Highlights
- Great beer selection
oChef » Trick Dog – San Francisco
Trick Dog - San Francisco
Photo from Trick Dog
Trick Dog at a glance
San Francisco Mission District
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $31–$40
mentioned by 55 of the guests
#1473 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#108 Bar & Pub out of 151 in San Francisco
Good
7.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
541
Reviews
70.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Creative Drinks
- Lively Vibe
Frequently criticized
- High Cost
- Noise Level
The bar & pub Trick Dog in San Francisco’s vibrant Mission District invites you to discover a truly unique experience. You’ll find yourself immersed in a trendy yet casual atmosphere, perfect for unwinding.
This spot is renowned for its great beer selection, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy any palate. Whether you’re looking for a cozy corner or a lively evening, this place has you covered.
Overview: Introducting Trick Dog
Trick Dog offers a distinctive experience, particularly for those seeking creative cocktails and a lively vibe. Many appreciate the unique drink menu and the engaging atmosphere, making it a popular spot for a night out.
The service often receives praise for its friendly and knowledgeable staff. However, be prepared for a potentially crowded and loud setting, which can sometimes detract from the overall comfort.
Some find the drinks to be overpriced, especially given the casual nature of the establishment, raising questions about its overall value.
Good
7.2
out of 10
541
Reviews
70.6%
Satisfaction
131
negative
28
neutral
382
positive
Overall, Trick Dog earns a solid 7.2 on our scale, indicating a generally good experience for many patrons. This is further supported by a 70.6% customer satisfaction rate, suggesting that most visitors leave content.
With 541 total opinions, including 382 positive and 131 negative, there’s a clear lean towards favorable impressions, particularly regarding the core offerings. Digging deeper, the Food (7.9) stands out as a strong performer, largely driven by its inventive cocktails.
Ambience (7) also contributes positively, offering a lively setting. While Service (6.8) is generally good, the Value (3.3) is a notable weak point, with many finding the pricing for drinks and some food items to be on the higher side.
What people like
- Inventive Cocktails
- Engaging Vibe
- Friendly Service
What people don't like
- High Prices
- Can Get Loud
- Limited Seating
Trick Dog, with a 7.5 recommendation score, is a solid choice if you prioritize exceptional drinks and a vibrant social scene. It excels as a destination for creative mixology and a lively atmosphere, making it ideal for a fun night out with friends.
However, be mindful of the pricing and potential for a crowded, noisy environment. If you’re seeking a quiet, budget-friendly meal, this might not be your ideal spot.
For those ready to splurge on unique cocktails and embrace the energy, it’s certainly worth considering.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Trick Dog
Food (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drink experience here, guests are generally thrilled! With a strong 7.9 score and a solid 79.8% customer satisfaction, its clear why. Out of 263 comments, 210 rave about the creative cocktails, delicious fries, amazing hotdogs, and unique menus, often calling them top-notch and inventive.
However, not every experience hits the mark. Some of the 36 critical comments point to concerns like small portions, inconsistent drinks, or too much ice. A few found certain hotdogs overpriced or some cocktails too sweet, suggesting theres room for a bit more consistency in execution.
Food
263
Reviews
79%
Satisfaction
36
negative
17
neutral
210
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Inventive cocktail menus
- Delicious fries
- Amazing hotdogs
What people don't like
- Inconsistent drinks
- Small portions
- Too much ice
Often praised
- drinksI stopped by while waiting for a dinner table and definitely enjoyed myself. This is a solid place to grab some drinks and hang out. The food list is short, but it tastes good, and with a wide array of speciality cocktails that mimic yoga poses, you'll find something you enjoy.
- cocktailsI haven’t been to all the top cocktail bars in SF yet, but I don’t know if there is a better place to grab a drink in the City. Every cocktail I tried here on a deservedly packed Saturday night was unique, delicious, and visually aesthetic. This place is even better than some of the World’s top 50 bars that I’ve been to.
- foodThis is a solid place to grab some drinks and hang out. The food list is short, but it tastes good, and with a wide array of speciality cocktails that mimic yoga poses, you'll find something you enjoy. Both indoor and outdoor seating are available.
- menuThe downstairs bar is much smaller and super packed (a little loud too), so finding a seat wasn’t easy haha. The menu was SO cute! We blindly chose High Flyers and (I think) Sword Swallower.
