The Best Irish Pubs in San Francisco

Top o’ the mornin’ to ya! Are you feeling the luck of the Irish and in search of the best Irish pubs in San Francisco? Well, look no further! Whether you’re after a frothy pint of Guinness or a hearty plate of bangers and mash, we’ve scoured the city to bring you the finest establishments to get your shamrock shake on. So grab your friends, don your greenest garb, and let’s embark on a journey to find the ultimate pot of gold at the end of the pub crawl rainbow.

Table of Contents

Best Irish Pubs in San Francisco

Irish Times

Established in 1996, Irish Times has become a staple Irish pub in SF and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The pub is named after the daily Irish newspaper, The Irish Times, and it is clear that the owners take pride in their Irish roots.

The atmosphere of The Irish Times is warm and welcoming, with a rustic interior that includes dark wood, exposed brick walls, and vintage photographs of Ireland. The pub is spacious with multiple levels, providing a great place to host a party, catch up with friends, or watch sports games.

The bar offers an extensive selection of drinks, including a variety of Irish whiskeys, beers, and cocktails. The menu features traditional Irish cuisine, such as fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash. They also offer a range of vegetarian options, as well as pub snacks like chips and dips.

If you are a fan of Irish music, the The Irish Times is definitely a good spot to check out. The pub features weekly traditional Irish music sessions, which take place on Sundays from 4 pm to 7 pm. These lively sessions feature talented musicians playing jigs, reels, and ballads, providing an authentic taste of Ireland.

If you have seen the movie “The Social Network”, then you may recognize the interior of this iconic pub. The Irish Times was used as the location for the scene where Mark Zuckerberg (played by Jesse Eisenberg) meets with Sean Parker (played by Justin Timberlake).

Irish Times

Neighborhood: Financial District

Address: 500 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94111

Website: http://www.sfirishtimes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/irishtimesbar

The Chieftain Irish Pub and Restaurant Photo Credit: Facebook / @chieftainirishpubsf

The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant

The Chieftain offers a vast selection of drinks, including a variety of whiskey, beers, and specialty cocktails. They have an extensive collection of Irish whiskey, including popular brands such as Jameson and Bushmills. In addition, they offer a broad range of draught and bottled beers, including Guinness, Murphy’s, and other popular Irish brews.

The food menu at The Chieftain offers traditional Irish pub fare, such as Fish and Chips, Shepherd’s Pie, and Irish Stew. The pub also serves other classic dishes, including burgers, salads, and sandwiches, and they have vegan and gluten-free options as well.

One great reason to visit The Chieftain is to check out the architecture of the restaurant. It was actually designed and built in Ireland before being shipped to San Francisco, where it was reassembled. The pub’s walls and ceilings are decorated with traditional Irish artifacts, and the bar is made from 400-year-old oak.

The Chieftain is also known for its live music, featuring traditional Irish bands, jazz, and blues artists. The pub offers an intimate stage for musicians to showcase their talent and entertain the patrons.

Overall, The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant is one of the best Irish pubs in San Francisco. Its authentic décor, traditional Irish menu, impressive selection of drinks, and live music make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Chieftain Pub Location in San Francisco

The Chieftain Irish Pub & Restaurant:

Neighborhood: SOMA

Address: 198 5th St, San Francisco, CA 94103

Website: https://www.thechieftain.com/

https://www.facebook.com/chieftainirishpubsf

The Dubliner

The Dubliner is a cozy Irish pub located in the heart of the Mission District in San Francisco. The pub is adorned with traditional Irish decorations, including Gaelic signage and a large portrait of James Joyce. The Dubliner also features a fireplace, providing a cozy ambiance for those chilly San Francisco evenings.

The pub serves a variety of Irish beers, whiskeys, and other popular spirits as well as an array of traditional Irish food. The Dubliner also hosts traditional Irish music sessions, bringing together talented local musicians for an evening of entertainment and has weekly trivia nights. It’s also a great place to watch sports, so if you are looking for a place to enjoy delicious food and drinks while watching March Madness, The Dubliner is a great choice.

Named after the capital of Ireland, The Dubliner is known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this pub offers an authentic Irish experience that you won’t want to miss.

The Dubliner

Neighborhood: Noe Valley

Address: 3838 24th Street, San Francisco, CA 94114

Website: https://www.dublinerbarsf.com/

Chief Sullivan’s

Chief Sullivan’s is a popular Irish pub located in the North Beach neighborhood of San Francisco. It is named after Dennis Sullivan, who served as the Chief of Police in San Francisco in the early 1900s. The pub is situated in a historic building that used to be a police station, and it still maintains some of its original features, such as the jail cells which now serve as private dining spaces.

If you have been in the city for a long time, you will probably recognize the address as the location of O’Reilly’s, which previously occupied the space. Back in the Day, O’Reilly’s block parties for St. Patrick’s Day were the best thing to do in the city for the holiday.

