Bar Power Rankings: SoMa

For when you want to party but also might need to be back at your desk

Author

Jack
April 18, 2023

As I’ve covered before, all the doom and gloom in SoMa hasn’t dampened the outlook for the best bars and restaurants. RTO (return to office) mandates have steadily increased the foot traffic in downtown, even as commercial real estate vacancy is the highest out of any major downtown metro in the US at a shocking 30%.

If you work in commercial real estate, that stat might be enough to send you to one of these fine establishments, but if you need a place to let off some steam after a tough day at work, a reliable watering hole to meet up with friends, or a date spot that gives off power couple vibes, SoMa is still a sure bet. Bottoms up:

🌴 Natoma Cabana / natomacabana.com

image credit: me

I’m a sucker for a shot and beer special and Natoma Cabana (also known as the black and white bar) does not disappoint, especially at $12 a pop for pairings like a Sapporo and shot of Toki or a Tecate with tequila. This place gets packed during the happy hour rush, so good luck finding a place to sit, but it empties out pretty quickly as folks go home or back to their desks 😞.

Order This ⬇️

  • Aforementioned shot and beer special…maybe a couple

NOTE: while I haven’t taken them up on it yet, you can rent out the whole bar for a fairly reasonable drink minimum

Drink Here 🔗 Reservations: N/A | Delivery & Takeout: N/A | Map

🍻 Louie’s Bar / pourguys.com/louies-bar

You may as well put Louie’s next to the dictionary definition of “neighborhood joint”. The place is packed with Patagonia vests and corporate insecurity during happy hour, but remains one of the best places to get a burger in town. They also have a shot and beer special but if you’re visiting Louie’s after a trip to Natoma Cabana, you’re in the danger zone.

Order This ⬇️

  • Sweet Lou’s Bangkok chicken nuggets

  • The burger

  • Korean fried chicken sandwich

  • Sweet potato fries, obviously

NOTE: Louie’s also offers buyouts - would be a rager

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations: N/A | Takeout: 415-286-9577 | Map

🍷 Press Club / pressclubsf.com

image credit: Here Comes the Guide

I’ll start out by noting that all of my forays to Press Club have been on the company dime and for good reason. The swanky lounge is the perfect place to feel fancy while drinking wine and eating expensive charcuterie, even if you’re riding the bus home.

Order This ⬇️

  • Wine

  • Charcuterie

Eat Here 🔗 Reservations | Delivery & Takeout: N/A | Map