Twin Peaks Tavern

The Twin Peaks Tavern is the first LGBTQ bar in the world to have oversized windows making its patrons visible from the street outside. This happened in 1972 when two local lesbians purchased what had been an Irish Pub since 1935. Historically, gay bars had no windows, to protect the anonymity of the patrons and for safety and security, as gay bars could be a target of vandalism or other violence. It's saloon days go back to the gay nineties, i.e., the 1890s. It is a designated SF historic landmark at the corner of Castro and 17th street. One of the best people watching spots in the Castro. You never know what you'll see on Castro Street in front of the bar. It nearly closed during the Covid Pandemic, but a Gofundme campaign raised over $100,000 to keep it open. There's a documentary short film, "Through the Windows," about the historic and beautiful bar.

I just asked for more water literally few min ago, the guy who doing barback there for no reason he kicked me out. Only reason ı dropped my glas on bar accidentally and ı apologized right away. But he used he’s power just for been behind the bars:) which is not cool. And we left we were going there been 8 years with my family and friends. Its not cool. Please fixed the guu

Loved the bartenders. Felt safe here as a trans person. Albiet I was surrounded by bears with no other trans gals in sight. Really fun customers, cheap (but strong drinks) and an extra floor of seating. Will be coming back here.

Great bar in the Castro, good prices and service. It is located between Castro and Market St. They have big windows to watch people. Sometimes they have tables outside. It usually gets busy in the afternoon with locals and tourists. I have been going there for years and love it.

Twin Peaks Tavern is one of those places that’s more about the experience and history than anything else. It has a classic San Francisco feel and definitely holds its place as an iconic spot in the city. The vibe is relaxed and very neighborhood-oriented. It feels like a place with a lot of regulars and a strong sense of community, which gives it character and makes it feel authentic rather than polished or trendy. Drinks are straightforward and exactly what you’d expect, nothing fancy, but dependable. One thing to note is that they only accept cash, so be sure to come prepared. Service was fine overall. Friendly enough, but not especially warm or memorable. Everything functioned smoothly, just without much of a standout moment. Twin Peaks Tavern is worth stopping into, especially if you’re exploring the area or appreciate places with history and personality. It’s not somewhere I’d go out of my way for, but it’s a comfortable stop and a good representation of an old-school San Francisco bar.

The "glass coffin" is primed for perfect Castro Street people watching. Now with outdoor seating for an even better view. It's historical as it is...

Unless you're a black gay man walking in with a White boyfriend or a white sugar daddy, you can forget racial inclusion here! A few weeks ago a bartender...

Conveniently located right off of the Castro muni station. This is a Castro staple known for their amazing coffee drinks. We sat at the bar and ordered two...