THE PREMIER LGBTQ+ BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY
BAY AREA Vol. 8
SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW THIS ISSUE ONLINE Bar Guide & Event Schedule
TABLE OF CON TENT S
04 ABOUT GUIDE 06 RESTAURANT SCHEDULE 08 EVENTS GUIDE 16 BAR ORGS & ATTRACTIONS 18 LGBTQ+ DIRECTORY 20 BUSINESS
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ABOUT LGBTQ+ Bay Area San Francisco is a port of call for the alternative, the adventurous, the creative and the aspirational. The “City by the Bay” is known as the gay capital of the US, where over 860K locals welcome nearly 17 million visitors every year. Culture is San Francisco’s trademark, from the people to the politics, straight down to the rainbow street art. Gay-friendly bars, restaurants and businesses are sprinkled throughout nearly every corner of the city. There are over 60 gay bars and clubs that cover a variety of interests, with nearly every city establishment welcoming anybody with open arms. The transgender community has a special place here, and difference is honored, perhaps more than anywhere else. While the Castro has recently served as the center of LGBTQ+ culture and nightlife, other neighborhoods like Noe Valley, Bernal Heights and the Mission are bursting at the seams. San Francisco is what you want it to be. Whether you’re looking for awardwinning restaurants, a crazy night on the town or a perfect romantic getaway, San Francisco has it all. It truly earns its reputation as the cool, gay city of love.
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ABOUT LGBTQ+ Silicon Valley Silicon Valley might seem all-business at first, but you’ll find a casual and friendly gay scene thriving just below the surface. City planners have focused on making downtown San Jose a comfortable space with restaurants, hotels and green space. Our San Jose guide also covers bars in the “Peninsula” the area between San Jose and San Francisco that is often referred to as “Silicon Valley” and is home to many start-up and global technology companies. Apple, Facebook and Google are among the most prominent. It’s also the site of technology-focused institutions centered around Palo Alto’s Stanford University. The Computer History Museum and NASA’s Ames Research Center are in Mountain View. The Tech Museum of Innovation is in San Jose.
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RESTAURANT GUI DE Boulevard Refined American fare from renowned chef Nancy Oakes at a chic Embarcadero spot boasting bay views. 1 Mission St, San Francisco, CA
Meso Modern Mediterranean Seasonal menus featuring locally sourced products are served in this stylish venue. 3060 Olsen Dr #50, San Jose, CA
Californios Mexican restaurant for inventive tasting menus & small-batch wines served in a cozy, luxe interior. 355 11th St, San Francisco, CA
Paradiso Global foods & international wines share the menu at this stylish fine dining choice. 685 Bancroft Ave, San Leandro, CA
Commis Open-kitchen experiments with unique ingredients to craft inspired New American fixed-price dinners. 3859 Piedmont Ave, Oakland, CA
Pearl 6101 Small restaurant & bar offering Mediterranean-inspired pastas & seafood, plus specialty cocktails. 6101 California St, San Francisco, CA
Gary Danko Renowned chef Gary Danko’s fixedprice menus of American cuisine in an elegant but unstuffy setting. 800 North Point St, San Francisco, CA
Restaurant Gish Relaxed eatery with menus featuring creative Korean dishes & desserts. 1998 Homestead Rd Suite 113, Santa Clara, CA
Godfather’s Burger Lounge Upscale, organic burgers & American entrees in a friendly lounge setting. 1500 El Camino Real, Belmont, CA
Rich Table Californian fare from local ingredients, served in a salvaged-barn-wood space. 199 Gough St, San Francisco, CA
La Ciccia Intimate restaurant take will take you to a culinary journey through the Italian island of Sardinia. 291 30th St, San Francisco, CA
Skates On The Bay This casual American eatery offers seafood, steaks, sushi & waterfront views. 100 Seawall Dr, Berkeley, CA
Lazy Bear Mid-century space serving New American cuisine. 3416 19th St, San Francisco, CA
The Ramp Restaurant Casual waterfront restaurant serving lunch, brunch & evening appetizers. 855 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA
Madcap Intimate locale serving elevated seasonal California & Japanese mains. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, CA
Waterbar Restaurant Stylish seafood spot with oysters, a horseshoe-shaped bar & patio with up-close views of Bay Bridge. 399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA
Marica Restaurant Serving carefully presented dishes like twice-cooked Maine lobster. 5301 College Ave, Oakland, CA
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EVENTS SCH E D ULE NOVEMBER
DEC 5-6
SAN FRANCISCO COFFEE FESTIVAL
