It’s that time of year again, when throngs of people gather together to scream loudly at television sets (and each other), hoping that their vocal superpowers will propel their chosen team to victory. If you are amongst the San Francisco populace that enjoys the Superbowl, yet aren’t certain of where you can join your comrades-in-fandom, we’ve got your back. Whether you are hate-loving the Broncos to avenge the 49ers, are a really brave Seahawks fan, or just like to engage in the spectacle, here is a list of wonderful venues in which to indulge your taste for Schadenfreude … and beer:
Mission
500 Club: The dive bar of choice for this contributor, the 5 is hosting a sure-to-be-hilarious costume contest where patrons are encouraged to dress up as regulars. Free! Snacks from Clare’s Deli will be constantly circulating, they'll have drink specials galore, and prizes will be awarded throughout game time. (500 Guerrero St at 17th St.)
Elixir: Right down the block, this longtime Mission holdout will be throwing down with a spectacular $10 all-you-can-eat barbecue offering and $2 Speakeasy pints. The grill fires up at 1 p.m., kickoff at 3:30 p.m. All proceeds will benefit the Tequila Interchange Project, a non-profit dedicated to sustainable tequila production practices. (3200 16th St at Guerrero St.)
Tacolicious: The upscale tequila bar and taqueria Tacolicious will be hosting their All-You-Can-Eat Superbowl Fiesta. For a $75 fee, you can gorge yourself on unlimited pleasures at the taco and nacho bars, along with free-flowing beer and margaritas. Three large TV screens and a selection of 120 tequilas make for a very fun time for one price. (741 Valencia St.)
Haight
Mad Dog in the Fog: Boasting a spectacular patio and beer selections galore, this will sure to be a jam-packed party during the game. Food and drink specials, scrumptious Buffalo wings and corn dogs, and a DJ will kick off the festivities. (530 Haight St.)
Kezar Pub: Sister pub to Mad Dog, the Kezar is a sports fan’s Mecca on the edge of the Haight. Jam-packed with flatscreens aplenty, it is a sure bet when you want to load up on wings, pitchers of beer, and of course, corn dogs. (770 Stanyan St.)
SOMA
The Chieftan: One of the hidden gems of San Francisco, this cozy Irish pub has an Old-World feel while providing a delicious modern traditional menu, an unbeatable selection of scotches and whiskeys, and many screens for your sports viewing pleasure. A nipper of Oban alongside a Lamburger is a divine experience for the sportos and non-fans alike. (198 5th St. at Howard St.)
21st Amendment: This craft beer microbrewery will certainly be a hotspot of Superbowl festivities for the SOMA set. With a full menu alongside their delicious brews, you’ll be sure to satisfy both the foodie and sports fan in you all in one fell swoop. (563 2nd St.)
Union Square
Burritt Room: There will be extra screens hauled in for the game alongside Chef Luke Knox’s sweet and spicy quince sauce wings, smoked pork ribs with braised red cabbage, and brisket sliders with celery root and horseradish slaw … yummm. Wash it all down with Josh Trabulsi's Punch Drunk Sea Chicken Punchbowl, a heady concoction of tequila blanco, honey, lemon, blood orange, and IPA. (417 Stockton St.)
Castro
Moby Dick: The nautical raucousness that is Moby Dick will be having a cool tailgate-style party while showing the game: $4 Bloody Marys, $3 Bud Light drafts, and two-for-one frozen lemondrops round out the festivities. (4049 18th St.)
Marina
The Parlor: Eye Heart SF is hosting a Superbowl party at the Parlor for the upscale crowd. You will be guaranteed an amazing time at the hands of these legendary party promoters, with VIP packages offering pizzas, beer buckets, and prime seating for you and your entourage to enjoy the game on four 9-foot projector screens. The party lasts until 10 p.m. so you’re sure to get your money’s worth. (2801 Leavenworth St.)
The Brick Yard: If you are in the mood for a bit more of a sit-down restaurant option while still enjoying the game, the Brick Yard is a favorite of locals. Plentiful screens for the game, an outdoor patio, and a mouth-watering menu make for a winning combination. (1787 Union St.)
Richmond
Ireland’s 32: If a traditional Irish pub combined with a sports bar that offers an extensive collection of whiskeys sounds like heaven to you, this is the place to be. Wings, flatscreens, and Pac Man round out the rugged charm of this watering hole. Recommended by the Bold Italic staff, this is definitely a local’s paradise. Be sure to try the epic Beer Tower with a side of nachos or garlic fries. (3920 Geary Blvd.)
Sunset
Blackthorn’s Tavern: This is a rowdy yet revered gathering spot for neighborhood sports fanatics. Legendary Bloody Marys on Sundays at this dog-friendly tavern are a must. Outdoor TVs have you covered for the game if you prefer to lounge in the heated patio. (834 Irving St.)
For the Heathens
For those Unamerican traitors who wish avoid the whole spectacle, the Exploratorium is graciously waiving their usual $25 entry fee and opening their doors to those who would prefer to nerd out away from the jocks. (Pier 15)
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