Favorite bartenders in town for sure :) Asked for three of his three strongest drinks and there's one that's tea infused~

Commented on 9/28/2016 12:00:00 AM

There was an event going on on the main floor so the space we could explore was fairly limited. When we arrived (around 11 pm) there were few people downstairs in the dance area. As time passed, the crowd built up but it seemed to be primarily a late 20s/early 30s venue. The music was mainly top 40, with little variety otherwise.

Commented on 9/18/2016 12:00:00 AM

OMG I had one of the best times ever!

Commented on 9/3/2016 12:00:00 AM

7th and market isn't really the most destination-esque area of the city, per se, yet every time I end up here I have a blast.

Commented on 8/16/2016 12:00:00 AM

Forty some people ended up coming out for my birthday and Mr. Smiths easily accommodated all of us. I don't remember most of the night but my friends tell me that the bartenders were on point and the bouncers were all cool dudes. If you're looking for a couple drinks with friends on a Friday or Saturday night, I recommend Mr. Smiths. If you're looking to have a alcoholic birthday bash with a lot of your friends, I recommend Mr. Smiths even more. It's good times all around.

Commented on 7/1/2016 12:00:00 AM

Really fun place to end up with a few friends on a night where you're not looking to get incredibly ratch, but just a nice middle ground.

Commented on 6/28/2016 12:00:00 AM

Came here with 2 friends on a Saturday night.

Commented on 6/6/2016 12:00:00 AM

Once in, you can't help to be in awe of the space; a long beautiful bar with TVs and specialty cocktail menus, booths to the right, a quaint upstairs begging you to have your next group shindig here and even a charging station in the back so you don't bug the bartender to charge your ever-dying "smart" phone. To some, these qualities could be shrugged off as standard fare in SF, but two things make this bar above most-else.

Commented on 5/18/2016 12:00:00 AM

I tried the Basil Gimlet which was strong, spicy, and very herbal. Not sure if I liked it, but I definitely did feel it.

Commented on 5/3/2016 12:00:00 AM

hope you fix it soon

Commented on 5/1/2016 12:00:00 AM

My friends and I bumped into the Pokemon Bar Crawl group coming out of Mr. Smith's around 9pm. I mean, come on, if the Pokemon fans drink at Mr. Smith's, who wouldn't want to drink here?

Commented on 4/23/2016 12:00:00 AM

Just be aware that there is a credit card charge minimum but drinks are a bit pricey (-1 star) so most of the time you don't have to worry about not making it!

Commented on 3/21/2016 12:00:00 AM

THE PLACE WAS DEAD on a Saturday night. Super sad and pathetic.

Commented on 3/20/2016 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smiths, personally, is an easy bar to forget about.

Commented on 3/14/2016 12:00:00 AM

CONSISTENTLY GOOD MUSIC. Now now, "good" is subjective. When I say good, I mean old-school hip-hop ALL NIGHT. Tupac, biggie, tribe, gangstar, skee-lo(?!) and even heard some underground. While the crowd may not match the music, everyone found themselves nodding and singing along at one point in the night. Even on a slow Tuesday night, the music was on point the entire time we were there. Until recently, I hadn't been to Mr. Smiths in about a decade....as soon as I hit the curtain to come in, I remembered why I loved the place so much.

Commented on 3/14/2016 12:00:00 AM

I'm not an SF native, so I can't compare to too many alternatives in the area. However,  my understanding is that if a group is booking out a place for a private party on a random weekday evening, you are probably making a pretty penny and could be nice to the attendees. Also, with the power of Yelp nowadays, you better think twice before showing off that 'tude.

Commented on 3/8/2016 12:00:00 AM

After trying and disliking a couple other bars and clubs one Friday night, I went with my friends to Mr. Smith's - one of their standbys - and went straight downstairs to the dance floor. They said that night was particularly busy, although it still looked fairly empty to me.

Commented on 2/22/2016 12:00:00 AM

If you're looking to mostly hang out and dance with your own party, Mr. Smith's is a good place to go. There's space to spread out and it's easy to have conversations with the people around you. If you're looking for a club experience though, try elsewhere. I also wasn't impressed by the DJ - it was like he'd just turned on a top 40 radio station.

Commented on 2/22/2016 12:00:00 AM

Service is top notch. I didn't get the bartenders names, but they are quick and personable. They serve small bowls of popcorn for free and as soon as we ran low, it was filled with a smile (this would annoy other bartenders).

Commented on 2/10/2016 12:00:00 AM

HAPPY HOUR (4:00-8:00 M-F): 4 dollar heavy-handed wells and $4 beers. Not only are the pours strong, but their beer selection is impressive to boot. 4:00-8:00 happy hour in the middle of the tech mecca is hard to compete with.

Commented on 1/24/2016 12:00:00 AM

The music they were playing was off the hook, the drinks were strong and the ambiance was awesome!

Commented on 12/30/2015 12:00:00 AM

Perfect location for a party

Commented on 12/17/2015 12:00:00 AM

There's a reason why this place has 4 stars and 900+ reviews...they are a great dance club, and I will most certainly be back!

Commented on 11/17/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Dress code is casual - I was fine with a tank and jeans!

Commented on 11/1/2015 12:00:00 AM

Came here for a bachelorette party and had a blast! We got bottle service and Michael took GREAT care of us. The music downstairs was A+ and their was actually space to dance. Even when I ordered drinks downstairs they were quick and attentive. Love it here!

Commented on 10/31/2015 12:00:00 AM

Excellent cocktails here and free pizza on Fridays what more could you want?? ;-) try the marmalade sour cocktail

Commented on 10/26/2015 12:00:00 AM

The first floor is relatively small like a bar/saloon. You go downstairs, and there's a dance floor. Sign up for the guestlist and don't pay cover.

Commented on 10/13/2015 12:00:00 AM

Pro-tips (there are a few):

Commented on 10/5/2015 12:00:00 AM

I was in the city for just a couple days, I wanted to go out but didn't want to rage too hard. This place was perfect! This last Saturday in particular was not busy at all (I don't think that's typical). It was a slow night but my friends and I had such a great time! I want to give a big thank you to the music manager and DJ for playing the music they did!! A mix of top 40/old school hip hop. It was so appreciated! I had so much fun even with the place being half empty. I will be back if ever in the area again!

Commented on 10/3/2015 12:00:00 AM

My best friend and two of her friends had their joint birthday celebrations here, and it was awesome!!

Commented on 10/1/2015 12:00:00 AM

The only I don't like is the bathroom

Commented on 9/25/2015 12:00:00 AM

Really liked this club because it wasn't super "clubby" seemed more like lounge with the decor but had a great dance floor downstairs. Only thing I didn't like was their "coat check" which was just an open closet in a dark corner for anyone to steal anyone's jackets. Didn't feel comfortable leaving it there and would rather pay the $3 to have someone secure that room. Would come back though. Note: free cover before 11pm with guestlist.

Commented on 9/24/2015 12:00:00 AM

The crowd is probably from late 20's to late 30's. I recommend going to Temple if you want to actually go clubbing and dance. The bar is set up so there isn't much interaction to meet new people and you stick to your own private groups. The music downstairs was a mix of top 40 and hip hop.

Commented on 9/17/2015 12:00:00 AM

The outside is unassuming. Nestled between the federal building and an academy of art building.... The only thing that gives it away is the large sign out front. Every  night of the week there is a door guy checking ID's, ensuring those pesky underage art students don't nuzzle their way in to spend mom and dad's money on fireball.

Commented on 8/31/2015 12:00:00 AM

Michael was very helpful with setting up a reservation with bottle service and guestlists. If  I had any questions he was able to assist me via phone or e-mail quickly. My guests enjoyed the drinks served at the bar. The music was on POINT! everyone enjoyed the top40. old school hip hop. rnb music. everyone had a good time! definitely recommend this place for any occasion!

Commented on 7/19/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Bartender was super sweet and nice!

Commented on 7/11/2015 12:00:00 AM

Came out on a Friday night to celebrate my best friends birthday. Came with my boyfriend and brother, took bart, got off at civic center and was a pleasantly surprising short stroll. We got here a bit after 10p and there was no line to get in, bouncer, no cover. Since we were early, we checked the place out. Love the atmosphere! Very speakeasy like with the light lighting, dressed up bartenders, comfy couches, fun and lovely decor. Ground level includes a small seating area, a larger (reserved) seating area, bar, bathrooms (which were clean!) and phone charging stations you can pay for. Downstairs is another bathroom (be careful it does not lock) smaller bar where the dj and dance floor is so it's louder. Upstairs is seating areas that overlook the ground floor.

Commented on 6/12/2015 12:00:00 AM

I chose Mr. Smiths because I really liked the venue when I came here back in January. It's spacious and the bar and dance floor are on two seperate floors. You enter through bar area where there's plenty of standing space as well as tables on the side for those that reserve bottle service. Music is playing but it's not blaring so loud that you can't hear the person that you're talking to. If you are looking for loud music though, there's a DJ downstairs spinning beats for the dance floor. It's top 40's and hip hop, stuff that generally appeases the entire crowd.  

Commented on 6/7/2015 12:00:00 AM

Thanks

Commented on 6/6/2015 12:00:00 AM

I had the BEST time celebrating my birthday here at Mr. Smiths!

Commented on 5/30/2015 12:00:00 AM

We ordered drinks from the ground floor bar menu. 7th Street Gimlet with a dash of spice, marmalade sour and blueberry crush. Very entertaining watching these drinks being made. They were all strong! Gimlet was very refreshing (lime and basil) and summery. Marmalade sour was bourbon, bourbon, bourbon with a hint of sweet. It was definitely the prettiest drink.  Blueberry crush was the tastiest! Then we took to the upstairs seats and waited for the rest of our party to show up.

Commented on 5/19/2015 12:00:00 AM

When they got there we went downstairs to dance. Down stairs we ordered whiskey sours, Midori sours (delicious), shots of Jameson, Stella and another shot the bartender suggested that wasn't too great lol. Good mix of songs. Crowd was a good mix too. It was not too crowded so breaking into personal bubbles was not an issue and everyone had an excellent time! We would definitely come back and recommend Mr. Smith's!

