Any good bars near Delfina in San Francisco to stop at while we wait for a table?

[slydep]

The bf and I made reservations to Delfina (for the 10 PM slot) and were wondering if there are any good bars nearby to stop and grab a drink before heading over for a late dinner. Thanks!

[katielp]

I just moved into the area--and there are lots and lots of good bars a few blocks south. The Latin American club and Revolution cafe on 22nd street are lively and fun (perhaps a bit too lively on a Fri night) and both serve excellent strong mixed drinks. Parea--the Greek wine bar on Valencia and 19th might be a nice place for a quieter drink; couches, never too busy, and an interesting wine list.

[RoccoPizzoferrato]

Delfina doesn't serve "drinks" but the bar's nice enough to get there early. You'll probably get your table early. Order a glass of prosecco and an appetizer. Otherwise, Zuni's my favorite bar. Mecca might not be a bad choice- you can walk off the manhattan on your way to Delfina.

[Robert Lauriston]

Isn't Delfina's bar usually filled with people eating?

[Joan Kureczka]

Elixer Bar on corner of 16th and Guerro. One of the top cocktail places in town, plus a good selection of beers and other things.

[Robert Lauriston]

Monk's Kettle. Great beer selection. I'm not sure what else they have.

[ihartsf]

If you're going to Monk's Kettle, you might as well eat. Their food is great.

If you're waiting for Delfina, your best bet is to grab a bottle of wine from Buy Rite and enjoy it in Dolores Park.

[suebette]

I would echo Robert's rec for Monk's Kettle - but best to get their early, it fills up pretty quick.

[pane]

Dolores Park near 10 p.m.? Hope they bring a blanket and a space heater.

500 Club is closest; it's definitely a dive, but a comfortable one. Monk's Kettle has some wines in addition to a huge array of (mostly Belgian) beer. If you're looking for something a bit more upscale, that might be your best bet.

For cocktails, you can try to have a drink at the bar at Range.

[Fig Newton]

I would definitely second Range. It's about 2-3 blocks away. I'm part of a group of people who has been trying different cocktails around the city all summer long (it's been a tough, tough project) and Range was my favorite so far.

Have the sungold zinger. It's awesome.
http://marriedwithdinner.com/2008/08/...

[ihartsf]

There go my critical reading skills. I missed the 10 p.m. reservation time. Generally suboptimal that late, but I bet the park will be nice tonight.

Conduit's a good 6 blocks away, but they have a nice long bar and make classic cocktails. Dosa also has an underrated bar, though it'll probably be crowded.

[Concetta]

500 Club at 17th & Guerrero. Kinda divey but not scary-divey.