- friesMy experience at the restaurant included enjoying fun drinks and crispy fries. The staff was friendly, though the space was quite loud.
- kale saladMy experience at this restaurant was largely positive, centered around an awesome bar and an amazing kale salad. The atmosphere was great, though it's worth noting there aren't many seats, so be prepared to stand.
- FoodFood:4
- drink menuimpressive drink menu with a few things I'd never seen
- drinks menuMy experience at this restaurant was marked by its amazingly creative, rotating drinks menu. The drinks were generally very good, and it was great that they always included some low-ABV or non-alcoholic options.
- hot dogThe fries were on point. While the hot dog was overpriced, it still tasted good.
Frequently criticized
- drinksI didn't enjoyed my drinks, were something different than expected
- cocktailsdidn't really like their cocktails
- drinkworst drink i've ever had
- foodFood and service are overpriced for what they're worth
- hot dogsquality of the hot dogs were disappointing
- Eternal Patroldidn't really like their cocktails
- Glass Walkerthe Glass Walker opened with aggressively savory notes that made the first sip jarring
- POG drinkthat really didn’t have much taste at all
- animal productsall seemed to have animal products in them
- burgermeat was too dry on the burger
If you're looking for a spot with truly inventive cocktails and delicious bar bites like fries and hotdogs, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that some drinks might be inconsistent or portions a bit small, so manage your expectations accordingly.
Service (6.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 64% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot offers a mixed but generally positive experience, with a score of 6.8 and customer satisfaction at 66.7%. Many of the 68 positive comments rave about the friendly staff, attentive bartenders, and amazing service, often noting how accommodating and quick the team can be. However, its not always smooth sailing.
Out of 32 negative comments, some guests encountered slow service, difficulty getting bartenders attention, or issues with the entry policy and bouncer' interactions, indicating occasional inconsistencies in hospitality.
Service
102
Reviews
66%
Satisfaction
32
negative
2
neutral
68
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Attentive bartenders
- Quick service
What people don't like
- Slow service
- Inconsistent bartenders
- Strict entry policy
Often praised
- serviceBeyond the theme, they boast an impressive drink menu with unique options, and I particularly enjoyed their delicious NA waters, though I wish I could recall their name. The food menu is also great, and the service was very good. I'll definitely be back and highly recommend you stop by too!
- bartendersthe bartenders are very friendly and good at suggesting drinks
- staffI love that bars like this continue to exist in this neighborhood and the city is better for it! The staff is super friendly and I love the rotating themes. However, two main things could improve the overall experience: 1) The cocktails are quite expensive, and considering this place trends towards being a bit divey/casual, I feel there should be cheaper menu options.
- ServiceService:5
- bartenderOur bartender (Travis) was super knowledgeable and kind
- hostCollin was a great host
- Billy BonesTone, and Billy Bones made the experience a memorable one
- Everyone working hereEveryone working here is so nice
- ToneTone, and Billy Bones made the experience a memorable one
- accommodating for our groupWas accommodating for our group
Frequently criticized
- serviceI went once mid-afternoon and service was fine. Went last night and I'm not sure which the bartender hated more, me or their job. I waited my turn, smiled, named the three drinks we wanted, said "please, " and handed my card.
- bartenderThe bartender with the short hair… she gave me the worst service ever
- physical passportdid not allow me to enter unless I showed my physical passport
- bar staffWhile the bar looked short staffed
- bartendersthey only have two bartenders
- bartenders attentionit’s a hassle to get the bartenders attention
- bouncerThe bouncer also was giving an uncomfortable vibe
- carded again insidecarded again inside the bar by the doorman which was weird
- cash tipsBeware when you leave cash tips. The person who charges your card out may pocket the cash
- compensatory shotsurprised that I didn't get a compensatory shot for the sauce situation.
Overall, service here is a bit of a mixed bag, leaning positive. You'll likely encounter friendly and efficient staff, making for a great visit. However, be mindful of potential inconsistencies, especially with entry policies or during peak hours, which might lead to a less stellar experience.
Ambience (7 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 7. Many guests rave about the lively vibe, unique atmosphere, and creative themed menus, often enjoying the outdoor seating options. With 101 positive remarks out of 147 total observations, it's clear many find the setting quite appealing.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 68.7%, largely due to some recurring issues. Patrons frequently mention it can get very loud and noisy, often feeling quite cramped and crowded, especially at peak times. These 39 negative comments suggest that while the energy is high, it might not always be comfortable for everyone.
