The Best First Date Bars in San Francisco

Ok, so you got a little generous with the Super Likes and swiped right a few too many times this past weekend...so, now you're stuck with a whopping 53 matches. Picking a first date spot can be almost as stressful as deciding to curl your hair or go sleek + straight. Meeting someone IRL for the first time is stressful enough, so let's make things a little easier with this list of the best bars for a first-time rendezvous. Here are the best first date bars in San Francisco.

ABV

From lengua tacos, foie gras stuffed olives, burgers to a killer cheese plate...ABV has it all. Whether you come here for small plates, pre or post dinner - you won't be disappointed.  The wine and beer list is on the eccentric and eclectic side, so you may want to stick with their handcrafted cocktails if you're not the daring type.

Reed & Greenough

Reed & Greenough may honestly be my favorite bar in SF. I was never expecting it to be, which is what makes this place so great. It's got pretty decor, moody dim lighting and ample seating. Killer happy hour deals, a piano that often leads to impromptu karaoke (my weakness), strong cocktails, shuffleboard (nothing like getting a little competitive on a first date to see if your potential beau needs anger management) and a few other games give you a little of everything. Are you a cheapskate? Don't worry, they've got free bar mix too.

Blackbird

Try to look past the fact that Blackbird is on Market Street. You're past mid-market and closer to the Castro. It's clean, swanky and not overplayed (yet). There’s local on the walls, attentive bartenders, and a cocktail menu that changes pretty often (so, you don't have to get the same cocktail with your next Tinder date).

The Interval

I discovered The Interval one night while at Off the Grid: Fort Mason (another good date idea) and was surprise I never knew it existed. Hiding next to Greens in Fort Mason, The Interval has very extensive list of cocktails will keep you occupied for several rounds of awkward conversation. The interiors remind me of Hogwarts, which is always a good thing. Stunning views from Fort Mason also mean long walks along the beach could be a possibility if things go well. 

Black Sands

Suggesting a brewing company in San Francisco that isn’t Anchor Steam is sure to score you major points with your date, so picking Black Sands will place you in the cool girl category real quick. The space is minimalistic and feels very open. It can get a little crowded, but once you’ve grabbed a little table or spot at the bar you'll be set for the rest of the night. Not into beer? They've also got a short-list of cocktails to choose from.

Social Study

Perfect date night? Movie at Kabuki and drinks before or after at Social Study. It’s legit next door to the theater with a stellar list of wine and beer. On weekends, they've got a DJ spinnin' and project old movies on the brick walls like an indoor Foreign Cinema. 

15 Romolo

Hopefully your date doesn’t get the wrong idea when they have to walk by strip clubs and up a dark alley. 15 Romolo is up a tiny street off one of the grittier North Beach, but once you make it inside you'll feel like Jay Gatsby is gonna pour you a drink. Good cocktails and food till 1:30am mean you don't necessarily have to think up other plans if the conversation keeps flowing.