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Does your watch not tell you if it is AM or PM when it displays 1:00? It doesn't matter at Mr Bing's. On any dark and gloomy day or night in San Francisco, if it is 1:00, Mr Bing's is open. There is not much about going to this place except to drink. The music is an loop of 60s and 70s rock with a few more moderns thrown in. It's only playing to help you stop thinking. The straight hard liquor is reasonably priced. You shouldn't be drinking beer without a hard accompaniment. Go elsewhere on Columbus if you're seeking wine or a beer with two or three words in its name. Yes, it is a bit of a dive bar. But it is safe. No one will bother you or judge. It is also on the list of San Francisco Legacy Businesses. I don't love Mr Bing's. I'm not a "psychotic fucking freak", R.I.P., Mr Bourdain. But I like it.
Visited Mr. Bing's over the weekend for my birthday and had a great time. The bar staff are lively and welcoming! I had a lemon drop, micheladas and my bestie had the Long Island iced tea. The drinks were great and very reasonably priced. The music was my type of music and we stayed until just about closing. The bar was clean and well kept. The seating wasn't bad either. We'll definitely be returning during our next trip out there!
I am big fan of historical paces in San Francisco and Mr. Bing's is just what I needed. Great music, fresh beer and friendly service. Cheers!
Could it BE any more divier? (That's a Chandler, aka Mr. Bing, reference) During the day, it's a pub. At night, it's a lounge. It's a pub and a lounge. It's a pounge. And I am in lub. P.S. "Anthony Bourdain, champion of dirty dives and the souls of cities, is a fan of the dark, late-night environs of Mr. Bing's, having visited it during the filming of his show The Layover in 2012. He famously told The New York Times: 'Anyone who doesn't have a great time in San Francisco is pretty much dead to me. You go there as a snarky New Yorker thinking it's politically correct, it's crunchy granola, it's vegetarian, and it surprises you every time. It's a two-fisted drinking town, a carnivorous meat-eating town, it's dirty and nasty and wonderful.' (SF.Eater.com, 2016)
My friend and I randomly strolled into Mr. Bing's on St. Patrick's day. This was our second stop that night. We saw a sign at the bar that they offered $5 jello shots, so we each got one. We didn't stay long at all, probably under 5 minutes lol just finished our shot and we were onto the next place!
It's clearly a local's dive bar but there's room for tourist too. The beer is cold and the bartender is friendly. There isn't much seating inside so be prepared to stand or sit outside if there isn't any room.
Anthony Bourdain went here and it was a fun spot to drop by and chill for a bit. They were playing 90s pop and it was a warm vibe to be hanging around. No dance floor. Simple bar and a good corner spot to bar hop and onto the next!
Great place to grab a drink when you are in Chinatown . Great atmosphere . Great vibes and good drinks. An almost hidden gem. Not your place for white glove service.
Mr. Bings, located in the heart of North Beach, is a historic dive bar that offers a unique and unforgettable experience to all who enter. Despite its dive bar status, Mr. Bings is a true gem in the North Beach area, with a rich history and a strong sense of community that sets it apart from any other establishment. The bar's community-based atmosphere is a hallmark of its charm, and patrons are made to feel at home. in the warm and lively environment. The close-knit community is always welcoming, and there is a sense of camaraderie that is unmatched at any other establishment. Michelle, a knowledgeable and skilled bartender, serves as an amazing host to all who enter Mr. Bings. With her expert mixology skills and welcoming personality, she goes above and beyond to ensure that every patron has a fantastic experience. Even though it is a dive bar Mr. Bings is a true historical landmark in the North Beach area, and its rich heritage and community-based atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of the history and character of the North Beach community. In conclusion, Mr. Bings is a one-of-a-kind dive bar that offers a truly unique and enjoyable experience to all who enter. With its rich history, community-based atmosphere, and exceptional service provided by Michelle, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of the North Beach area Disclaimer: No dogs were harmed, given alcohol or any non-dog-friendly food during our visit. Only water and dog-approved food were provided to ensure the well-being and comfort of all furry guests.