Commented on 5/19/2015 12:00:00 AM

Key points of the night:

Commented on 5/11/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Old school hip-hop/r&b mixes... none of that EDM nonsense

Commented on 5/6/2015 12:00:00 AM

I've been here twice. both times the area around the club reeks of urine. The staff is nice and the drinks are strong, but the area + clientele sucks. It's actually not very diverse...in that it's 80% guys and 80% asian/middle eastern

Commented on 4/26/2015 12:00:00 AM

A group of my friends and I chilled on the third story; where you can chill and order drinks on the few couches provided. Once we were ready to dance, we grabbed our stuff and went to the basement for a blast! Music was an awesome mix of top 40 and some oldies - we had crazy fun.

Commented on 4/11/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Atmosphere was very classy and chill at the same time... kind of like clubbing without all the crowded hot mess.  

Commented on 4/8/2015 12:00:00 AM

The drinks are really cheap, 5 dollars coronas are always a good thing in SF. The dancefloor is located in the basement separated from the hip vibe upstairs at the bar. There is also an upstairs for special parties as well. The setup downstairs is really nice once again if there was an actual crowd here it would be fun. There is bar downstairs and the dancefloor is small and intimate. Its not too dark and its not too hot as the fans do a good job of keeping you cooled off. The best thing about this place is the music selection. The DJ was great. Playing fantastic hip hop and not techno or edm. What a rare rare thing in SF. Its nice to dance to some nelly or usher every once in a while.

Commented on 3/31/2015 12:00:00 AM

Ultimately though Mr. Smiths has all the makings of a good party but not of the actual party. There just aren't enough people here to have a good time and its not diverse enough to warrant a second visit. I mean I was not on the Asian guestlist. Speaking of which. There is no reason for this place to be charging guestlist money. You are not infusion and I get trying to make money but you have to have a product worth getting in for.

Commented on 3/31/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Affordable bottle service + Pineapple Ciroc (soooo good we ordered a second bottle!)

Commented on 3/31/2015 12:00:00 AM

Came to this bar for a private event and was mortified by the staff. Apparently one of the people tending to the bar is the owner or manager and he was one of the rudest people I've met. My husband's company was hosting this event, and he was rude to every person who approached the bar other than people who worked for the company. At one point I asked if my too strong drink could be watered down, and he looked at me as if I just insulted him to his face and told him his mom was ugly. Asking for a water was an ordeal too, as if I had conducted some cardinal sin. Eventually I avoided anything from the bar at all costs and asked my husband to order for me. It was THAT BAD.

Commented on 3/31/2015 12:00:00 AM

2. Expensive. Expect to pay over $10 a cocktail

Commented on 2/28/2015 12:00:00 AM

About 21 of us arrived first right when they opened. I think it was around 9. They didn't check for names on Guestlist. They just let us in (sweet!!). Even up until 10:30 it was still really empty. Our party was the ones who made the bar actually look busy. Bartenders were awesome!

Commented on 2/27/2015 12:00:00 AM

On 2/19 I sent

Commented on 2/21/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Dance floor downstairs was crackin'

Commented on 2/20/2015 12:00:00 AM

Fluke #3: The music was purely TOP 40/mainly Hip Hop. My friend and I had asked the DJ to play a little Dance but he never did.

Commented on 2/18/2015 12:00:00 AM

- DJ played Top 40s, and not EDM (A+, what a gem)

Commented on 2/16/2015 12:00:00 AM

BIG UPS for having swanky decorations - I liked the chandeliers and classic leather couches.

Commented on 2/9/2015 12:00:00 AM

SO even though I was not pleased with the bar-service, I still had a great time with my friends.

Commented on 2/8/2015 12:00:00 AM

no lock..

Commented on 1/23/2015 12:00:00 AM

Fluke #2: (this has nothing to do with Smiths) My high heels were much too high & while i had a good vantage point I also pissed off my feet. Fun Fact: I could touch the ceiling on the basement level.

Commented on 1/17/2015 12:00:00 AM

- Bartenders were super cool and accommodating

Commented on 1/4/2015 12:00:00 AM

DO get on the guest list for no cover charge

Commented on 1/2/2015 12:00:00 AM

3 stars

Commented on 12/29/2014 12:00:00 AM

Great place.  I came here for a birthday bash with probably 20 other people and we had a great time.

Commented on 12/14/2014 12:00:00 AM

3.849 Stars

Commented on 12/14/2014 12:00:00 AM

Around 10:15, some of our other friends try to come in but apparently the bouncer checked for their names and to our surprise, their names weren't even on the guestlist. Turns out, I emailed max and the other guy for nothing. We realized None of us were even on the Guestlist. So annoying.

Commented on 12/7/2014 12:00:00 AM

The rich colors and soft light creates the perfect setting to enjoy an evening with friends and drinks.  I personally was not all that focused on the drinks because Mrs N and I were there to help Yelpers say farewell to Pam B.  Maybe I should have taken better advantage of the high-end selections, but I didn't.  No, just paid top dollar for standards with "the good stuff".  While enjoying this......

Commented on 11/16/2014 12:00:00 AM

Once again, my Yelp investigating skills worked wonders when I was planning for my boyfriend's 25th birthday!

Commented on 11/15/2014 12:00:00 AM

BIG UPS for having multiple levels and seating on the top floor. We really appreciated being able to dance without feeling like sardines in a can.

Commented on 11/9/2014 12:00:00 AM

I celebrated my 25th birthday this past weekend at Mr. Smiths and had an absolute blast. A week before the party, I reached out to Michael, the general manager, and asked for options. He was very responsive and helped me plan out my bottle service, reserved tables for me, and set up a guest list to get my friends in for free before 11 (normally it's $10 cover). The result was a great time with a bunch of my friends in our own little section of the bar.

Commented on 11/2/2014 12:00:00 AM

Upstairs isn't too bad - some nice tables that can be reserved for parties.  Drinks are reasonably priced.  Most nights it's not too crowded upstairs, though it can be hard to get the attention of the bartenders - there are often too few.

Commented on 10/11/2014 12:00:00 AM

It's sad to give Mr. Smiths a low rating but in my effort to help others find the best dance clubs in SF I cannot give this place a rating for what it should be as opposed to what it is. On a Friday night there really isn't an excuse to have five people on your dance floor at midnight. Even if it gets betters on a Saturday that is not a consistent good time.

Commented on 10/6/2014 12:00:00 AM

Overall, everyone in my party had a great time. They kept asking how I even heard of this place or if I've been here numerous times. Nope. Just Yelp! Even the boyfriend said I did good! So thanks, Mr. Smith's! 'Twas good doing business with ya!

Commented on 10/4/2014 12:00:00 AM

My favorite thing about Mr Smith's? The champagne Thursdays! Huge fan of their champagne cocktails - deeeeeelicious! Plus, it's mostly empty on Thursday nights, so you get the whole place to yourself. We did a bar night at Mr Smith's a couple days before our wedding. There was only bartender that night, but he did an impressive job of handling our crowd of 40+ people by himself.

Commented on 10/3/2014 12:00:00 AM

- Drinks were not as pricey as I thought it'd be ($8/shot of Jamison)

Commented on 9/28/2014 12:00:00 AM

I got a great tasting beverage from the bar and went downstairs. The dj was playing some good stuff and I stayed on the dance floor until the lights came on. There is also a bar downstairs so now when I go I'll  just go straight downstairs to kick it.

Commented on 9/24/2014 12:00:00 AM

$10 cover most nights after 11pm.

Commented on 9/22/2014 12:00:00 AM

Delicious drinks. No beers on tap so it's kinda classy. Kind of.

Commented on 9/21/2014 12:00:00 AM

Try to get on the guest list if you can but that isn't advertised or easy to find so it seems like another way they are trying to get over on you and make some money. If you have a party or celebration and looking for a quiet place with a dance floor for you and friends this is probably your place. If you are looking for a fun night out on the weekends with actual dancing and interacting with people. This place just isn't that right now. Maybe it used to be or maybe it will be but its fallen off a lot.

Commented on 9/19/2014 12:00:00 AM

The setup is great though and if this place had the crowd of an elbo room or even vertigo it would be so great. It really is location location location because Mr. Smiths is in the middle of nowhere on 7th street. No one is making the trip over here through the mysteries of 6th and market without a good reason. Most of the people that I did see here were there for large scale birthday events or bachelorette celebrations. For that it seems like this place is ideal. You get the dancefloor to yourself, you get to bring 20 people and its super cheap. If you are a regular club person though there is nothing about this place that will keep you here for more than an hour.

Commented on 9/15/2014 12:00:00 AM

Pros:

Commented on 9/6/2014 12:00:00 AM

Shoutout to Kevin who put all 30 of my friends on the guestlist (and the 8 people who flaked. Losers). I loved the no cover, the surprisingly reasonable table service (wait, actually I didn't pay for anything..), the attentive waitress and the multiple floors! Hard to keep track of where you're going after a few Jose Cuervos but all was groovy.

Commented on 8/20/2014 12:00:00 AM

Good drinks, good guys, good place to have a party.  If I didn't move away from San Francisco, I would have gone there a LOT more often.  

Commented on 8/17/2014 12:00:00 AM

I stumbled across Mr. Smith's on Yelp a couple months ago and was intrigued by the overall raving reviews. So, I contacted the GM Michael and he was absolutely amazing in helping me plan out the logistics for the night right down to the Pineapple Ciroc! He also initially had our table reserved on the main floor by the bar, but after seeing our  20+ guest list he moved us to the top floor (with it's own private bar) which was A-MAZING. Even though there were two other parties, it didn't feel crowded at all. At the end of the night, we basically had the top floor to ourselves...  

Commented on 8/16/2014 12:00:00 AM

Went last night, a Saturday. Awesome door people. Couldn't care less about the $10 cover, that's a bargain. The manager, Kevin, is a pro and I appreciate that; graciously let our party of six use one of the booths. Only $10 for a cocktail? Done! Coat check for $2? Genius! Spacious dance floor with a bar downstairs seals the deal.

Commented on 8/3/2014 12:00:00 AM

The manager told the girlfriend & I that we could return in a couple hours when the event was over to use our voucher, but we were both pretty pooped. So we went home & the voucher expired. 10 days later, we decided to try Mr Smith's again. Even expired, the Yelp Deal was still worth the $25 I paid for it.

