Black Sands Brewery is more modern and sleek than any of the other Lower Haight watering holes where you might pop in for a pint, and that's because the space was designed so that you can watch your beer being brewed and your meal being made. Stop by in the morning for coffee and breakfast and then head back at night for a beer brewed in house (or a cocktail; there's a full bar) and one of the city's best burgers. There's also a homebrew supply store next door where you can learn about and buy everything you need to make your own beer.

This quintessential Irish pub opens early for those who want to watch international soccer games, hosts weekly trivia nights, and— its only flaw —is also a home base for Seattle Seahawks fans during football season. There are plenty of HDTVs, a full bar, and though food isn't served, you can bring in anything you'd like from outside. Plus, if it's not too crowded, you can bring in your pup to keep you company.

This English "pub" is the place to go if you want to watch soccer. But it's perhaps even better known for having one of the best Quiz Nights (Tuesdays and Thursdays) in SF, which have been emceed by the same person, Peter Malone, for over 20 years. The bar only offers beer and wine, but there's a pretty extensive food menu that includes a few English favorites, like bangers and mash and fish and chips.

SF isn't exactly known for its amazing barbecue, but Memphis Minnie's — the city's longest continuously running 'cue joint — is a happy exception to that rule. The meat is slow smoked Texas-style, but the housemade sauces (tomato-, mustard-, and vinegar-based) will please anyone with a hankering for a specific Southern region's flavor. Still, the meat at this super casual spot is cooked so perfectly, it almost doesn't need any sauce at all.

If there's one thing the Lower Haight is not lacking, it's sports bars with trivia nights. Nickies stands out in the crowd, though, by also serving food. Sure, it's your typical bar fare (burgers, wings, and nachos), but it's reasonably priced, tasty, and just what you want when you're drinking a beer and watching the game. Plus, there's brunch on the weekends and a cocktail menu where every drink is $9 or under.

This casual neighborhood spot doesn't take reservations, but it's worth getting there early (or waiting across the street at The Page) to indulge in the seasonally-inspired Neopolitan-style pizzas. Even better, find a group of six or more friends and make a reservation to sit in the heated gazebo in the cozy back garden.

Yes, this tiny coffee shop self-describes as having "hip sensibilities" and a "Parisian Gothic style," but don't let that turn you off. Instead, stop by to appreciate the art, have a chat with the friendly baristas, and enjoy a cup of Sonoma County's Flying Goat Coffee. Grab a seat at the window if you can; it's the perfect spot to savor a Dynamo doughnut while watching the people pass by.

You'll find what are arguably the best sausages in all of SF at Rosamunde. And though the Lower Haight location is pretty much a total hole-in-the-wall, that really doesn't matter once you take your first bite of a beer sausage on a French roll with grilled onions and peppers. Even better: Bring your food next door to Toronado where you can enjoy it with a pint of beer.

The Page keeps it simple. There are 22 beers on tap, a good selection of whiskey, a pool table in back, and a cash only policy. Not happy about the latter? As the FAQ section on the website states, "Berating us about this only makes us stronger." And that pretty much sums up everything you need to know about The Page.

Toronado may be known for its surly bartenders, but its even better known for its stellar selection of over 45 craft beers on tap. Plus, as long as you know what you want to order (use the beer board wisely), tip well, and don't complain about the cash-only policy, you'll be fine. If you can, visit during the day when the locals (and their dogs) are usually in a good mood, and bring in your lunch or dinner from Rosamunde Sausage Grill next door.

Uva Enoteca is one of the Lower Haight's best date spots thanks to a cozy (read: the tables are close) and chill vibe and a well-crafted wine list. If you're not ready to commit to dinner, order a meat or cheese plate and split a bottle of red (your server will happily help you pick one). Come back a few dates later for the delicious pizza and pasta and then tell your friends all about it over the bottomless bellinis during brunch.