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San Francisco, California / Bars and nightlife

Zeitgeist

A legendary Inner Mission institution and German-style beer garden, Zeitgeist is famous for its massive craft beer selection and iconic Bloody Marys.

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Zeitgeist
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What is Zeitgeist known for?

Zeitgeist is a German Beergarden and Historic Legacy Business known for its 64 craft beer taps, full bar, Margaritas, and famous Bloody Marys.

What are the hours?

The hours are Monday through Wednesday from 2 PM to 11 PM, Thursday from 2 PM to 12 AM, Friday from 2 PM to 1 AM, Saturday from 12 PM to 1 AM, and Sunday from 11 AM to 9:30 PM.

Is there outdoor seating?

Yes, it is one of the few bars in San Francisco with outdoor seating, featuring a biergarten-like garden area.

How much is a Bloody Mary?

A Bloody Mary costs $8.

What is the admission policy?

Admission is 21 and up on a first-come, first-serve basis. Pets are not permitted.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Founded in 1977, Zeitgeist is a Historic Legacy Business in San Francisco, retaining the rough, unvarnished feel of its biker bar origins. Located at 199 Valencia St, this German Beergarden offers a rare outdoor seating area in the chilly San Francisco climate, fitting its name, which means 'spirit of the times'. Since its opening, the establishment has survived a variety of historical milestones, including an earthquake, the dot-com boom and bust, and a global pandemic. It operates as a dive bar with a comfortable indoor area and a large, open-air garden where patrons can gather with friends. Drinkers can choose from an impressive array of 64 craft beer taps, featuring everything from German-style hefeweizens to hazy IPAs and 9.5% ABV sours. The bar is also widely recognized for its full bar and specialized cocktails, particularly its famous Bloody Marys and Margaritas. As an Inner Mission institution, Zeitgeist continues to be a popular destination for those seeking a high-energy, no-nonsense atmosphere. It maintains a strict first-come, first-served policy for admission, which often leads to crowds during peak hours.

Visitor tips

  • Be mindful of the behavior guidelines; patrons have been removed for things like standing on tables or taking photos.
  • Arrive early, as the venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Remember that pets are not permitted on the premises.
  • Dress warmly, as the outdoor seating is exposed to the chilly San Francisco weather.

Nearby context

Located on the edge of the Mission neighborhood, Zeitgeist is a cornerstone of the Inner Mission's gritty, eclectic atmosphere.

Sources

Evidence and links