocktails on a Sunday and without hesitation, she recommended Blackbird. I went there with a friend around 10pm and it was fairly packed for a Sunday. The first 2 minutes we had to figure out if we had to sit ourselves, order to the bar or at a table (go to the bar and sit yourself). Once we figured it out, we picked a nice table close to the bar and the pool table in the back. The bartenders were nice and were more than happy to suggest us some of their favorite drinks on the menu. They were extremely knowledgeable. It is interesting to know that all the bartenders are making the menu together and try to pull something cohesive. It changes every season. The several drinks I've tried were tasteful and well balanced. A tad bit on the small size but still worth every penny. read more

Blackbird - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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We rented out the Den for our engagement party. It was a great experience! We ordered some premade cocktails and beers beforehand and everything was already set up when we got there. They had plenty of signage around indicating it was a private event so no one tried crashing our party. The Den area had more than enough space to spread out with two large booths and a pool table. I love the vibe of this bar. Everyone had a great time. The owner was nice enough to come to introduce himself to me and my fiance. Would definitely come back again! read more

Came here last Friday and drinks were awesome! Bartenders were really helpful on guiding me through their specialty cocktail menu to fine the right drink for me! Good pricing on cocktails, mixed/shaken well and very flavorful ! The vibe of the bar is also very chill not loud and obnoxious would definitely come back to chill and enjoy a nice cocktail! read more

Blackbird - Farmers daughter & bullrider/fighter ? - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Nice ambiance. Engaging and friendly bartenders. Excellent whiskey sours made from scratch if you're interested in those

A group of my friends and I came here fairly late into the night (which is probably around 1100 for us. Hahah) and the bar wasn't too busy. The ambience is almost romantic. The lights are dimmed and there are candles on each table. The drinks were pretty good! No complaints there. And the service was great. If you're coming here for pool, be aware that there's only 1 table and that you have to have dollar bills to play. It's also quite crowded so if the two booths at each end is full, you're more than likely to hit someone on the head. In conclusion, good drinks, not enough seating areas for big groups, and only 1 pool table. read more

Lively scene on a Friday night, mix of different types of people or all ages, but a younger crowd in general. Guy at the door checking ids was nice. Happy Hour runs till 8pm!! There is a list of different happy hour selections on the wall, beer, wine, cocktails, I think all were offered in one way or another. There is a pool table in the back and there is plenty of seating. The bar tender that made our drinks was a pro. He had a great command on who was waiting at the bar and who was next etc. He took orders for the next round of drinks as he was making the previous order. He was a professional and took time and pride in the drinks he was making while also being efficient. He was also polite and courteous and was not full of himself. He left a very positive impression on me and it reflected well towards the venue in general (He was tall and had longish hair). My old fashion was perfect. Next time I'm in the area, I'll definitely stop by again. I found the place on yelp and hopefully my yelp review will help guide others to visit. read more

I loved the ambience of this place and coolness it exudes with the pool table, photo booth and of course the Ryan gosling drink! As much as I tried to like this place, the cocktails were just not that great. 3 stars just for the ambience and the effort. read more

Great cocktails, decent music, friendly bouncers. Highly recommend you try the Rye cocktail - forgetting the name - but the flavor profile is shockingly rich for so few ingredients. Incredibly cozy / intimate ambiance. Great date spot. read more

Cute, dim-lit vibe. Shout out to the bartender for keeping us on schedule. The drinks were solid. I'd like to spend more time here.

Super cool vibe with yummy cocktails! Dropped by with some friends on a Sunday night and had a really good time. We got the red wedding (fruity drink with prosecco) which was my favorite, basic & famous (would also recommend), and the improved japanese cocktail. Am definitely planning to come back and try the others! read more

Blackbird - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is a good place to start the night; drinks before dinner, just relaxing before going home, a bar crawl, dates, you name it. Whenever possible friends and I stop by here first, albeit this spot is never our last stop of a night. Go figure. Anyway, drinks are good and on the strong side. You will notice the alcohol or its effect later on. Luckily, the top-shelf quality alcohol they use prevents drunkeness or bad hangovers, at least from my experiences. The place is dim with wood accents, and has a pool table, so it feels like a dive bar at first. Once you get used to the lighting and decor, then it feels like a lounge that will fit in with many FiDi or NOSOMA spots. Like those neighborhoods, the drinks prices are also up there. It's nice that there's a HH here. read more

