What is Zam Zam known for?

Zam Zam is a long-standing Haight Street cocktail lounge known for its classic cocktails, specifically some of the best martinis in the city, and its distinctive 1940s-era Persian Art Deco interior.

The bar is open Monday through Friday from 3pm to 2am, and Saturday and Sunday from 1pm to 2am.

How much does it cost?

A visit typically costs about $10, and the bar is cash only.

Zam Zam is located at 1633 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117.

What is the history of the bar?

Opened in 1941 by Assyrian-born Samson Mooshei as the Persian Aub Zam Zam, it first opened at 1933 Haight Street before moving to its current location.

What should I check before going?

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

Zam Zam in San Francisco

What to know

Zam Zam, officially known as the Persian Aub Zam Zam, was established in 1941 by Assyrian-born Samson Mooshei. This long-standing Haight Street cocktail lounge has remained a staple of the neighborhood for over eight decades, evolving from its first location at 1933 Haight Street to its current home at 1633 Haight Street. The establishment is most famous for its distinctive 1940s-era Persian Art Deco interior, which has remained largely unchanged since 1941. This unique architectural style creates a moody, atmospheric atmosphere that blends the same dive-bar charm with an exotic exoticism that is rare in San Francisco. As a Haight-Ashbury dive-bar legend, Zam Zam is highly regarded for its classic cocktails. It is specifically praised for serving some of the best martinis in the city, offering a stiff drink in a setting that feels frozen in time. Today, the bar serves as a post-event nightlife extension point for visitors and locals alike. Whether you are seeking a nightcap or a historic cocktail lounge, it remains one of the most atmospheric bars in the Upper Haight area.

Visitor tips

Bring cash, as the bar is reported to be cash only.
Plan your visit for after 3pm on weekdays or after 1pm on weekends to ensure the bar is open.
Order a martini, as they are widely considered some of the best in San Francisco.

Nearby context

Located at 1633 Haight Street, Zam Zam is a cornerstone of the Upper Haight district, providing a moody contrast to the eclectic and colorful storefronts of the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood.

Zam Zam