No doubt about it, the nightlife in San Francisco is some of the best in the world. On any given night of any given week you have the opportunity to see the best bands, biggest dj's and hottest rising artists in the world at nightclubs, concert venues or one of the dozens of street fairs and festivals that the city has become famous for. With so much to choose from, how do you make sure you end up at the right party spot and not some cheesy tourist trap? Read "The MetroWize Hip Guide to San Francisco Nightclubs" that's how.
Ruby Skye
Location: 420 Mason St. (Union Square)
Ruby Skye is hands down the biggest, most decadent San Francisco nightclub. Don’t let that scare you away though, it knows how to throw a party. Week after week, the biggest DJ talent in the world comes through there. Sasha, Carl Cox, Tiesto… This is where they come. The venue is massive and the sound system is the best in the city.
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The Fillmore
Location: 1805 Geary (Fillmore)
The historic Fillmore Theater has played host to just about every rockstar that ever became a rockstar. From the Grateful Dead to Smashing Pumpkins, playing the Fillmore means you have made it to the big leagues. The tradition continues today with the best up and comers playing nearly every night of the week. If you are a music lover, you owe it to yourself to experience a show here.
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Mezzanine
Location: 444 Jessie St. (SOMA)
One of the best things about Mezzanine is that they don’t cater to any specific crowd. DJ events, live music, gay nights, whatever… They do it all. Whatever the event, it’s always big. The staff can not be beat from cool bouncers to great bartenders, the sound system rocks and they manage to never let it get so packed that it’s uncomfortable.
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Mighty
Location: 119 Utah St. (Potrero)
Tucked away deep in Potrero, Mighty has become known as THE place for breaks and burning man related events. This is another place with killer sound (monster stack speakers actually), friendly staff and a relaxed vibe. It’s a destination spot so come with plans to stick around for the long haul.
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Supper Club
Location: 657 Harrison St. (SOMA)
If there is one thing that the Dutch do well, it’s partying. So when they Dutch company that runs Supper Club opened one up here in San Francisco, we were all chomping at the bit to get a peak at this performance/dance/miami-esque club. While the drinks can be madly expensive, the décor and vibe here make up for it.
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The Independent
Location: 628 Divisadero St.
Despite the parking situation outside and the bathroom situation inside, these guys have a knack for booking good acts, especially in the Jam Band scene. Formerly the Justice League, the basic box venue did a slight remodel a few years back and re-opened to become one of the best mid-sized venues in San Francisco.
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For more on our Hip Guide to Partying in San Francisco,
check out part 2.