If you enjoy a bar with a cozy atmosphere and bartenders who put effort into making good drinks, then you'll definitely like this place. I like that they had a few holiday themed drinks, and I definitely enjoyed a few of the whiskey-based concoctions. The atmosphere is nice... kinda dark and cozy in a way. That's not for everyone but I liked it. Stay Cheerful ;) read more

Elixir - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I honestly only hopped in here to watch the end of the World Cup match, and celebrate Italy's victory (more like England's defeat) with a bunch of strangers, and that was a fine time. Turns out this is one of the older bars in SF. Classier than a pure dive, but completely unpretentious. This is a perfect neighborhood bar, even if the neighborhood is an awkward intersection of the Mission. Good cocktails, good prices, low key service. Next time I'm heading to Super7, would gladly pop back in for a drink. read more

Good place to grab cocktails. Elixir is styled like a saloon from the Wild West. Spirits and, in particular, whiskey fill seemingly every available space on the walls. The seating area is small, but we were able to find a pair of comfortable seats on a Saturday evening. My wife enjoyed both of her cocktails, so overall I would say we had a splendid time! read more

Came here on a rainy day for a can of hamms but it was so nice and cozy on the inside. Fortunately a relaxing and comfortable experience overall! read more

I liked this little bar! It's tucked in a corner and it is just fabulous. I loved that the music isn't too loud. There's a cool crowd and an interesting assortment of drinks. I got the Pamplemousse Au Pouvre drink and it was delicious. Topped with pink peppercorns... I thought it was amazing! So cool. The flavor of the mezcal was just what I needed. They had some delicious hot cider too. I definitely would check this place out. read more

Elixir - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

Dan and Noah are the most friendly and talented bartenders. I always have the best Thursday nights here!!

Fun Trivia night on Tuesdays. But it takes like three hours to get through trivia and it starts at 8PM. The trivia master is usually drinking so grading takes a long time. But if you're into really niche themes (eg, identify the type of tree from these pictures of trees), then it's a solid choice. Decent selection of beers on draft. But sometimes you get weird things on your tab that you did not order. read more

Don't miss this classic neighborhood bar that knows how to make a proper cocktail and has an amazing selection of whiskey. I've been coming to Elixir For a few years, every time I come to San Francisco. Shae, the manager, runs a tight ship and is always ready to share his secrets about favorite whiskeys. The neighborhood vibe is comfortable, the cocktails sophisticated, and made with precision. If you're looking for a hipster bar that has the good liquor but none of the douchey people or attitude, this is your place. read more

See all

This place is unassumingly great. At first you might think it's mostly just whiskey, but the cocktails are delicious! The bartender was a treat too. The place is small but has outdoor seating too. read more

Awesome vibes. Great bourbon/whiskey selection. Would come back. Noah was a great bartender

I have a soft spot in my heart for bars that make me feel good about boozin'. Elixir produces amazing cocktails with fresh produce AND they're a certified Green Business. In other words when you're here you can say "Right now I'm out getting my servings of fruits and vegetables while supporting a business that cares about the environment." See how much more appealing that sounds compared to "I be out gettin' hammered"? It almost comes across like you're at a farmers market. I had a drink called a "Celery Cup". Sound nasty? Quite the contrary. It was muddled celery, cucumber, cilantro, a splash of agave nectar, cucumber infused vodka, topped with a splash of soda water. Refreshing, tasty, and skillfully made. So refreshing in fact that I contemplated bringing one in a water bottle to drink during a work out but after envisioning a terrible treadmill accident due to a buzz I decided against it. The look and vibe of a saloon, high caliber drinks of a lounge, all wrapped up in environmentally friendly business practices. What's not to like? read more

