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Something for the 40-plus set, or even 50-plus. Twenty-two stories above Union Square, couples can dance to cocktail jazz and the milder R&B hits, and relax in the easy sophistication of the place. It’s 1930s-stylish, so consider it a chance to dress up in suits and party dresses, sip high-priced highballs, and enjoy the city’s seductive lights.

Named in honor of the slain gay leader Harvey Milk, this is the ideal place to get to know the look and feel of the Castro. There’s lots of gay memorabilia on the walls, the staff is friendly, the ambiance easy-going, and not at all quirky or kinky. It’s the wholesome face of gay San Francisco.

SoMa Irish all the way, from Guinness to fish ’n’ chips. The pub is large, the regulars relaxed and satisfied – it’s a great place to kick back after a busy day.

West-African rhythms in the heart of the Mission. Senegalese decor, featuring masks and low tables, and cocktails made with fresh ginger and exotic juices.

Opened in 1958 by the local baseball legend, this Downtown landmark is a cafeteria-style sports bar with live piano music. Good fun when the old crowd starts on their renditions of even older show tunes.

The only full-time “girl” bar in the city, amazingly, set in a subset Mission District neighborhood that has been on the rise recently as a lesbian enclave. Young pierced sylphs, 40-something professionals, and even straight women frequent this fun “down-home, divey den for dykes,” as one devotee dubbed it.

Proving there’s something for everyone South of Market, the interior of this ornate cocktail lounge is replicated Victorian-era style. Music includes house and techno.

A chill-out punk bar where you can sport your new tattoo to an admiring audience. The jukebox is full of indie alternative sounds.