Daddy’s/ 440 Castro

Daddy’s/ 440 Castro is a leather bar, which fits in with the BDSM (Bondage/Discipline, Dominance/Submission, Sado/Masochism) lifestyle. BDSM is a movement that grew out of WWII biker culture, and is still popular today.  As an almost strictly leather bar, 440 Castro does boast one special evening each week, when it hosts its Monday night “Underwear Party” after 9pm. All patrons are encouraged to “check their clothing” and celebrate in their skivvies! Each weekday has its own happy hour drink special, and the website lists upcoming events as they are made public.

Badlands

Another wildly popular Castro area club is Badlands Featuring video/ music entertainment. This dance club is frequented mostly by gay men in the 20-30 age group, and features a lounge, happy hour and weekly beer-busts.

Lime

Lime is a newer bar located at 2247 Market Street in the Castro.  Lime has quickly made a name for its mixed drinks, but is also earns a great reputation for its $11 or less dinner fare; which includes everything from grilled cheese to chicken tandoori to filet mignon.

Martuni’s

Martuni’s on Valencia Street is a piano bar that serves a large selection of martinis. Locals love Martuni’s for the atmosphere and the “huge” drinks. Every night features a different style of piano playing, ranging from show tunes to standards to classical; all of which patrons are welcome to sing along with or just relax and enjoy the music to.

The Café

The Café has one of the best locations in the Castro. On Market Street overlooking the entire Castro neighborhood, The Café further enhances the people-watching experience with its outdoor heated balcony that overlooks Castro Street, and its heated courtyard at the center of the club. The Café is a great club to come and dance, and if you don’t manage to snag the number of your object of affection for the night, The Café website even has a “missed connections” section.

Moby Dick

Moby Dick is one of the Castro’s oldest and most famous bars. Located on 18th street, less than a block away from Castro Street, the bar hosts a diverse crowd and one of the city’s best happy hour menus.  Moby Dick is a great place to play a game of pool, pinball or even video trivia. It is one of the best places to mingle with friends and patrons alike.

Twin Peaks Tavern

The Twin Peaks Tavern is the Castro’s self-professed “gay Cheers,” a place where anyone can go for a drink in a warm and friendly environment. Featuring ornate décor of times past, Twin Peaks Tavern serves mixed drinks, beer and wine by the glass, all the while offering a panoramic view of Castro and Market Streets through its massive front windows.