Elixir was a happy surprise. After visiting various dive bars, I was happy to find a place with charm and ambiance. The old wood, dim light, antique lamps, and candles really add to the mood. The only drawback were the TVs, which muddy the otherwise romantic ambiance. They have 15 beers on tap and 16 in bottles, including both domestic and European brews.The bartender was helpful and was amenable to serving up tastes of various beers, and even made suggestions. He asked what kinds of beers I prefered; when I informed him that I was into lighter, sweeter beers, he offered me Blanche de Bruxelles, which is a delicious Belgian beer that was exactly what I wanted. Oh, and the tap from which it's served is in the shape of a cherub's wang (apparently a spoof on a famous statue in Belgium), which made it twice as awesome. My friends, who opted for darker, more hoppy beers, were equally as happy with their selections. Pints cost about $6, which is fairly average for this 'hood. Additionally, they are stocked with a full bar (see photos!) and cocktails go for about $10. Noteably, the bar is infamous for its bourbon-and-pickle juice shot (no, I'm not joking), which is reportedly "good." On weeknights, seating is fairly limited - in fact, we snagged the last table. Had it been any more crowded, it would have been standing room only. So if you are craving pickle juice, beer from a cherub's shlong, or just a 'lil romance, hit up Elixir on a weeknight! read more

See all

This cute little saloon sits right at the corner of 16th st & Guerrero...close enough to the crazy bustling streets of Mission & Valencia, but just far enough away that it still holds a sense of peace and old-school vibes. Old faded wood panels line the entirety of the bar, with a dart board tucked in one corner, a few tables in the other, and the actual bar lined with mismatched stools that have been patched with matching duct tape. When it's time to order a drink, you might be attracted to one of two things first: either the amazing beer selection available, with various craft & local favorites on draft to keep your mouth watering, or the awesome spirits selection-for every price point. (If you want a $200 whiskey, you can get it here!) Cocktail highlights that I've tried: -Manhattan: Tried and true, this place serves up a classic version of an everyday favorite. Even though it's a fairly simple drink, the attention to detail is still something to admire with the bartender stirring your drink without rushing to make sure it is served just right. -Jitterbug Perfume: One of their signature cocktails on their menu. The rosemary lavender syrup caught my eye. I watched Natasha (baddy behind the bar, she knows her spirits!!!) delicately mix beet-infused gin, the rosemary-lav syrup with fresh citrus before shaking the damn hell out of it. The end result is a bright fuschia frothy conconction that puts my Urban Decay lipstick to shame. She tops the glass with a singular lavender stem that tickles your nose with that beautiful smell with every sip you take. It is sweet, but light and floral. I really enjoyed this drink, but it doesn't taste alcoholic at all so be careful! There are plenty of bars to choose from while hanging out in the Mission, but Elixir has found a place at the top of my list! read more

Elixir - Jitterbug Perfume. So floral and delicious! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

Visiting SF and this truly was a great bar with a very attentive bar tender who knew drinks and the history read more

Elixir - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

The elitist hipster scene is alive and well here. This rather small bar has plenty of cozy seating at the bar or at intimate tables. We didn't see a cocktail server so we ordered our trendy cocktails from the bartenders. The highlight of the visit for me was the throwback cans of Hamm's. Man, I haven't seen those since I lived in the upper Midwest years ago. The bouncer and bartenders were friendly. The hipster scene really isn't my "thing" but I bookmarked Elixir nonetheless and will likely pay it another visit next time I'm in the 'hood. read more

Elixir - Exterior - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

Have lived in the 'hood for many years and have enjoyed it over. Has gotten expensive. Was recently there for a beer with a friend on a Saturday night. Wasn't looking for fancy so just ordered a Modelo draft. It was $9.50! *gasp*. Apparently, it's "only" $7.50 at Happy Hour. read more

Elixir is such an old trusty friend. With a good cocktail menu and plenty of seating it's equal parts cozy/comfy and dive bar (dark lighting, bleach smell, beer and shot specials). Love coming for their holiday focused cocktails and random sporting events! This past week we enjoyed some olympics with old school blink182 pumping in the background. Love a bar that's not pretentious or trying to be something special. Elixir is what it is. Nice people. Good drinks. I do not however recommend the "homemade fireball" which I am reasonably sure is poison. read more

