Phinpoe

Safe spot, with perks

It's the bar you'd take your family and straight friends in order to show them that the gay scene can be just as normal, just as mainstream, just as boring as theirs. Music is non-existent or beyond sleep-inducing (they did play Red Hot Chilli Peppers one time, I reckon). So why do I go there? It has its fair share of perks: because the music is low and the lights are bright enough, you can catch up with friends or actually meet new people. Also, it draws an interesting and often good-looking mixed crowd. Finally, their cocktails are really good, and for $8, you can't go wrong.

Philz' way

There is no coffee like Philz. Although their menu and "extravagancies" take a little getting used to (I still am not familiar with their entire menu), it is well worth the exploration. You see, Philz doesn't serve lattes or capuccinos, and you can forget about adding cocoa o sugar or splenda to their creations----it's the barista who controls the flavor of the coffee here (although you do get to say whether you'd like light, medium, or dark cream and sugar). I personally recommend the Ether, which is very flavorful and dark, and their Arabic Turkish, which is more smokey.

Was there for Booty Call Wednesdays and must say the music, crowd, and general slickness of the place is above either BOC (which used to be on this spot) or the rest of Castro's bars/clubs. As of now, only the LookOut is as cool as this place (we'll have to wait for the new Jet and Cafe to see what happens...)

It's a little out there, meaning there's not of other gay options around, but El Rio is pretty much one of the best hangouts in the city if you just want to have fun and spend good times with friends. Like everyone's saying, the best is Salsa Sundays, but do not underestimate how cool it can get on happy hour the rest of the week.

Unbeatable location, beautiful outdoor area, nice ambiance/vibe... so what's missing? Good food. And good coffee. I admit it, though: I haven't had a coffee/latte/cap in a while at this joint, but it is precisely because the three or four times I did they were just dreadful. I'd say if you want coffee, just cross the street to Peet's.