Brass Tacks is a good go to cocktail bar. It's a lowly lit, intimate space perfect for grabbing a few post-dinner drinks. I also thought the drinks were fairly well priced (~$12/drink). Definitely a great date spot or for a small group of friends. read more

Fun bar. Cool crowd. No cover charge. Good drinks. Friendly bartender. Could get packed. Have some cool lounge chairs on the back. Drink costs around $10-15. This bar reminds me of College in Marina but not as young crowd and less d***chy. Hheheh Might be back here again if I'm in the area. read more

Another great addition to the stable of drink spots popping up in Hayes Valley. With a solid cocktail menu, well crafted beers on tap/bottle and bartenders that know mixology, Brass Tacks will be a regular drink spot for many. The Conversation is twist on an Old Fashioned that won't disappoint. Also, check out the bourbon spiced nuts and the soft pretzel snacks - winning! read more

Brass Tacks - Bar at Brass Tacks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

My friends and I come here very frequently for drinks when we are in the area. We came here during Christmas time and they had put up 100s of little Santa Clause's around the store. They have an amazing drink selection and their Moscow Mule's are very good... and strong! -B read more

Brass Tacks was our second stop of the night. We were hungry, and looking for a place with a more spacious and modern vibe, to take our family visiting from out of town. The staff was super friendly, and he helped us get a table to accommodate my wife who uses a wheelchair. They had a lower bar, as well as booth-like couches and tables to choose from. We were hungry and didn't realize that they didn't serve food here, so we were immediately disappointed when we didn't see food on the menu. The guy was super nice and handed us a free pretzel (they're normally $3), and apologized...even though it was our fault. The drink selection is nice, and I don't know about the other drinks, but the mosquito coast packed a nice flavorful punch. If we weren't 3 drinks in and starving by this point, I probably would've ordered another. If you're a wheelchair user and need to use the bathroom, look elsewhere. Their bathrooms are small, have no bars, and we had to use a weird angle to get the chair in and close the door. Final thoughts? It's good for a spot on a bar hopping trip, but when the hunger sets in and the drinks send you to the bathroom, you'll need to look elsewhere if you require more space. read more

This place was jam packed, however, the bartenders are amazing!!! This has got to be my favorite bar thus far simply because the bartenders make it that much better. They are lively, friendly & energetic! The drinks were also amazing. It is a bit dark in here, but if you snag a seat at the bar, you're set. The decorations are also super cool & hip. I will definitely come back! read more

Good neighborhood bar with a pretty diverse selection of draft and bottled beer. I was pleasantly surprised to see Hitachino's White mixing company with Dogfish 90 minute IPA. Of course, these guys are on the pricy side but you can also get some Stone IPA for just $5. Haven't been on a weekend, but it was a relaxed atmosphere on a weeknight. If you're looking for something low key, where you can nurse your beer for a while, check this place out. read more

You know I wanted this place to be good. As soon as we got close to the bar, the "bar manager" asked for everyone's ID. We had a couple of girls who didn't want to drink and he still insisted on seeing their ids. Then there was napkingate 2017. One of the girls asked for a couple of napkins to clean the side table and the same "bar manager" threw napkins at us while making an orgasmic face. What a weirdo. This place would be better if they just fired this guy. He went around the bar telling people to take their feet off the table. Clearly he's clueless read more

This is hands down my favorite bar if I'm visiting SF with my pupper. It's small, intimate, and the drinks are tasty. Bars allowing dogs inside will always have a special place in my heart - thank you Brass Tacks! read more

See all

Beware 20%! - They tell you when you enter that they automatically add 20% to your tab. Odd, but at least they disclose this. Then, when then hand you your bill after you've had a few, it has giant boxes to add 20%, 18% or 15% tip. What?!??! I asked the bartender if we already paid the tip as he stated it was included. He said "Oh yeah, it's already included" and pointed to the line item. No other bars I've ever been to do this. Seems deceitful and as if they are taking advantage of their customers. How may folks forget and give another 20%. Lame. read more

This is a straight up drinkery in the heart of Hayes Valley. I know that's not a word but I didn't want to say "drinking establishment." It's a place where it's basically a rectangular room with some seats in front, a bar to your left, and some more seating in the back. They serve pretty decent cocktails and the bartenders are friendly. This is a good random place to bar hop to/from. read more

Super fun vibe with an innovative cocktail list. I tried "story of ricky" which is similar to a gimlet and it was delicious. The bartender is pretty friendly too :) read more