This is not a Dive Bar as the description would imply. It's a warm and inviting space with really nice woodwork throughout. The vibe is chill and low key and people sip on dark colored liquors like ryes and bourbons or Jamesons on the rocks with a twist--like we did. Elixir was full the night we stopped in but didn't have that feeling that you still couldn't enjoy yourself because someone was about to rudely bump into you without saying, "sorry!" The people here last night were seasoned and well-behaved while a Grateful Dead playlist was heard overhead. It's sort of like a grown up version of an old college watering hole I couldn't resist to sing along when "Ripple" and "Friend of the Devil" came on. read more

Elixir - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I came on yelp for the first time to review this bar because I had such a great experience. The drinks were great and not skimpy at all on the alcohol. The best part of the experience though, was Reggie, who was checking on guests throughout the night and making sure everyone felt welcome and had what they need. When my phone died, I was asking around for a charger and he very graciously gave me his personal charger to use as well as telling me where to plug it in. He's wonderful to talk to and an integral part of Elixir! read more

Fun bar that always seems lively. The cocktails are excellent and staff is friendly and fast.

One of the best and oldest whiskey bars in San Francisco. Kinda divy but you can't go wrong with their whiskey cocktails. read more

Elixir - Pisco Sour - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

The term "divebar" is a little bit of a misnomer for Elixer. Perhaps by a shallow glance you get that feel but order a few drinks and you'll see it's much more sophisticated behind the bar. Great brews on tap including an Old Speckled Hen. Just love watching this bitter settle before you drink it. Such a tasty brew. Besides beers, there are also great cocktails made behind the bar. Well crafted but not overly fussy. Also great for a morning bloody to get your weekend started. A solid spot for drinks without the pretense makes Elixar a welcoming water hole and neighborhood spot. Worth popping by if in the area. read more

Good cocktails and nice atmosphere. The cocktails are elevated but not too much like the ones you'd find at a fancy rooftop bar. I'd come back next time I'm in the area. read more

Many times I've been to Elixir it's always been packed, loud and difficult to get around. But this time, I came with a friend earlier in the night so we were able to sit at the bar, chill and drink. What I love about this place is that this place resembles a very old San Francisco vibe. From their stash of liquors to the decor, you might feel as if you're warped back in time. For this reason, many movies/shows are filmed here. Elixir is a fun spot to drink amongst the many bars in the Mission. The bartenders are friendly and quick with the drinks. I like the elegant grudge ambiance which keeps me coming back for more! read more

Super Bowl Sunday brought me here and Oh what a great day it was to be alive! Having been to San Francisco for as long as I can remember, this was actually my first time visiting Elixir. I had heard of this place numerous times, just never been. Looking back at my proud and responsible self from yesterday, I'm definitely glad I finally decided to watch Super Bowl LI somewhere new. It's a small little whisky hipster dive bar, where the atmosphere is very cozy and quaint. Inside, they have a Jenga set and a dart board for the active drinkers! Aside from the comforts of a nice cold beer, watching the game from their 3 working TV's and chowing down on their macaroni, Greek Dolmades and tortilla chips with salsa, the vibe and energy is what really set the mood for the rest of the evening. More importantly, game night meant reduced prices on drinks in addition to free BBQ chicken, hamburgers, sausages, and their advertised Super Bowl ribs, which I was too late to get. My group might've went overboard with the drinks but I guess that's what makes them fun! Considering that this place is a whisky dive bar, they had a really good selection of drinks. Aside from their nice selection of tap beers, they also made me a mean Long Island. No AMF's or pitchers here though. My group ended up getting rounds of Fort Point's (SF's famous and also brewed in SF), jager bombs, tequila shots and a whole lot more! Hence, going overboard! Competition among people in my group may have also influenced a little more drinking to say the least! Service could've been better but it was to be expected especially with the crowd. In all, Elixir was a great experience and hopefully a place I'll return to for game nights or if I'm ever around the area. Keep those drinks coming! read more

