Sam's Tavern was absolutely fantastic--an easy 10/10. The food was outstanding, but the bartenders are what really make this place special. Siobhan is hands-down the best bartender in San Francisco: warm, hilarious, attentive, and effortlessly good at making everyone feel welcome. David is also exceptional. He's friendly, engaging, and incredibly attentive, with that rare ability to make you feel like a regular even if it's your first time there. Siobhan and David make an incredible team behind the bar and turn a regular day into a memorable experience. Between the phenomenal service, atmosphere, and fantastic food, Sam's is an absolute must in SF. I'm posting up here whenever I get a chance. read more

I am surprised by the good reviews as the food was at best. OK at worst too salty. We went here for brunch this morning and had - corn beef hash too salty - vegetarian omelette pretty bland - fish sandwich not that fresh more edible with the tartar sauce - smash burger and fries that was OK Overall, very surprised by the good reviews by others as there are way better places with better pricing and healthier options than this place. We won't be back. read more

What a great experience! Our waitress, Siobhan, made our day! She was so pleasant, helpful with reccomedations and fun! We will certainly remember her. Thank you, Siobhan! read more

We stopped in for something cold to drink while exploring SF on foot. Drawn in by the historic note and it had been around a loooooong time. It was early, late morning so not too bust with a few people having drinks/lunch. No frills, just like I like it with cold local options on tap served in cold glasses. Bartender was friendly! read more

Sam's Tavern - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

My wife and I dropped by Sam's Tavern to watch a few World Cup games and it was just the vibe we were looking for. I stopped by around 4:30 p.m. and there were a few tables where I saw folks finishing up their work day on their laptops with a beer. It's neither overly crowded, nor overly loud, which is perfect for getting work done. Since it was the World Cup and many guests would be camping out for the entire match, table service has a per person minimum spend of $25. This is a really a non-issue because a cocktail is around $15, so two drinks, or one drink with some food, will easily hit this minimum. My wife and I shared crispy pork schnitzel ($17) and an order of their deviled eggs ($12). The deviled eggs were nicely seasoned and included a small salad shrimp on top for some variety. The pork schnitzel was perfectly fried and the potatoes in the included side-salad was well-cooked and not over dressed. I would recommend enjoying the schnitzel with some mustard. Both drinks that I ordered -- an Old Fashioned and a Boulvardier, were well prepared. No notes here. Service here was top notch. Throughout our stay, our server checked up on us multiple times and we never had to wait long to place another order for drinks. Tipping options on the receipt include pre-calculated 18%, 20%, and 22% options (on top of the 5% SF Mandate). Last but not least, the restaurant had clean bathrooms and a bunch of large TV screens on every wall. If you're looking to watch a sports match, Sam's Tavern is the place to go! read more

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We found this place after a quick search as we needed a drink and snack before an event we were hosting in SF. We walked in and loved the vibe immediately! Feels like a place that my grandparents probably visited back in the day. We had an old fashioned and an espresso martini. Both were perfect! We had a bowl of clam chowder (which was full of clams and not just potatoes) and a steak sandwich. The steak was cooked beautifully and the grilled onions were to die for. The bartender was so nice and helpful and makes great drinks!!! Will keep it on my list when I'm in the city! read more

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Just a San Francisco staple, really no other way to put it. Been doing great things for a long time in-between those four walls and I don't anticipate that changing anytime soon. You want to get a taste of the city before all the tech bros turned it into what it is now? Sam's is one of the spots that'll take you back in time. read more

Went on St. Patrick day and there were a lot of open tables. The main room was full so the put us in another room. There were only 3 tables that were used while the rest were empty. We ordered the two St. Patrick Day special dish. They were both pretty good but it took a while for us to get our food around 20-30 minutes. read more

Sam's Tavern - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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This place has been around forever. I think we came here 20 years ago. The service was great. And the food was good. It has an old fashioned look and very comfortable. I did notice that it had a lot of coat hangers on the wall. read more

