Irish Bars in San Francisco

I was doing some research on Irish bars in San Francisco for a short bit in the SF Chronicle, and contacted Steve Gardner from the Irish band Culann's Hounds. They're playing at several venues this St. Patrick's Day. Though I was focusing my piece on where to sample Irish whiskey, Steve gave me a rundown on his view of the Irish bar scene in the city.

Ive been a musician playing Irish music in SF for 7 years. Here is my breakdown of the Irish Pub Scene.

1. The Plough and Stars - the best venue for Irish music on the west coast.
Totally authentic. The best Guinness I can think of. Rock solid.

2. O'Neills - Get used to the name, you'll be seeing it all over SF soon, and there is a reason. Great food, great drinks, great management, and live music.

3. The Dogs Bollix - Gaelic speaking football fans having a pint o' the brown before the game starts on the tele. No plastic Paddys here. Great music.

4. O'Reilly's - a legendary North Beach drinking hall. Some music, good food, real Irishmen, excellent decor.

4. Irelands 32 - as old school an SF Irish bar as you can ask for. Decent music. Excellent place.

5. The Blackthorn Tavern - like an old pair of slippers. This place just feels good. And there is awesome public transportation in case you drink too much. (you will)

6. The Irish Bank - no music to speak of, but what an awesome space, and you can get drunk in a confessional. Pure drop.

Johnny Foley's Irish House, The Chieftain, the Goal Post, The Four Deuces, The Dubliner all get honorable mention.