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    The Bitter End

    3.8 (467 reviews)
    ModeratePubs, Dive Bars
    Open 4:00 pm - 2:00 am (Next day)

    Order The Bitter End Takeout or Delivery

    The Bitter End Photos

    THE BITTER END ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Juke Box
    Casual
    Classy
    Moderate noise

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    Jessica O.

    This is a cool 2-story dive bar in the Richmond, with pool tables, foosball, darts upstairs and ample seating downstairs. The drinks are relatively cheap and their bar bites looked a good price too. There was confusion with our tab since there were 2 cards with the same first name, and the bartender told my boyfriend she lost his card before she dug around some more to find it. I think they ended up charging someone else's tab onto our card, but we closed out every time after that initial mix-up with the tabs. I guess if you have a common name, be careful about keeping a tab open. Other than that, there was a younger crowd upstairs by the pool tables and a chiller crowd downstairs. Service was a little slow, but there were only two bartenders to a pretty large crowd. Bathrooms were actually pretty clean and usually no wait. This is definitely a good bar to stop by!

    Tiffany T.

    A friend invited me here for Tuesday Trivia and I'm so glad I came! Trivia starts at 8 and I got there around 7:50 and it was already pretty packed. The vibes were so cute, they decorated the place with so many lights and holiday decorations. There's also a 2nd floor with more tables and pool as well. You order at the bar and our table got the sampler platter, fish and chips and bitter end burger. Loved everything! Trivia was very fun, Tim was the host and it seemed like there were many regulars. Would definitely come again!

    Evan Y.

    The BitterEnd is a staple to the Irish, and anyone lucky enough to live in the Richmond. The Motley Crue of Seamus, Ryan, and Pascal always makes for great company. Theres another woman who works there who I think might be someone's meemaw? She does more talking than serving, and unfortunately I'm too impatient to wait for no joke 20 minutes before I get my beer even if there's only 10 people in the entire establishment. The food is otherworldly love the pepper steak, Tim's trivia, and the curry fries. Fun place to destroy college kids on the pool table too. Even funnier to watch the awful first dates. Vibes are high, lights are bright, just be careful what you say as it's an old converted theatre and voices carry

    Mozarella stick and chicken tenders.
    David T.

    Food - 5.5/10, but you're not coming here for the food I've come to the Bitter End dozens of times for Trivia night, which is great and boosts the rating. I've managed to try most of the menu in the course of these visits. Here are my thoughts. Note that the menus tend to be inaccurately priced, so expect to pay more than what you see. Drinks are sometimes in stock, and sometimes not in stock. Fries - they're usually pretty good. Get the garlic and cheese ones for some extra decadence. Clubhouse sandwich - a sizeable plate. comes with fries. Cheese could be better, seems like it might be like Kraft or something but overall fairly solid and a big portion. The chicken they use in this is the same as in a number of the other chicken dishes and you can taste the "grill" marks. I'm going to assume this is frozen/pre-cooked. Fish and Chips - Fish was pretty bland. Two small-ish pieces. Felt like it was mostly fries so value wasn't really there. Shepherd's pie - surprisingly pretty good, pretty sizeable portion, but nothing mindblowing Sampler platter - Not sure if bad luck but the wings were way too salty to the point where I didn't want to eat them. The Zuchini stix were overcooked and bad. Fries, Chicken, Mozarella sticks were fine. Onion rings weren't great, mostly breading that came off easily. Chicken "Curry" - The chicken was like a pre-cooked grilled chicken that was heated up and diced. Dry, overcooked. The "curry" was more like gravy. Not a good dish. Chicken tenders - one of my go to's since it's usually pretty good. You get 6 pieces and some ranch sauce. Calamari - Appearance reminds one of onion rings. Okay, I guess? The seasoning and breading is like what you'd find on a tyson chicken tender. Salty. Bacon Avocado Burger - A decent burger. Comes with fries Onion Rings - Meh. On the lower end of onion rings. Salmon - shockingly not that bad. Mozarella sticks - are what you'd expect. Comes with ranch which is somewhat disappointing as a marinara sauce would be much better. You're not coming here for the food, but if you want some food while you're here, it's okay.

