Rainy Day Bars

Is anyone else tired of the weather?

Author

Jack
March 28, 2023

Well folks, it’s that time of year again when you’d think spring should have sprung but instead it’s still raining and we’re sad about it. Rather than giving in to the weather why not grab a rain jacket, your friends, and some drinks in a cozy bar while you wait park days to be a thing again.

🌳 Sessions at the Presidio / sessionssf.com

Beyond a menu that’s perfect for brunch, happy hour, and everything else, Sessions has big windows that look out on the Presidio’s green trees and lush lawns. The restaurant is open basically all day every day and has great options for beer, wine, and cocktails.

Order This ⬇️

  • Beet Salad

  • Deviled eggs

  • Charcuterie

  • Fromage

  • Oysters

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations | Takeout | Map

⚗️ The Interval at Long Now / theinterval.org

Equal parts bar, coffee shop, museum, and home of The Long Now Foundation, The Interval has huge windows, tall bookshelves, and a deep cocktail list that will keep you occupied while the storm rages outside. Plus, if you make a $1,500 donation to the foundation, you’ll receive a bottle of the fancy spirits that hang from the ceiling in beakers.

Order This ⬇️ (not exhaustive)

  • Abejita

  • Oaxacan Old Fashioned

  • Brush Fire

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations: N/A | Takeout: says they do but I can’t find a link | Map

NOTE: The Interval doesn’t open until 3pm, so if you’re looking for something to do beforehand the beer hall-styled Radhaus next door opens before noon.

☘️ The Buena Vista / thebuenavista.com

The Buena Vista is an iconic San Francisco bar known for their Irish coffees and I can’t think of a better drink for a gloomy day. For all the times I’ve been I’ve never actually had a meal there, but you have to assume they’re doing something right.

Order This ⬇️

  • Irish coffee

  • Corned beef sandwich if you wanna get crazy

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations: N/A | Delivery & Takeout (but why?) | Map

NOTE: Subpar Mini Golf at Ghirardelli Square is right down the block and incredibly fun after a visit to the Buena Vista.

☔️ Bonus Round

Because there’s a lot of rainy days and places that could fit this vibe that I haven’t been able to try yet:

  • Little Shamrock - Irish Bar with a back lounge filled with couches, dartboards, and speakers you can use if you bring an aux cord.

  • Arcana - plant store during the day that becomes a wine bar at night.

  • Macondray - cocktails, plants, big windows 🤷‍♂️