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    Smuggler's Cove

    4.1 (2.1k reviews)
    Open 5:00 pm - 1:15 am (Next day)

    Smuggler's Cove Photos

    Business Info

    SMUGGLER'S COVE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Happy hour specials
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - Smuggler's Cove

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    Aku aku
    Carrie G.

    First time checking our smugglers cove. We came on a Friday night about 6pm. Not a lot of seating throughout but it is pretty popular. We went to the bottom bar first. All the tables and seats were taken. The menu is only a QR code now, I heard it was an actual menu previously. We waited for our drinks maybe 15 minutes which seemed like forever. We ended up sitting at the bar on the main floor and we should have just ordered our drinks with them because they were faster! A huge group left in the upstairs room so we got to check that space out too. I liked my drink, I got the $16 Aku Aku. rum, fresh lime, fresh pineapple, peach liqueur, fresh mint. It was better than the Kona. Small drinks but fun place!

    Navy grog
    Danielle B.

    An absolute gem of a tiki bar in San Francisco. Almost like a speakeasy you wouldn't even know that it's there from the street except for the bar security checking IDs out front which kind of gives it some mystery inside. There are two bars to choose from upstairs and downstairs, the staff is extremely knowledgeable and the menu is extensive so maybe go on their website and take a look prior to going so you have an idea of maybe what you'd like. When in doubt, just let the bartenders know what you kind of like to taste in a tiki drink and they will be super helpful.

    The Mastodon
    Anthony W.

    Still one of my favorite Tiki Bars of all time. I've never had a bad drink here. The key to getting a spot is to just come here right when they open. Maybe arrive there 10-15 mins beforehand to be sure. And then go downstairs immediately when you walk in and find a table fast before all are taken. My favorite drink here is the Mastodon. It's very strong but still has a lot of tropical taste to it. If you like Passion Fruit you'll get hints of that with hints of cherry. The cocktail I got recently was the Roselita. I really enjoyed the combo of the Hibiscus and Pear liqueurs with the Orgeat. So there's nutty notes with some floral and juiciness. This one is a little lighter than the first drink I mentioned which was nice because I still had a long night of drinking to go...

    Drake R.

    Another amazing visit to Smuggler's Cove, and this time an induction into the world of the RUMBUSTION SOCIETY! We got here over an hour early to lock in that coveted bar seat, and we stayed until like 11pm. Such a great time meeting new people and finally getting a chance to talk to the bartenders, much different experience from sitting downstairs... But Smuggler's Cove in general just sets the damn standard for tiki cocktails, once you've been here it's difficult to even drink anywhere else, seriously... The decor and ambiance is top notch to go with it, and this place is small enough that you feel real special sitting in here.. I seriously can't wait to go back again, counting down the days.

    Lance P.

    Great tiki bar. 3 smaller levels and gets crowded. Crowd is mixed and interesting. Some of the best tiki drinks I've had. Just know it can be hard to find seating until late at night.

    Samantha M.

    Smuggler's Cove was a fun atmosphere with some room for improvement! We ordered a fair amount of drinks, I prefer mine on the sweeter side and with clear liquors. I personally ordered a painkiller, a batida, and a piña colada and while the piña colada was ok, I ended up pawning off the other two drinks to my company. To me, the fruit juices were too sour to pair with coconut cream or condensed milk. Creamy and sour is a no-go for me. I'll also include a picture of my batida once it was finished to show it was 75% crushed ice. The tiki ambience was fun and the wet wall was kitschy in a good way, but the lighting in the downstairs bar could be improved. I thought the spotlights on the booth side of the seating areas were a bit harsh and casted unflattering shadows. However, the music playlist was great. It sounded like a blend of 50s, 60s, and 70s Hawaiian songs. In terms of service and wait times, we got there early before opening and waited in line outside. The staff were very nice and we got our drinks quickly after making a beeline to the downstairs bar.

    Not letting the long wait ruin our night
    Alexander A.