Commented on 7/23/2014 12:00:00 AM

- If you're on the guestlist and get in before 11pm, no cover!

Commented on 7/7/2014 12:00:00 AM

Maybe because we came early (around 9 or 10pm) on a Friday night, there was no cover. Nice.

Commented on 6/28/2014 12:00:00 AM

- Bottle service was on point

Commented on 6/28/2014 12:00:00 AM

Street parking is available and I was able to park in the slightly shady but still fully lit alley next to the club. There are three floors but I only stayed on the dance floor. The third floor has VIP bottle service, second floor is the room you enter in and it also has bottle service and a bar. The bottom floor is the dance floor with a bar and a decent sized couch for anyone to sit on. The floor is pretty small and it can probably comfortably fit 40 people or so. It was pretty dead until midnight and if it wasnt for my group of 20, that floor would be so empty. I liked the feeling of just having my group of friends taking up the entire dance floor and just hanging with them. It is sort of hard to keep track of everyone when you are at a huge venue with everyone pushing. This place gave us room to move around and dance for funsies.

Commented on 6/6/2014 12:00:00 AM

2. I'm not wearing shoes. (Oh, you've been warned.)

Commented on 5/25/2014 12:00:00 AM

And our waitress (I forgot your name, sorry!!) was SO nice and accommodating for our group. My friend and I were DD that night, so we ordered non-alcoholic drinks. The bartender made us an original and DELICIOUS concoction of his own, free of charge since he respected us for not drinking that night!!

Commented on 5/21/2014 12:00:00 AM

I bought a round for each of my friends and a couple of drinks for myself and it definitely was not that pricy. Love their specialty drinks - especially that one with berries.

Commented on 5/10/2014 12:00:00 AM

The following reasons for 3 stars:

Commented on 4/26/2014 12:00:00 AM

After a little mild dancing, bending knees, swaying, waving arms, I felt there needed to be a little more energy in the room. Bring on the shuffle, or a meager copy of it. Suddenly a couple of guys started dancing with me, apparently desperate for action, and sorry I have learned I don't swing that way, but hey, the energy was definitely rising. After a few photographs the women in the room were intrigued enough to start dancing with them.

Commented on 4/4/2014 12:00:00 AM

It doesn't help that this place is next door to my 9-5.  It doesn't help that they have ridiculously awesome drink specials.  It doesn't help that the bartenders there are super cool, know it, but still, treat you like your a bad ass human being.  It doesn't help that the bartenders actual can adlib a drink with you just explaining your preferences.   It doesn't help that they have two TV's that always have ESPN on.  My wife no longer believes me when I say that I have hella extra work to do and won't be home until 8.

Commented on 3/31/2014 12:00:00 AM

Perhaps we came on an off night, but this place was really quiet when we visited last Friday (granted, it was still a bit early).  The GM was really nice about accommodating our large group on the guest list, and the bartenders were really friendly, so I could see if you had a really big party and wanted a chill location how this could be a good spot, but for a bunch of ladies looking to dance and get crazy, we ended up venturing elsewhere.

Commented on 2/23/2014 12:00:00 AM

The music is hip hop and top 40 but they didnt play the good ol school music like backstreet boys or britney spears that I hoped for haha. I requested a bunch of songs to the DJ and he made all my requests! So if you arent hearing the songs you want, you should totally request for them and the DJ will hoook you up. They played say aah from trey songz when it turned midnight for my birthday. Good times. The bartenders were also super nice and friendly. I dont know what blue shot I had but it literally did not taste like alcohol and it was probably the most tasty shot I have ever had. No chaser necessary!

Commented on 2/22/2014 12:00:00 AM

Bar/lounge on the first floor, dance floor in the basement. I don't really remember the music but I DO remember having a hell of a time. I think $10 cover if you're not on the guestlist/after 11pm. We got there a little after 11 but they still let the guestlist in -- thanks boys! Sweet bartenders, and I think my friend said $5 shots.

Commented on 2/2/2014 12:00:00 AM

Overall, good spot to come with friends to relax and lounge in, or get your dance on!

Commented on 1/27/2014 12:00:00 AM

I like the lounge area downstairs. It's cozy and when it's busy the waitress is totally on it. I recently went there for their Beaujolais night and it was pretty awesome.

Commented on 1/19/2014 12:00:00 AM

3. Small venue; can get pretty crowded

Commented on 1/19/2014 12:00:00 AM

They do have excellent specialty drinks, though.  None of that typical club drinks here (I'm talking about you, long islands and AMFs).

Commented on 1/15/2014 12:00:00 AM

If I'm at Mr. Smiths, it means 3 things.

Commented on 1/5/2014 12:00:00 AM

Decent music.

Commented on 12/23/2013 12:00:00 AM

it has 3 floors.. which is nice. you can frolic around floors to chase around your friends or spy on your friends if a couple suddenly disappears in your group.. :)

Commented on 12/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

Average bar, awful club.  

Commented on 11/25/2013 12:00:00 AM

My favorite thing about this place are the friendly bartenders. They were pleasant to talk to and very accommodating. My cousin and I were given free patron shots to start our night. I assure you, we were very happy.

Commented on 11/24/2013 12:00:00 AM

3. Easy to find parking along Mission St.

Commented on 11/20/2013 12:00:00 AM

I gotta say this place was a pleasant surprise! I loved the decor, the second floor was a super fun chill place to lounge and party. The music wasn't too loud we couldn't hear each other but not quiet enough you would avoid dancing:) drinks were yummy. I'm rating it a 4 because the basement dancefloor DJ played painfully bad music when I was there and because of it is be hesitant to go not knowing what the DJ has in store. But the music upstairs was great!

Commented on 11/17/2013 12:00:00 AM

an email asking if he could add me and about 25-30 of my friends on a guest list for the following saturday (2/21) Took some time typing up people's names but it was worth it to save some money on their cover fee.

Commented on 11/15/2013 12:00:00 AM

Been here years ago before social media really started happening for a birthday. Couple years later I come back for a Gogobot event and the place hasn't changed at all! I must say the bartenders and bouncers were really friendly. It's a great place to rent out for any event like birthdays. The upper balcony VIP deck. You can grab your drinks, lounge and look upon all the common folks ;)

Commented on 11/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

Had a good time, i reccomend going with a big group of friends!

Commented on 10/4/2013 12:00:00 AM

Fluke #1: I got one of their specialty cocktails with basil on the main level, but it was so sugary I couldn't drink it. I asked the bar at the basement level if they could re-make it or give me something else (even something that was cheaper) and the bartender refused saying I had already taken sips out of it so I'd still have to pay extra. UM..HELLO? I am sure my drink was 10+ and I am asking you to replace it with a vodka tonic because it's DISGUSTING?! Okay then, I just dumped it.

Commented on 9/25/2013 12:00:00 AM

Good drinks.

Commented on 9/24/2013 12:00:00 AM

Came here to celebrate a birthday. It was Friday night and the place was semi-dead. There where three reserved parties and the place was full of just the reservations. I liked the sexy dark decor and the different areas to dance in...the basement level is where the DJ is and the floor is a bit bigger.

Commented on 9/24/2013 12:00:00 AM

- Dance floor is in the basement and can get very crowded

Commented on 8/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

Over 1 full year ago, I bought the $25 for $50 Worth of Drinks at Mr Smith's Yelp Deal. I procrastinated so horribly that I didn't even attempt to use this voucher deal until its expiration date. As luck would have it, Mr Smith's was hosting a private event that evening.

Commented on 8/10/2013 12:00:00 AM

The music starting filling the main floor.  It actually got hard to hear conversation due to the music volume, though the playlist was right.  One thing I love about the friends we have, they dance. (Spin that record babe) Do do do do just dance!  The gathering upstairs grew in number, so the move downstairs to the dance floor was the correct.  Let's just say, the combination of the drink quality mixed with the DJ quality made for lively bunch movers and shakers.  Didn't matter who it was or if they had rhythm, they were movin!  

Commented on 8/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

Me: *holding up 3 fingers* 3 STARS! *shrugs* This place is ehh...OK.

Commented on 7/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

However, this place isn't an asian club.. so if you only do those.. this is not your spot where you can find cool nondouchey people.

Commented on 7/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

They don't have a full bar here..

Commented on 6/16/2013 12:00:00 AM

- Roomy venue with three floors

Commented on 6/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

On Thursday, champagne drinks are half off.

Commented on 6/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

Downstairs is where the mess begins.  It's a really hot and small (hence over-crowded) dance floor, complete with awful DJs.  The bar downstairs technically takes credit cards, but they'll always ask if you have cash to save their time.  The alcohol selection downstairs is pretty awful with only well drinks (cheap liquor).

Commented on 6/9/2013 12:00:00 AM

Attire is whatever you want it to be. Since it really isnt like one of those legit fancy clubs, you will see people in shorts and a shirt, jeans or dresses. Be comfortable and skip the heels!

Commented on 6/4/2013 12:00:00 AM

Well done, Mr. Smith's, well done indeed.

Commented on 5/27/2013 12:00:00 AM

Bar who wanted me to have a $500 minimum bar tab (although they'd keep track of who contributed to that tab), and was really shitty about emailing me back to schedule.

Commented on 5/19/2013 12:00:00 AM

They have a bar on the normal level as well as basement level. Good drinks, most priced at $10! They do make those mixologista type of drinks, just ask the bartender!

Commented on 5/13/2013 12:00:00 AM

1. Its some sort of law school function/semester ending/semester beginning/after party.

Commented on 5/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

Oh yeah. Dance floor. Live DJ - that's where the music was coming from. Another bar. Wallflowers on banquettes. Wait, what? Wallflowers? What is this town coming to?

Commented on 5/10/2013 12:00:00 AM

The conversation with the usual suspects was as good as ever, and I was told some time during the evening that there was a dance floor downstairs. Taken by curiosity, I went down for a peek.

Commented on 5/6/2013 12:00:00 AM

1) Definitely contact Kevin at

Commented on 5/4/2013 12:00:00 AM

It was one of the best nights I've had in SF. I can't wait to come back!!