Experience an innovative mix of cirque acrobatics, classical dance, and contemporary theater as Troupe Vertigo takes the stage with the San Francisco Symphony in a family friendly program set to the music of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker. Troupe Vertigo’s spellbinding performances delight the imagination through stunning physical feats choreographed into works of art. For more info visit: sfsymphony.org/ Buy-Tickets/2023-24/Troupe-Vertigo
CIRQUE NUTCRACKER
NOV 11-12
Enjoy the best specialty roasters and coffee shops with unique beans, delicious snacks, and live entertainment, during this one-of-a-kind coffee culture experience. For more info visit: sfcoffeefestival.com
NOV 20
AN EVENING WITH ELLIE GOULDING & THE SF SYMPHONY
Multiplatinum-selling singer/songwriter Ellie Goulding’s vision to perform with orchestra comes to life on the concert stage at this intimate show, giving fans a rare opportunity to catch the global superstar in a truly unique setting. A passionate classical music fan herself, Goulding performs reimagined versions of hits and fan favorites from her wildly popular career-spanning catalogue, all arranged for orchestra. The show also features selections from her latest critically acclaimed album, Higher Than Heaven, out now on Interscope Records. For more info visit: sfsymphony.org/ Buy-Tickets/2023-24/Ellie-Goulding
DEC 12
QUEER & WELL: YOGA WITH KI
Our beloved yoga instructor, Ki Charles, is BACK with a new FREE monthly yoga offering for you all, blending community conversation, connection, meditation, and yoga through Yoga with Ki: A Queer Dharma Series. For more info visit: sfcenter.org/event/ queer-well-yoga-with-ki-5
DEC 15
HOLIDAY GAIETY
’Tis the season to be merry and gay! Co-emceed by conductor Edwin Outwater and drag sensation Peaches Christ, this adult-themed holiday variety show guarantees an evening of festive fun and fabulous flair. Hear holiday hits played by the SF Symphony, and be regaled by a star-studded lineup of iconic guests, delectable vocalists, and drag queens galore! For more info visit: sfsymphony.org/ Buy-Tickets/2023-24/Holiday-Gaiety
DECEMBER DEC 2
ART WALK SF
Leaders from the arts and business communities have partnered together to create Art Walk SF! Celebrating the Art, Music, Food, and Small Businesses of the city with Saturday Art Walks in a different SF Neighborhood Each Month! On December 2 Art Walk SF will be in Balboa Village! For more info visit: artwalksf.com
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EVENTS SCH E D ULE JANUARY
world, is followed in KOOZA under the watchful eye of an enigmatic trickster with remarkable abilities. For more info visit: cirquedusoleil.com/ kooza#about-the-show
JAN 25-27 ZINEX 2024
Do you prefer velvety-rich wines from legendary old-vine Zinfandel producers? Elegant smooth styles from newly emerging Zinfandel winemakers, or do you have a long time favorite and want to visit with the winemaker..again? ZinEX has got you covered! Join us for a three-day wine and food extravaganza attracting wine lovers from around the world at one of a handful of festivals dedicated to a single-grape varietal. As a VIP you will experience the classic character of Zinfandel at four extraordinary events over the three days. For more info visit: zinfandelexperience.com
APRIL APR 4-14
DOS MUJERES
Cuban-born choreographer Arielle Smith guides us into the story of Carmen, a strong and feisty woman who craves love and independence without the traps of obsession or jealousy. Smith, an Olivier Award winner, is carving out her space as a forwardthinking creator known for pushing the boundaries of dance, theater, and film. Together with a score from Grammy Award–winning Arturo O’Farrill bringing the story to life. Then enter the colorful and creative world of Frida Kahlo with Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s critically acclaimed Broken Wings. This mini masterpiece explores the life and art of the celebrated Mexican painter. An experience unto itself, it’s a unique opportunity to enter into the realms of the paintings themselves through the lens of Kahlo’s wildly creative spirit. For more info visit: sfballet.org/ productions/dos-mujeres
FEBRUARY FEB 17
LUNAR NEW YEAR: YEAR OF THE DRAGON
Welcome the Year of the Dragon with the San Francisco Symphony! Our annual Lunar New Year event draws upon Asian traditions, past and present, in a celebration of music and community. For more info visit: sfsymphony.org/Buy-Tickets/2023-24/ LUNAR-NEW-YEAR
APR 14
PATTI LUPONE: A LIFE IN NOTES
MARCH
Experience the brilliance of Broadway icon Patti LuPone as she returns to the Davies Symphony Hall stage for a brand-new show she calls her “personal musical memoir.” A three-time Tony Award winner, LuPone presents a mesmerizing concert that delves deep into her extraordinary journey. For more info visit: sfsymphony.org/ Buy-Tickets/2023-24/Patti-LuPone
MAR 1-10
CIRQUE DU SOLEIL: KOOZA
KOOZA is an innovative journey viewed through the perspective of The Innocent, an endearing yet naïve clown looking for his place in the world. A mystery item is delivered to The Innocent one day when he is flying his kite. The self-discovery journey of The Innocent, who is miraculously transferred to a bizarre but exotic