Went for a drink with friends after work. Creative drink menu and lively atmosphere. A bit loud if you're trying to have a conversation but had fun! read more

300th!!! What? You all want GAY storytime? You got it... THE BEGINNING: HOW I CAME TO F*$# CAUTION AND TEST COURAGE Two Labor Days ago, a very nerdy gay Asian male who had never been kissed made his way up north to San Francisco with one of his best friend. If you didn't know San Francisco has a significant gay population, you should. And that was why they went. He told himself he wasn't going to let anything happen. Complete lie. He just didn't want his expectations high and be let down. Deep down he knew if nothing happened, he would be disappointed. In a quaint dive bar, between the gayborhood and the rest of San Francisco, straights and gays mingled. This place was hot. The people were hot. They were social. And most importantly, they were fun. The place was always crowded and for good reasons. Great staff. Unpretentious customers. Classic drinks at affordable prices. In this lovely bar, his friends tried to convinced him a hot barkeep was interested in him. The barkeep was devastatingly hot and Asian boy thought himself average. He ignored my friends because even if the barkeep was interested, he was too shy to make any move--especially with a guy way out of his league. It was best to think Barkeep could never be interested. However, as they stayed longer and longer, there were subtle hints that Barkeep might have liked him. The Barkeep was very helpful with his group. One time as Barkeep was clearing the table, he stole a glance and almost drop the glasses he was clearing. After that, girl friends of Asian boy made him the "drink order-er." "Go get me water, I'm drunk" said his best friend. Considering Barkeep wasn't the bartender, he went to take Asian boy's drink orders no matter where he was behind the bar. When his gay friends got jealous, they decided to move the group. But his girl friends weren't going to let it go without one last attempt. They tried to convince Asian boy to make a move. But Asian boy got nervous and went outside and his girl friends followed. One girl friend ordered her husband to chat up Barkeep and he did. The husband reported back to Asian boy that the Barkeep said to go up and talk to him. Asian boy wasn't convince this was the truth. The confidence wasn't there. One needs confidence, so nothing happened. I know, what a let down right? Did you expect a gay story to end...gay? Yes, if this was an opportunity, it was missed indeed. But if one consider themselves smart, they learn. And what one needs to learn here is to sometimes F#$@ caution and take chances. Courage is the watchword. Without courage, they'll be plenty more missed opportunities. Pride will heal, opportunities can't be reclaimed. I hope anyone who reads this and considers going to Blackbird, will do so--and that they will go in boldly and leave just as bold. And with a guy. Or girl. And a hot photo from the photobooth ($5 will give you two copies). Forward two years ahead... Harmonie T and I came to Blackbird. Hot guy was no longer there (or at least not that night). We did leave with a photo (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Cs5DX-6syMfiJ1rACSRDVQ?select=l1jyMs6ah6SncWCHYmvC5w )! read more

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A gorgeous venue that is both un-pretentious and inviting. I'm not a big drinker - so I don't really frequent bars or lounges all that often, but the times that I have visited Blackbird - I have consistently been impressed by their beautiful interior, their comfortable red leather couches - and just the whole vibe of the place. Their cocktails are sensational. Many muddled with fresh fruit and all of them made with love. They are each carefully concocted and ideal for sipping on a warm afternoon or evening - especially if you can score one of the tables by the front - right on Market Street. Though the lighting at the back of Blackbird can be a little too dark for my liking - the place more than makes up for it - with it's friendly crowd. If you're in the area and looking for a mellow - yet happening spot to toast a phenomenal drink - look no further thank Blackbird. Trust. read more

Did you know Blackbird has been around for 5 years?!? I didn't either until last weekend, when I received a special invite to attend a private anniversary party here. Have walked by numerous times, wondering what it was like inside, this was the perfect excuse to find out! Barrel-aged cocktails were the focus last Sunday eve. Some were so special, they had been aged for years instead of months! Boy does that add some extra flavor to your drink. Not sure if I am a mature enough drinker to handle the oak and medicine-like flavors, but it's fun learning to appreciate. If you are a Negroni or Fernet fan, Blackbird's versions will hit the spot! Not quite ready to dive into fancy cocktails that are a bit younger (like, straight from the tap), the Pilsner is quite good. And it's served in a giant mug. Can't go wrong with giant mugs ;) A little chickadee (not a Blackbird but something like it), told me that these guys are going to make some updates to the joint later this year, perhaps incorporating bar bites into the menu... That would be fab! After a few good drinks, food must follow. Sing me a song when it's ready! read more