    The bar
    Frank L.

    This is a down-to-Earth, basic bar for drink. The entrance welcomes you with older, smoother wood paneling on wall and floor. The bar sits in the back on the left. The building has tables, booths, and high tops in the back along the wall plus upstairs seating. The mood is chill and respectful save for trivia on Tuesday nights. Not only does it stock my favorite oat sodas and whiskey, it also has an affordable food menu. Yes, $18.95 for a steak dinner. I had it once, and it was tasty. As public transportation goes, the 38 Geary is a couple blocks south. The Bitter End opens at 4pm, always, and without fail, around 6pm the doorman begins checking IDs.

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    4 months ago

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    21 days ago

    i unfortunately love this bar. the owner is wonderful and the drinks are cheap. there is ample seating and 2 pool tables.

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    1 year ago

    Good food good service good atmosphere Great people I'm hooked go as often as possible

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    2 years ago

    Good cocktail, friendly bartender, relaxed vibe. Didn't try the food but maybe next time.

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    9 years ago

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    5 years ago

    Interesting vibes, the two female bartenders were crying which felt uncomfortable to ask for a drink.

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    Page 1 of 12

    The Bitter End Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Bitter End

    How many people per Trivia team?

    What time does trivia start?

    8pm! Used to start at 9 before Covid lockdowns and then they moved the start up an hour after the bar opened up again.

    Do they allow dogs?

    Yes, dogs allowed ,on leash

    Do you have to be 21 to go in?

    Yes, bouncer

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - The Bitter End

    Trivia night (which I don't attend), good atmosphere for Football games on TV, and within stones throw of 4 other bars.

    Mentioned in 66 reviews

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    The Pig & Whistle

    The Pig & Whistle

    4.0
    (586 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$

    We stopped here on a recent early evening to watch a World Cup game. It was our first time here,…read moreand we're glad we decided to go somewhere different. The Fish & Chips are the best I've had in the city! Not greasy at all and simply delightful. They also have a solid selection of beers on tap; I enjoyed a Deschutes IPA and a Guinness. A lot of people were ordering Old Speckled Hen, which I want to try next time--I've never heard of that beer and it seems quite popular. The menu features all the hits of a British pub. I want to try their Shepherd's Pie next time, and my husband wants to get the bangers and mash. He was hoping they had a scotch egg, but that's the one item not on the menu. Oh, and some sticky toffee pudding would be awesome! The only downside was a large party of eight people with screaming children. We can't seem to escape that in restaurants lately--even in a pub. Ugh, it was terrible and sadly put a damper on an otherwise delightful experience. Chuck E. Cheese energy is not the vibe. Despite that, we will be back.