Made a pit stop here before heading over to Izakaya Rintaro in Mission. Came here a little bit after Christmas time and the place was packed, like literally PACKED, with little Santas... EVERYWHERE. It was cool and creepy at the same time. I personally didn't get a drink here at the time since drinking before getting food in my stomach seemed like a bad idea ( I had hot cheetos for lunch). The place is cozy, dimly lit and had a super nice ambiance to it. I'd say it's a nice place to bring a date or even just hangout with a couple friends. The noise level is about moderate but don't expect to get rowdy here. Drink menu is no Yardhouse menu but it has a decent amount or craft beers and cocktails. I will probably come back here when I want to grab a cocktail or two... and also when I have more than just hot cheetos in my stomach. read more

Brass Tacks - So many Santas here - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

The drinks and service were fine. It's the billing that is questionable. They automatically add a 20% service fee. I've never had this before in a bar, but they do inform you of it before you go in. They also add tax to the drink cost, again I've never had this before in a bar. In most bars, the tax is included in the price. However the worst part is that they charge tax on the 20% service charge. Legally, there is no tax on service charge. The bar is just pocketing this extra amount. read more

Usually this place is packed so I never bothered, however, one brisk weekday night I wandered in when I saw there were several spots open at the bar. The bartender was super cool and we chatted for a bit because he actually lived in Seattle for a few years, like myself. He was also kind enough to give me some really useful tips about the Hayes Valley 'hood since I was a n00b. I got a Sonoma Valley Cider upon his recommendation after I told him I can't drink beer (the glutens!) and love a nice dry cider. I forget which one it was but he really pinned the tail on the...apple. I also spent a bit of time talking to a new friend at the bar about life, careers, and everything in between. So if that's a sign as to the type of patrons that frequent here, I'd happily go back. read more

Brass Tacks - They have Golden State Mighty Dry Cider!! Delicious!! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Came here on a weekend - the place was pretty crowded but we still managed to find seats by the bar. We got 2 drinks - the life of Ricky and the BQE. The life of Ricky (mostly gin, soda, lime and a touch of basil) was pretty good and very refreshing. However, the BQE was objectively the WORST drink I've ever tasted. It was really heavy mezcal (super bitter) with a touch of jasmine. Inedible, basically. On telling the bartender, he dismissed us and insisted he couldn't switch out the drink. Disappointed with the service here. read more

Nice bar, good drinks and good service. Not too big if you have a large crowd but they make good drinks and its conveniently located at the heart of Hayes Valley. read more

My non-local local. While a lot of people say the service isn't great may be true, it's not terrible. Generally the bar is packed so the bartenders aren't one to hold chats and long conversations which I appreciate when I just want a drink. Come in on a nice day if you can score a window seat, right in the Hayes Valley square with fully open windows to enjoy a beer or cocktail. Conversation and Brash Smash are my fav cocktails. And yes as a few said it's a $20 min on cards but there's an ATM if that's a big issue... read more

Cute neighborhood bar with plenty of seats in the back. I really enjoyed my cocktail (strangers in a train), and they had an IPA that I actually liked! It didn't take too long to get a drink, music was not so loud that I couldn't hold a conversation, and there was a t.v. on with sports for those of you who care about that type of thing. Street was lively and it was nice to stop by after walking around checking out the stores. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE BT - the ambience is unpretentious and relaxed and the drinks are quality without the downtown prices. the only thing I don't love is the neighbourhood ... but that's a whole different review ha! not sure who would have conflicts with the staff but I found everyone to be charming and pleasant. what's the saying? you get what you give? read more

Pretty chill neighborhood bar surrounded by local restaurants and shops. Came here on a Sunday afternoon and the place was fairly packed, but luckily I was able to swoop on a couch & table located in the back by the big screen TV where they had the football game showing. The drinks menu is pretty innovative and I was told they change their specials pretty regularly. I stuck with the regular mojito (my choice of poison for cocktails) and it was on point. Bartender also came by several times to ensure we were good & the drinks were tasty. 5 stars for the drinks and service, will definitely be back soon. read more

This was a nice, sunny bar in the heart of Hayes Valley. They cocktails were balanced and didn't even taste like alcohol even though there was quite a bit of booze in them. I really liked the Beetlejuice and the Corpse Reviver 2 w/ Elderflower instead of Lillette Blanc. The bartender definitely made the experience. When my boyfriend asked him what he recommended, he said "Give me a spirit and a feeling." Meaning, name a type of alcohol and a feeling you want to have. Then he whipped something up. I thought that was a cool way of asking for inspiration. There's no food served here, just nuts and soft pretzels, which I didn't try. read more

See all

Great spot. This bar is perfect for a few high end drinks in Hayes valley. The atmosphere is very slick, clean and dark - More like a NYC (Brooklyn) than SF bar in a good way. Prices are great - $10 cocktails and they are really good. read more

Brass Tacks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Best old fashion I've had in a long time. Ambiance is relaxed, the couches are a little dated but otherwise a chill place to grab a drink.

