Welcome to Swig

Art & Music Bar

Nestled just off Union Square, Swig is San Francisco's go-to modern classic bar.

Step into our vibrant space where contemporary design meets historic charm. Original red brick from the 1906 earthquake, soaring vaulted ceilings, and hand-blown light fixtures create an atmosphere that's both relaxed and refined. With hardwood floors, cozy fireplaces, and intimate lounges spread across two levels, we've crafted a space that works whether you're unwinding after work or kicking off a night out.

Our rotating gallery showcases local artists with fresh exhibitions every month—because great art, like great drinks, deserves to be discovered.

Our bartenders know their craft—expect expertly mixed cocktails and a carefully curated spirits collection, all served with genuine energy and expertise. Great music sets the vibe, from mellow afternoons to livelier evenings.

The crowd? Hip without the pretense. The mood? Effortlessly sophisticated. Whether you're settling in for a quiet drink or meeting friends before the night takes off, Swig is where San Francisco comes to blend in and stand out.

The Venue

Just steps from Union Square, Swig has earned its reputation as Downtown San Francisco's drinking destination for all. Spread across two floors, we've got room to breathe—the main level anchors around a glowing fireplace and an impressive wall of spirits that speaks for itself. Upstairs, you'll find a second bar plus two private event spaces with views overlooking the action below. Whether you're claiming a spot at the bar or booking a room for your crew, there's a corner of Swig that fits the occasion.

Our Approach

We're here to make sure you have a great time—simple as that. Whether you're a local regular or visiting for the weekend, Swig is about genuine hospitality without the fuss. Good drinks, good company, and a space where everyone feels welcome. That's the whole idea.

 

Free Pool

Swig has added a pool table to its San Francisco bar, offering free pool play Wednesday through Sunday every week. Guests can enjoy a game while sipping handcrafted cocktails in Swig's signature art-gallery-meets-bar setting. Free pool is available during regular business hours alongside Swig's weekly entertainment lineup and rotating local art exhibitions.

THE DRINK

Our freshly pressed juices and garnishes ensure that the cocktails are outstanding, accompanied by such an extensive collection of fine spirits that a ladder is needed to reach the upper shelves. The beer selection is well balanced on craft, local and quality brews from further afield. California farmers make our wine. 

A close-up photo of a white drink topped with a yellow edible flower and some orange seasoning, placed on a wooden surface with a leafy green background.
A drink with a chili powder rim on the glass, served with a straw, on a dark textured surface.
Close-up of a glass containing a yellow drink garnished with fresh mint leaves, surrounded by green plants.

THE VIBE

Late afternoons and early evenings at Swig tend to be relaxing and laid back, before the energy picks up later on. Great music is central to the Swig experience. The events calendar presents a variety of musical escapades ranging from the Sunday Night Blues Jam which has been running for over 30 years, to DJ’s on weekends, and the surprise of live bands on certain school nights. We look forward to welcoming you for a few good drinks, some live music and a wonderful evening!

People gathered in a cozy, dimly lit bar or restaurant with exposed brick walls. A woman in a blue jacket and red bandana, and a man with a black shirt, are engaged in conversation. A woman with curly hair holding a cocktail is on the right, while others are visible in the background. Shelves with liquor bottles and a menu board are on the wall.
A bartender pours a drink into a tall glass with a straw at a bar with bottles in the background.
A multi-story building with numerous windows, some illuminated. Reflections of nearby street scene and signage, including a bar or lounge advertising cocktails and a sushi bar, overlapping with the building's facade.
Three musicians performing on stage: a man playing an electric guitar on the left, a woman singing into a microphone in the center, and a man playing a bass guitar on the right.
A DJ wearing a white fedora hat and black t-shirt is operating music equipment, including a mixer and turntables, in a dimly lit environment.