    I hate leaving negative reviews, but my experience with the owner of this bar was so upsetting that…read moreI feel compelled to share it. I'm currently living in San Francisco for six weeks while caring for my father, who is recovering from a double lung transplant at UCSF. It's been an emotionally exhausting time, and I was excited to find a neighborhood bar within walking distance where I could occasionally relax and decompress. I first discovered this bar after a trip to Trader Joe's. During that visit, the bartenders, especially Chris, and the rest of the staff were welcoming, friendly, attentive, and wonderful. Based on that experience, I was looking forward to returning. Unfortunately, my interactions with the owner have been the complete opposite. On my second visit, the owner repeatedly ignored me while I was trying to order. When he noticed my service dog, who was leashed, quietly sitting beside me, and causing absolutely no disruption, he loudly yelled across a crowded bar, "Get your dog out of here." I calmly explained that he is a service dog. The owner immediately rolled his eyes and demanded to know what service my dog provides. Because I did not feel comfortable disclosing personal medical information to a room full of strangers, I asked if I could privately show documentation instead. He became increasingly hostile, telling me that he "knew his rights" and that I "didn't know anything," while continuing to demand an explanation. Feeling embarrassed and cornered, I reluctantly answered his question. He rolled his eyes again and asked, "What do you want?" When I ordered a Corona, he responded by pointing his finger in my face and saying, "You mean you want a Corona PLEASE." He refused to serve me unless I repeated the order exactly as he demanded. I was shocked, humiliated, and left the bar in tears. Several patrons nearby apologized to me and expressed how uncomfortable they were witnessing the interaction. A few days later, I decided to give the bar a second chance and brought my partner with me. My partner was seated with my service dog while I walked to the bar to order. The owner immediately recognized me and once again said, "Get your dog out." I calmly reminded him that we had already had this conversation and that I had previously explained my dog's service role. He responded by asking whether I was providing a service to the dog or whether the dog was providing a service to me. After I again explained the situation, he asked what I wanted to order. I ordered two dirty gin martinis, and before I could even finish speaking, he began walking away. When he returned with the check, I asked him to keep the tab open. He again corrected me and said I needed to say, "Keep it open PLEASE." At that point, I asked why he seemed to treat me this way every time I came in. His response was, "Piss off. Finish your martini and you're never allowed back here again. Get out." Once again, I left in tears. Once again, nearby patrons appeared shocked by the way I was being treated. I've worked in professional environments my entire career and strive to treat everyone with kindness, patience, and respect. I was never rude, disruptive, or confrontational. I simply wanted to enjoy a drink at a neighborhood bar while accompanied by my service dog. The bartenders and staff were wonderful. My experience with the owner, however, was one of the most humiliating and hostile customer service experiences I have ever had.

    Photos
    The Pig & Whistle
    Wings w/3 sauces $9.75
    Wings w/3 sauces $9.75
    Stella beer

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    Stella beer
    Johnny Foley's

    Johnny Foley's

    3.9
    (1.6k reviews)
    3.0 mi
    $$

    We stopped by Johnny Foley's Irish House late at night and decided to take a chance, and we're so…read moreglad we did! We headed to the main bar upstairs and had a fantastic time. There was live entertainment, plenty of seating, and a fun, lively atmosphere that made it easy to relax and enjoy the evening. We didn't eat, but we really enjoyed our drinks and the overall vibe. The staff was incredible from start to finish. A special shoutout to the doorman, who welcomed us, let us know they were open late, and told us about the live entertainment upstairs. That friendly recommendation made all the difference. If you're looking for a fun night out in San Francisco, Johnny Foley's is definitely worth a visit!

    Great place to visit while in SF as the interior immediately stands out with its classic Irish pub…read moreatmosphere, historic charm, and elegant old-world details. The high decorative ceilings, stained glass accents, dark wood finishes, vintage-style lighting, and unique artwork throughout the restaurant give the place a warm and authentic feel. It feels like stepping into a historic Irish gathering spot right in the middle of San Francisco. The inside has plenty of character, with cozy booths, classic pub seating, and a spacious layout that somehow still feels intimate and welcoming. The décor and atmosphere alone make this place worth visiting, whether you're there for drinks, dinner, or simply to take in the ambiance. The food definitely lived up to the setting. I ordered the beer-battered fish and chips, and they were excellent. The fish was flaky and fresh with a crispy, golden batter that had great flavor without feeling too greasy or heavy. The fries paired well with the dish, and the tartar sauce added a nice finishing touch. I also tried the loaded potato skins, which were packed with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions--flavorful and a great appetizer to share. Service was friendly and attentive, and everything came out hot and fresh. Between the quality food, generous portions, and one of the most unique interiors I've seen in San Francisco, Johnny Foley's Irish House is absolutely worth stopping by. A great combination of atmosphere, comfort food, and classic Irish pub charm.