    Our group of four made the mistake of stopping by Smuggler's Cove. It was a Thursday night and when we arrived it was a little after 10pm. The place was apparently packed so we had to wait a couple of minutes before being let in. When we finally got in, we could see that it was an older crowd of folks, just sitting and talking, which is fine. But most weren't really drinking, just vibing with their empty drinks. Despite this fact, the bar took forever to make our drinks. (Or maybe everyone else was also waiting on more drinks?) We ordered four drinks off of the menu, and didn't get them until 11pm. I have group photos with timestamps that we took together to pass the time. We waited for 45 minutes, all of it standing by the bar, for our first round of drinks. The drinks themselves were okay, but we downed them and left immediately without hesitation. There's no way we were going to order another round. On the way out, we noticed plaques on the wall of apparently patrons' names who were being honored for drinking anywhere from hundreds to thousands of cocktails at Smuggler's Cove. Yikes. You won't be seeing our names up there anytime soon.

    Justin J.

    Always in search of a good tiki bar because why didn't love tasty food in a fun, islands vibe bar? So found this place while in SF and headed over to check it out. Smugglers Cove is a three story bar, with Island/pirate ambulance. You walk in on the second floor, with a bar immediately in front of you. There isn't any particular seating in this area, and it's generally pretty full. On the third floor is seating area to drink and talk amongst friends, while the first floor has another bar area with seating. Drinks are tiki in nature, heavily rum featured but with other spirits as well. Drinks sissy have different levels of strength. If there's a diamond next to the cocktail name on the menu, this means it is strong.. So order accordingly. Drinks were flavorful with solid presentation, and they are made quickly once ordered. The bar can be really busy though, bit it is a fun atmosphere. If you're looking for a tiki bar with quality drinks in SF, definitely try Smugglers Cove

    Sidewinder's Fang (left) and Rum Barrel (right)
    Andrea R.

    A friend of mine was visiting the Bay and wanted to try Smuggler's Cove, so we decided to go on a Friday. We arrived at 5:15, and there was a short line of people waiting outside. Once we entered, we saw a beautiful, small area decorated as a tiki bar. There is a very small seating area upstairs with booth seating and dim lighting, as well as another bar area in the basement. Right away, we realized that Smuggler's Cove has an extremely long menu (I'm talking 50+ drinks). Most are rum cocktails, but they also have non-rum options available. I chose the Sidewinder's Fang, and I'm so happy with my choice! It was deliciously fresh and citrusy. I would 100% order it again. I was genuinely shocked by how yummy it was. We sat upstairs in the small seating area. Even though the space was really small, I didn't feel cramped. Unfortunately, they did overcharge us by $10. We wanted to ask for a refund, but the line at the bar was long and we had a dinner reservation we needed to head out for. Despite the overcharge, this bar was incredible and I would love to return!

    Mai Tais

    Great tiki bar! No food options, but the drinks are amazing! Bartenders are always so friendly and quick. I will definitely be back when I'm in SF!

    glug
    Joe L.

    Arrr, matey! Smuggler's Cove be the finest Tiki tavern this scallywag has ever set foot in. Be sure to study the grog list afore ye sail in--and keep it on yer enchanted device for easy reference. The elixirs be bold and mighty, fit for a seasoned sea dog. Hoist a tankard of their signature potion, The Expedition, and drink deep, for these masterful mixologists know their craft better than a pirate knows the tides! Rum-lovin' buccaneers, take heed! They be harborin' over 550 varieties o' the good stuff. Ask 'bout the Rumbustion Society, should ye fancy yerself a true rum scholar. The Cove be spread across three decks--the upper one be a spillover from the main deck below. As fer vittles? This old salt ain't sure if they be welcome aboard--best send word ahead lest ye be left high and dry. Yo ho ho, and bottoms up, ye landlubber! ‍

    Just a picture of the inside of the bar
    Kevin H.

    This place is exactly the kind of tiki bar I like to find -- total hole in the wall. From the outside, you'd probably walk right by it... I know I did. Twice. It's got a small footprint, but it's three stories tall, and every level has its own unique vibe. Dim lighting, nautical ropes, barrels, tiki mugs everywhere -- felt like walking into a rum-soaked pirate speakeasy. Honestly, it gives Disney a serious run for its money, and that's saying something. I ordered a banana daiquiri, and it was smooth, not too sweet, and had just enough kick to remind you it wasn't fruit juice. Took a bunch of pics and picked up two of their wooden Tiki Rum Crates to bring home for the backyard bar. Couldn't resist. The atmosphere was awesome -- dark but not dirty, and everything felt clean. Staff was friendly, and even the people around us were cool and easy to talk to. Everyone just seemed happy to be there. If you're anywhere near San Francisco and into tiki culture, or just want a cool spot that doesn't feel like a cookie-cutter bar, this is worth the stop. I'll definitely be back.