Ambience
147
Reviews
68%
Satisfaction
39
negative
7
neutral
101
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Lively, fun vibe
- Creative themed menus
- Good outdoor seating
What people don't like
- Very loud indoors
- Often crowded
- Cramped space
Often praised
- atmosphereI find myself thinking about it every single day. The perfectly balanced cocktails were a highlight, complemented by an inviting atmosphere. The incredible service from Tone and Billy Bones made the experience stand out, and I have a hard time finding anything else that compares.
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! It's a classic SF cocktail joint with a great vibe. 🍸🍸🍸🍸 We visited on a Thursday and it wasn't too crowded.
- barEvery cocktail I tried here on a deservedly packed Saturday night was unique, delicious, and visually aesthetic. This place is even better than some of the World’s top 50 bars that I’ve been to. Well done Trick Dog!
- musicthe music adds to the energy without being too loud
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- outdoor seating🍸🍸🍸🍸 We visited on a Thursday and it wasn't too crowded. I especially loved the outdoor seating.
- placeI recommend this place to talk and have a good time.
- ambianceThe ambiance was really comforting
- ambienceNice ambience, cool place to hang.
- cocktail barMy experience at this restaurant was centered around their ever changing drinks menu, which featured inspired handcrafted libations. I found it to be simply the best cocktail bar in the Mission.
Frequently criticized
- crowdedit can get quite crowded
- loudIt was a busy and really loud night when we visited, but we were fortunate to find a table upstairs. The service was prompt, and our drinks arrived without too much of a wait.
- vibeAnd the bartenders really know how to make a drink which I appreciate. It does sometimes get a bit tech bro-y due to the nature of the area and they kind of kill the vibe with their "keep the beers coming" vibe, but id they help keep the doors open, I'm for it.
- atmosphereHowever, the burger was a bit of a disappointment as the meat was too dry. The atmosphere was also a significant issue; it was way too loud for dining. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a great place for a drink before dinner.
- spaceit is a cramped space with limited seating
- AtmosphereThe space has two levels — upstairs looked more like a dining area and closed early. The downstairs bar is much smaller and super packed (a little loud too), so finding a seat wasn’t easy haha. The menu was SO cute!
- ambianceNot the best ambiance
- ambienceThe ambience is so-so
- background noiseBackground noise made conversations inaudible
- barbar really overcrowded
If youre looking for a lively, energetic bar with creative themes and dont mind a bit of noise and a crowd, this place is definitely worth checking out. However, if you prefer a quiet, spacious environment for intimate conversations, you might find it a bit overwhelming.
Value (3.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 20% of the guests
Despite a poor overall score of 3.3 and poor customer satisfaction at just 10.3%, a small handful of guests found some silver linings regarding value. Out of 29 total remarks, 3 positive ones highlighted that certain experiences were more than worth it and worth going, with one even calling out the best value of a pile of veggies anywhere in the city. Positive terms like price per person and value were occasionally mentioned.
However, the overwhelming sentiment leans heavily towards disappointment, with 24 negative comments. Many felt ripped off and that it was a waste of money and time. The drinks and cocktails were frequently described as insanely weak and overpriced, and even the hot dog was deemed overpriced.
The general consensus was that things were pricey and not worth the money.
Value
29
Reviews
10%
Satisfaction
24
negative
2
neutral
3
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Best veggie value
What people don't like
- Overpriced weak drinks
- Feel ripped off
- Waste of money
Often praised
- Price per personMore than worth it
- valuebest value of a pile of veggies anywhere in the city
- worth goingit was worth going
Frequently criticized
- priceMost expensive and most disgusting drinks
- cocktailsHowever, the drinks were INSANELY weak and overpriced. Our cocktails were over $20 each, and there were no prices on the menu. After two drinks each, we left feeling more sober than when we arrived.
- drinksdrinks are INSANELY weak and overpriced
- Parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
- drinkNo drink is really worth that
- glorified glass of juicehighway robbery for a glorified glass of juice
- hot dogThe hot dog was overpriced
- menu optionsThe staff is super friendly and I love the rotating themes. However, two main things could improve the overall experience: 1) The cocktails are quite expensive, and considering this place trends towards being a bit divey/casual, I feel there should be cheaper menu options. If I wanted $20 fancy cocktails, I would go down the street to True Laurel.