    Photos
    Low-top table, in the back. Beautiful environment, Irish music, great vibe.
    Low-top table, in the back. Beautiful environment, Irish music, great vibe.
    Excellent fish and chips
    Excellent fish and chips
    Fresh mussels with wine sauce

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    Fresh mussels with wine sauce
    Black Hammer Brewing Company

    Black Hammer Brewing Company

    4.4
    (435 reviews)
    3.7 mi
    $$

    Black Hammer Brewing Company is a place I've driven by so many times and finally got the chance to…read morestop into while we were out walking and exploring the area. I'm so glad we did, it instantly lived up to the curiosity. The vibe here is exactly what you want from a brewery. It's unique, cool, and laid-back, with plenty of character and a strong sense of community. It feels welcoming whether you're popping in for one drink or planning to hang out for a while. The beer selection is great, with a nice variety of styles to choose from. Everything we tried was well crafted and enjoyable, making it easy to find something that fits your taste whether you like lighter beers or something a bit bolder. The space itself really adds to the experience. There's a relaxed energy that makes it a great place to meet friends, take a break while exploring the neighborhood, or just enjoy a good beer in a comfortable setting. Great atmosphere, good beer, and an all-around enjoyable experience. We'll definitely be back and are glad we finally stopped in.

    No food, just beer. You can bring your own food though,…read moreand even have it delivered to the entrance if you're really lazy. It's a great space to unwind with nice beers (and the beers are truly nice, haven't had one I didn't enjoy from this brewery yet) or to hop on your laptop for some work while sipping a brew. Dogs welcome, which is nice too. I made a friend.

    Photos
    Modern decor, cozy lighting and an open-air feeling
    Modern decor, cozy lighting and an open-air feeling
    The walls are adorned with super  cool abstract modern art. I think its from local artists too!
    The walls are adorned with super cool abstract modern art. I think its from local artists too!
    Super cute accent wall and overhead lighting give the bar a great atmosphere

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    Super cute accent wall and overhead lighting give the bar a great atmosphere
    The Kezar Pub

    The Kezar Pub

    3.8
    (839 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$

    Dear Cody, "To love…read moreis to dream. Too often, to dream is to hurt." It's one of the many jaded expressions in Football that we all eventually experience. When we experience it, and only when we finally do, do we truly appreciate the painful wisdom embedded within those words. It's only your first World Cup, Cody, and you are already feeling the heartache. You spent much of the tournament at Kezar Pub, which you endearingly refer to as "the pub". Daddy lived his first World Cup with Goo-Ma in a more humble fashion -- through an antenna-enabled 18-inch television. You, in privileged contrast, were surrounded by probably more than 18 wide screen TVs and the best sound system in the business. Brilliant equipment aside, Kezar's atmosphere is inimitable. There is something special that spurs Daddy to share beers and jello-shots with new friends. That pub is a beacon for good times. I have many photos of you in your WC shirt sampling pub favorites with uncles and aunties. Bangers and Mash was a hit. Maybe a bit lukewarm on the Shepherd's Pie (Daddy loves it though). The Fish & Chippies though? Cody ate enough of the English staple to justify the face paint. I do NOT have videos of you receiving trinkets and high fives from the best owner and best pub staff in the world. I certainly do not have a video of Daddy screaming profanities whenever a certain scumbag referee gets on screen. Oh hey Cody, bullying players and referees is never okay, but also sometimes absolutely necessary (another wise Football adage). I do not have a video of you screaming We All Like Vindaloo after a goal. No videos of you sitting in the community benches doing Sprite-cheers with Portuguese / German / Swedish / Dutch / Mexican / Norwegian friends we shared seats with. Nothing of you flexing the Arsenal shirt you have underneath for whenever one of our boys scores (Kai Havertz scores again!!). I wish I did, but Daddy does not have a video of us pointing to the red number 10 shirt bellowing "Na-Na-Na-nananana! Nananana!" What we do have are memories that'll morph into stuff of legends. Legends we share with each other for a lifetime. Yes, we'll have the pain, too. Daddy's first dream was shattered by a red card in '98. Although, you know Cody, I don't actually remember the red card too well. Daddy's most visceral memory of that tournament was the wonder I felt as I kept asking Goo-Ma if Michael Owen is the fastest guy in the world. I still feel that kid-like wonder again whenever that moment floods my memory. Thats why Daddy thinks it's our good moments that stays with us. Cody, we had so many of them. The heart-stopping penalties we watched on the couch. The Jolibee-fueled game nights on Fridays. Those incredible, incredible times at Kezar Pub. Maybe years later, your most vivid memory of your first World Cup won't be of the gutting loss, just like Daddy's isn't of the '98 red card. Maybe years later, the moment you'll feel again is that Saturday against Norway. That feeling of triumph and jubilation and fearlessness  and that surreal feeling of singing Hey Jude with ALL of Kezar. Football hurts. And maybe it'll hurt again for many more tournaments, many more years. But you also know all the love that comes with football. Love that comes on the badge on your shirt, love that comes with going to Kezar Pub, and of course so much love in singing your favorite songs. After so many years of following the tournament, maybe Daddy can give you his own wise football expression: Don't let the possibility of hurt ever stop you from singing, Cody. "60 yearssss of hurttt, never stopped me dreammming"  Love always, Daddy