2 months ago
Great place to visit if you're in SF for a few days. A little touristy, but service was fast, ambiance was cool, and the crowd was just like it should be for a dive bar; welcoming and just a little rowdy. Drinks were on the pricier side, and I wasn't really a huge fan of how mine was mixed, especially for the price. Shoutout to whoever was on the aux blasting In the End by Linkin Park, still a banger. 4* just for the price. Like I know it's SF, but it definitely burned a small hole in my pocket. read more
4 months ago
Just out walking and needed a place to hang out and wait for someone. Having never been to San Francisco before, and being in Chinatown, I wasn't expecting to find an Irish bar, but here I am, sitting, relaxing, soaking in some sweet 80's tunes and drinking Guinness. Can't be mad about that! read more
9 months ago
Does your watch not tell you if it is AM or PM when it displays 1:00? It doesn't matter at Mr Bing's. On any dark and gloomy day or night in San Francisco, if it is 1:00, Mr Bing's is open. There is not much about going to this place except to drink. The music is an loop of 60s and 70s rock with a few more moderns thrown in. It's only playing to help you stop thinking. The straight hard liquor is reasonably priced. You shouldn't be drinking beer without a hard accompaniment. Go elsewhere on Columbus if you're seeking wine or a beer with two or three words in its name. Yes, it is a bit of a dive bar. But it is safe. No one will bother you or judge. It is also on the list of San Francisco Legacy Businesses. I don't love Mr Bing's. I'm not a "psychotic fucking freak", R.I.P., Mr Bourdain. But I like it. read more
1 year ago
Visited Mr. Bing's over the weekend for my birthday and had a great time. The bar staff are lively and welcoming! I had a lemon drop, micheladas and my bestie had the Long Island iced tea. The drinks were great and very reasonably priced. The music was my type of music and we stayed until just about closing. The bar was clean and well kept. The seating wasn't bad either. We'll definitely be returning during our next trip out there! read more
2 years ago
I am big fan of historical paces in San Francisco and Mr. Bing's is just what I needed. Great music, fresh beer and friendly service. Cheers! read more
6 months ago
8 months ago
Could it BE any more divier? (That's a Chandler, aka Mr. Bing, reference) During the day, it's a pub. At night, it's a lounge. It's a pub and a lounge. It's a pounge. And I am in lub. P.S. "Anthony Bourdain, champion of dirty dives and the souls of cities, is a fan of the dark, late-night environs of Mr. Bing's, having visited it during the filming of his show The Layover in 2012. He famously told The New York Times: 'Anyone who doesn't have a great time in San Francisco is pretty much dead to me. You go there as a snarky New Yorker thinking it's politically correct, it's crunchy granola, it's vegetarian, and it surprises you every time. It's a two-fisted drinking town, a carnivorous meat-eating town, it's dirty and nasty and wonderful.' (SF.Eater.com, 2016) read more
My friend and I randomly strolled into Mr. Bing's on St. Patrick's day. This was our second stop that night. We saw a sign at the bar that they offered $5 jello shots, so we each got one. We didn't stay long at all, probably under 5 minutes lol just finished our shot and we were onto the next place! read more
1 year ago
3 years ago
It's clearly a local's dive bar but there's room for tourist too. The beer is cold and the bartender is friendly. There isn't much seating inside so be prepared to stand or sit outside if there isn't any room. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
2 years ago
4 years ago
7 years ago
Anthony Bourdain went here and it was a fun spot to drop by and chill for a bit. They were playing 90s pop and it was a warm vibe to be hanging around. No dance floor. Simple bar and a good corner spot to bar hop and onto the next! read more
4 years ago
Mr. Bings, located in the heart of North Beach, is a historic dive bar that offers a unique and unforgettable experience to all who enter. Despite its dive bar status, Mr. Bings is a true gem in the North Beach area, with a rich history and a strong sense of community that sets it apart from any other establishment. The bar's community-based atmosphere is a hallmark of its charm, and patrons are made to feel at home. in the warm and lively environment. The close-knit community is always welcoming, and there is a sense of camaraderie that is unmatched at any other establishment. Michelle, a knowledgeable and skilled bartender, serves as an amazing host to all who enter Mr. Bings. With her expert mixology skills and welcoming personality, she goes above and beyond to ensure that every patron has a fantastic experience. Even though it is a dive bar Mr. Bings is a true historical landmark in the North Beach area, and its rich heritage and community-based atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of the history and character of the North Beach community. In conclusion, Mr. Bings is a one-of-a-kind dive bar that offers a truly unique and enjoyable experience to all who enter. With its rich history, community-based atmosphere, and exceptional service provided by Michelle, it is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of the North Beach area Disclaimer: No dogs were harmed, given alcohol or any non-dog-friendly food during our visit. Only water and dog-approved food were provided to ensure the well-being and comfort of all furry guests. read more