Blackbird - Barrel aged tastings - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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They have a lifesize scroll of delightful cocktails. What's not to love?! ***a definite must get*** -Blackbird Toddy ($8) Rye, Earl Gray, Vanilla Bean, Molasses, Lemon, & Clove Other cool things: *happy hour from 5-8pm ($3 well & sours) *cool photo booth *awesome pool table *lovely red leather couches *open, airy, and artsy feel *ATM in the back *clean bathrooms *friendly bartenders Bottom line: Fun place to hang out with friends over delightful cocktails. http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/Cs5DX-6syMfiJ1rACSRDVQ?userid=Rp8hHh-2U8Nh-7FhhspVxQ#kV_qgPMCqPU4ontr6-kN4A Tips: ***CASH ONLY*** read more

Blackbird - @blackbird with the girls - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

What are the requisites for a great bar? Thoughtfully prepared cocktail list? Plush, comfortable seating? Innovative creations? Blackbird has all of these things. And Blackbird is a great bar. The space is tres cool. The bartenders are knowledgeable to hell & back. You can just tell the bartender what you usually like...clear or dark, brand preferences, etc, & they will artfully & masterfully hook you up. They make their own fireball. That deserves a nod. I certainly wasn't expecting to find such a chic spot in the duboce triangle. But this spot charmed & impressed me. Is it a gay bar?! I had no idea! Even better. Every girl should have a gay boyfriend/best friend. You know you really can't take your actual boyfriend w you to the Nordstrom beauty department & have him help you pick your new season lipstick, right? At least not if you want legit help. Blackbird is a pleasure. 5 stars. read more

I want to make this place my new watering hole. Wait, that sounds weird. I like this place. A lot. I was sold the second I saw Brother Thelonious on tap (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/blackbird-san-francisco?select=STKBveH_16A4MptMZ4_3Fg#F-1kt33r_QwJfprpuY2pIQ), but the Batida cocktail (Cachaca [sort of a Brazilian rum], coconut milk, condensed milk, topped with nutmeg) was so refreshing and tasty, it sealed the deal (http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/blackbird-san-francisco?select=STKBveH_16A4MptMZ4_3Fg#gXzoDQ7JbLlJYSlVq9zqyw). I'm not a fan of cloying cocktails (reason #43587 why I love my Scotch neat and my whisky on the rocks), and the ones I tried here were just as described. They also cater to the non-alcoholic drinkers (weirdos) with mocktails. Also tasty to order: +In-Laws (Rye, Amaro, lemon, topped with ginger beer) +Thai Tamarindo (Tamarind-infused rum, ginger lime, mint, Thai bitters, topped with ginger beer). Guess I like ginger beer. For around $10 a cocktail, good company, and friendly bartenders, I'm definitely coming back. read more

Blackbird - The In-Laws (left) and Batida (right) - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Nice atmosphere and I was glad to see there was still a bit of seating left on a Friday night. The cocktails were delicious--the hot chocolate one barely tasted like alcohol! Unfortunately, the names of all our drinks escape me, but they all tasted great, and came out quickly. read more

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I was here for a happy hour event on Thursday. The warm wood paneling and windows add to the street. I loved the decor of the bar. I loved the long row couch that lines the wall in front of the bar. The offer a great selection on tap and an eclectic full bar. I like the amount of people at this event . The bar wasn't too rushed. One could move and not spill a drink. I imagine the pool table can be moved and that space would be the dance floor. The proximity to Church street station MUNI is an added bonus. I can see myself back here. read more

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Blackbird is definitely a cool bar but I'm surprised that it has 4.5 stars. 4.5 is hard to achieve! I came in here with my brother and some other guys. A lot of the guys in the bar seemed to be gay which is fun and totally makes sense for the Castro. I loved the cool, cartoony artwork on the walls so much that I asked the bartender if they were for sale. They were but for well over $1000! My brother picked out his favorite kind of alcohol (it's something I can't remember the name of, fruit flavored and yummy!) and the bartender created a delicious concoction with it. I later had a good well beer (great selection!). The bar has a pretty classy interior with nice furniture to sit on. I'm not usually in this area but might drop back in sometime! read more