    A great spot to watch a game, with fantastic wings that some say are the best in the city, and…read morehonestly I have not found anywhere better. The place gets loud when a big game is on, but that is exactly what you want from an Irish sports bar. We were there for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, World Cup soccer, and UFC 250 all in the mix, and the place was packed with great energy throughout. The Guinness pour was excellent, clean lines, great head, perfectly poured. As a busy sports bar things will not always be spotless when it is packed, but the team did a great job keeping the bathrooms clean despite the volume on such a busy day. We spoke with the owner directly and he made sure we had a TV tuned to the hockey game, a genuinely nice guy who made us feel welcome. We will definitely be back.

    Photos
    Inside
    Inside
    Kezar Burger + Tater Tots
    Kezar Burger + Tater Tots
    The Kezar Pub

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    The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

    The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

    4.0
    (979 reviews)
    3.2 mi
    $$
    Family-owned & operated
    Sports on TV

    Excellent experience from start to finish. The atmosphere has that classic Irish pub feel--warm,…read morewelcoming, and a great place to relax and enjoy a good meal. I ordered the beer-battered fish and chips, and it did not disappoint. The fish was perfectly cooked with a crispy, golden batter on the outside and tender, flaky fish on the inside. The fries were hot and paired well with the dish, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. To go with it, I had a Golden State Cider, which was a great choice. It was crisp, refreshing, and complemented the fish and chips perfectly. The service was friendly and attentive, and the restaurant itself was clean and well-kept. Between the quality of the food, great drink selection, and inviting atmosphere, The Chieftain is definitely a spot worth visiting in San Francisco. Highly recommend!

    Friday night/date night this week felt like a visit to a local pub. After years of walking and…read moredriving by it, we finally visited The Chieftain and had a lovely time. It has a bar, some high tables and regular tables for seating and all have views of one of the TVs around the pub. Upon entering, we were promptly greeted and a table cleared for us. Our server was super friendly and efficient throughout. Several FIFA games and a baseball game were on the screens so there were folks in there watching the games, but anticipating a specific match since the room was relatively quiet and conversations were still at regular volume. We ordered Irish Stew, Shepherd's Pie, and a couple of pints of Smithwick's. Our server remarked it was the full Irish! The food was delicious - hearty and well-seasoned, no bland food here! - and the ale hit the spot. Could have had more pints but we opted on dessert. We split an apple cobbler (not too sweet which was nice!) à la mode to round out our dinner. We will definitely return to try other food and drinks - and hopefully catch happy hour!

    Photos
    The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant
    Happy Hour - Potato Croquettes
    Happy Hour - Potato Croquettes
    The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

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    The Bitter End - pubs - Updated August 2026

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