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HiTops
Master Critic Review
HiTops
8.2
This high-school-themed LGBTQ+ sports bar from San Francisco serves buffalo wings alongside elevated bar classics in a lively atmosphere with multiple screens. The $5 well drinks during happy hour complement their tasty wings perfectly, while Tuesday trivia nights with cash prizes and Sunday Fundays create an engaging social scene that goes beyond typical sports bar experiences.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Bacon Beef Burger, Buffalo Chicken Salad
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: SF-transplant with high-school theme and inclusive LGBTQ+ sports bar atmosphere
Who should go: LGBTQ+ community, trivia lovers, sports enthusiasts seeking elevated bar food
When to visit: Happy hour until 7pm weekdays, Tuesday trivia, Sunday Funday
What to order: Buffalo wings with blue cheese, huge killer nachos, $5 well drinks
Insider tip: Tuesday trivia offers $150 first place prize and shot rounds for best team names
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Santa Monica Blvd and side streets - metered and competitive after 5pm. Nearby paid lots 1-2 blocks away run $12-18. Consider rideshare during peak times
Dress code: Casual WeHo style - jeans and nice tees work, but locals tend to dress up more than typical sports bars. Athleisure, fitted basics, and sneakers are standard
Noise level: Loud during major games with music playing between plays. Moderate during off-hours - conversation possible but not intimate
Weekend wait: 20-30 min on Fridays, 30-45 min on Saturdays during peak games. Sunday Funday gets packed 2-8pm
Weekday lunch: Walk right in - minimal crowds noon-3pm except during major weekday sports events
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated options including Impossible burger, several salads, and veggie-forward apps
Vegan options: Yes - Impossible burger and select salads can be modified. More options than typical sports bars
Gluten-free options: Limited - grain bowls and some salads available, but wings share fryer. Ask server for modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for casual first dates within the LGBTQ+ community, especially if you both love sports or trivia. The lively atmosphere takes pressure off awkward silences, and the high-school theme is a fun conversation starter. Skip it if you want romantic ambiance or quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Walk-ins welcome most times, but arrive before 6pm on weekends or during major games. Reservations recommended for groups of 4+ and essential for Tuesday trivia (teams fill up fast). Bar seating always available first-come, first-served.
Is it kid-friendly? No - this is a 21+ bar environment, especially evenings and weekends. The sports bar atmosphere and alcohol-focused vibe make it adults-only. Families should choose Barney's Beanery or Saddle Ranch instead.
What's the high-school theme about? Nostalgic decor with yearbook photos, lockers, and school spirit elements - a playful callback that creates conversation without being over-the-top. It's subtle and fun rather than cheesy, fitting the elevated bar food approach while keeping things lighthearted.
Is it welcoming to straight allies or is it LGBTQ+-only? Allies are absolutely welcome - it's an inclusive space that centers LGBTQ+ community but isn't exclusive. Just be respectful of the space, don't treat it like a 'zoo,' and understand you're a guest in a queer space. The vibe is friendly and welcoming to all.
Best For
Better for: Best for LGBTQ+ sports viewing with elevated bar food that's actually good (not just edible), engaging social events beyond watching games (trivia, Sunday Funday), stylish crowd that dresses up compared to typical sports bars, and SF-quality food standards with a community atmosphere. The high-school theme adds playful energy without feeling gimmicky
Skip if: You want traditional straight sports bar culture, need family-friendly atmosphere, prefer dive-bar pricing over $$, want romantic/quiet dining, or aren't comfortable in LGBTQ+-centered spaces. Also skip if you want late-night hours past midnight - go to 33 Taps or Barney's Beanery instead for 2am closing