29-July, Sunday: I was here yesterday for a friend-of-a-friend's farewell party, I enjoyed a Negroni Classico extra dry with Plymouth Gin, a few bitters, and a splash of Campari.. gently stirred, served straight-up in a martini glass, and garnished with a lemon-peel twist. Heaven on my tongue! This space can be packed to the brim sometimes, so I definitely enjoyed coming here earlier for a quick drink.. I also appreciate that is no booming music, oh and it's cash only.. but there is a Chase right around the corner and a Wellsfargo ATM close by. read more

I think I may have found my favorite bar. That is a lot to say for someone who doesn't drink occasionally. I honestly feel like this place is an awesome place to gather some friends and have a good ol time. It's fairly spacious, lots of seating areas, a pool table towards the back, and bathrooms are actually pretty clean. Very intimate environment as far as lighting. Oh and how could I forget the music choice! I was dancing all night (in a chill vibe kinda way). They have a unique menu of cocktails which I was willingly to try (again I am not an avid drinker). The bartenders are fast and attentive. They were even handing out menus to the people waiting behind me. There's a huge menu on the wall so even if you didn't get a menu, it's not hard to find your drink of choice. read more

I'm absolutely in love with this bar. Everything from the décor to the drinks, and especially the pool table in the back... great lowkey place to hang out. I'm not always in the mood for more social bars or clubs in the Castro District where I live. Black Bird has that perfect Sunday afternoon ambiance. It was quite empty when my boyfriend and I visited. We were immediately served at the bar. I had a Bloody Mary, and he had a Pimm's Cup. Both were fantastic drinks, and the rest of the drink menu looked tasy. We made our way to the back of the bar where the pool table resided. It was only one dollar per game, and there was no one else waiting, so we took our sweet time. When another group came to play, there were plenty of half booths for them to hang out at. The rest of the time, we were just admiring the décor... the space above the pool table is covered in partial wooden planks, and every piece of furniture seems so well thought out. Definitely coming back here again, now that it has been added to my list of favorite bars! read more

How can I not have written up Blackbird after all these years? The drinks here are among the best in the country. Period. Blackbird constantly finds new ways to play with, reinvent, surprise and delight with their cocktails. I've had countless wonderful nights of conversation and reunions on my SF visits, not one of which has gone by without a stop here pretty much since they opened. Now, when you're at the top of your class, you know it. Especially when it's super crowded, certain bartenders have been complete dicks. You can cut them some slack via artist's temperament, but, I just don't think any unprovoked situation warrants assholery, and I'd suggest they restrict entry better if there are too many people for them to handle. Obviously that doesn't dent my feelings about their booze, but I've seen the behavior enough to confirm it happens and I don't like it either. No need to specify recommendations, since they change anyway - just try everything, or at least stick with your liquor and you won't be disappointed. read more

Talk about an incredible specialty cocktail. The drinks at Blackbrid are uniquely handcrafted, fun and unusual. All of the cocktails listed (or you order) have a little something "extra" added to them. Blackbird puts their own twist on each beverage to put it over the top. They have a rotating specialty cocktail list that is based off of pop culture, which I think is a really neat idea. PS this bar is no longer cash only, so come on down because they'll take plastic. read more

Blackbird - Mint Julep - Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

A sign of a good bar when it's happy hour but they are at capacity at 5.45pm on a Friday. And it's not like they are giving away drinks or anything. Blackbird is just honest to goodness a great bar with a relaxed yet refined experience with mighty tasty drinks to boot! But back to that whole capacity thing. I had the day off and made it to the bar around 4ish but did the rest of the folks make a beeline straight from work to the Castro, knocking aside anyone who stood in their way of getting after work libations? I wouldn't be the surprised because the bartenders take their time to make the delicious cocktails. "My Clementine" was a delicious citrus concoction with a subtle hint of honey that masks quite a bit of clementine vodka. Beer drinkers have no fear for they have a fantastic list of brews on tap ranging from Alaskan Amber to the ever delicious Brother Thelonius. Beers during happy hour run you between $3-5. Much to love about Blackbird. I love the place, the people, and I definitely love the drinks. Must stop in if you're in the neighborhood. Unless of course if they are at capacity. read more