You may hear a lot of people refer to R Bar as a “dive bar” and while it’s kind of hip to be called a dive bar, this popular spot off lower Polk Street is more of a friendly, neighborhood bar than a dive. It’s kind of like San Francisco’s version of Cheers, complete with some fun regulars in their usual spots on the bar, affordable drink prices, friendly bartenders and a great selection of songs playing that will have you singing along by the 3rd drink.
You may also hear people say that R Bar is a locals bar, which is true, but don’t let that stop you from checking out this hidden gem. Originally opened in 2003, R Bar has become a staple among San Francisco bars because it is just a damn good place to have a drink. Whether you have lived in San Francisco for your whole life or https://www.crawlsf.com/city-guides/san-francisco-guide/san-francisco-bars/are just visiting for the weekend, the staff and patrons at the bar will make you feel like you have been drinking there for years.
R Bar has a simple design with a large bar taking up most of the area near the entrance, a small dance floor towards the back and another room with a dartboard and some sweet pinball machines. R Bar’s location has actually been operating as a bar since 1940, so there is a long history of crazy times at this spot. It’s busy almost every night of the week, so if you visiting San Francisco, make sure to stop by R Bar, play a song on the jukebox and grab a Fernet Branca, which is a favorite among the patrons.