Commented on 4/21/2013 12:00:00 AM

C'est la vie...

Commented on 4/1/2013 12:00:00 AM

Thanks Smith!

Commented on 3/31/2013 12:00:00 AM

I liked this place a lot. When you walk in you see the bar/lounge area which serves as a good chill out spot while enjoying your drink and company. If you feel like dancing you can just go downstairs and dance the night away. From what I remember it can get pretty hot down there when its packed so I found myself dancing in front of the large fan they placed in the corner. I felt like I was dancing in my own J.Lo-esque video with the fan blowing my hair everywhere.

Commented on 3/30/2013 12:00:00 AM

Against my will (only because my BFF was in town and his friends wanted to come here) I went to Mr. Smiths on a Saturday night. Look I'm all for the idea of "if the company is good you can be happy anywhere" but if I wanted to pay $8 for an overpriced drink and be oogled by D-bag's wearing blazers and rock and republic jeans I would drive out to Pleasanton.

Commented on 3/23/2013 12:00:00 AM

Big thumbs up for their happy hour specials!

Commented on 3/16/2013 12:00:00 AM

The perfect balance between a lounge and a place to dance!! No cover until 9pm and only $10 after.

Commented on 3/14/2013 12:00:00 AM

**TIPS**

Commented on 3/3/2013 12:00:00 AM

Quick tip:  Email the manager, Kevin, (email is on website) to get your name on the guestlist to avoid the $10 cover.

Commented on 3/2/2013 12:00:00 AM

As to Mr. Smith, he remains as elusive and enigmatic as Robin Masters; so wherever you are, good sir, cheers for making San Francisco night life a little bit more ebullient.

Commented on 2/12/2013 12:00:00 AM

3. You're going to need a new drink to replace the one I knocked out of your hand, because of all the times I fell into you before I decided to take my shoes off. I'm sorry, I just can't do heels! Here, have some champagne, its cheap.

Commented on 2/7/2013 12:00:00 AM

theres a special place in my heart for this spot.

Commented on 1/29/2013 12:00:00 AM

Right around the corner from my place and I couldn't be happier with Mr. Smith's as my go-to happy hour spot. The start off with a good impression with the new signage on the building and on the corner of Market and 7th. Their normal doorman is phenomenal, he always says hello when we pass by on our way home (occasionally talks us into a drink) and is a great welcoming presence. The happy hour prices are good for beer, well drinks, and Chandon champagne. Occasionally they'll bring in pizza during happy hour and the group is a nice mix of people.

Commented on 1/27/2013 12:00:00 AM

Cool place but it's borderline TL and charges a hefty cover ($20 at times). Two dancefloors. Easy to get drinks though, so I'd recommend it to those looking to dance the night away.

Commented on 1/23/2013 12:00:00 AM

I love how the bar area is separate from the main dance floor.  You can chill or you can go pack yourself into the basement and rock to the beat.  I especially love the fact that the bar doesn't make any drinks with too many ingredients.  Keep it simple, keep it classy.  Only gripe is that the place is a little small but I definitely have no problem with a cozy hang out spot.  Maybe the dance floor could be bigger though.  I'll definitely be back!

Commented on 1/17/2013 12:00:00 AM

Bar / Lounge that plays hip hop in San Francisco that still has a nonghetto crowd pluse 10000 points!!!! This place is the perfect blend between great lounge to hang out while having a dance floor on the bottom to really go crazy (if you're into that). Drinks here are extremely well made, I think Kevin (the store manager) made me a "special K" a mix of whiskey bourbon.. rich and tasty. Almost borderline speak easy status.. If you get in early there's no cover.. so i don't really see how ANYONE can say no.. unless you dont drink.. then youre just lame.

Commented on 1/7/2013 12:00:00 AM

as other have mentioned - it"s a good place if you want to hold a birthday party at a club. otherwise the vibe, the music, and the drinks are just a-ok.

Commented on 1/6/2013 12:00:00 AM

I've been meaning to go back. But, I can never find anyone to go with - I am not a person to trek all the way up to San Francisco to go to a bar alone. But, the cute bartenders who do their job well are reason enough to go back.

Commented on 1/2/2013 12:00:00 AM

Or OC people are even following me on vacation.

Commented on 12/10/2012 12:00:00 AM

+ground level bar, upstairs lounge, downstairs dance floor and more seating

Commented on 12/2/2012 12:00:00 AM

The dance floor in the basement had GREAT music ranging from old school to new rap beats. The crowd was a good mix, not too ghetto or conservative, everyone was dancing and overall it looked like everyone in the place was having fun. It reminded me of a club in Spain, where everyone is dancing so hard they are drenched with sweat, kinda gross...just don't be planning on getting glamor shots taken right after.

Commented on 11/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

This place is crackinnn'!

Commented on 11/15/2012 12:00:00 AM

While the space is pretty big it gets insanely crowded. Even with two floors the top floor gets bottlenecked around the bar very easily. Downstairs gets insanely warm when it is full (which happens a lot). I'm not a fan of places that charge cover but is usually a reasonable cover (less than $10).

Commented on 11/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Venue: Small and crowded. There's 3 floors. Top floor is reserved, then the main floor has a few tables and the bar. The dance floor is at the bottom.

Commented on 11/12/2012 12:00:00 AM

1. $10 cover if you are not on the guestlist

Commented on 11/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

Cool venue, great upstairs. They used to have awesome 5 dollar specialty  cocktails at happy hour, but I haven't seen that in a while. That was the only reason I wanted to come here, but that was such a steal it couldn't have lasted. only came here on hh, never weekend, but I might some day.

Commented on 9/18/2012 12:00:00 AM

Great interior, nice bar and bartenders and good happy hour. The owner and manager were in on the fun and made it a great experience for me. I like the multi-level environment of the place and the lay-out is easy to get around in. Didn't exactly "love" the music the dj had spinning downstairs but that obviously changes with the person on the turntables and the listener.

Commented on 9/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

Cool mixes by the DJ, some oldies and newbies... sometimes the song selection wasn't dance material but it's okay.

Commented on 9/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

Horrible DJ... It played songs that will not let u dance .. It would want u to sleep.. Never ever going here again!!

Commented on 8/19/2012 12:00:00 AM

Keep up the good work Mr. Smiths.

Commented on 8/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Lounge upstairs; dance floor downstairs.

Commented on 8/6/2012 12:00:00 AM

DO be aware of your surroundings in this neighborhood - it gets gross fast when you're wandering

Commented on 8/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

Nice place.

Commented on 7/25/2012 12:00:00 AM

- On Saturday night it was pretty packed and and while there were fans scattered around the ceilings, the dance floor was still very warm.

Commented on 7/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

Had my Birthday party here and Kevin the manager made everything go smoothly. I had bottle service for three tables which pretty much reserved the upstairs area. I had started to make arrangements a little more than a month before. I should have done it sooner so I didn't have to wait for a party that was before mine to leave.Karen helped me with all of the arrangements and was very quick to respond to emails and voice mail.

Commented on 7/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

F-THIS-PLACE!!!!

Commented on 6/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

- $10 cover. Even though I hate cover charges, 10 bucks is still pretty low compared to other shitty clubs who charge $20-40. Ridiculous.

Commented on 6/18/2012 12:00:00 AM

P.S. I read this week that San Franciscans are the worst tippers, which has to be a lie. I tipped the DJ on the way out, anyway.

Commented on 6/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

Had my birthday celebration here and I'd have to say they really take care of you. The bottle service is very reasonable compared to most places in SF.We had our own area upstairs and a little bar right next to us. Had no problems with the guest list. The music could have been a little better. I mostly like Hip Hop and Top 40. There are several different bars here and plenty of room downstairs to dance.

Commented on 6/14/2012 12:00:00 AM

Dance!

Commented on 6/9/2012 12:00:00 AM

We got there fairly early (maybe 10:30, 11ish)?  To my surprise, more than half the crowd was already drunk off their butts and slurring their words.  I knew the night was either going to end rather quickly, or feel really long.  It was the latter.

Commented on 5/29/2012 12:00:00 AM

The DJ was okay. Service seemed good.

Commented on 4/28/2012 12:00:00 AM

Mission accomplished.

Commented on 4/13/2012 12:00:00 AM

Aside from the lack of Patron, I had a good time here. The security outside was very friendly and didn't hold up the line. It took a while to get drinks from the bar, mostly due to the fact that these bartenders liked to dance while pouring the drinks. The dance floor is a bit small, but the music was good and I liked the crowd. Overall a very chill place to go!

Commented on 4/12/2012 12:00:00 AM

I had my birthday here and they really hooked us up. We were on the top floor in a private area and had two tables all to ourselves.  We had our own bartender, and she took care of us! When she noticed there was a couple who were all over each other at our table, she made them leave! I respect her gangster! The music was great! We all loved it and danced our assess off.  Very fun night!! Thanks to my bf for planning it!

Commented on 4/10/2012 12:00:00 AM

Chill atmosphere.

Commented on 4/10/2012 12:00:00 AM

Another minus.. don't park in the alley if you're looking for parking around this area.  My friend had his window of his car smashed.

Commented on 4/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

I LOVE how you would NEVER see this unassuming RAD bar! It's like in a total craptastic part of town and looks almost condemned from the outside! Inside is this AMAZING hip, bar with GREAT & pleasant mixologist! A lot of "start-up" kinda crowd and young and it's just a cool spot! They have a loft area with additional seating so although initially you might think it's small, but nope, once again fooled by appearances!

Commented on 4/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

First of all, I LOVE the interior of this place. It's got a sophisticated, upscale lounge feel. The service is excellent, and the bartender outfits match the decor/theme. There are bars on every floor, and the drinks are all top notch. Friday and Saturdays ($10 cover) are the most crowded nights. Very mixed crowd at Mr Smith's, but everyone's there to have a good time.

Commented on 3/21/2012 12:00:00 AM

We ordered the must have balsamic berry. Very tasty and light :) A gir's drink! I then ordered a Gimlet Sour.. not so tasty and it was a tad spicy. My friend ordered the other Gilmlet and it tasted straight up like grass. Called her cow for the night because she drank two. LOL

Commented on 3/21/2012 12:00:00 AM

+spacious/casual

Commented on 3/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

Other than that, two thumbs up for Mr. Smiths!

