Hobson’s Choice

Welcome to Hobson's Choice, a charming bar located in the heart of San Francisco's Haight district. With a laid-back vibe and friendly atmosphere, this longstanding establishment has been serving up delightful drinks for over a quarter century.

As you step inside, you'll be greeted by the inviting ambiance and the sounds of laughter and music. The bar offers a range of amenities, including pool tables, outdoor seating, and free Wi-Fi, making it the perfect spot to gather with friends for a casual night out.

One of the standout features of Hobson's Choice is their impressive selection of rum punches. From the signature Gogo Punch with its berry-infused goodness to the classic Victorian and House punches, there's something to suit every taste bud.

Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or simply enjoy a leisurely evening with loved ones, Hobson's Choice is the place to be. So why not stop by and experience the charm and warmth of this beloved neighborhood pub for yourself?

Hobson’s Choice Menu

Location

Address: 1601 Haight St San Francisco, CA 94117
Phone: (415) 621-5859

🕓 Work Hours
MON 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)
TUE 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)
WED 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)
THU 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)
FRI 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Next day)
SAT 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM (Next day)
SUN 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Next day)

Business info

  • Reservations
    No
  • Wheelchair accessible
    Yes
  • Accepts Credit Cards
    Yes
  • Accepts Apple Pay
    No
  • Casual
    Yes
  • Moderate Noise
    Yes
  • Good for Groups
    Yes
  • Pool Table
    Yes
  • Street Parking
    Yes
  • Free Wi-Fi
    Yes
  • Juke Box
    Yes
  • Best nights on Thursday, Friday, Saturday
    Yes
  • Happy Hour Specials
    Yes
  • Full Bar
    Yes
  • TV
    Yes
  • Outdoor Seating
    No
  • Not Good For Dancing
    No
  • Smoking
    No
  • Heated Outdoor Seating
    No
  • Covered Outdoor Seating
    No
  • Bike Parking
    Yes

Last Reviews

  • Author: Abbie J.

    13 July 2024

    This bar is wonderful, the people here are great and it is an all around good vibe! In my opinion the best drink I had was the gogo punch, it has a great berry taste! Lost a little bit of aura for using chicken wire to hold the toilet paper but I'll look past that.

  • Author: Ed U.

    20 June 2024

    Oh man, I didn't know... I just read an Eater article from May 7 stating that owner Chris Dickerson plans to close this rum bar imminently after over a quarter-century in business. I was just here earlier today because I just happened to be in the mood for rum punch. I had been here six months prior but had not come back because I just don't hang out in the Haight much. I guess that's the problem Chris was facing with his customers. It was rather quiet in here with just 4-5 regulars at the end of the bar. There was an occasional foreign tourist. Actually the concept of a rum bar was foreign to me as well, but I liked the idea. I just wasn't expecting the rum punch to be served from large crystal punch bowls. There are three of them each holding a different punch. Over two visits, I've tried all three, and they were refreshing with just enough kick. My favorite was the $8 Victorian Punch with silver, coconut, and pineapple rums mixed with cranberry and pineapple juices (photo: https://yelp.to/ChuKfyTOXT). It must be my penchant for Pina Coladas, but I liked the coconut accent to the drink. The lighter $8 Gogo Punch was a raspberry ginger lemonade with raspberry, citrus and silver rums mixed with lemonade and "a splash of ginger" (photo: https://yelp.to/1jGPtz8zS4). The $7 House Punch was like a lighter Brass Monkey with silver rum mixed with mango, orange and pineapple juices (photo: https://yelp.to/Qi-A3FHK2Z). I'm really sorry to see this rum bar go because there isn't another one like it. DRINKS - 4 stars...smooth rum punch for a good price AMBIANCE - 4 stars...very chill, vintage Victorian SERVICE - 4.5 stars...Chris is still very present TOTAL - 4 stars...a shame there will be one less rum bar in this city RELATED - Exploring the Haight? Here's my collection of the places I've patronized and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2YK1e99

  • Author: Jessica T.

    08 May 2024

    Hobson's Choice has always felt right. I have spent many nights here at one of their front tables, looking out onto Haight Street - catching up with local or visiting friends. Hobson's Choice is special. From their big punch bowls, to their laid back vibe, to their big glass windows that invite you in for a mellow night. It's the kind of bar that you could wander into - by yourself (which I used to do regularly when I first moved back to SF,) - and never feel out of place. It's the kind of bar - where I've always felt safe. The staff have always been personable and fun (the owner Chris is fantastic), and the crowd is a great mixture of neighborhood regulars and interesting tourists. I'm a firm believer that you need to support and visit the businesses that you enjoy visiting. A couple of weeks ago - I was walking down Haight Street and I meant to stop into Hobson's Choice. I don't really drink - and I had an armful of groceries - so I decided not to in the end. I wish I had now. There are recent rumors that Hobson's Choice may be closing. I sincerely hope that is not the case. It's too special of a place, and it carries too many memories for so many. If you have not yet had a chance to step into this low key spot - please do. Grab a friend, loved one, or co-worker and make your way over to Haight Street. Trust.

  • Author: Heywood Jablome M.

    06 May 2024

    Damn. Never Forget Hobson's Choice! When I'm strolling Haight, I always stopped by Hobson's Choice. Owned and operated by a great dude.

People Recommend