4 years ago
Looks dodgy outside but nice inside. Drinks are good. I got a margarita and it was nicely done for a bar like this They have screens inside AND outside for games. Yes a real cute outside area too with a screen! Check out my pictures for the layout. They have no food but they are right next to China town so a lot of food available around it Service is top notch too. The bar tender was super nice and fast and also answered some questions we had about good places to eat around the area read more
5 years ago
2 years ago
Yep, its a dive bar! Urban Dictionary defines a "Dive Bar" as such: "A well-worn, unglamorous bar, often serving a cheap, simple selection of drinks to a regular clientele. The term can describe anything from a comfortable-but-basic neighborhood pub to the nastiest swill-slinging hole." Mr. Bing's is a dive bar. If one wants fancy settings and five star service, this is probably not the place to go! For those of you who are familiar with real dive bars, Mr. Bing's is just fine. Personally I think $7 for a beer in a dive bar is a couple of Dollars too high, but hey, rents are high in San Francisco! read more
4 years ago
This place is the bomb!!! What made it the best is the bartender. She knew everyone and everyone knew her. She mixed some great drinks and for a Sat afternoon, we had the best time. North beach has some fantastic dive bars where everyone knows your name. read more
2 years ago
After having dinner down the street at The Stinking Rose we went out for a few drinks. Noticed this place on the corner and it was actually on a few lists of top places to check out in San Francisco so we had to stop in. Drinks are good, music is great here! Tons of hit 80s...not sure if there's them nights but maybe we stopped in on a good night. Didn't stay too long as we had plans for the next morning but definitely a cool place to check out. Bartenders were very helpful and service behind the bar was so smooth here! read more
4 years ago
This is a cool little spot in the end of Chinatown. While walking around the city and waiting for our dinner reservations we popped in for a beverage and enjoyed the outdoor area. Music, people watching and drinks. read more
5 years ago
Situation: - Wednesday night with some friends (March 2017) - Orderded and Old Fashioned and some drinks for friends Pros - The layout is a great improvement over the previous layout of the bar - Great service - Tasty drinks - Really nice atmosphere - They take credit cards ($15 minimum) - Amazing 80s music playing when I was there Cons - Very few beers on tap (but some very good beer) read more
4 years ago
I completely recommend the ambiance. Nice stuff to all Military Friends that visit. They. Awesome! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
Great place to stop and have a cocktail or two! Fun atmosphere but parking ? you need to find parking read more
10 years ago
LAST CALL! Goodbye Mr. Bings. You've given so much to so many over the years. Thank you for your service to the community. You served the working class in a high class town. You served the strippers. The mechanics. The cooks. The bartenders from all over town. The suits. The ties. The tech workers. The tourists. The celebrities. The bums. The drunks. The drinkers. In the end, you served so many, so well, in your little corner of San Francisco that you made us all return over and over again. You gave us memories. Helped us erase bad ones. And kept doing your thing for so many years. A part of San Francisco died today. Progress comes one funeral at a time. Today was your funeral. Your passing makes way for the new. And while it may not be the same, or even better, it will be new again. Which any luck, what comes after you will one day be remembered as fondly as you were. Time marches on and stops for no one, or no Bing. Cheers to you! And may we all never forget you, until we ourselves are forgotten. Au revoir Mr. Bings. So long, and farewell. We move on into the night and the future, sadly, without you. UPDATE FOR REOPENING UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP- Mr. Bing's Dive Bar. These words no longer have any meaning. What once was, is no longer. It lives on in our memories and the famous sign still attached to the exterior. On the outside nothing has changed. The rust on the sign still evident from years of neglect, pigeon excrement and San Francisco fog. Familiar. Welcoming. Inside, a shock to the system to those who remember. Gone is the horseshoe bar, the tennis painting, Ms. Pacman, the warmth of the neon sign, and gladly, in this case, the mad dash of the occasional Chinatown cockroach. What is gone has