Commented on 3/20/2012 12:00:00 AM

I was here to wish a bon voyage to a Yelper who would be changing her "Location" entry the next day. The bar was full of Yelpers as it always is when I arrive. G&Ts cost $7 plus tip.

Commented on 3/17/2012 12:00:00 AM

I have been here 3 times, each time had at least 1 7th Street Gimlet and each time loved it as much as the first. Every other drink I've had there is really good, too. This is a true gem in my opinion.

Commented on 3/13/2012 12:00:00 AM

Bouncer is super friendly. Music is absolutely top notch. None of that techno stuff. The DJ played everything from vintage Madonna to more current hip hop and rap. Woman at coat check ($2/coat) was very friendly. Bar tender was nice and remembered my drink when I would come back (switched over to Jameson neat for $7 after the nasty G&T). The cover was $10, which for an Indiana boy is steep, but I've been told it's pretty decent for SF. We were there on a Saturday from about 11-1:30 and it was crowded the whole time, but not overwhelmingly so. I never had to wait for a drink even though it was packed in the basement. The unisex bathroom downstairs was convenient, but a little messy.

Commented on 3/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

The dance floor - average, but I think was more interested in getting drunk than we were into dancing.

Commented on 3/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Debauchery!

Commented on 3/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

This place was quite fun. I came here on a Saturday night with a group of guys and girls after pre-partying at home. It is conveniently located along the Muni metro. The cover was cheap ($10) and they were cool enough to let us finish our pre-party "water" outside before heading in.

Commented on 3/1/2012 12:00:00 AM

Good fun spot that's a mix between a lounge/bar ambiance and small dance/club floor on the basement level. Good Top 40 music re-mixed.

Commented on 2/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

BIG UPS for free guest list and NO line to get in. I guess nobody needs that pretentiousness on the side of 7th Street.

Commented on 2/27/2012 12:00:00 AM

All in all this is a pretty sexy place in a not so sexy area.  Also, if you come here for your birthday, they will hook you up...do it.

Commented on 2/25/2012 12:00:00 AM

Age range: Mid 20's - Early 30's.

Commented on 2/22/2012 12:00:00 AM

I really wanted to like Mr. Smith's better.  Maybe if I had come on a different night (I went with my friend to a dental school party).

Commented on 2/22/2012 12:00:00 AM

Cute!  so its down in a funky part of town and by funky I mean sketchy at best... from the street it looks like a hole in the wall and not so inviting but then you go thru the curtains, ta-da there is a nicely decorate bar/lounge/dance place.  The place to be is downstairs where the dj is spinning.  There is a long couch right next to a huge fan, perfect place to kick it.  The music was ok, top 40 so you got a combination of Katy Perry and Rebecca Black, not enough hip hop for me but was pleasantly surprised with some reggaeton.  I had a great time dancing and was grateful there was a restroom downstairs!

Commented on 2/19/2012 12:00:00 AM

we were there for a bachelorette party--which at the end turned out to be a great time!!

Commented on 2/11/2012 12:00:00 AM

I don't remember if the dj was any good but I do remember telling him he was doing a great job.

Commented on 2/5/2012 12:00:00 AM

What a disappointment...It totally restricts me off half off the normal drinks that me and my friends get at other places.. WHY?!?!?!

Commented on 1/24/2012 12:00:00 AM

I came to Mr. Smith's for a friend's birthday party. It was nice to venture out of my normal "going out" area for a change and to check out something new! The bar was crowded, but it wasn't too difficult to get a drink. I spent most of my time at a table upstairs and I didn't get a chance to check out the downstairs area--maybe next time. The music was pretty good, although nothing that blew me away--I's say it was  standard. I was a little annoyed that for a place so big there were only 2 stalls in the women's bathroom. When I got there, there were 4 women waiting...which was  annoying, but also not too uncommon for an SF bar, so not that big of a deal. The drinks were fine, although don't come here expecting to get your Jager bomb on. There is a sign that says absolutely NO BOMB DRINKS. That, of course, disappointed my boyfriend who loooooves to drink Jager bombs, although I'm sure he is appreciative of it today with his lack of hangover!

Commented on 1/22/2012 12:00:00 AM

This was the first stop on out hummerlicious outing to celebrate dual 25th birthays. Its aesthlticaly pleasing and a good place to meet people. The music was up to our group's liking but the DJ wasn't taking requests at the time we wanted to hear something. Bathrooms are fine. Downstairs gets a little warm. Nothing especially stood out, but its one of those good standerd places.

Commented on 1/16/2012 12:00:00 AM

I have to say I'm probably biased a bit towards this place, seeing as the first time I went there, they had a ton of (really good) free food laying around.  It seems whenever one of their staff celebrates a birthday, they go all out.  I enjoyed some very good cheesecake on their behalf (fair warning though, don't mix that with Anchor Steam... found that out the hard way).

Commented on 1/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

*shake your booty*

Commented on 1/3/2012 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's is a very small venue and it's shaped like a rectangle.  This makes it very difficult to move from the front to the back of the venue.  I'm not a huge fan of this set up because it's super hard to hold 5 drinks and walk through a crowd.  I've had to dry clean many shirts and blazers due to this set up!  Geez, I just went off on a tangent . . . wtf, it's my 100th review . . . give me a break!

Commented on 12/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

Drinks I can't vouch for cuz I only got a beer, my friend got a watered down Cosmo. They don't make anything Long Island Tea related cuz I guess they too fancy for that.

Commented on 12/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

GUESTLIST: The whole process of getting it organized was super smooth. Just call them up and email them your list of folks.

Commented on 12/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

Friendly bouncers, cute bartenders, nice decor, bottom floor for dancing.

Commented on 12/10/2011 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smiths which had no minimum bar tab, allowed us to set up shop up front, and were the nicest people in the world.  

Commented on 12/2/2011 12:00:00 AM

I came here last Friday (3/4), and I love it! Free pizzas, happy hour til 8pm, great bartenders, especially Kevin, who was able to make my drinks right away, except for when he said he needs to use the bathroom. Lol... I would definitely come here again for happy hour.

Commented on 11/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

I came out on Friday cause I was feeling ancy and nervous expecting to stay only for a little bit since I had practice early the next morning, instead I stayed till close.  I guess time flys when you're in good company.

Commented on 11/20/2011 12:00:00 AM

Now I suppose that you could take my review with a grain of salt since I only went to Mr. Smith's that one nite, but the group of regulars (including the totally groovy Kirk B.) that I joined to visit this place have been raving about Mr. Smith's for months.  So kids that have been living in the Lovely City by the Bay for a few years can't be wrong, right?  Now, Mr. Smith's is located on the border of SOMA and the Tenderloin so don't expect some made-up uber-trendy facade but once inside BAM!  It's like nite and day.  The decor was interesting and classy that was a mix of swanky and chill.  Very nice.  They also had mood lighting and candles which I really liked too.  It wasn't particularly crowded but it was definitely a happening place.  My friends were clearly well-liked customers who received a friendly hello and nice chatter from one of the bartenders who came to our little nook to greet us.  Now this bartender was awesome.  He had heard that I was Bolivian so he was excited to tell me about a Bolivian restaurant in The City that he really enjoyed.  He also took the time to get to know a little bit about me.  Hey perhaps it's just part of the job of being a good bartender but it was greatly appreciated.  And since I wasn't there the following week because I had to jet set back to Texas, he asked about me.  I guess it just goes to show you just how friendly the staff is at Smith's.   Clearly, I'm going to hell since I don't remember his name but I'll get it the next time.  Now, it is always my practice to explore the layout of a new bar, lounge or club that I grace with my presence in order to see where the good spots are for scoping the crowd or getting space to dance but I didn't this time.  I was way too enchanted by my conversation partners.  But I will next time.  I hear there is a dance floor in the basement and another floor to lounge.  

Commented on 11/15/2011 12:00:00 AM

I have been to Mr. smiths four times already, and I always had a great time. This club is excellent for a crowd that wants to have a balance of lounge and dance floor. Be sure to ask  a female bartender for a secret drink called, "the Emmerson." You wont regret it!

Commented on 11/9/2011 12:00:00 AM

Cons:

Commented on 11/5/2011 12:00:00 AM

$10 cover at 1:00am.  Booooooh.

Commented on 10/30/2011 12:00:00 AM

This was the most amazing bar to wander into this Friday. The atmosphere, music, booths, happy hour, and free pizza for everyone was a really great experience. Definitely want to go back.

Commented on 10/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

The staff seems really nice, and the hooks under the bar are awesome too! I will definitely go back.

Commented on 10/27/2011 12:00:00 AM

Some bum on the street told my friends this place was free and packed with girls. It wasn't quite free (10 dollar cover) but it was packed with girls, I guess.

Commented on 10/22/2011 12:00:00 AM

Well, this concludes my 100th review.  Do I get a pat on the back or what?  Thanks for checking out my reviews and stay tuned for more!

Commented on 10/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

On weekends, they open up the basement for dancing. Mostly top 40s and techno (sometimes undanceable). The dance floor is, unfortunately, the reason this is not a 5-star review. The upper floors of Mr Smith's are classy and gorgeous, but the dance floor could really use some work. Poor ventilation, dingy basement, and more disgusting/filthy than the average dance floor. Ewww.

Commented on 10/18/2011 12:00:00 AM

Other than all that, I suggest you reserve a booth or VIP spot. If you are not claustrophobic like I am or 6' tall in heels like my friend is, I don't suggest picking this place as a club to dance all night to. Just a nice place to go and chill and drink. Not rage and dance IMO.

Commented on 10/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

When planning my going away party, I considered my options:

Commented on 10/16/2011 12:00:00 AM

Also shoutout to the bouncer who told me to watch my step as I left or rather, stumbled out.

Commented on 10/9/2011 12:00:00 AM

2. Big venue and nice decor

Commented on 10/7/2011 12:00:00 AM

Tiffany L: How many stars on Yelp?

