El Rio is hands down one of the most amazing spots in San Francisco. First opened in 1978 as a leather Brazilian gay bar, they have carried the spirit of rowdy inclusion ever since. With an enormous back yard, the drinks are cheap and plentiful. On weekend nights, have your ears obliterated by punk bands in the tiny back room. On weekdays, catch groups of friends skipping work, coworkers relaxing post-work, and neighborhood old timers in their 60s and 70s chatting it up with other locals. In the summer, afternoons are filled with strong margaritas in the yard with lively DJs spinning salsa. Enjoy yourself, but remember to be nice, Carmen is always watching.