The menu at Chief Sullivan’s features a wide range of traditional Irish dishes with a modern twist, as well as classic American fare. Customers can enjoy a variety of cocktails, craft beers and a selection of Irish whiskey. The pub is known for its friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with live music performances and special events held throughout the year.

Chief Sullivan’s has received many awards and accolades since it opened including a nod for “Best Bar” in the San Francisco Bay Guardian’s annual “Best of the Bay” poll in 2016. With its prime location in North Beach and unique historical features, Chief Sullivan’s is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in San Francisco.

Chief Sullivan’s

Neighborhood: North Beach

Address: 622 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133

Website: https://chiefsullivans.com/

The Little Shamrock

The Little Shamrock is a beloved Irish pub located in the Inner Sunset neighborhood of San Francisco. The pub has been a staple of the city’s bar scene for over 120 years, making it the oldest Irish bar in San Francisco. It was originally opened in 1893 and has been serving up a wide range of Irish beers and spirits ever since.

The interior of the pub is cozy and welcoming, with a classic Irish pub feel that is sure to transport you to the Emerald Isle. There is a large wooden bar and a fireplace, along with plenty of seating for both small and large groups. The menu at The Little Shamrock features a range of classic Irish dishes that are all worth a try.

One of the most interesting things about The Little Shamrock is the pub’s history. It has been a gathering place for everyone from local firefighters to writers and poets over the years.

The Little Shamrock

Neighborhood: Inner Sunset

Address: 807 Lincoln Way, San Francisco, CA 94122

The Irish Bank

The Irish Bank is in a prime location in the Financial District, just a few blocks from Union Square, so it attracts an eclectic mix of tourists, locals and the after-work crowd. Like other pubs on the list, it features a huge selection of Irish beers and whiskeys as well as a full menu of tasty Irish treats.

One of the most unique features of The Irish Bank is the open-air beer garden, which is perfect for relaxing with friends on a sunny day. Inside, the pub has a warm and cozy atmosphere, with an old-fashioned fireplace and traditional wooden furnishings.

The Irish Bank has a rich history, dating back to the 1800s when it was originally used as, you guessed it, a bank. Today, the building still retains much of its original architecture, adding to the unique charm of the pub.

Overall, The Irish Bank is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for an authentic Irish pub experience in San Francisco. With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, great food and drink, and unique history, it is easy to see why The Irish Bank is considered one of the best Irish Pubs in San Francisco.

The Irish Bank:

Neighborhood: Financial District

Address: 10 Mark Ln, San Francisco, CA 94108

Website: http://www.theirishbank.com/

Durty Nelly's Irish Pub — Durty Nelly’s SF Photo Credit: Facebook / Durty Nelly’s

Dirty Nelly’s

Durty Nelly’s is a popular Irish pub located in San Francisco’s Inner Sunset neighborhood. Established in 1969, it has a rich history of serving authentic Irish food and drinks in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. The interior features dark wood paneling, stained glass windows, and Irish memorabilia, giving it an old-world charm that transports patrons to the Emerald Isle.

The menu at Durty Nelly’s is full of classic Irish dishes, such as corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, and fish and chips. They also offer a variety of sandwiches, salads, and appetizers, along with a wide selection of beers, including many Irish favorites. Their bar boasts a wide selection of whiskey and other spirits, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a traditional Irish coffee or a pint of Guinness.

Durty Nelly’s is also known for its live music and entertainment, with bands and performers taking the stage on a regular basis. Their cozy outdoor patio is another popular spot, especially on sunny days. The pub also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including their popular St. Patrick’s Day party, which is not to be missed.

Durty Nelly’s:

Neighborhood: Outer Sunset

Address: 2328 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122

Website: https://www.yelp.com/biz/durty-nellys-san-francisco

Johnny Foley’s Irish House

Johnny Foley’s Irish House is welcoming Irish pub located in the heart of San Francisco’s Union Square. The pub offers a lively atmosphere with an authentic Irish ambiance, complete with live music and entertainment.

The bar features a wide selection of Irish whiskeys, beers, and traditional pub fare. The menu features classic Irish dishes such as bangers and mash, corned beef and cabbage, and shepherd’s pie. The pub also offers a selection of American-style dishes, such as burgers and fries.

One of the unique features of Johnny Foley’s is the dueling pianos, which offers live entertainment every night. The pub is known for its lively atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Another interesting fact about Johnny Foley’s is that it was once an actual mortuary. The pub has maintained much of its original architecture and design, giving it a unique and historic atmosphere.

Johnny Foleys Location — Location of Johnny Foleys in San Francisco

Johnny Foley’s Irish House

Neighborhood: Union Square

Address: 243 O’Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102

Website: https://www.johnnyfoleys.com/

Plough and Stars Irish Pub in San Francisco — Plough and Stars in San Francisco Photo Credit: Facebook / @ThePloughAndStars

The Plough and Stars

Located on Clement Street in the Inner Richmond neighborhood of San Francisco, The Plough and Stars is a wonderful, laid-back pub. The exterior of the pub is unassuming, but the interior is warm and inviting, with dark wood paneling, cozy booths, and a long bar. The walls are adorned with traditional Irish memorabilia, such as vintage Guinness posters and Celtic crosses.