Commented on 10/5/2011 12:00:00 AM

I came here for to celebrate my birthday and contacted Kevin from Maximum Productions to get my group of friends on the guestlist. He was SOOO accommodating because I had to keep adding people to the list. I had about 20 people on his list in the end and we were all able to get in without a problem. Entrance is free if you are on the guestlist and get in before 11pm.

Commented on 9/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

Went to the bathroom and saw a baby roach. Ewwww

Commented on 9/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

There are two gripes I have about this place..I was very disappointed to find out that this bar does not serve any "bomb" drinks or Long Islands. My favorite drink is a Long Island and it is the one drink I always drink when I'm out. Lastly, beware! It is absolutely not safe to walk around this area in the late hours of the night.

Commented on 9/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

Bar that wanted me to have a $250 minimum bar tab but I had to charge everything on my card and then ask my friends for money for it.  

Commented on 9/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

The staff was great- from the bartenders to the service people. I met one guy, Mark, who was awesome to chat with. Thanks for the conversation- don't forget your grecco wrestling roots. Also, big thanks & props goes out to the coat check girl- I really appreciated the hook up on storing my jacket while I got sweaty on the dance floor.

Commented on 9/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

This is my favorite bar/lounge in San Francisco. I didn't get to say goodbye before leaving CA! :(

Commented on 9/15/2011 12:00:00 AM

Great place for people who like to dance and ones who just like to chill!

Commented on 9/14/2011 12:00:00 AM

Last Saturday was my 2nd time here. The bartenders are slow but there's a good reason.. because the cocktails are carefully made w/ love. LOL They use strainers, pipettes, hot sauce, egg whites, mint etc. They are served in tiny cups worth $10. The bartenders are so concentrated on making the drinks that when you shout at them they don't respond. LOL I don't take offense but it's rare.

Commented on 9/13/2011 12:00:00 AM

Sweet ass place!!  Very Chill spot. No ghetto people . The music was pretty sweet. It can get pretty hot downstairs at the dance floor.  Loved the upstairs VIP lots of privacy. I  HATED the Location. But overall great experience. The owner himself came to our table and introduced himself and who our waitress was going to be. She was very nice.

Commented on 9/12/2011 12:00:00 AM

Free pizza and well priced drinks.  Friendly bartenders and good amount of comfortable seating.  Been here several times, but didn't know they had a downstairs that opens up later in the night with music, dance floor, bar and all!  Great place to grab a drink.

Commented on 8/31/2011 12:00:00 AM

Update: So my friend and I returned for a 2nd, regular night- an experience which clearly lifts Mr. Smith's to 5 stars status!

Commented on 8/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

...

Commented on 8/22/2011 12:00:00 AM

- Free guestlist before 11pm if you email Kevin.  Otherwise, it's $10s after 11pm or if you're not on the guestlist.

Commented on 8/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

Good lounge in SF. Went on a Saturday night, as long as you're guest list it's free before 11PM. Floor level is a bar; it's pretty crowded. The party begins downstairs though where there's a DJ and dance floor. DJ was okay, played some weird music but general atmosphere was good. Also very well ventilated.

Commented on 8/18/2011 12:00:00 AM

So what's the heterosexual San Francisco nightlife desperado to do?  As I see it, he has just three remaining options.  

Commented on 8/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

I'm surprised this place had a cover... I expect more when people ask for money upfront. The layout isn't conducive to large crowds, especially with all the different levels - little platform stages for their sofas/VIP areas, stairs going down & up... I'm sure soon enough some drunk fool will have a really bad accident.

Commented on 8/16/2011 12:00:00 AM

News articles of clubbers perishing in over-crowded basement infernos crept to mind. I started mentally counting the number of people also occupying my 4ft x 4ft of space and calculating an appx. square footage of the basement... Definitely past max occupancy! I told my friends I had to leave and came out the front door gasping.

Commented on 8/7/2011 12:00:00 AM

I don't think there's a dress code, but people dressed up here.

Commented on 8/4/2011 12:00:00 AM

Most recently, some close friends/colleagues (you know who you are!) threw a bash for Michael E and I here, in honor of our 4 years working at Yelp. Wow. Wow. And wow. I couldn't imagine a better setting.

Commented on 8/3/2011 12:00:00 AM

I wouldn't mind coming back here if some friends suggested this place, but I would rather go to some other places like Cantina or Eve Lounge.

Commented on 8/3/2011 12:00:00 AM

Good times, Mr Smith.  Thank you.

Commented on 7/27/2011 12:00:00 AM

Plus One star:  Decently priced drinks.  Does this need an explanation?  If you can get drunk by not spending over $100.00, that's a bargain!

Commented on 7/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

This place is more of a 3.5.

Commented on 7/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

- No line usually, the bouncers don't seem to screen by gender nor do they make you wait outside forever like some clubs.

Commented on 7/20/2011 12:00:00 AM

I've been here a few times, and it's really hit or miss. Sometimes its packed, but it can be really empty too..

Commented on 7/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

After a great dinner, my girls and I went dancing at Mr. Smiths this past Sat. Upon entering, we wandered around looking for a spot to shake our groove things. We finally found stairs leading down to the basement dancefloor.

Commented on 7/14/2011 12:00:00 AM

Max, Kevin and the rest of the crew here are super to work with, and just all-around good people who like to have a good time as much as their guests do.

Commented on 7/13/2011 12:00:00 AM

It was still pretty empty when I arrived, but it was a friend's birthday and some of his other friends were already gathered in the upstairs loft section.  Turned out to be a super fun night people watching and making very inappropriate generalizations about everything.  We got the table service and the staff was super friendly and great with keeping all our mixers, juices and ice fresh and refilled.

Commented on 7/5/2011 12:00:00 AM

Plus One star:  Quick serviced bartenders.  One thing I can't stand is a bartender that takes 15 minutes to make two drinks and a beer.  

Commented on 6/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

Overall great place. Not the cheapest but pretty nice with a nice crowd and music.

Commented on 6/9/2011 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smiths is a classy and intimate bar/lounge located in downtown San Francisco. If you're looking for an upscale, sophisticated bar with a mature crowd...Mr. Smiths is the spot. The dance floor is located downstairs and is even equipped with its own bar!

Commented on 6/6/2011 12:00:00 AM

i tried to order two drinks--Purple Hooter and a Buttery Nipple and they could not make them! ;-( Dissapointed--they claimed they didnt have the ingredients to make them....

Commented on 5/29/2011 12:00:00 AM

Upstairs feels like a brothel (nothing wrong with that). The chaise lounges are very Betty Draper-esque, but it's a really great spot for a private party.

Commented on 5/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

I wished the dance floor was a little bigger or maybe that there was a dj on the middle floor. I just felt like no one was dancing except in the basement and I wanted everyone - everyone - to dance. I just wanted to be surrounded by dancing people.

Commented on 5/24/2011 12:00:00 AM

If I had multiple personalities, I think this would be my ideal bar. The totally sketchy, misanthropic me would love the walk over and standing around the neighborhood. The player, hipster me would totally go for the downstairs dancefloor. The swanky, suave me would love the couches and classy saloon feel of the main floor and small upstairs. (The cheap-ass me would love the extended happy hour from 5-8 with $3 beer and $3 well drinks.)

Commented on 5/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

Went there on a Thursday night. The cocktails were half-price. The music was OK, not super impressed tho, probably because it was a Thursday night.

Commented on 5/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

Hung out at Mr. Smiths this past weekend on Friday and Saturday.  I was introduced to a tasty new drink; a Fernet (though my friend claims it tastes like scope)

Commented on 5/22/2011 12:00:00 AM

The wallpaper here is almost as cool as Club Waziema's. Almost.

Commented on 5/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

I've got mixed impressions of this bar. On the plus side their cocktails on the main bar are very well crafted and really really good. They also have a lower level where a DJ spins and you can dance the night away. But on the negative side they have a cover so if I were to come just for drinks that might turn me off. And the bar in the lower level just serves standard drinks and not like the bar upstairs. It's a fun place and I had a good time but there is definitely room for improvement.

Commented on 5/7/2011 12:00:00 AM

I liked this place because it's not that popular, hence it's not very crowded. The atmosphere is cool. The lighting is dark and the walls are decorated well. I went on a Saturday like at 10:00PM--there wasn't even a line. The place seemed pretty diverse, maybe a little more Asian, but nonetheless diverse.

Commented on 4/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

Minus one star:  The venue was meant to be a bar, not a lounge.  As I complained earlier, it's hard to move around when it's super crowded.  People are stepping over everyone and spilling drinks on themselves.  

Commented on 4/27/2011 12:00:00 AM

Went here for my bday and had a nice time.  Had a table reserved with bottle service, which really improved the overall experience since the upstairs where the reserved tables are located is a nice chill area separated from the rest of the crowd.  The dance floor area downstairs was pretty cool, although the crowd was kind of weak that night.  The staff were really friendly to me and all individually wished me a happy bday, so that was a nice touch.  I would definitely come back here again.

Commented on 4/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

I stayed mainly on the first floor, but the upper level looked like a great little place to host a birthday or the like, and the downstairs clubbing area had some fun music.

Commented on 4/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

Not a bad spot for dancing and good drinks.

Commented on 4/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

I threw a surprise birthday party here last night, and everyone I dealt with was absolutely amazing. I chose Mr. Smith's based on Yelp reviews alone, sight unseen, and it worked out great. They reserved the mezzanine level for us at no charge or minimum bottle service (probably because it was on a Thursday night) and had a dedicated bartender serving us all night (Lana, you rock!). Everyone was friendly and did a great job of making us feel welcome and happy. They don't serve food but let us order in pizzas. Everyone liked that it was close to BART and the freeway, and there was plenty of parking in the alley next to the bar. It wasn't crowded, probably because the dance floor on the bottom level wasn't open, and the people we did run into on the main floor were all cool. The mezzanine had comfy couches and chairs and easily fit the 30+ people who showed up. We had an awesome time and will definitely be back.

Commented on 4/17/2011 12:00:00 AM

This place is refreshing, a place I'll have to come back for happy hours (which btw is one of the few places with happy hours that close later for us people who work in the south bay).

Commented on 4/14/2011 12:00:00 AM

This is the bar to go if you want to chill and have quality bartenders.

