Twin Peaks Tavern
Gay bar · San Francisco Castro
Large, uncovered windows onto Castro Street: Twin Peaks Tavern is considered the first gay bar in the US to openly show its patrons, and today it is a listed living room with a view of the action.
- ★ 4.3 on Google (673)
- Listed landmark
- Windows onto Castro
- Quiet conversation bar
- Address
- 401 Castro Street
San Francisco, CA 94114 - Opening hours
- Mon–Wed 12 pm–2 am
Thu–Sun 11 am–2 am - Crowd
- mostly men, mostly 50+, many regulars from the neighbourhood
- Flirt factor
- low
- Getting there
- Castro Muni Metro station (K, L, M lines) and F streetcar, right at the intersection
What makes Twin Peaks Tavern special
Twin Peaks Tavern is at the intersection of Castro and Market Street, right at the entrance to the best-known gay neighbourhood in the US. When the bar stopped covering its windows in the 1970s and patrons could be seen from the street, it was a political statement. Today the building is a listed landmark.
Inside it is cosy and chatty, with a wooden bar and a view of Castro Street. People drink cocktails, wine and beer. Music plays in the background, and there is no dance floor.
Atmosphere and crowd
The crowd is mostly male, mostly older and very local, plus visitors who want to experience Castro history. The atmosphere and staff get praise. Twin Peaks is ideal for the first drink of the evening or a quiet afternoon.
A good fit if you …
- want to take in the Castro at your own pace
- want to get chatting with older locals
- are looking for a drink as early as lunchtime
Not ideal if you …
- want to dance
- are looking for a young party crowd
Contact
Editorially researched, as of October 2026. Sources: bar website, Out x Out, Time Out, GayCities, Google reviews (4.3 stars, 673 reviews). Opening hours, prices and programme may change, please check before visiting.