Craig Lane, Bar Agricole: “There is this one mustachioed barman who, I swear, has been behind the stick every single time I've ever been to a show for the past 15 years. Even though it's mostly a beer-and-shot crowd that attends rock 'n' roll shows, there is no doubt in my mind that this guy is a pro jock. I've only ever seen him mix a handful of drinks—mostly Manhattans, Martinis and Old Fashioneds—but even if he's just popping crown caps on Budweisers and pouring shots of Fernet, you can just tell by his movements that he knows every inch of that bar as if it were an extension of himself.”

Jen Ackrill, Rye: “The remodel has updated the neighborhood spot while keeping the integrity of the old space. Beautiful bar, great spirits selection and a thoughtful cocktail list. Not sure why I’m letting people in on my local!”

Sarah Barron, free agent: "Not a rotating trend spot, this tiny hole-in-the-alley-wall spot has more than proven itself over the years. It's where us industry folks go for killer wines, healthy pours, and an advanced beer selection to help wash away our shifts. The owner serves compassion with no pretense and overwhelming knowledge in a dark cozy spot to make us all feel rosy.”

Christina Cabrera, Novela: “David Ruiz heads up the bar program, and it has amazing mezcal cocktails. For me, mezcal is the nectar of the gods. I just love it because it's walking distance from my place, and the boys behind the stick are humble and easy going. It's a chill place to drink, get tipsy and hang with good people. As a bar manager, that's all I seek out on my time off.”

Kate Bolton, Maven: “It always has a mellow vibe, and there are games. I’m partial to Uno and the San Francisco trivia cards. It’s beer-and-wine-only, but the list is pretty good, and the Fillmore Shandy is where it’s at. The only thing I wish is that they would give their poor betta fish more water in his bowl!"

Timothy Zohn, AQ and TBD: “It’s a dive bar, but a total grumpy old man’s bar. It’s a local spot, and some of the people there have been going to the bar for 20 years.”

John Codd, 15 Romolo and Hard Water: “It has an amazing selection of beer, with over 40 beers on tap, and the back patio is just so fun. It’s the best part of the whole place.”

Victoria George, Rickhouse and Novela: “I like the atmosphere, with a wood-burning fireplace and multiple bar games readily available for people to use while they're there. They show the Bay Area football games with the sound on! The bartenders understand the need for a balance between classic drinks, craft cocktails, and beer-and-shot pairings.”