Commented on 4/14/2011 12:00:00 AM

This was not all I had hoped for. I love real cocktails. I only go to cocktail lounges because mixed drinks are uncreative and boring as dirt. So, I was very excited to find this place on Yelp when searching for unique cocktail bars. The menu for this place looked unique and exciting so i decided to bring my 3 friends here. Because of the name and the ambiance from the images, I naturally figured this would be a retro style 40's style lounge with cool music that matched the decor. VERY VERY WRONG! After driving around for ten minutes trying to find this place, we finally saw the horribly placed dark banner off the side of the building next to a creepy alley that reeked of urine, feces, and every other body fluid known to man. If we were not in a group I would had never gotten out of the car. I know this area well & you do not walk in this area without a minimum of 3 people and one of those people needs to be well versed in kicking ass (yes, we had a martial arts master with us. no joke). We intentionally got there early so to escape the inevitable slutty girls, douchey guys, and just overall annoying humans that matriculate to anywhere that serves alcohol. The decor was as I had hopes 9classy, vintage, and chic), but the music was god awful! It did not go with anything the club was.....it was loud, obnoxious, and basey and the same shitty music that you can find at any club. You could not sit and lounge and talk to friends comfortably, which was our point of coming here. They music was so loud and obtrusive that it made no sense to have that in that type of atmosphere at all. The creepy dank dark club a staircase below, that made sense to have shitty music in, but not upstairs where the atmosphere and vibe didn't call for it. Our cocktails were great! The service was great! But the music ruined the entire experience. No reason to return because of that. Too many other options and in the same general area too.

Commented on 4/14/2011 12:00:00 AM

and by beaten path i mean that its straight up in a sketch part of civic ctr/Loin area. {ain't nothin tender about it...}.

Commented on 4/13/2011 12:00:00 AM

I'm old, I don't do the nightlife thing anymore.  Mr. Smith's is probably my first outing in months and so it was nice that I completely enjoyed the experience.  

Commented on 4/12/2011 12:00:00 AM

I've never been downstairs to the club, mind you, only to the ground floor and the floor upstairs, so this is a review just for those. And I've always been there for very specific parties, but I think I know the place well enough by now to be able to judge.

Commented on 4/11/2011 12:00:00 AM

The balsamic berry is literally the best drink I have ever had.  If I can ever afford it, I will fill my bathtub with this stuff and bathe in its sticky sweet tartness.

Commented on 4/9/2011 12:00:00 AM

Mr Smith's staff really made the night fantastic. We arrived early (9:30ish) to try some specialty cocktails on the menu and happy we did. The bartenders were nice and recommend any drink with Bulleit Rye; Sazerac, Manhattan (ask to have it made the way they like it) Marmalades Sours (?) one of their own specialty drinks. The bar/lounge area is small and narrow but classy. The DJ downstairs also made sure we were out on the floor dancing with top 40s, a little Bay Area classics, and hip hop. He stayed away from 80's which I was personally grateful for. As other reviewers mentioned the dance floor isn't big and the ceilings are low but the crowd was really good. No pushing or too much booty bumping with strangers. Will have to go back if only for happy hour.

Commented on 4/5/2011 12:00:00 AM

bartendars ~ super nice! best service i've had at a club/bar.

Commented on 4/4/2011 12:00:00 AM

The music was GREAT! We danced with "Reality Bites - 711 scene" abandon. While doing the booty rub dance with my friend, I noticed that I could not see an Exit sign.

Commented on 4/4/2011 12:00:00 AM

1. Great drinks! Creative cocktails:  Some made with basil, habanero peppers, balsamic vinegar, etc.  The Citreon Lemonade is my fave.

Commented on 3/29/2011 12:00:00 AM

2. Chill bar/lounge area upstairs w/ dance floor and another bar downstairs

Commented on 3/27/2011 12:00:00 AM

At brunch the next morning, my friends found out exactly why I had taken off. "You're officially old," they quietly responded.

Commented on 3/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

Not to mention the dazzling eye candy we met there. Thanks to Mr. Smith's bumpin' atmostphere and few twirls of the arm, this smiling girl is a skeptic-turned-Yelper.

Commented on 3/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

It gets ridiculously HOT at the basement dance floor. And I despise Mr. Smith's for that! However, I see people have good times here, and the bartenders are indeed friendly. Just watch your step on their dark sticky stairs.

Commented on 3/21/2011 12:00:00 AM

one of the better lounges/bars i've been to in SF that had a "younger" vibe. usually places i've been to were stuffier.

Commented on 3/20/2011 12:00:00 AM

The DJ - Omar Herrera, according to their website - was so bleh! Like one of the other reviews declared, it seemed this DJ couldn't make up his mind. Music from across the board - and across the ages - but not many songs from this age. Boo! I can usually dance to anything, but not when the music is lulling me asleep! I wish some DJ's would pay attention the crowd...

Commented on 3/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

Bad overpriced drinks, rude bartender, creepy and skanky crowd, dead at midnight, bad music. PASS.

Commented on 3/19/2011 12:00:00 AM

I really liked that one of the doormen reminded me to make sure everyone in our group got their card from the bar before leaving.

Commented on 3/14/2011 12:00:00 AM

Last time I was here I hadn't discovered the downstairs section which took it back to the old school.  I will definitely be back and next time in better dancing shoes.

Commented on 3/10/2011 12:00:00 AM

1. Good music - DJ played Lady Gaga & Journey!

Commented on 3/10/2011 12:00:00 AM

but that just makes it all the more elusive, and once you step through the magic doors (ie smoking area) and black curtains, you are welcomed by a warm, fully STOCKED bar specializing in top notch bartenders & tasty cocktails with all of the accouterments. there are up & down stairs spaces offering a variety of vibes to pick up on. really good for groups & parties. no cover on Friday nights.

Commented on 3/7/2011 12:00:00 AM

The bartenders are friendly, good looking, and take their jobs seriously, whilst still enjoying themselves.

Commented on 3/2/2011 12:00:00 AM

Minus one star for the disgusting bathroom.

Commented on 2/28/2011 12:00:00 AM

other than that.. what's the big deal about this place?? Mr. Smith you don't come popping into my mind when I want an event to happen somewhere...You haven't got me there yet and I don't know if you ever will!

Commented on 2/26/2011 12:00:00 AM

The service is always great, the music is not bad, one problem: The weird stationary bar stools that are either made for really big people, or to keep you far from the person sitting on the next stool. Clearly this isn't a really big deal to me, but it is strange nevertheless. Another weird thing is, once I came here fairly early, and had 2 gimlets, and left. It was not very busy inside, but there was a ridiculous line outside...it was chilly and foggy and that was not necessary guys. Glad I made it in before the line!

Commented on 2/25/2011 12:00:00 AM

Pros

Commented on 2/23/2011 12:00:00 AM

easy entrance, fun crowd, good music -- not too loud, enough fans thus not too hot downstairs, standard drinks, and of course the best part of any night is the great accompanying friends

Commented on 2/20/2011 12:00:00 AM

Yummy drinks, good happy hour, attentive staff, and above average amount of seating.

Commented on 2/13/2011 12:00:00 AM

I went to Mr. Smith's the first time last Thursday. It instantly made my SF favorite's list. The staff is enthusiastic and so are the owners, who don't seem to mind taking a towel in their hand to clean up after customers who spilled a drink. Everyone in the staff was attentive to the needs of the people and the bartenders gave of the impression like they really love what they are doing. A big shout out for the best Apple Martinis in town!  And I won't even start about the location, which stroke me as perfect. The 5th star is reserved for a regular night- and I'm sure Mr. Smith's won't disappoint on that either!

Commented on 2/12/2011 12:00:00 AM

And they keep the bowls of white cheddar popcorn coming.  Yum.

Commented on 2/12/2011 12:00:00 AM

Just kidding, guys! No but really, I don't remember a lot. I celebrated my birthday here and had a memorable time. Well, everyone else did. Like I said, I don't remember much.

Commented on 2/8/2011 12:00:00 AM

What club doesn't serve Patron?!? I was sad I had to start off the night without my traditional shot of Patron with my girls.

Commented on 1/30/2011 12:00:00 AM

I went to Mr. Smith's last night for the first time and had a great time...SOBER!

Commented on 1/10/2011 12:00:00 AM

What a surprise! Went here the other night and had a blast! The dance floor was super packed and the drinks were hella strong!

Commented on 1/9/2011 12:00:00 AM

We danced a lot and drank a lot. All of the dancing kept me unfortunately sober (or the drinks were too weak) but it was okay because it was fun even in the less drunk state. The crowd was pretty cool with random people popping in to dance with us except those bitches that wouldn't dance with me (not that I am bitter or anything lol).

Commented on 1/1/2011 12:00:00 AM

Over the summer, I ventured here for a friend's bachelorette party. Due to work obligations, I couldn't join the gaggle of women in their excitement throughout the day, so I opted to meet them at their final stop here at Mr. Smiths. Thinking I had timed my arrival within a 10 minute window, I got there thinking the crew might already be there. They weren't, so I waited at the bar. There were two adorable bartenders and a bus boy, and within a few minutes, one of the bartenders did his bartenderly duty and kept me company. He even snuck me a couple free shots. I always enjoy bartenders who actually pay attention to their patrons and make them feel welcome. Makes me want to come back.

Commented on 1/1/2011 12:00:00 AM

Minus one star:  It's extremely dark in there.  The lack of light with the combination of alcohol will make your beer goggles extremely dense.  Don't say I didn't warn you went you wake up to someone that you don't recognize!

Commented on 12/27/2010 12:00:00 AM

I've been to some awesome paries at Mr. Smith's in my brief time in San Francisco.

Commented on 12/25/2010 12:00:00 AM

Secondly, tip these bartenders well. They do what I call actual bar tending and make honest to god drinks, martinis, and pour shots like how they should at every establishment. I like the 5 second rule for pouring shots, but i think this place does the 6 second pour and I can't complain about that at all. Real bar tending also means that they really juice the limes, lemons, and what ever else you order. This place is not about efficiency but about style, grace, and making a damn amazing cocktail.

Commented on 12/21/2010 12:00:00 AM

If David is working the bar, you need to order a basil vodka gimlet. Or the spicy basil one. Or just a regular one, they're all good. Dude is a gimletologist.

