“Party” listings
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THE DIRTY MARTINI
A Top 40 dance spot for the out-of-town crowd, The Dirty Martini has big screen TVs playing music videos during the week and live DJs or bands on the weekends. Beware: The no-sneaker policy is strictly enforced. (02/2008)
2801 Leavenworth St
415-775-5110
www.dirtymartinisf.com -
DNA LOUNGE
With a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, this is easily one of the best dance clubs in the city. Check the website for a calendar of upcoming performers and events. (02/2008)
375 11th St
415-626-1409
www.dnalounge.com -
AMBASSADOR
Industry insiders currently tag this as the hottest ticket in the city. The interior is reminiscent of a Rat Pack movie set, and there's always a line out the door. (01/2008)
673 Geary St
415-563-8192
www.ambassador415.com -
BLONDIE'S BAR & NO GRILL
Located in the heart of the Mission District, this bar offers an eclectic mix of music and patrons. It has won "Best Martini," "Best Singles Scene" and "Best Live Music Venue" awards from Citysearch. (01/2008)
540 Valencia St
415-864-2419
www.blondiesbar.com -
PLAYBAR
The solid black walls and grey leather seating meet their match in the great drinks served at this singles' scene club, where a century-old mahagony bar serves as the only concession to the past. Order a mojito and take a whirl on the good-sized dance floor. (01/2008)
101 Sixth St
415-512-7529
www.playbarsf.com -
RUBY SKYE
Located in the heart of downtown San Francisco, Ruby Skye hosts top DJs from around the world. You'll find two levels of high-end clubbing along with a top-of-the-line sound system and several well-appointed VIP areas for the beautiful people. (01/2008)
420 Mason St
415-693-0777
www.rubyskye.com -
BOURBON & BRANCH
Take a trip back to the speakeasies of the 1920s for a rare Scotch or bourbon. Just remember the password you get when you make a reservation-you'll need it to get in. (12/2007)
501 Jones St
415-346-1735
www.bourbonandbranch.com -
THE BUBBLE LOUNGE
Serving more than 300 champagnes and sparkling wines, this is a romantic place to kick back and sip a bit of bubbly. The décor is relaxed chic with red velvet couches, overstuffed chairs and candlelight. (12/2007)
714 Montgomery St
415-434-4204
www.bubblelounge.com -
CANTINA
Cantina is one of the few local bars that has rhum agricole, a type of rum that has garnered raves from those in the know. Come after 8pm, when the after-work rush has subsided. (12/2007)
580 Sutter St
415-398-0195
www.cantinasf.com -
REDWOOD ROOM
San Francisco Chronicle Magazine called this hotel bar "the ultimate confirmation of cool." A people-watchers' paradise, it caters to locals and the occasional celebrity. Try the Lavender Lemondrop or Berry Martini. (12/2007)
At the Clift Hotel, 495 Geary St
415-929-2372
www.clifthotel.com -
CAV WINE BAR
The San Francisco Chronicle called Cav's wine list "sublime." The stainless steel bar features more than 300 wines from around the world, many of which can be tasted first or purchased by the glass. The modern décor complements a relaxed atmosphere. (11/2007)
1666 Market St
415-437-1770
www.cavwinebar.com -
EL RIO
This Outer Mission institution is like an a la carte neighborhood bar. Live music? Check. Back patio to get away from live music? Check. Affordable, well-mixed drinks? You betcha’. (11/2007)
3158 Mission St
415-282-3325
www.elriosf.com