See all

Perfect for a date, anniversary or just something to do with pals!! We took a class at Elixir with Nick, the manager. It was awesome! Anyone with a little interest in cocktails should take this great 2 hour class. We made 4 cocktails, learned some history and enjoyed this great SF Landmark. We will totally go back for another class and to just hangout. read more

Elixir - Cocktail class! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Nice cozy bar. Had one of the season cocktails called "in bloom" and it was refreshing

I wish I could drink whiskey! But I'm too much of a San Diegan and our craft beers with breweries popping up here and there...I'll stick to my beers. This place is for the whiskey lovers! Bathrooms were tiny and kinda dirty... but it's a good bar to go to have drinks and not club. They have interesting quotes and pictures on the wall. Also a variety and mixed crowd. read more

Wow, I didn't know this "hole in the wall" corner bar was built in 1858. This historic bar is a real saloon and been though many past local recollections. I just love my beloved San Francisco and its history. I met one of my favorite yelper coincidently in the Mission District. She has been monitoring my reviews and knew why I was in the Mission. And we have decided to briefly hooked up for Happy Hour here. I've been here many years ago and this small bar makes some "killer" exotic cocktails. We started out with a Mint Mojito. For $8.50, the popular cocktail contained rum, sugar, and mint leaves, all muddled in a glass. Then Lime juice and Soda water are added to complete the refreshing drink. Mint Mojito: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/7xiixvENF3BQiY0S0zaRaA?select=8Ucn4CFd46OjtHSSLzBsUg Then with a little time left on my schedule, I asked her to suggest a cocktail. And she asked the friendly bartender for a surprise. Also for $8.50, the bartender in front of us added freshly-squeezed orange juice, rum, a drop of bitters and a Peruvian liquor called Barsol Pisco with wedges of Bloody Orange for a tropical look. I may be wrong about the name of this potent cocktail, which is called, "The Passionfruit Lounge". Whatever that drink was, but that cocktail adds a kick. The drink: http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/7xiixvENF3BQiY0S0zaRaA?select=jKktxHFfFjOwVtugg1PqZg Despite having March Madness on the bar's TV, we chatted and had a good time. The facility is small and dirty with flies flying around like Top Gun, but very soothing and comforting. I still love the creative cocktails from Elixir. read more

Elixir - $8.50 Mint Mojito - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

Honestly, this could be the best bar in the entire world. But I can't really say, because on a Saturday night, it's just way too packed to be enjoyable in any way. It's hard to hate on a bar for being popular, but when service, drinks, walking and standing all suffer... I think I can sum it up with the note I left on my iPhone: "crowded as duck." Stupid auto-correct. read more

One of the things I have learned on Yelp is that one man's dive bar is another man's heaven, and what one woman views as the perfect local hangout another will view as a rundown place to avoid. IMHO, Elixer is one of those local gems that I will go back to again and again - and if you don't like it, it certainly won't bother me that you are not there. Elixer is not too big, so it can get a little crowded. The crowd there is usually pretty cool, though a couple local grumps may be in attendance. The bartenders know what they are doing and can mix a good cocktail properly. The selection is spirits covers a good range from core items to top shelf. The beers on tap lean to the IPA's though they have something for everyone. The wine list is pretty sparse, but this isn't a wine type of place. They have no food and could use a couple of bar snacks to sell. They do have a book of menus from places that deliver, and the bartender will tell you his/her favorites in the area (listen to them). Went there to catch the Giants game #2 against the Braves - I know, who watches TV in a local dive bar. Hey, it's the playoffs. Giants lost, but the evening was good. And the Giants won the NLDS series tonight. So all is well. On to Phili. read more

