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Hi Tops
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Hi Tops
7.9
Castro’s OG gay sports bar (since 2012) with TVs everywhere, lively crowds, and wing nights that dovetail with drink deals. Wings lean classic—think buffalo—with speedy bar service ideal for game-time bites.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo wings, Loaded nachos, Fried chicken sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Wing specials during happy hour in a true sports-bar setting.
Who should go: Game-day crews and wing traditionalists
When to visit: Weekdays late afternoon for seating and drink deals
What to order: Buffalo wings, nachos, draft beer
Insider tip: Bar seats turn fastest—ideal for quick reorders on wing night.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on Market and nearby side streets fill quickly after 5pm.
Dress code: Casual sports-bar vibe—team jerseys, jeans, and sneakers all fine.
Noise level: Loud during games—expect crowd cheers and bar chatter; quieter before 4pm.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during big games or events; bar seating turnover is faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait—easy walk-in for wings or drinks.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—options like nachos, soft pretzels, and salads are available.
Vegan options: Limited—some sides and fries qualify, but wings and mains are meat-heavy.
Gluten-free options: Limited—ask staff about modifications; wings and fries share fryers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves sports and noise—it’s fun and lively but not ideal for deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Hi Tops is first-come, first-served. Arrive before major games to snag a spot quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—mostly an adult crowd with bar service focus; best for ages 21+.
Best For
Better for: Game-day energy, crowd watching, and fast bar service—classic sports-bar camaraderie in the Castro.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet dining, upscale cocktails, or food-first experiences; other spots like The Detour may fit better.
Hi Tops
8.3
LGBTQ-owned sports bar with a legit burger program and a lively late-night scene. The Bacon Beef Burger and All American land well after games, with the kitchen serving deep into the night on weekends.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Beef Burger, All American Burger, Impossible Burger
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.1
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Game-night energy with better-than-expected bar burgers.
Who should go: Fans wanting burgers with the game on
When to visit: Fri–Sat 10pm–1:30am for peak buzz
What to order: Bacon Beef Burger, All American Burger, wings
Insider tip: Bar seats move faster than tables during big games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; tight after 7pm around Castro and 18th. Best bet is nearby garage at 16th & Market.
Dress code: Casual and sporty; jerseys, jeans, and sneakers all fine.
Noise level: Loud during games with crowd energy; quieter early evenings and weekday nights.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for tables during prime games or after 9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; bar seating open quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie burger and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited – request no cheese or mayo; fries are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free buns available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? If you both love sports or casual energy, yes — it's playful and social, not intimate. For quieter conversation, aim for early evening before games.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. It’s walk-in only. Bar seats open fastest, especially between games or around 10pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really; it's a bar-centric crowd after dark. Suitable for adults 21+ and up until about 8pm only if bringing older teens.
Best For
Better for: Lively post-game hangs, quality bar burgers, and LGBTQ+ community vibes unmatched in the Castro.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, family meal, or fine-dining atmosphere — opt for Starbelly or Kitchen Story instead.
Hi Tops
7.8
Castro sports bar turning out crispy, shareable fries built for game nights—garlic, saucy, and sturdy enough for dipping. TVs everywhere, quick bar service, and crowd energy when the big games are on.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic fries, Loaded fries (buffalo/ranch add-ons), Fries with burger or chicken sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Game-day fries with bar-ready crunch and fast pacing.
Who should go: Game-watch crews and fry sharers
When to visit: Early evenings and big-game kickoffs
What to order: Garlic fries, buffalo add-on fries, chicken sandwich + fries
Insider tip: Bar rail seats have the best sightlines for marquee games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Market and Castro; expect limited spots after 6pm and heavy demand during major games.
Dress code: Casual and sporty—team jerseys, jeans, and sneakers are standard on game nights.
Noise level: High during peak sports events with loud cheers and commentary; moderate otherwise, but not ideal for quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for larger groups during game nights; bar rail seating turns faster.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially outside game broadcasts.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—garlic fries, salads, and sides available; veggie substitutions possible for some mains.