Brass Tacks is one of my favorite bars and it's located in the fantastic Hayes Valley. It's generally pretty crowded but I've never had a particularly hard time getting drinks here and they do have a good selection of alcohol (namely my favorite, whiskeys). Pricing is actually pretty good for the area and the being located so close to the Proxy makes it a go-to spot when there are events going on. I also have to say that the bartenders here make a FANTASTIC Sazerac. It's my cocktail of choice and they do it very well here. If you're in the area looking to wet your whistle, Brass Tacks is the place to be. read more

Pretentious. Went with a group of friends and some tried to order bud light some tried to order don Julio. We got some lecture on how they only serve artisan made drinks. They did have coors banquet (what is that). Vibe, other than the rude wannabe hipster bartenders, was fine. Good music from the 90s and early 00s. Won't be coming back and wouldn't recommend. read more

Cozy SF spot. Good drinks, not too pretentious. Nice seating for groups in the back, bar area up front. Cool area of town, some good restaurants nearby. read more

Had the Stray Dog. Delicious and refreshing. My date had the bloody, served on the spicy side, very good. Saturday afternoon, Good relaxed vibe and ambiance. Bartender was friendly. read more

Brass Tacks - My date. Light fixture made by artist in Cleveland. Ask about it. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Came here for the second time the other night and was so incredibly satisfied with my drink, it might just be my new favorite! It was seriously so frickin good. The vibe here is pretty relaxed, cool inside decor, and good service. Not much not to like. DRINK: Strangers on a Train (bourbon, lemon, honey, and I think blackberry?) - Holy god this drink is so smooth and unbelievably delicious. I ordered 3 of them. Highly recommend. read more

Had some rapid and well made old fashions here (one with bourbon and the other with rye). There are a couple seats and tvs in the back and a counter running alongside the bar. It's dimly lit and has a fun and young vibe. Nice spot for drinks earlier in the evening. read more

Delicious drinks each time I go and adorable holiday decor. It will be somewhere I return to many times through the year but additionally at Christmas times to see all the santas. When it's not a holiday the decor is sheik and modern. Gorgeous floors. Friendly staff. Well Thought out drink menu made with care read more

See all

Small bustling bar with a good cocktail list (reasonably priced at $11). Plus good selection of wines and beers. Small snack menu. Great atmosphere. read more

Brass Tacks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Even as a Marlena's loyalist, I recognize that Brass Tacks is a great bar with good quality cocktails and a nice addition to the neighborhood. But...last night I left my credit card behind the bar and after picking up my card today, I noticed that my bill had been closed out with an unauthorized 20% tip on five drinks. What kind of policy is this? A bit ridiculous, in my opinion. Since there is no phone number listed on their yelp page, facebook page, or website, i'm left to air my annoyance on yelp. read more

The "basic facts" are this: it's the party of Hayes. Window seats are best. read more

I was sad when I heard that Marlena's would be closing. The LGBT-friendly bar in Hayes Valley was a San Francisco institution. Back when I lived in the hood (before it became the posh Hayes Valley 2.0 that it is today), my girlfriend and I would grab a night-cap there and chat with all the regulars (everyone from hipsters to drag queens). Plus, they had a smoking section adjacent to the bar (this was back when I occasionally smoked). And, of course, Marlena's was famous for their over-the-top Christmas decor during the holiday season. But alas, all good things must come to an end, and Marlena's was sold to new owners last year and transformed in to Brass Tacks. Needless to say, I was skeptical of the new tenants and their new cocktail lounge-y concept. Fortunately, I'm pleased to report that Brass Tacks is a wonderful addition to the neighborhood. The interior is a complete 180 from the old Marlena's. They have a shiny new bar; plenty of black leather couches; lots of modern light fixtures; and open window seating. The place is definitely a nice mix of sexy and comfortable. Brass Tacks boasts a solid mixology program. All the featured cocktails incorporate a gourmet medley of spirits and flavors. I ordered the Salem's Lot (bourbon, punte e mes, lemon, apple spice). My friends ordered some sort of fancy rum cocktail. Now I won't lie to ya - the drinks here aren't cheap ($10 a pop). And they each take 5 minutes to prepare. But if you don't mind the wait and the price, I think you'll be rewarded with a tasty beverage. Who ever created their cocktail program certainly knows what they're doing. Although I miss Marlena's and its colorful characters, I think that Brass Tacks is going to do just fine in this neighborhood. And judging by all the young hipsters and yuppies who showed up for happy hour, I think this bar is off to a great start and can expect to be around for a long time to come. read more