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This is a decent place to catch a game and spend a relaxed evening. The atmosphere is comfortable, with plenty of screens and enough space to enjoy the event without feeling overcrowded. The food was satisfying, especially the appetizers, and the cocktails were well made. The service started off smoothly, but there were a few moments that felt less welcoming than expected, which took away from the overall experience. It wasn't a bad visit, but the hospitality could have been more consistent. Overall, it's a solid sports bar with good food and drinks, though a few improvements in customer service would make it much easier to recommend. read more

AFTER-HOURS DRINKING WITH CO-WORKERS My co-workers had a gift card from Sam's Tavern that needed to be used soon. One day after work we went here for drinks and food. We sat at the lounge, which was located near the front window. Reminiscing one of my favorite TV shows "Mad Men" for beverage I ordered Uncle Dino's Old Fashioned. For food I ordered beer-battered onion rings while my other co-workers ordered other items like raw oysters and crispy calamari. When I order onion rings I expect the breading to be crispy not soggy. The beer battered onions at Sam's Tavern had that strong crispy breading. The raw oysters weren't too briny. At any restaurant I am a sucker for bread and butter. At Sam's Tavern I was addicted to the bread and butter. The Old Fashioned was strong but not overpowering, however that was only drink I ordered. Sam's Tavern is a warming place to unwind with co-workers and clients at the end of a workday especially if you sit at the lounge. read more

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Excellent Old school Tavern that leverages off of Sam's amazing experience . Food is great and the staff make it a very enjoyable experience read more

4.5. But rounded off at 5.0. Took a road trip with fam to the City and found this local pub/tavern, Sam's Tavern . Super easy to find and a lot of nostalgia . We were welcomed by the bartender,David. A few locals at the bar and the football games on the many tv monitors. From the menu we ordered the chili,fish and chips, fish tacos ,and the schnitzel with potato salad. The chili was hearty and came with tortilla chips ....a perfect combo to start our adventure in comfort food. Next was the fish and chips with flaky juicy cod and shoe string crispy fries with a ramekin of tartar sauce . The fish tacos (3) were also delish and we had fries as well. Finally, , we had the schnitzel with German potatoes salad ......by that time we were pretty stuffed. Have to say that Sam's offers more than good food, but the hospitality by Dave is way beyond the maximum scale of satisfaction. Even though this was our first venture here, we felt like regulars when we left . Definitely a return visit is in order ! Thanks David ! ( and for the See's candy that you shared ) read more

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Best corned beef hash I've ever had! The waitress was super friendly too. Came here randomly for brunch and would definitely come back for some Irish food! read more

What can I say about this place? We absolutely love it. We start here when we come into San Francisco and we end here. Dave the Bartender is not only become a dear friend of ours. He is someone that we look forward to seeing every time we come to San Francisco and maybe even a reason that we come to San Francisco. The whole staff at Sam's Tavern is welcoming warm they make you feel like family and the food and drinks are absolutely delicious thank you Sam's Tavern and staff for always taking care of us and giving such stellar service. read more

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Stopped by Sam's tavern for an early supper was most definitely pleased by the visit. Sat at the bar and the bartender was was very friendly and provided great service. I had the fish and chips and my buddy had the burger. Both were excellent! The burger bun was toasted and not mushy, according to my friend. The fish and chips were superb. I highly recommend this place. read more

We sat in the bar side and got some beer and wings! Wings were amazing! Loved the breading so much and so crispy! Also the bartenders were so so friendly. Loved small bar and atmosphere! read more

Sam's Tavern - Wings - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Always good service, drinks and food. Friendly servers too, True (waitress) was so funny

I love these iconic SF institutions. My wife and I came in on a late Sunday morning for an early lunch and had a great experience. Uncle Dino's Old Fashioned was a nice variation on a classic, and the bartender gave me a generous pour of the Scotch special. My wife was very happy with the fish and chips, and I enjoyed the knucklehead chicken sandwich. Bartender was great and the place has a great, mellow vibe overall. Looking forward to our next visit! read more