- moneyNot worth the money!
- overpricedhot dogs are overpriced for what you get
If you're considering a visit, be prepared for a generally overpriced experience, especially concerning drinks and some food items. While a rare few found specific items to be good value, the overwhelming feedback suggests you might feel ripped off. Proceed with caution, as the value proposition is largely disappointing.
How are the prices at Trick Dog?
You’re looking at roughly 33 per person – reported by 55 diners. That puts it in the $31–$40 category. For a Bar & Pub, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average sits at 33, many guests actually spend a bit less, with a good chunk falling into the $21–$30 and even $11–$20 brackets. There’s also a sprinkle of higher spenders, showing a nice mix of options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 55 reviews.
How this spot stacks up against similar places in San Francisco for value.
Considering its a Bar & Pub in San Francisco, and with a good range of prices available, we think the pricing feels pretty fair for what you get. Its a solid mid-range choice.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Trick Dog
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
A Constantly Evolving and Fun Bar Experience
My experience at Trick Dog was incredibly fun and creative. It's a themed bar that reinvents itself every six months, offering a fresh experience each visit. Previously, it had a poetry theme, and during my recent visit, it was a space theme.
The menu is consistently inventive, with cocktail names that perfectly align with the current theme. The drinks were delicious, the vibe was lively, and the music enhanced the energy without being overpowering. This is definitely a place that keeps things fresh and makes you eager to return to discover their next imaginative concept.
- themed bar9
- space theme8
- menu9
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
1
Disgusting and Expensive Drinks
My experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly negative, primarily due to the drinks. I purchased four signature cocktails – Sigma, Tau, Omicron, and Adhara – for approximately $100 for my group. Unfortunately, none of us could finish even a single drink as they were simply not drinkable.
I felt completely ripped off. I strongly suggest the establishment consider sending their bartenders back to bartending school or having their taste buds checked by medical professionals. I will never be returning.
- signature cocktails1
- drinks1
- price1
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
7
Solid Cocktail Bar, Can Get Packed
My experience at this cocktail bar was positive overall. It's a nice, solid establishment that feels small in a good way. However, it can get packed, making it difficult to get a drink due to only having two bartenders.
I found this place randomly while walking after visiting San Ho Won.
- cocktail bar7
- small space8
- getting a drink4
- bartenders4
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
6
Friendly Staff, Weak & Overpriced Drinks
My experience at this restaurant was marked by really friendly staff and tasty drinks. However, the drinks were INSANELY weak and overpriced. Our cocktails were over $20 each, and there were no prices on the menu.
After two drinks each, we left feeling more sober than when we arrived.
- staff9
- drinks7
- cocktails2
- prices2
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Creative Cocktails and Themed Menus
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! It's one of my favorite spots for cocktails in the city. I really appreciate how they're willing to take risks with their cocktail specs, which are often delicious and always interesting.
They also accompany their drinks with delightfully creative themed menu designs.
- cocktails9
- cocktail specs9
- themed menu designs9
What Trick Dog offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Trick Dog?
When you visit Trick Dog, you’ll step into a space that feels both cozy and casual. It’s known for its trendy vibe, making it a popular spot in the Mission District. You can relax and enjoy the lively ambiance, whether you’re grabbing a quick drink or settling in for the evening.
What dining and service options are available at Trick Dog?
Trick Dog offers convenient dine-in service with table service available for you. If you prefer to enjoy their offerings elsewhere, takeout and delivery options are also provided. You can also plan ahead, as this popular San Francisco bar accepts reservations.
What is the overall rating for Trick Dog and what do customers think of its key aspects?
Trick Dog holds a good overall score of 7.2 with 70.6% customer satisfaction. Its Food (7.9), especially cocktails, and Ambience (7) are highly regarded, while Service (6.8) is generally good. However, Value (3.3) is a significant concern for many patrons.
What are Trick Dog's main strengths according to visitors?
Visitors frequently praise Trick Dog for its inventive and delicious cocktails, often described as unique and visually appealing. The lively vibe and friendly service also contribute significantly to positive experiences.
What are some common complaints about Trick Dog?
Common complaints revolve around the high prices of drinks and food, leading to concerns about value. Many also find the venue to be loud and crowded, with limited seating available, which can impact comfort.