The pub offers an extensive selection of Irish and local beers on tap, along with a variety of Irish whiskeys and other spirits. The menu features classic pub fare, including fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie, as well as American favorites like burgers and sandwiches. The Plough and Stars is known for its live music. The pub has a stage in the back where local and touring musicians perform traditional Irish music and other genres.

The pub has a rich history, having been around for over 40 years. It was founded by Irish immigrants who wanted to create a space for the Irish community to gather and celebrate their heritage. Today, The Plough and Stars is still a popular spot for Irish-Americans to come together and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and other holidays.

The Plough and Stars

Neighborhood: Inner Richmond

Address: 116 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118

Website: https://theploughandstars.com/

Kells Irish Pub San Francisco Photo Credit: Facebook / @kells415

Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub

If you used to party in San Francisco in the early 2000s, you probably ended up at Kells for a night of debauchery that you may or may not remember. It was a hot spot that typically had a line down the block to get in and once you were in the door, it was packed, crazy and sweaty in the best possible way. Fast forward to the present and Kells is still going strong. Since Paul McAleese opened the popular bar in 1999 it hasn’t lost a step.

Inside, Kells boasts a cozy, dimly lit atmosphere, complete with dark wood finishes, brick walls, and a classic Irish bar. They offer a wide selection of Irish and local craft beers, as well as an extensive whiskey list. In addition to drinks, Kells also serves up a variety of traditional Irish dishes, such as bangers and mash, shepherd’s pie, and corned beef and cabbage.

One interesting fact about Kells is that it was originally a soda fountain back in the 1920s, and then later transformed into a pub by a pair of Irish brothers. The pub has since become a San Francisco institution, known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and Irish step dancing performances.

Whether you’re looking for a pint of Guinness, a hearty meal, or a night of entertainment, Kells is a top choice for Irish pub-goers in San Francisco.

Kells Irish Pub Location in San Francisco

Kells Irish Restaurant & Pub

Neighborhood: North Beach

Address: 530 Jackson St, San Francisco, CA 94133

Website: https://www.kellssf.com/

Just across the Bridge

Although the next two bars aren’t technically in San Francisco, it seemed a shame to leave them off the list. If you are heading across the Golden Gate Bridge to Marin County or going across the Bay Bridge to Oakland, here are a couple of Irish Pubs that you will enjoy.

Finnegan’s Marin

Finnegan’s Marin Restaurant & Bar is a family-owned and operated Irish pub located in the heart of downtown Novato, just a short drive north of San Francisco. This cozy and inviting pub offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for gathering with friends and family or enjoying a pint on your own.

At Finnegan’s, you’ll find a wide selection of beers on tap, including many local and Irish brews, as well as a full bar with a great selection of spirits and cocktails. The food menu features a great selection of traditional Irish pub fare, like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie as well as salads, burgers and sandwiches. Make sure to try the Irish Potato Poppers, Irish Nachos and the Guinness Pot Roast if you go.

Although Finnegan’s Marin Restaurant & Bar is not located in San Francisco proper, it is still considered one of the best Irish pubs in the Bay Area. Its friendly atmosphere, delicious food and drink, and lively entertainment make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience the charm and warmth of an authentic Irish pub.

Finnegan’s Marin

Location: Novato

Address: 877 Grant Ave, Novato, CA 94945

Website: https://www.finnegansmarin.com/

Slainte Oakland Irish Pub Photo Credit: Facebook / @slainteoak

Sláinte Oakland

Sláinte Irish Pub is easily (in our opinion) the best Irish Pub in Oakland, California. The pub is located on Broadway, close to Jack London Square. You can expect a huge selection of cocktails, wine and beers, but if you are a whiskey drinker then you will be in heaven. They actually have over 175 varieties of Irish whiskey to choose from and special tastings on Tuesday nights.

If you head to Sláinte, you definitely need to check out the food. Google Reviews like “This is the best Irish food I’ve ever had, and a class above any pub food” are pretty much the status quo, so you don’t want to miss out on their tasty treats. Some of their amazing food options include Shepherd’s Pie Chips, Fish & Chips, Irish Bangers & Mash, Sláinte Pasties and their award-winning Guinness Ginger Cake.

Sláinte Irish Pub is run by two brothers, who are both passionate about Irish culture and hospitality. They have created a warm and friendly atmosphere, and the staff are always happy to chat with customers and offer recommendations on what to drink and eat.

Sláinte Irish Pub is a great place to hang out with friends, watch sports, and enjoy live music. They have a large outdoor patio that’s perfect for sunny days and warm evenings, as well as a cozy indoor space that’s ideal for cooler days.