Tony Nik's CAFE

1534 Stockton St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
+1 415-693-0990
$$$ Bar
(200 Reviews)
Price Range $20–30

Tony Nik's CAFE is very much a bar in both name and nature, rooted deeply in the North Beach neighborhood's long history. Located on Stockton Street, this spot pulls you into a room that feels like stepping back to the mid-1970s, with decor and a vibe that nod to its age without feeling stuck in the past. It’s a place where locals gather to unwind, whether before work or winding down on a Sunday afternoon amid familiar faces and easy conversation.

The bar focuses on well-crafted cocktails and a solid selection of beer, with classics like Manhattans, Gimlets, and Negronis served alongside local brews like Anchor Steam. Drinks here are precise and reliable, consistently drawing those who appreciate a well-made cocktail accompanied by good company and a subdued buzz of chatter rather than loud music or a packed dance floor.

Visitors should expect a laid-back, almost like-your-own-living-room atmosphere where bartenders recognize regulars and newcomers alike, inviting easy dialogue and that feeling of belonging. The space isn’t big or flashy, but it offers a calm respite in an often bustling part of the city. Seating can be limited during peak hours, especially on weekends, so coming in on a quieter afternoon or early evening can give you the chance to settle in for a relaxed session.

Tony Nik's is best suited to those who want to experience San Francisco’s North Beach beyond tourist traps—people who appreciate straightforward, skillful drinks, a touch of neighborhood history, and a welcoming bar that feels rooted in its community rather than the latest trend. Whether stopping by solo to catch up with the bartenders or meeting friends for casual drinks, it hits a note of familiarity and comfort rare in a city bar.

Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
What they serve
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible car park

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

4:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Tuesday

4:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Wednesday

4:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Thursday

4:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Friday

3:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Saturday

2:00 PM - 2:00 AM

Sunday

2:00 PM - 2:00 AM

200 Reviews
Bryan Smith

18 Dec 2025

Excellent cocktails at this lively old school bar. Atmosphere feels like 1975 yet it's actually quite older. One of the best martinis in San Francisco. Despite its title, this is not a cafe or restaurant. It is a straight-up bar.

Will Reiher

04 Nov 2025

Excellent chill vibe, full of locals having a sip before work. Bartender was very welcoming and the drinks were perfect. Stop in when you are in the hood.

Tom Nash

04 Oct 2025

I love North Beach! It is not every time I visit SF I am lucky enough to find an open seat here…so was very happy to spend a few hours on a Sunday afternoon in this wonderful room. Fantastic bartender, great conversation…reasonable prices… what more could one ask for?

MacLean Fitzgerald

26 Sep 2025

Hands down the best bar in North Beach. Always an excellent place to meet up with friends. Never a bad moment.

Sebastian

23 Sep 2025

- Just an amazing neighborhood bar - I’ve always been looking for some bar where you can go (no matter whether alone or with company), sit down, and have some nice drinks and great conversations with the bartenders or other guests. I think I found one and this is the place. Thanks to Tony Nik!

Afshin Afshar-Ghasemlou

21 Sep 2025

If you’re a local, Tony Nik’s is one of those places where you can count on running into familiar faces—neighbors, old friends, or someone you haven’t seen in months who still remembers exactly what you drink. And if you’re a visitor, don’t worry for a second. This North Beach landmark has always welcomed newcomers with the same ease and charm. The bartenders are friendly, skilled, and never rushed, even when the bar is full. Whether you’re ordering a classic cocktail or something simple, the drinks here are consistently well-made. What I love most about Tony Nik’s is how little it has changed over the years. In a neighborhood where new spots come and go, this bar keeps its timeless feel—dim lighting, a relaxed atmosphere, and that unmistakable sense of history in the walls. It’s the kind of place where you can stop in before dinner, settle in after a long day, or chat with the regulars and feel like you belong. It remains one of North Beach’s gems: unfussy, welcoming, and a reminder that some places get it right by staying true to who they are.

nomuna nomu

18 Sep 2025

Bartender was fast and nice. We will definitely come back for more drinks. We loved Gimlet!

Alison M C

14 Sep 2025

Great little cocktail bar. Fun drinks menu $11-14. Bartender was friendly and quick in general but also with the help of some pre-made batch drinks. The siesta (mezcal and grapefruit) was my favorite. The bee's knees with agave instead of honey was missing that round flavor. Moscow mule had nice fresh ginger flavor. Solid.

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