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I usually end up going to the Joiner's at about 2am when all the rest of the drinking establishments in the area are closed. Walk past the unpretentious and plain exterior, and you'll stumble on a diverse crowd ready to dance well into the night (and morning) to a pleasing mixture of house and pop. The Joiner's attracts a more alternative East End crowd and is thus a welcome respite from the plastic neon bars in Soho. During the mid-week it can be slow but is usually packed late night on Friday and Saturday. Go around midnight on Thursday or Sunday for a manageable mix. Highly recommended for the alternative minded.

Can only speak on the one night I've been there. I went on a Wednesday night. Pretty typical divey type bar--that is, dark, a bit grimy, and inexpensive. I enjoyed it on the whole. There seemed to be a few regulars, though it was relatively empty (bear in mind this was a Wednesday night).

The SFGBA had its first open gym in 1986. Since then it has grown into a Castro institution. Open gym continues to this day on Sundays at the Eureka Valley Gym, where anyone can come and play basketball from 5 pm - 9 pm. There is also a league with 6 teams that play every Thursday. Above all, the people are very friendly, and it is a great place to meet new friends.

I have been here several times, though oddly enough, haven't been since I moved to the Mission. The waiters are fun and knowledgeable, and the atmosphere is relaxed and funky. I am a huge fan of their pizza. There is an array of interesting toppings that include unusual ones such as broccoli raab and fennel sausage. Great outdoor dining as well.