Sam's Tavern - Uncle Dino's Old Fashioned - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Classic SF establishment. The booths are great and you feel transported back to another time. Seafood and fresh bread are great. Wonderful food and great service. Classic spot to bring clients for a work lunch. I love getting clam chowder and salad but today I got the stuffed petraole sole and it was fantastic. Highly recommend. read more

Sam's Tavern - Stuffed peteole sole - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

You like old school San Francisco? If you do, this place is for you. Always a place to stop in SF, the order here never disappoints. Monterey Bay calamari and the Dungeness crab louie. Both are great and these harken to the days of old school San Francisco...waiters, dining room and great history. This place opened in the 1860's. Yes, you heard that right...1860. Don't expect a modern fine dining experience this is tradition San Francisco with amazing food. I did walk downtown...California Street and Kearney...and while it's not back entirely from Covid...it's still vibrant and raw...go see it...there is nothing like it. Does the city need to get the workers back and tourists downtown...yes, but the old stalwarts are still here so go see them while you can! read more

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Wow! Stumbled here with a friend for snacks and drinks...only had beer with onion rings for a quick snack.. very welcoming bar tender and morning manager...very old school, which rocks... I'm definitely returning soon...menu is compact and very good variety...totally enjoyed my time at Sam's Tavern read more

For this part of SF, this tavern is great. They pour a decent pint of Guinness. The deviled eggs are pretty decent. I like my pastrami sandwich here. The bartender was very nice and attentive. The atmosphere and decor are inviting. What else do you want? If you want a decent lunch and a few pints on a lazy Saturday, you should come here. read more

A great find a recent trip to San Francisco! Has good locals bar/tavern feel, while welcoming all for drinks, football games, etc! Great service and very attentive to our needs! read more

Me and my family were visiting SF last week and we happened to come by this restaurant Sams. The food was delicious but what topped it off what the service from our "Irish" waitress, she was so friendly and gave us great recommendations of things to do on our trip Highly recommend Sams for good food and great service. Insider tip - you may even see Willie Brown here having lunch! read more

I was craving a burger and fries and this place delivered just that. Sports bar in a classy atmosphere. Self seating and the bartender made a damn decent Old Fashioned. I had the smashburger, which was pretty thick with 2 patties. I also had the deviled eggs. Would go back for another laid back, chill night. read more

Sam's Tavern - Smashburger with bleu cheese. Simple, satisfying. - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Amazing food (oysters, cioppino, crème brûlée) and great service at the patio bar (Noah, Tara). Thanks! Best seafood in San Francisco read more

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Sam's is an old world classic eatery. Where those who know, you know. The staff are professional servers, so don't expect anything less than perfection. It is a must stop for old SF vibes. read more

Sam's Tavern - Half shellfish salad - lunch portion. - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Food: 4/5 Service: 5/5 Ambiance: 5/5 Vibe: - Classy SF sports bar with plenty of screens. - Great place to watch a Giants, 49ers, or Warriors game Food: - fish and chips 4/5 - fish tacos 5/5 - Stella Artois on tap read more

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Excellent food, service & drinks in a welcoming environment. Sam's Tavern is right next to Sam's Grill & Seafood and it is more casual and smaller, with a very different but delicious menu. It's a tavern/bar, but it is cozy and comfortable here. Professional yet friendly servers greeted us right away. It did not matter that we didn't have a reservation. On my most recent meal, I had the fish tacos which you can choose the fish to be grilled or fried. I chose grilled and the fish was tender and came in good sized pieces in the tacos which are served with a cabbage slaw in the soft tortillas. Also, to my surprise, the portion came with 3 fish tacos, a generous serving along with fries. Our server selected a nice Sauvignon blanc to pair with my meal. My dining companions had fish and chips and schnitzel and they enjoyed their food very much. Prices are reasonable. Lots of food options to pick from. Last time, I had the crab cake sandwich which was so good. Very large selection of wines, spirits & mixed drinks. I will keep coming back. read more

