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San Francisco: Nightlife

San Francisco is more of a bar town than a disco town. Head to Nob Hill, the Misson, and the Tenderloin for dives and kitschy, themed establishments; to the Financial district for classy, happy hour venues. Much like everything else in the city, the nightlife scene starts and ends early: You’ll find residents crowding the bars as soon as work lets out (as early as 5pm), and staggering home around 2am once last call has put a damper on their evenings.

= Smart Splurge = Great Value

Impala This Mexican cantina and lounge is super hip. Come early for incredible small plates (and to miss the lines outside), then slink downstairs where sexy singles congregate. North Beach; 501 Broadway; 415-982-5299; www.impalasf.com
trendy | lounge | bar | tapas

Jazz at Pearl's Jazz at Pearls offers two shows nightly. The speakeasy-like space is intimate, candle lit, and sexy. Reservations are wise, performers are listed online, and arrive on time or lose your seat. North Beach; 256 Columbus Ave.; 415-291-8255; www.jazzatpearls.com
jazz | live entertainment | bar | live music

Mighty This 7,000 square-foot warehouse with state-of-the-art lighting and sound features dancing and live performances. There are three bars, including a 30' all steel main bar and a frozen vodka bar. Open til 4am. SoMa/Mission/Potrero Hill; 119 Utah St.; 415-626-7001; www.mighty119.com
live entertainment | dancing | open late

Pink Top DJs play at this rosy-hued hotspot which explains the lines and early cover. Dressing to impress and good spirits can score you a VIP card for your next visit. Mission District; 2925 16th St.; 415-431-8889; www.pinksf.com
dancing | bar | dj

Teatro ZinZanni Since 2000, a wild night of European cabaret and cirque has awaited visitors to this tent. A five-course dinner is served as performers, divas, and madmen entertain you with an ever-changing show. Embarcadero; Pier 29; 415-438-2668, ext. 211; www.zinzanni.org
live entertainment | open late | dining | bar | cabaret

The Ambassador The current, swanky hotspot for locals and out-of-town A-listers has exposed brick, lots of black, and rotary phones in the booths to connect you to others in the bar, including the bartender. Civic Center; 673 Geary St.; 415-563-8192; www.ambassador415.com
smart splurge | dancing | open late | bar | local favorite | editor pick

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