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ZipPicks Awards
Best Happy Hour Wings in the Castro
Best Late Night Tacos in the Castro
Best Mexican in the Castro
Best Happy Hour Mexican in the Castro
Best Happy Hour Tacos in the Castro
Best Tacos in the Castro
Best Wings in the Castro
Best Late Night Mexican in the Castro
Master Critic Review
Santeria
8.2
Castro margarita bar with a lively back patio and a happy hour that pairs well with their Mexican Wings. Since 2021, it’s been a go-to for after-work drinks, shareable plates, and bold, chile-forward flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mexican Wings (house adobo glaze), Octopus al pastor, Flautas
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Happy hour cocktails with patio seating and spicy Mexican Wings.
Who should go: Friends seeking cocktails and shareable plates
When to visit: Weekdays 3–6pm for best happy hour
What to order: Mexican Wings, octopus al pastor, guacamole
Insider tip: Head to the back patio bar—quicker drink refills before 6pm.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly metered street parking on Market and 16th; fills fast after 5pm—garage option two blocks away on Noe.
Dress code: Smart casual with a Castro flair—jeans and button-downs fine; bright colors and summer dresses fit right in.
Noise level: Lively during happy hour, moderate after 8pm; can chat comfortably on the patio.
Weekend wait: 30–45 min wait for patio tables; bar seats usually open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait—happy hour starts around 3pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several small plates and tacos can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for customizations on guacamole and vegetable tacos.
Gluten-free options: Good selection—corn-based dishes and grilled proteins are easy fits.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—especially on the patio at golden hour. The cocktails, lighting, and lively backdrop make it playful yet not too loud.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are common before 6pm, but patio tables fill up early on sunny afternoons.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—more of an adult cocktail crowd, though daytime visits with older teens are fine.
Best For
Better for: More stylish and cocktail-forward than most Castro bars—perfect for groups who want good food alongside drinks.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet dinner or full entrées—this is better for bites and margaritas than a long meal.
Hours
Monday3pm - 10pm
Tuesday3pm - 10pm
Wednesday3pm - 10pm
Thursday3pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 11pm
Saturday11am - 11pm
Sunday11am - 10pm