Vegan options: Limited—fries and some dips qualify, but few full entrées meet vegan standards.
Gluten-free options: Fries are gluten-free by ingredients, but fried in a shared fryer—cross-contamination possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date’s into sports and casual energy—it’s more of a lively group or hangout spot than a romantic venue.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Hi Tops doesn’t take formal reservations; arrive early or aim for bar seating before major games for best luck.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—geared toward adults and the sports bar crowd, though older teens may be fine during daytime hours.
Best For
Better for: Watching big games with friends, social energy, and consistently crispy bar fries paired with drinks.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet dining, fine-dining comfort, or a romantic meal—opt for nearby Starbelly or Kitchen Story instead.
Hi Tops
7.6
LGBTQ+ sports bar serving solid game-day fare—wings, burgers, nachos—alongside a lively TV-packed room. It’s the Castro’s go-to for big games and casual eats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Stadium Nachos
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.2
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Community-forward sports bar with dependable pub grub and energy.
Who should go: Game-watching crews
When to visit: Arrive early for playoffs
What to order: Wings, chicken sandwich, nachos
Insider tip: Bar rail has best screen angles during big games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking around Castro and 18th; can be tough during events or peak hours. Best to use public transit or rideshare.
Dress code: Casual—team jerseys, jeans, and sneakers fit right in.
Noise level: High during big games; moderate during off-hours—expect cheers and crowd energy more than quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for larger groups; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, veggie burgers, and some appetizers can be customized.
Vegan options: Limited—fries and select items can be adjusted; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options like wings or salads can be made gluten-free upon request, but shared fryers are used.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date’s into sports or bar energy—great for casual hangs, not ideal for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's first come, first served. Bar seating is plentiful if you arrive before major games.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—more adult crowd, especially during games and nights. Best for 21+ gatherings.
Best For
Better for: Big-game watch parties, casual bites, and community atmosphere—it’s one of the Castro’s liveliest sports spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for quiet dining, refined cocktails, or a family-friendly meal—try nearby Starbelly or Fable instead.
Hi Tops
7.6
LGBTQ-owned sports bar serving elevated stadium fare—wings, killer nachos, and solid burgers—alongside cocktails and big-game energy. A go-to for lively group hangs and late nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings with Blue Cheese, Bacon Beef Burger, House-Made Corn Dog
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 7.4
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: OG Castro sports bar with a full New American menu.
Who should go: Game-day groups and burger-and-beer fans
When to visit: Evenings for games; afternoons for easier seating
What to order: Buffalo wings; bacon beef burger; nachos
Insider tip: Parklet seats offer quicker service during peak games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots nearby but tough during events. Paid lot available at 17th & Collingwood a short walk away.
Dress code: Casual and sporty—team jerseys, jeans, and sneakers all fit the vibe.
Noise level: High during games or weekends; moderate on weekday afternoons.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for groups during big games; shorter for bar seating.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick counter service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie burger, salads, and loaded fries available.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify nachos or fries; ask for vegan-friendly substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Partial – gluten-free buns and salads available, but fryer not dedicated.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date’s into sports and noise—it’s more casual and social than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – they don’t take reservations. Arrive early for games to grab a spot; bar seats turn over frequently.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—mainly adult crowd with bar focus; minors allowed daytime but better for 21+ gatherings.
Best For
Better for: Game-day energy, strong drinks, and lively LGBTQ+ sports crowd unmatched in the Castro.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet meal, upscale dining, or family outing—try nearby Starbelly or Kitchen Story instead.
Hi Tops
7.9
LGBTQ-owned sports bar with a legit burger lineup—think bacon-beef, All-American, and an ahi tuna “burger”—plus game-day energy. Burgers come with proper sides and hold up even when the room is buzzing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Beef Burger (Gruyère, onion jam), All-American Burger, Blackened Ahi Tuna Burger
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Serious burgers served alongside one of the Castro’s liveliest game scenes.