been renewed with a less soulful and less joyous reflection of San Francisco as a hard working town. There are better spirits, craftier beers, new paint, lower lighting and gasp, candles on small tables. The old shoddy and thoughtless artwork has been reimagined John Taffer Bar Rescue style, complete with partial barrel wall adornments. While the hookers, strippers, drinkers, drunks, and industry types move up the hill, deeper into Chinatown (Li Po, Buddha Lounge, and Bow Bow) the new Mr. Bing's feels like the overflow lounge for the far superior and pricier Comstock Saloon 20 feet across the street. This doesn't feel like Mr. Bing's and while that is ok, the future advances mercilessly, leaving the old behind. I'd bet that this bar would be better served retiring the name, and the rotting sign, and rebranding entirely, thus avoiding comparison to what was, and blazing a new path for the location. I do wish them the best, and I will continue to gaze admiringly whenever I walk by, and drown my sentimentality up the hill at Li Po, or plod into north beach and rest in Gino and Carlo. I stand by the five star rating because the new location offers good quality and much better service than the old Bing's. Best of luck! read more
How have I been in San Francisco this long and not gone to Mr. Bing's? It's probably because I pooh-poohed it for years. I've walked by that tired-looking, circa-1956 sign hundreds of times never giving it a moment's thought until of course, a very drunk Anthony Bourdain showed up there on "The Layover" and immediately praised it as a "fine drinking establishment". So when I was going out with my gal pal Rene for a little nosh at Bix nearby, it was my brilliant idea to come here afterward for a nightcap last Wednesday night. Unless you're a social hermit like myself, you already know Mr. Bing's is at the vague line of demarcation between Chinatown and North Beach on a prime corner spot on Columbus Avenue (photo: http://bit.ly/Zz69Eh). The odd angle of the building in which it is housed makes the V-shape bar the dominant feature of the space (photo: http://bit.ly/YcYWsF). It looks like it once aspired to be a tiki bar but failed miserably and ended up wallowing as a seedy dive buoyed by the high-spirited company it attracts. It was pretty quiet that evening except for a group of hooligans I thought were college kids on spring break. Imagine my surprise when I turned my head to discover the people were around my age. One particularly obnoxious character kept flashing his ample beer belly to passers-by outside the window letting out a girlish whoop. Even more bizarrely, a pair of women kept taking photos of him from their iPhones perhaps to send as incriminating evidence to his obviously soon-to-be-ex-wife. Rene and I parked ourselves quite comfortably and ordered with alcoholic aplomb, the likes of which haven't been seen since Mickey Rourke and Faye Dunaway in "Barfly". Probably around six bucks a piece (...who can remember?), she ordered a gin and tonic, while I had a Makers Mark and ginger (photo: http://bit.ly/Yltafa). We kept quizzing the bartender about Bourdain, but he said he was hired after the episode taping. So much for anecdotes we could share with our grandkids one day. I have to tell you after I downed my second drink, I was feeling more than relaxed. All I needed was a mirror, so I could pretend I was Jack Lemmon looking at his reflection in "Days of Wine and Roses" as he says, "I wonder who that bum is. Look at me. Look at you. Now look at me again. We're a couple of bums." I smell an Oscar nomination. COCKTAILS - 4 stars...feeling no pain AMBIANCE - 4 stars...the dive to end all dives in SF (photo: http://bit.ly/18nATs9) SERVICE - 4 stars...he poured 'em with élan TOTAL - 4 stars...now I feel like having a fat greasy burger at Sam's (belch) read more
While crossing Colombus after having dinner at The House (on Grant), we heard The Isley Brother's "Who's That Lady" blaring from their speakers. This siren call was our magnet to check out this funky, funky SF institution. My god, the speakers sounded great--so clear but with a thumping bass too. The bartender was sweet and she fixed us Ketel One martini's in no time at all. UFC was silently playing on the TV's overhead as The Isley Brothers morphed into Steely Dan. I felt like I walked into a Clint Eastwood "Dirty Harry" movie. The "people watching" windows were a real treat. The drinks were strong. The vibe is old school mellow. This dive is definitely in a time warp. We did not fit in at all but yet we couldn't have fit in any better. I love my city. read more
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More info about Mr. Bing's
201 Columbus Ave
San Francisco, CA 94133
Chinatown
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Ask the Community - Mr. Bing's
Do they serve food?
No food at Mr. Bing's, however, there are all sorts of wonderful Chinatown and North Beach snacking and dining options nearby. Many of the North Beach options are open late.
Review Highlights - Mr. Bing's
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