Li Po Cocktail Lounge
About the Business
Welcome to Li Po Cocktail Lounge
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Chinatown at 916 Grant Ave, Li Po Cocktail Lounge stands as a nostalgic beacon of the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Our bar is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a journey back in time to the golden era of Chinese nightclubs that once dotted the cityscape from the 1930s to the 1960s.
As you approach, our iconic kitschy neon sign warmly invites you into a world where history and hospitality blend seamlessly. Li Po is a cherished remnant of a bygone era, where the echoes of Chinese-American dancers and the allure of exotic decor once captivated the imagination of wartime GIs and adventurous locals alike.
Step through our distinctive cave-like entrance, adorned with red-lacquered double doors and framed by rustic rocks, and discover a dive bar ambiance that has remained unchanged since opening in 1937. Inside, you’ll find a wraparound bar, faded red-leather booths, a serene golden Buddha statue, and softly glowing Chinese lanterns creating an atmosphere that is both cozy and intriguing.
Our bar may be famed for its historic charm, but it’s our potent mai tais that have earned us legendary status. Priced at $12, these cocktails are a must-try, having even impressed the late Anthony Bourdain during his visit on "The Layover."
Li Po Cocktail Lounge is not just a bar; it’s a living piece of San Francisco’s history. So, come for the drinks and stay for the stories that have been part of our legacy for over 80 years. Whether you're a local or a traveler, Li Po offers a unique slice of the past, right in the present.
Visit us and become part of our story. Cheers to unforgettable nights at Li Po Cocktail Lounge!
Photos
Location & Phone number
916 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States
Hours open
Monday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Tuesday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Wednesday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Thursday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Friday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Saturday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Sunday:
2:00 PM - 1:30 AM
Reviews
"As soon as you step inside, the warm, cozy atmosphere pulls you in. The photo says it all—red lanterns hanging from the ceiling, casting a soft, inviting glow over the bustling bar. The mix of traditional Chinese décor with vibrant, modern touches creates a unique and inviting space where you can feel the energy of the city while also finding a little escape from it. But the real star here is the drink menu. Their Mai Tai is a standout—classic but with a twist that makes it unforgettable. It’s the kind of drink that makes you want to order another round just to savor the flavors again. The service at Lipo Lounge is top-notch. The staff are friendly, know their stuff, and are always happy to chat or recommend something new to try. They make you feel welcome, whether you’re a regular or it’s your first time in. In a city full of bars, Lipo Lounge stands out as a must-visit. Whether you’re local or just visiting, make sure to put this spot on your list. You won’t regret it."
"A cool and fun bar in Chinatown! The Chinese Mia Tia is a must if it’s your first time! The drinks are stronger than they taste, so be careful. The downstairs area is nice to sit in when the top is busy. The times I’ve been here, it always seems to have a lot of people having a good time!"
"Came there for a drink for the first time. The bartender got to us right away. She was very nice. We were quite impressed by the famous Mai Thai drink. The music was very good and overall a pleasant experience will come again!"
"I love the vibe of this place! It feels like a local place in Hong Kong. Part English Pub, part Chinese bar. The BaiJiu and Beer specials are great. Only place I can Find Hong Xing Er Guo Tou. My favorite."
"I actually found this bar randomly, but it turns out to be very popular. We were looking for a dive bar to have a cold beer, but we found a fantastic bar with an amazing Chinese Mai Tai that left me wanting more than one, though I needed to catch a flight! ✈️ The bartender was amazing; she told me that I couldn’t just come and drink beer, and insisted I try their specialty. She had such a great personality! So if you need a break from Chinatown to rest your legs before continuing to explore, this is the place to go!"
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