Who should go: Burger lovers who want TVs and energy
When to visit: Weeknights pre-game or early during big matches
What to order: Bacon Beef Burger, All-American, fries
Insider tip: Grab bar seats for faster ordering during peak games.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, typically tough after 6pm on game nights; nearby paid garages along Market Street are your best bet.
Dress code: Casual and sporty—jerseys, tees, and jeans all fit the scene.
Noise level: Loud during major games; otherwise moderate with background chatter and music.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak game times; bar seating often quicker.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie burger and several sides like salads and fries.
Vegan options: Limited—customizable burger options but no fully dedicated menu.
Gluten-free options: Available on request—gluten-free bun option, but shared kitchen prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date is into sports or casual bar energy—fun and loud but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only, but arriving before kickoff or early evening helps secure a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—21+ vibe dominates, especially during game broadcasts; better for adult groups.
Best For
Better for: High-energy game watching, solid bar burgers, and community atmosphere in the Castro.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet meal, fine dining service, or a romantic setting.
Hi Tops
8.2
Castro sports bar known for crisp Buffalo wings served alongside game-day staples and a strong beer lineup. Locals come for TVs, quick service, and wings that stay crunchy through the fourth quarter.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Fried Chicken Sandwich, Loaded Nachos
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Properly sauced, still-crisp Buffalo wings in a true game bar.
Who should go: Wing lovers who want TVs and energy
When to visit: Weeknights before tipoff for faster seats
What to order: Buffalo wings; fried chicken sandwich; nachos
Insider tip: Grab bar seats for the quickest refills and hot plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots fill quickly on Castro Street during events and weekends.
Dress code: Casual sports bar attire—team jerseys and jeans perfectly acceptable.
Noise level: High during games; moderate otherwise. Conversation possible at side tables but difficult near the bar.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for groups; bar seating turns faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating except during major sporting events.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – salads, veggie burger, and sides available.
Vegan options: Limited – one or two customizable options like fries and salads.
Gluten-free options: Yes – wings can be made gluten-free upon request; beer options limited.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves sports or casual crowds—this is more lively than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are standard; arrive early for big games to secure a seat.
Is it kid-friendly? Mostly adult crowd focused on drinks and sports, but daytime hours are fine for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Watching sports with wings and beer; energetic atmosphere ideal for groups.
Skip if: You’re after a quiet meal, craft cocktails, or date-night ambiance.
Hi Tops
7.8
Neighborhood sports bar with a surprisingly business-friendly daytime menu—salads, burgers, and sandwiches turn fast. Works for casual working sessions when you want space and quick ticket times.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bacon Beef Burger, Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad, Fried Chicken Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Roomy layout and quick kitchen for efficient meet-ups.
Who should go: Casual teams needing space and speed
When to visit: Before 12:30 or after 1:30 on weekdays
What to order: Cobb salad, bacon beef burger, fried chicken sandwich
Insider tip: Grab high-tops near windows for fewer TV distractions.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking available on Market and 16th; can be tight during lunch hours. Parking garage at 235 Church St. offers paid options nearby.
Dress code: Casual – business casual works if coming from the office, but most guests wear jeans and polos or button-downs.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during lunch; conversations are fine at booths, but the TVs and bar chatter add buzz during games.
Weekend wait: Usually 20–30 minutes; tables turn faster during non-game times.
Weekday lunch: No wait before 12:15; short waits possible around peak noon rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple options including salads, veggie burger, and shareable sides.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 adaptable options if you ask to hold cheese or sauce.
Gluten-free options: Yes – several salads and bunless burgers can be made gluten-free upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both into sports or casual hangs; not ideal for a romantic first impression but great for a relaxed meetup.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – they operate mostly on walk-ins; show up early for lunch or between major games for quickest seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime yes – high-tops and TVs entertain older kids, but it leans more adult during sports events or late hours.
Best For
Better for: Casual work lunches where speed, space, and a relaxed vibe matter more than polish.
Skip if: You need a quiet conversation or a more refined dining environment – try Fable or Starbelly nearby instead.