One day I will wander the streets of San Francisco with bottles of Pledge and Purell and Airborne tablets for everyone. Then, and only then, will i be fully satisfied that my risk of picking something up is abated. After a night of walking around the Mission, eating Indian food, whipping hair back & forth, waiting for ice cream, eating ice cream, and getting the shakes from eating ice cream, my crew thought it would be a good idea to drink some more. I love my friends. We settled into Elixir thanks to my Mission-abiding friends. Upon entering, I noticed a couple of things. 1.) I would not be drinking anything lip to glass. Either I would be using a straw or I would be ordering a bottle of beer; 2.) It was hot. See my Dosa review about a lack of a/c in the City By The Bay; 3.) Despite it being pretty dark inside, I could see fairly well. I chalk that up to carrots; and 4.) There was a man with unreal hair. I had to study it. Back when I was a youth, I had pretty long hair. I went from an afro to letting it lock and wave up. Think Huey from The Boondocks. I know from wild, curly and slightly unkempt hair... and I don't know that I was buying what he was selling. But, I was interested in learning more. So went my experience at Elixir. I bought a bottle (however, my hearty SFriends drank out of glasses) while cursing my OCD because a few drinks on the cocktail menu piqued my curiosity. I sat. Sweated. Stood. Sweated. With my owl vision, I stared at hair that mystified me and made me jealous. There's some good drinkin' and people watchin' to be done here. I understand why it's 150+ years old. Quality. read more

I work colleague from New Orleans is in Town as part of his Certificate program at Stanford and he suggested that we meet up before his week started. We picked the 16th and Mission BART Station as our rendezvous as some friends of his lived close by and he was all over the idea of indulging in a Burrito at one of the many Taquerias in this neighbourhood. I arrived about an hour before he did as I wanted to wander around and he had a more complicated CalTrain/BART combination. It was also a bit cold (even by my fog belt standards) and I soon decided that hanging out at a local watering hole with a "wee pint" was a better alternative. My problem is that I'm not the type to just walk into a bar without having a good feeling about it. This situation also reminds me of a good Canadian friend who opines that when he's in one of his remote Northern Bars that he makes sure that his back is always facing the Wall! I even tried calling Gayle's Nephew (who lives in the Mission) for a recommendation, even though his 20s taste might not match my Neo-Senior sensibilities. I left a message and proceeded to channel my Mom's Pub skills that she learned growing up in Milwaukee. It was just then that I walked past Elixar, my PBR-dar kicked in, and decided that this was as good as it was going to get in this "blind taste test" situation. The sign outside this Corner Bar mentioned that it had been around since 1858 and it certainly had a welcome saloon and local feel. There was a nice mixed clientele which was busy, but not too crowded. Getting a drink took a bit more time than expected, but I always knew that the Barkeep knew I was there, and that I was next. I enjoyed a Speakeasy Massacre (an Imperial Dark Wheat with an larger percentage attitude) and proceeded to grab a seat, watch my fellow patrons and March Madness on the Telly, and comfortably wait for my friend to call. The only odd thing was the guy protecting his seat from the curb as he proceeded to smoke and talk on his Cell for a good 30 minutes. I wandered out, met my friend, and since he was in the mood for a drink, I led him back to Elixar. He liked the Massacre too and we proceeded to chat away over a couple rounds. His friends soon joined us and we proceeded to have a fine time deep in conversation and oblivious to the time that was passing. And that's the mark of great neighbourhood bar. And here's a toast to Ben P. who used to drink here and now probably sips strong Cuban-themed cocktails in Miami. read more

I was so excited to come to this bar for pre-dinner drinks as I actually came here last year and forgot to review it. It's a proper neighbourhood bar where people all seem to know each other - that doesn't mean they aren't friendly though! We had time before dinner for a couple of drinks - they're all around the $10 mark and there's a sweet range. I liked the pisco punch the best - refreshing and punchy. Yum! While I can't say I would go out of my way to go to this bar, I would definitely go if I was in the area. Pro tips: they have a sweet half price happy hour. Bring ID. read more

