Bay Area/ San Francisco/ Fun & Entertainment
Published on March 18, 2020
San Francisco's 4 best gay bars (that won't break the bank)Last Call Bar | Photo: Dave L./Yelp

Wondering where to find the best gay bars near you?

Hoodline crunched the numbers to find the best affordable gay bars in San Francisco, using both Yelp data and our own secret sauce to produce a ranked list of where to fill the bill.

1. Last Call Bar

Photo: Kevin H./Yelp

Topping the list is Last Call Bar. Located at 3988 18th St. (between Sanchez and Noe streets) in the Castro, Last Call Bar is the highest-rated inexpensive gay bar in San Francisco, boasting 4.5 stars out of 95 reviews on Yelp. This dog-friendly dive, which has been shouted out in Thrillist, offers happy hour specials seven days a week, from noon–7 p.m.

2. Wild Side West

Photo: Srinivas G./Yelp

Next up is Wild Side West. Established in Oakland in 1962, Wild Side West landed at its present location at 424 Cortland Ave. in Bernal Heights in 1976. This spot sports an outdoor patio and pool table, and with four stars out of 274 reviews on Yelp, it has proved to be a local favorite for those looking for an affordable option.

Jason P. noted, "I really enjoy this place. It's comfortable and old-fashioned feeling.  I've been to this bar several times, weeknights and weekends, and I have always had a positive experience with the staff. "

3. The Cinch

photo: iris j./yelp

Nob Hill's The Cinch, located at 1723 Polk St. (between Washington and Clay streets), is another top choice, with Yelpers giving this cheap gay bar four stars out of 216 reviews. Stop in for stiff drinks, jukebox tunes, dancing, pool and more.

Yelper James Z., who reviewed The Cinch on Jan. 19, wrote, "The music was eclectic — in a very good way. There was Ariana playing and then, suddenly, some Gloria Gaynor — into it. I ordered a couple of rounds of gin and tonic for my friend and me — and they were kinda stiff, but nicely made. No frills and all good for me!"

4. Aunt Charlie's Lounge

Photo: Patricia B./Yelp

Then there's Aunt Charlie's Lounge in the Tenderloin, with four stars out of 212 Yelp reviews. Head over to 133 Turk St. (between Taylor and Jones streets) to check out this renowned drag bar for yourself.

Yelper Semper S., who reviewed Aunt Charlie's Lounge on Jan. 10, wrote, "Fantastic drag show, really funny and a cozy environment. This place is a must, but it gets busy, so call ahead."

This story was created automatically using local business data, then reviewed and augmented by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.