    Stephanie D.

    Nice tiki bar with an extensive and fun menu. Cool decor and 3 levels. We went early on a saturday and almost all the seats were already taken. Expect a wait if you come during typical hours!

    Mocktail piña colada and the Smuggler's Rum Barrel

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    1 month ago

    Excellent spot. Great atmosphere, great drinks and harder to get these days GREAT SERVICE.

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    Smuggler's Cove Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Smuggler's Cove

    Can you bring food?

    No. Smugglers Cove doesn't allow outside food to be brought in. Light snacks like chips are okay.

    Do they have live music?

    No, it's a small space.

    Can you make reservations?

    No, it's just a bar that you walk into. You just get your drink and find a place to sit.

    Do they still require proof of vaccine?

    2 weeks ago they did!

    Is it 21 and over?

    Yes, it's a bar only.

    Is this place open yet trying to find a cool tiki bar to take my boyfriend for his 21st for a cool fancy drink?

    Is there an entrance fee?

    Nope.

    Do they have food too?

    Nope. Just the most amazing cocktails and rum selection you will find anywhere on the planet. There are a considerable number of wonderful restaurants within a couple of blocks however.

    Do they take reservations?

    No.

    Do they allow children?

    It's not the place for children. Don't bring them. It's inappropriate and would be annoying to the other patrons

    Can i com here with my grandpa?

    That would depend on your grandpa more than in the location. If he's into tiki lounges and steady on his feet and able to negotiate stairs if necessary I don't see why not

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    The Beehive - Beauty Mark

    The Beehive

    4.3(455 reviews)
    1.4 miMission
    $$

    Love what + how they do it. It's a neighborhood bar that…read morejust feels right. Food wise I'm drawn to a few favorites like the stellar pork belly banh mi slider, fries and the chicken bites. It's a thoughtful menu w something for everyone. Had a Paper Plane which the bar man furiously shook to an icy froth on the top. Soooo good. Went on St Pat Saturday and was looking for a non frat crew vibe and was really pleased I remembered BH was close by.

    Cool bar with bites in the Mission District. We got there shortly after it opened at 4pm on Friday…read moreafternoon. I was craving a refreshing craft cocktail and got one with the Green Emmanuelle. I liked the cardamom in the Beauty Mark as well that my partner ordered. We ordered shishito peppers and mushroom bahn mi sliders. The mushroom bahn mi sliders were amazing - the quality fillings and taste of the soft bun - I was unexpectedly hit with a bite of spice from maybe jalapeño seeds left but didn't sour my experience. The shishito peppers ended up being extremely spicy as well, those are usually just a few spicy and not the majority. The roasted lemon and salt was a wonderful combo but just too spicy to eat. However, the server very kindly removed it from our bill without us asking. We order the crostini because we were still hungry and that was an absolute hit. Delicious med-soft crostini with luscious berries and sweet honey. I didn't care my hands got sticky as it was soooo good! Great experience, I would be weary if the peppers as I'm a bit spice-intolerant but everything else was spot-on.

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    The Beehive
    The Beehive - Cocktail Menu

    Cocktail Menu

    The Beehive - Cocktail Menu

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    Cocktail Menu

    Blind Pig Speakeasy Lounge - Hot & Sour: Tanqueray Gin w/ lichiko shochu, aloe, rose, hot pot paste, basil, citrus, peychaud's ($18)