Elixir - Pisco punch - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

You know that weird spot in your neighborhood where businesses go to die? Maybe it's something about the location, or the shape of the lot, or the way the sunlight does or doesn't hit the place in the afternoon -- whatever the reason -- there is a lot in every locality that steamrolls every optimistic entrepreneur with a bank loan. And then there is Elixir. The fact that this tavern has been continuously pouring potent potables since 1858 (albeit under different names and ownership) implies a foundation of hallowed, not cursed, ground. Clearly this land was destined to bear the weight of barstools, barrels, and tipsy patrons. The proprietor, H, is devoted to cocktails and this is obvious once you order one. He also teaches classes on the subject of mixology at the Boothby Center, if you needed further convincing. Personally, the best evidence is found in the experience of one of their classic cocktails. Want to be really scientific about it? Order a tasting flight of bourbon -- from their OWN barrel of Four Roses -- or build-your-own-bloody-mary on a Sunday. Or just sit on one of their barstools on any day that ends with Y. And yes, this establishment gets crowded. There's a reason for that. They're making history. Obligatory Title Pun: It's not the size of the bar, it's the motion in their POTION. Menu Readability: Most bars have terrible websites, but theirs is surprisingly informative. Need to mention: Tuesday night trivia is a must. You'll want to get on the mailing list to get clues about that night's questions. What this place teaches me about myself: All I need is a bar stool. read more

It was an interesting place for trivia. Its a very small venus and their tables only fit 2 people so be confident that if you come in a group you will stand. I liked their ecclectic selection of beers and definitely liked the $4.50 paulaner pints. read more

Walked in last eve at MD's overwhelming insistence. Walked past the urine smell at the corner, sat down to a hobo in a wheelchair shouting crazies at the 'tender inside from the doorway. Was perfumed by the heavy urine smell wafting in from the hobo into the bar. Sipped happily on an Aviation waiting for my dates to arrive. These are a few of my favourite things. No, not really. I could have done without the piss smell and the crazy homeless guy, but all those things are what gives added charm to an already pleasant evening and establishment. The bar is small and quaint, with plenty of wood tones to make a simple city girl happy. The cocktails were fairly good whenever we got it. The place was crazy busy last night - who'dathunkit? There was only one girl there, and she was bussing as well as 'tending. I felt a little for her, but she paid more attention to one side of the bar than the one we were perched on. Whatev's. I heard it's much better here on Sundays. Might have to change the schedule up so we can partake. Cheers to you, dearest yelpers! Have a wonderful Turkey Coma Day! read more

Elixir - Aviation - Cocktail Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Nice bar, drink menu caught my attention. Tried 2 different cocktails, both were unique and delicious. Bartenders were nice and helpful. Music choice was very pleasant. Overall only positive impression. Would definitely return again when next time in San Francisco. read more

I came here on a Saturday afternoon for Elixir's 11th Anniversary (read: free meat!!). Even though the staff was fun and easygoing, and the meat was absolutely delicious, the service itself was pretty disappointing. According to the description for the event, "freeloaders will not be tolerated" and "revelers will be celebrated." Okay, this means that I should be buying drinks while eating, right? Let me tell you this: I really wanted to buy drinks, but they didn't seem to want to serve me. I was sitting right at the bar and it took me a while to even get the attention of the bartender, who was taking almost 5 minutes to serve each customer. Even after I got her attention, I had to ask her more than once to get me a beer because she simply forgot about me. When I asked for a glass of water later on, I had to again ask her twice because she had forgotten my request. Maybe I need to come back at night when the bar is more "alive," but I had hoped that I would have a better experience especially since there weren't even that many people being served during the day. The bar itself had a rather nice western feel to it, although it's similar to most Mission bars in that it's very long and skinny -- which means you'll be saying lots of "excuse me"s as you walk deeper in towards the back. There are four TVs (one in each corner) in the bar. Great people, great atmosphere -- just watch out for the shabby (albeit friendly) service. read more

One of my favorite SF bars. Great mix of good cocktails, down home friendly vibes, classy yet divey, neighborhood joint. All the feels you feel when you say you missed bars during the pandemic! read more