The food and the service here are excellent. Siobhan and Pauli are great! Just a classic San Francisco Tavern that will now be on our rotation read more

Food drinks and service were great. The ambience was amazing. The only bad part is the parking situation but then what do you expect in downtown San Francisco. Definitely worth going and checking it out. read more

What a great locals place. Warm and inviting atmosphere inside. The staff were very friendly and fun. We loved the menu options. The breaded zucchini was clearly made fresh and tasted great. read more

Amazing food and service. Very nice atmosphere too. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a good burger place

Crab cake sandwich was excellent...generous sized cake served on delicious bread with a tasty remoulade! Quick and easy lunch spot with great menu of classic pub food. read more

Sam's Tavern - Crab cake sandwich - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I really like this place! Came here twice in one week for a quick dinner after work. There is solid service too - thank you to the waitress who is usually there during the weeknights and to Cesar the bartender! It's always fun to try something new here too. My partner really likes the smash burger but here are some other things we've tried: FISH AND CHIPS Served with skinny fries and coleslaw. I love the fries because they're crispy! The fish is good too but seems like the batter is different depending on the night. Most recently, the batter was on the thinner side but there were still crispy bits even if the fish wasn't fully coated. The fish pieces are a small portion though. FRIED CHICKEN SANDWICH Served with potato salad (but really you can choose between that, fries, or a salad). The potato sad is made with red potatoes and is not mayo based. It was lacking in flavor and needed more salt so I did ask for a side of mayo haha. For the sandwich - the bun was so soft! My fatass wished the chicken piece was bigger. It's made with chicken breast and was crispy BUT not really flavorful. I guess that's where the sauce and coleslaw comes in. Overall, an okay fried chicken sandwich - I'm glad I tried it cause now I know. ONION RINGS Ugh, I love these things. Nice big pieces of onions that are perfectly fried - the batter makes for a crispy outside too. They are so good with ranch. I usually order these as an appetizer or as dessert after a meal bwahaha. read more

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Sam's Tavern, a timeless institutional tavern in the financial district, offers more than just cold beer and a classic atmosphere. It's the people who truly make the place special. One such individual is bartender Dave, a true gem who elevates the experience. Dave's mixology skills are impressive, crafting classic cocktails with precision and flair. His knowledge of drinks or food suggestions, and his friendly and organic demeanor makes every visit enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or a casual drinker, Dave will make you feel right at home. Beyond his bartending prowess, Dave's genuine and engaging conversations make him a standout. He has a knack for creating a welcoming ambiance, making Sam's Tavern the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or catch up with friends even make a joke or two. If you're looking for a classic bar experience head to Sam's Tavern and ask for Dave or Susan they are amazing. You won't be disappointed. read more

Sam's Tavern - 805, espolón and a smash burger with garlic fries - Sports Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Always a great experience here. Grandmas favorite was the petrale sole but the salads are good too. Service is always outstanding. Ask for a booth on the side to get the full old school experience read more

Went there to watch NFL game that was recommended by executive Hotel Vintage Court in this neighborhood! Sat at bar, but game I came to see was not being televised at this bar. Ordered a drink and appetizer but was waiting for second game! Then asked for menu and waiting for game the bartender asked me to pay before taking my order! Also asked me to never comeback to the bar or restaurant during his shift! Paid and left. Never treated so poorly. Recommend told Hotel to not recommend this bar or restaurant again to customers! Beware of this place!!!! Marc Cohen MD New York, NY read more

Hands down one of the best clam chowder I have ever had. It was where dreams come true. What makes this place even better is the blonde Irish waitress who always has a smile on her face and makes this place feel like a place I could also go to. read more