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Chic Hayes Valley takes nighttime seriously but not at the expense of having a good time. Look for fine wines at Hôtel Biron, learn a thing or three about rum at Smuggler's Cove, and compete at karaoke at The Mint.
With the decor of a pirate ship and a slew of rum-based cocktails, you half expect Captain Jack Sparrow to sidle up next to you at this offbeat Disney-esque hangout. But the folks at Smuggler's Cove take rum so seriously they've even had it made for them from distillers around the world, which you can sample along with more than 550 other offerings. The small space fills up quickly, so arrive early—though with two bars on three intimate levels, there's a lot to see.
The popular restaurant's nearly two dozen specialty cocktails make a trip just to the bar worthwhile. The classic but modern French cuisine, California and French wines, and vintage bistro decor are terrific, too, so pair a cocktail with a few bites before or after a show.
This floral-and-tropics-themed bar boasts one of the prime patios in San Francisco, plus excellent, non-fussy craft cocktails.
This tiny, cavelike (in a good way) spot displays the work of local artists on its brick walls. The well-behaved twenty- to thirtysomething clientele enjoys the off-the-beaten-path quarters, the wines from around the world, the soft lighting, and the hip music.
