We come to this Spanish restaurant in North Beach when we want excellent tapas and low-proof cocktails in a fun, buzzy atmosphere.

For excellent wood-fired pizza, cocktails, and wine, head to Damnfine in the Sunset.

Martuni’s is a piano bar in the Mission with great cocktails and singalongs.

Lost Resort is a nautical-themed bar in the Mission that's great for drinks and a light bite.

Ramen Shop in Rockridge does a very California (and a very good) take on ramen.

Order rum cocktails and skillet-fried chicken at this laid-back Caribbean spot in Old Oakland.

Nari is a Thai restaurant in Japantown with a breathtaking dining room and food worth traveling across town for.

Macondray is a cocktail bar in Russian Hill with plenty of fruity drinks and more plants than you can count.

This neighborhood bar in the Sunset has cheap drinks, friendly bartenders, and, like the name suggests, a cozy fireplace.

Evil Eye in the Mission serves cocktails and punch bowls in a setting inspired by the ’70s.

Holy Water is a dark bar in Bernal Heights with great creative cocktails.

When things start to get rowdy at El Rio, Virgil’s is right next door and serves reasonably-priced cocktails.

Old Devil Moon is a laid-back Bernal Heights bar with excellent cocktails and plenty of beers on tap.

Hopscotch does Japanese-inspired takes on classic American dishes in a laid-back space.

If you want to drink outdoors but don’t want to go to a beer garden, head to The Double Standard in Oakland.

This Uptown bar is an institution that serves the best greyhounds in Oakland.