    Blind Pig Speakeasy Lounge

    4.7(187 reviews)
    0.6 miLower Nob Hill
    $$

    Hot Take: Weeknights are better than weekends for going out…read more Chill, less of a crowd, a locals vibe, and to avoid amateur hour. I'm personally over (and too old) dealing with sloppy drunks spilling drinks on you, getting pushed around in a crowd or end up in a middle of a brawl Blind Pig is that perfect spot, well at least on a weeknight: chill, low-key, and moody. And, most importantly comfy seating AND solid AZN inspired craft cocktails ($18-$19). Cocktails with black sesame, taro, pandan, mapo tofu, tea, and hot pot flavors? YAS! D R I N K S * Hot & Sour: Tanqueray Gin w/ Iichiko shochu, aloe, rose, hot pot paste, basil, citrus, peychaud's ($18 x2) The sichuan hot pot inspired cocktail was silky smooth from the milk-washed gin, nicely balanced - sweet (but not too sweet) and sour with a subtle málà numbing spice. Stiff yet easy to drink. The manager/bartender, Leo was awesome with great hospitality. Background lounge-y music is not too loud so you can yap and catch-up with friends. Overall, Blind Pig is a great place to unwind after work or start the night off. If it's too tamed for you, you can always go next door to XEX to make bad decisions - no judgement cuz we've all been there! ;) O T H E R I N F O * Walk-in only. PW to enter is on IG. * Blind Pig originally opened in Chinatown in a larger space but they're now in a more intimate space on Polk. * Blind Pig is under Mins Group (Sushi Sato, Sushi Hon, The Roll, The Buoy, Dento Piano Cafe, Dragon Horse, and more.) * No snacks/food but plenty of food options within walking distance.

    Ah, I wanted to love Blind Pig, but I just couldn't get into it. This San Francisco speakeasy is an…read moreAsian-influenced bar looking to bring Asian flavors and liquors to the bar scene. I think in many ways, Blind Pig just fell a little flat. I would like to say that the service here was amazing. A bartender who sat with you to talk about the menu, the process, and your experience very passionately and intently.  However, I think that the bar program is a little unrefined. Every drink had 10,000 ingredients, and most of them did not work together. If the drink did work together, you just tasted nothing because everything blended together and you couldn't taste any special or fun ingredients.  Unfortunately, I don't think this spot is worth looking for.

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    Blind Pig Speakeasy Lounge - Festive Cocktails

    Festive Cocktails

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    Christmas special

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    Pacific Cocktail Haven - Silk Street: Song Gin, amaro, jackfruit-coconut cream, sudachi, longan, pandan - Perfectly balanced, not too sweet

    Pacific Cocktail Haven

    4.5(764 reviews)
    1.0 miUnion Square
    $$

    My wife & I visited SF for the 1st time & stayed at Hotel Emblem next door. We noticed so many…read morepeople coming in to this place we decided to look it up & see what the fuss was about. Seeing that it was named one of the top 50 best bars in North American, we had to check it out! We came in a Thursday night in mid-April about 9:45 PM. They have security outside thar checks IDs & also manages the queue in case the bar gets too crowded. We had no issues getting in, but there were zero indoor seats available - both the bar & table seating. Thankfully, they have a really cozy & well-lit patio area. The waitress let us know that even the outdoor patio has table-side service, so we made ourselves comfortable on the outdoor bench & within seconds she had brought us waters & cocktail menus. Weather outside was really nice, so I'm glad we actually sat outside. Each cocktail is $20, which definitely is a little steep, but I think the creativity, quality, & prestige of being named a top 50 bar supports the price. Each part of the menu is organized by liquor ie whiskey, vodka, brandy, gin, etc. We tried 4 drinks total. I only took menu photos of the pages we ordered from but they have a lot more selections. We ordered the Kung Fu Pandan, Silky Street, Rice Rice Baby, & Tropical Gangsta. We had some favorites over others, but all were very well crafted! The drinks came out pretty quickly considering how busy it was. The only hiccup was our final drink took quite a while. Turns out the ticket machine malfunctioned & deleted orders put in & caused a back-up. The waitress was so apologetic & ended up comp-ing 2 drinks, which she definitely didn't have to but it speaks volumes to the high standards they hold themselves to & their customer service. Overall, highly highly recommend checking this place out for a fun night out or post-dinner treat! Glad we made the decision to stop in!

    The cocktails here are always so tasty. I love the vast menu and the Asian influence on their…read moredrinks. Street parking but can walk from the Ferry building or other bart stops with enough resolve lol. Bathrooms - 2 single occupant bathrooms in the back. Always clean and big spaces. Service - friendly and attentive. They kept the drinks and water going consistently! Make sure to bring your physical id! They check at the front~

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    Pacific Cocktail Haven - Envy in bloom

    Envy in bloom

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    Full moon

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    Smuggler's Cove - tikibars - Updated May 2026

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