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San Francisco, California / Bars and nightlife

Elixir

A historic whiskey bar and saloon, Elixir is the second-oldest continually operating saloon location in San Francisco, boasting a massive collection of over 600 whiskeys.

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Elixir
www.elixirsf.com, og_image_www.elixirsf.com

What is Elixir known for?

Elixir is a historic whiskey bar and saloon known as the second-oldest continually operating saloon location in San Francisco. It serves as a hub for cocktail culture and whiskey enthusiasts, offering a selection of over 600 whiskeys.

What are the happy hour hours and deals at Elixir?

Elixir offers 'Gold Rush' happy hour pricing from 4 pm to 7 pm. Discounts are tiered by hour: 50% off from 4 pm to 5 pm, 30% off from 5 pm to 6 pm, and 15% off from 6 pm to 7 pm.

Is Elixir open every day?

Yes, Elixir is described as being open 365 days a year.

How old is Elixir?

Elixir has documented saloon service on its corner since at least 1858, though it may date back as far as the late 1840s. It is recognized as the second-oldest operating bar in San Francisco.

What else can you do at Elixir besides drinking?

Elixir hosts various events, including regularly scheduled classes, parties, and chef pop-ups, some of which are free and others ticketed. The bar also shows sports on TV.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Elixir is a historic whiskey bar and saloon that stands as the second-oldest continually operating saloon location in San Francisco. The establishment has documented evidence of saloon service on its corner since at least 1858, with some records suggesting the site may date back as far as the late 1840s. This deep history makes it one of the most historic bars in the country. Over nearly two centuries, the bar has seen a dozen owners. H. Joseph Ehrmann became the 13th proprietor when he purchased the Mission Dolores neighborhood bar in 2003. Today, it serves as a museum-like repository of San Francisco history, acting as a hub for whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail culture. For those seeking a drink, the bar offers craft cocktails and an extensive whiskey list featuring more than 600 whiskeys. The atmosphere is complemented by sports on TV and a staff of friendly, knowledgeable bartenders. The venue also hosts regularly scheduled classes, parties, and chef pop-ups, which can be either ticketed or free. Located just one block from where the Mission Dolores was founded in 1776, Elixir provides a window into the city's early colonial and frontier frontier history. It remains open 365 days a year, ensuring a welcoming spot for cocktails and historical curiosity.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during the Gold Rush happy hour from 4 pm to 7 pm to take advantage of tiered discounts: 50% off from 4-5 pm, 30% off from 5-6 pm, and 15% off from 6-7 pm.
  • Check the official events page for regularly scheduled classes, parties, and chef pop-ups.
  • Ask the knowledgeable bartenders about the specific whiskeys from their massive 600+ bottle list.

Nearby context

Elixir is situated in the Mission Dolores neighborhood, just one block away from the site where the Mission Dolores was founded in 1776.

Sources

Evidence and links