Great location, excellent and attentive bartenders, a bit on the pricer side for cocktails, but great selection nonetheless. Why the low rating you ask? The 'bouncer' on the night of August 2, 2014. I walked into the bar while he was out on the curb puffing on his e-cigarette. Yells "Hey KID" and demands my ID. In shock I fumble with my wallet and accidentally drop it. Keep in mind I had no drinks at this point and had just come from smitten across the street and was in a pretty good mood. He then proceeds to tell me to take a big breath (in front of all of my friends) and completely humiliates me. Calling me kid, assuming I'm intoxicated, and generally just giving bad vibes. Despite the location and selection, as long as this faux-hipster bearded vaping loser is bouncing here, I won't be back. Note to management: don't hire douchebags as bouncers. Sorry not sorry. read more

Let's get down to the brass tacks. OK, bad joke I know. I've been to this bar a few times now, and it's always packed with people! With few options in this "stretch" of Hayes Valley, it's definitely a solid option if you want a great cocktail in a casual atmosphere. I'm a big fan of their selection of spirits as the back wall is littered with tons to choose from. I fancy myself a bit of a Gin snob, so it's nice to drink at an establishment that offers a plethora of botanically liquors. :) I think the best part is that nothing is overpriced. Hayes Valley can get pretty expensive and Brass Tacks is a great alternative to save a few bucks. read more

I am astonished by the number of reviews here describing the barstaff as "friendly". I have frequented Brass Tacks on numerous occasions because I think the decor is stylish, sleek and inviting, the cocktails are delicious and it's well placed in the neighborhood. But every bartender I've encountered here has been the now typical Hayes Valley Trend in shops and bars: the Rude-I'm too cool to smile, be friendly, warm, welcoming or even say 'Thank You' poser. To be met with aggro when paying a premium for a cocktail is just not on. I'll be only too glad when this current trend of hippishly mod snobbery grows out of itself and the neighborhood returns to a reflection of what real cool in the City actually is: genuine, down to earth, authentic human beings who treat one another in a friendly, warm, kind manner. Disappointed for the last time here. read more

"Beetlejuice, pre opened bar tab, good vibe, hipster crew, I maybe here for a while." I wrote it when I checked in on Yelp. I did. It was a nice bar. Really great for happy hour with the colleagues. We are a valley company with many people living in the city. It is a great company, mind you, but commute is a bit of a pain. That said, meeting colleagues after work in the Hayes was fun, in particular, this bar, was a great find. Drinks were good. Space was open. And staff was friendly. It's a bit of a young crowd, but I have no problem pretending that I was still in my 20s. While drinking a cocktail, my colleague, the engineer was showing me the new app his team was building. Then, my other colleague and I chatted about France. Two young marketing gals showed up for more drinks. Yep, it's a quintessential San Francisco tech heavy scene. We are in the middle of a gold rush. I remembered the last boom like it was yesterday. I told my colleagues "Back in the day, I'd come here on dates, buy one of kind clothing, and feeling hip. Then we'd all hang out in North Beach for late night (drinking) activities and for the morning after, Bloody Mary served in any number of restaurants in the Marina. That, of course was before those areas went on to become full on touristy and stuffy." They looked at me like I was some eight-headed *ancient* creature. Hayes Valley was hip once, yes, like it was the Mission. Now Hayes Valley has become fully yuppified, overrun by French tourists. Youth is the most valuable currency of all, and yet youth is wasted on the young. Perhaps if I hang out at this bar long enough, I'd come to appreciate what I have learned, and be thankful that I still look relatively youthful. read more

What a stuck up bar. It's great that it's open till 2am compared to other bars down the street, but the bartenders have a serious bad attitude. Drinks are not that great anyway. There is plenty of standing room, though, with a roomy area in the back with seats on the side. I guess if you don't have to interact with the bartenders and don't get stepped on or elbowed in the face, it won't be such a terrible experience. read more