Where is Li Po Cocktail Lounge located?

Li Po Cocktail Lounge is located at 916 Grant Avenue in San Francisco's Chinatown.

What is Li Po Cocktail Lounge known for?

The bar is well known for its Chinese Mai Tai and its distinctive kitschy neon sign.

What is the history of this bar?

Established on February 10, 1937 (Chinese New Year's Eve), it was the first bar in Chinatown and one of the first post-Prohibition bars in the area. It was named after the poet Li Po.

Is it a historic landmark?

Yes, Li Po Lounge was designated as a San Francisco legacy business in 2019 and is considered one of the last remnants of the city's Chinese nightclub scene.

What is the vibe of the place?

It is widely described as a notable dive bar in San Francisco's Chinatown.

What should I check before going?

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

Li Po Cocktail Lounge in San Francisco

What to know

Located at 916 Grant Avenue, Li Po Cocktail Lounge stands as a cornerstone of San Francisco's Chinatown. Established on February 10, 1937, coinciding with Chinese New Year's Eve, it holds the distinction of being the first bar in the neighborhood and one of the first post-Prohibition establishments in the area. The venue is named after the poet Li Po and has evolved into a celebrated dive bar. It is recognized as one of the final remnants of the city's largely forgotten Chinese nightclub scene, preserving a gritty, authentic charm that has remained mostly unchanged since its opening decades ago. Visitors are drawn to the lounge for its signature Chinese Mai Tai, a drink that has cemented its reputation among locals and tourists alike. The exterior is marked by a kitschy neon sign that glows with the words Li Po, signaling a transition from the bustling streets of Grant Avenue to a dim, historic interior. In recognition of its enduring cultural significance and longevity, the city designated Li Po Lounge as a San Francisco legacy business in 2019. This status protects the essence of a venue that has served as a social hub for nearly a century.

Visitor tips

Look for the glowing neon sign on Grant Avenue to find the entrance.
Order the Chinese Mai Tai, the bar's most famous signature cocktail.
Visit during the late afternoon to avoid the heaviest evening crowds.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the bar is located in the heart of the pedestrian-heavy Chinatown district.

Nearby context

Situated on Grant Avenue, Li Po Cocktail Lounge is embedded in the vibrant commercial heart of San Francisco's Chinatown, surrounded by traditional shops and historic architecture.