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BAR GU ID E 440 Castro Neighborhood bar that’s home to locals and tourists. 440 Castro St, San Francisco, CA
Powerhouse The biggest & most popular South of Market bar. 1347 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA
Aunt Charlie’s Lounge Eclectic Tenderloin gay bar. 133 Turk St, San Francisco, CA
San Francisco Eagle Bar Revival of a legendary LGBT leather bar. 398 12th St, San Francisco, CA
Beaux Live entertainment & dance music. 2344 Market St, San Francisco, CA
Splash Bar Inc Gay nightclub with 2 levels for dancing. 65 Post St, San Jose, CA
Hi Tops Gay bar supplying top-shelf fast food & drinks. 2247 Market St, San Francisco, CA
The Cinch Saloon Old-guard gay bar with potent drinks. 1723 Polk St, San Francisco, CA The Edge Neighborhood bar in the heart of Castro District. 4149 18th St, San Francisco, CA
Hole In the Wall Saloon Chains & hardware decorate this bikerthemed gay bar. 1369 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA
The Mix This small gay bar with a patio & pool table. 4086 18th St, San Francisco, CA
Lookout Castro hangout for drinks & a variety of DJs. 3600 16th St, San Francisco, CA
The Port Bar Festive LGBT-friendly watering hole. 2023 Broadway, Oakland, CA
Midnight Sun Premier LGBTQIA+ video bar. 4067 18th St #2535, San Francisco, CA
Toad Hall A good time any day of the week. 4146 18th St, San Francisco, CA
Moby Dick Longtime gay watering hole. 4049 18th St, San Francisco, CA
Twin Peaks Tavern Gay bar serving classic cocktails & beers on tap. 401 Castro St, San Francisco, CA
Pilsner Inn Darts, pool & TVs tuned to sports. 225 Church St, San Francisco, CA
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LGBTQ+ COMM U NI TY ORGANIZATIONS & ATTRACTIONS
Aguilas Creating a supportive, culturally sensitive environment for gay/bisexual Latinos. sfaguilas.org 1800 Market St 4th floor #403, San Francisco, CA
Prism PRISM aims to provide LGBTQ+ youth in South Florida and beyond with the education and support they need to live a happy, healthy life. prismfl.org
Gaylesta Gaylesta is the oldest and largest collection of individuals focused on LGBTQ mental health. gaylesta.org 584 Castro St, San Francisco, CA
Queer Cultural Center Promoting social justice and the artistic and financial development of queer art and culture. queerculturalcenter.org 762 Fulton St, San Francisco, CA
GLBT Historical Society The GLBT Historical Society houses one of the world’s largest collections of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender historical material. glbthistory.org 4127 18th Street, San Francisco, CA
Queer Women of Color Media Arts Project QWOCMAP uses film to shatter stereotypes and bias, reveal the lived truth of inequality, and build community around art and activism. qwocmap.org
Our Family Coalition Provides LGBTQ+ families in the Bay Area and beyond unparalleled support, education, and advocacy. ourfamily.org 1385 Mission St #330, San Francisco, CA
SF LGBT Community Center Connecting the diverse LGBTQ+ community to opportunities, resources and each other to achieve a vision of a stronger, healthier, and more equitable world. sfcenter.org 1800 Market St, San Francisco, CA
PFLAG San Francisco The first and largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and their families. pflagsf.org 584 Castro St #758, San Francisco, CA
UCSF Alliance Health Project Supporting the mental health and wellness of the LGBTQ+ and HIVaffected communities in constructing healthy and meaningful lives. alliancehealthproject.ucsf.edu 1930 Market St, San Francisco, CA
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BUSINESS D IRECTO RY CRIMINAL DEFENSE Huff Legal PC.................. Front Inside Cover
IMPACT WINDOWS Pella Doors & Windows of Northern California........................... 15
DOORS & WINDOWS Pella Doors & Windows of Northern California........................... 15
NATURAL SOAPS Three Sisters Apothecary..................... 13
ESTATE PLANNING Law Offices of M. Franklin Parrish....... 19
NON PROFIT Red Cross......................... Back Inside Cover
EVENT PRODUCTION ProductionLogic..................................... 14
PORCELAIN STONE SURFACE SOLUTIONS Sinterclad Surface Solutions.................. 3
EVENTS Breathless Wines..................................... 1
PROBATE Law Offices of M. Franklin Parrish....... 19
FINANCIAL ADVISOR Cynthia A. Wemyss Edward Jones....................... Front Cover, 7
RESTAURANT Godfather’s Burger Lounge................. 14 SOUND & LIGHTING ProductionLogic..................................... 14
FLOORING Floor & Decor......................................... 17
VETERINARIAN West Valley Pet Clinic.............................. 9
GIFTS Breathless Wines..................................... 1 Three Sisters Apothecary..................... 13
WINE Breathless Wines..................................... 1
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