Blackbird

Safe spot, with perks

It's the bar you'd take your family and straight friends in order to show them that the gay scene can be just as normal, just as mainstream, just as boring as theirs. Music is non-existent or beyond sleep-inducing (they did play Red Hot Chilli Peppers one time, I reckon). So why do I go there? It has its fair share of perks: because the music is low and the lights are bright enough, you can catch up with friends or actually meet new people. Also, it draws an interesting and often good-looking mixed crowd. Finally, their cocktails are really good, and for $8, you can't go wrong.

BEST DRINKS!

Blackbird has the best collection of mixed drinks in the Castro.

Best bar in the Castro

Great crowd with greater drinks.

Great mix and cute croud

This bar is a perfect example of gays and Str8's living and drinking together in a fun relaxed environment. Great drink list, lots of fun beers.

Nice drinks, beautiful decore, straight friendly

It's not really my sties but I gotta say the bar has mad style. More New York than Mission, I'd say, but whatever. Clientelle are younger professional and uber chic. Music is not your regular electronica that has infected nearly every other gay establishment in the world. It's the kind of place that you'd bring girlfriends, coworkers or your really cool mom to if they have been begging you to show them the gay scene (read: safe). Ask for an old fashioned or mint julip here. Unlike most gay bars in the city, the bartenders will actually know how to make it here.