Commented on 12/15/2010 12:00:00 AM

- They seem to play a mix of top 40/techno and the techno is a bit hard to dance to.

Commented on 12/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

I had the best time with my girls! Make sure to go at about 10...that's when the crowd really starts going. And other reviews were right about staying off the streets its kind of a rough area. Other than that..... have an aweeeesome time.

Commented on 11/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

It would have been a fun place but for unexplainable reason it was quiet and dull on this Saturday night. It was approaching midnight and NO ONE was dancing! The crowd on the main floor was filled with professionals (buttoned shirt, tucked into pants-kind-of-look) who seemed like they just came back from a long day of work at Yahoo (not that there is anything wrong with that!).

Commented on 11/29/2010 12:00:00 AM

OK place...... terrible location. However, if you do go here try the SWEET HEAT. I may swing by here in the future just to grab this awesomely unique drink but after I grab my drink I will head on out to someplace else.

Commented on 11/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

Almost.

Commented on 11/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Jesus Christmas.  This place is three-levels and "classy" as it were... has great space and great places to lounge, but never have I seen a bunch of douchebags-to-be at once.  

Commented on 11/18/2010 12:00:00 AM

For an event that started at 7:30, the free booze was killed off by 9 pm, and what was left was a motley crowd of wasted 9-5ers with Peter Pan complexes. It was fantastic.

Commented on 11/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

I really don't remember a lot from this night so 4 stars it is!

Commented on 10/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

If I lived in SF....I would be here often.  Lucky for them I don't.

Commented on 10/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

- 3 floors for people to wander up and down around (with a bar on each floor)

Commented on 10/21/2010 12:00:00 AM

Cool spot - the downstairs was kinda grunge and the upstairs has a cool renaissancey feel. I'm not sure if i was just there on an off-night or if thats just how it is but there were about 20 people in the whole spot. Which actually probably made my experience much more enjoyable as the bouncers and manager and bartenders were all super friendly and nice.  Not to mention the DJ was down with all our requests! Thanks man! haha

Commented on 10/18/2010 12:00:00 AM

I was so excited to go out dancing Sat. night and sadly, I was left utterly disappointed! I brought an out of town friend here and I'm sorry I did.

Commented on 10/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

I finally made it to Elite 08!  Life cannot get better!

Commented on 10/8/2010 12:00:00 AM

First, i love the setting. Plus, I love it even more because the bartenders dress to the theme. This bar aims for the demographic of people who wants a good drink and not just a drink that tastes horrible and will get you hammered in seconds. Hence why their happy hour rules are no long island teas and car bombs.

Commented on 9/27/2010 12:00:00 AM

That said, I feel like their prices for scotch are rather high. The sampling itself was a great deal-- $10 for four heavy fingers, almost full pours, of scotch. In addition to the sampling, my intrepid and eager companion and I tried an Oban and a Talisker, and those two alone rang up to $27. Ouch! Prices aren't posted, so what you pay may be a crapshoot. From what I remember of my previous visit, prices on their cocktails are much more reasonable, and the cocktails themselves were pretty good. Furthermore, I think that the bartenders aren't really interested in you once you're done drinking. It slipped my mind that I had an open tab, and I wasn't able to grab the bartender's attention to close it out. Only my companion was able to garner his attention.

Commented on 9/13/2010 12:00:00 AM

Everytime i have been here, the music downstairs pretty much sucks.. it's a mix of hip hop and alternative and oldies.. but they seriously need to get a better DJ.. maybe if i were SUPER DRUNK??

Commented on 9/7/2010 12:00:00 AM

I was locking my bike up to a fence near the entrance, and this skeezy tenderloin type went over to my bike and started staring at it for a few minutes and I decided that I should try to find another place to lock it. I was looking around and couldn't find anywhere, and without asking him, the manager (or owner) graciously moved some trash bins away from a pole right up front and scared away the prospective bike thief, and then promised to have the door guy watch my bike. How nice!

Commented on 9/5/2010 12:00:00 AM

The Cloud Nine space was great, but after the renovations, Mr. Smith's is downright amazing!  You get the best of everything; great decor, fun staff, cool location, and awesome music.  Mr. Smith's is the first and last place I need whenever planning a night out, whether for five or twenty-five of my closest friends.

Commented on 9/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

I felt pretty impartial about the place.  It's a cool place to go hang out with a few friends and there was a good crowd there, but I'm not really feelin the $10 cover to get in that place.  But if my friends suggest to go here, then I probably wouldn't decline.

Commented on 8/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

OMFG!  Bella those fuckin shoes were off da hook!  Grace, you made my chonies all wet! Luis you are such a tease!

Commented on 8/29/2010 12:00:00 AM

This place is an actual cocktail bar, so none of that AMF or Long Island stuff flies here.  They even have a little printed note that says this.  Anyways, the drinks were nice and balanced, nothing too hard or too watered down.  The music here was surprisingly good too.

Commented on 8/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

also a downstairs dancing area equipped with another bar, decent dj (less madonna, more hip hop please), more seating, and poles to dance around. I'm pretty sure I made an ass of myself down there but had a wonderful time doing so.

Commented on 8/21/2010 12:00:00 AM

Had a great time!!! Got bottle service and our waitress was really friendly! Had a great time with my friends!

Commented on 8/7/2010 12:00:00 AM

we came here for a friend's bday and they gave her a reserved table for free with no requirement of buying bottles.

Commented on 7/27/2010 12:00:00 AM

Some caveats, I was there for a DYL happy hour and we got treated real well by the bouncers and the staff for sure, and for that reason we were drinking pretty cheaply for the early part of the evening. The place does state it has a dress code, but again I think we might have skirted that one. I will certainly have to see what the score is if I go here on a night when I'm not part of the yelp gliteratti.

Commented on 7/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

Mr Smith's is a destination.  The journey may be sketchy, but the environment inside makes up for it.

Commented on 7/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

Went to Mr. Smith's last Saturday - Mr & I had a great time after our bad bartender experience @ Roe last Friday compare to Mr. Smith's bartender encounter were awesome. Basement bartenders were friendly & fast - big TIPS for u! And it was packed that nite too.  Mr. Smith's earns another plus in my bar book in SF. Maybe some of Roe bartenders needs to take some tips from Mr. Smiths bartenders about pressure maybe then they'll earn a plus too in my book. Can't wait to go back there again! ^_^

Commented on 7/16/2010 12:00:00 AM

At the end of it all, a short walk to BART and it's done.  It had been a long time since we got out for a night like this.  We loved seeing some of our long lost friends.  Hopefully, our next gathering is as cool as this, but not too far in the future.

Commented on 7/15/2010 12:00:00 AM

This place is decent on a Saturday night. The drinks aren't too expensive and the DJ wasn't too bad, and the crowd was pretty friendly for the most part. I had just come from a classier lounge, so I felt super-overdressed, but at that point I was too drunk to care.

Commented on 7/13/2010 12:00:00 AM

- A FAN downstairs on the dance floor. A huge plus.

Commented on 7/12/2010 12:00:00 AM

"Hey babe, I only drink Champagne on Tuesday nights too, just like you."

Commented on 7/9/2010 12:00:00 AM

I really like Mr. Smith's! This is a great place to grab a drink before a show at the Orpheum (or just a drink in general). The bartenders are really friendly and make amazing drinks.

Commented on 7/4/2010 12:00:00 AM

I always have a great time at Mr. Smith's - maybe it's the friends that I head there with or maybe it's the stiff drinks they pour!  The security guy is nice - remembered me so also get in free but the way to go is get on the g-list.  I like upstairs more because it's more lounge like - downstairs is ALL dancing in the dark atmosphere that gets too hot for me.

Commented on 7/2/2010 12:00:00 AM

How can you improve on the reviews already done for this spot? You really can't, but I can add my own personal insights.

Commented on 6/27/2010 12:00:00 AM

Very cool club.  Good looking people.... great music.  Excellent martinis.

Commented on 6/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

- Two dollar coat check. Most places charge $3-5.

Commented on 6/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

My two friends had their birthday celebration here last night. I love the decor of Mr. Smiths and their drink service is great. The upstairs is a fun place to lounge and hang out and drink. My roommate recommends the Blackberry Gimlet- delish!

Commented on 6/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

i would come again for a more intimate group setting where i don't have to worry about rubbing up against sweaty guys.

Commented on 6/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

And that is why we headed to the Castro to TRIGGERRR!!!

Commented on 6/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

I'm le sad about this place bc the dance floor suck balls. The upstairs bar area is extremely nice though. Up up stairs is only for VIP, so you can only choose to chill in the bar area or the claustrophobic 7 foot tall basement dancefloor downstairs... It took forever for us to find the doorway to the basement...we were already fucked up LOL. too many stairs in this place. Um I am 5'1 and I wore 3 inch heels last night and I was TALLER than 80% of the guys/girls there on the dancefloor  seeing the top of ppls heads while dancing was new to me hahaWTF....my girl was towering over everyone at 6' on the dancefloor LOL. I only give this place 3 stars cuz one of my fav DJs was playing there that night and that's why we went. music was great there bc of him. Idk how it would be on other nights...DJ Cams was stuck behind this glass walled booth in the dungeon :(

Commented on 6/3/2010 12:00:00 AM

I went with a couple of girlfriends and the three of us loved the place but I did talk to some other women who had a complaint about Mr Smith's and on consideration I had to admit they were right.  Their complaint was (listen up those of you with a Y chromosome) too many women.  The female/male ratio was remarkably high but we didn't mind and really, it just kind of fit with the whole feel of the place.

Commented on 5/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

My friends live really close by too, so if I can't make it home, it's conveniently located.  Cover is generally $10 but that isn't too much to pay for fun right?  Well, maybe for girls that can get in for free...but guys..it's not too bad!

Commented on 5/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

Extra star for the bouncer who is a dead ringer for Ving Rhames.

Commented on 5/21/2010 12:00:00 AM

We were impress by the inside of this place - the outside area is creepy but the inside is so classy and stylish.  

Commented on 5/2/2010 12:00:00 AM

For people who get bottle service. The bartenders make strong drinks and the music was bangin. Check this place out, good crowd!

Commented on 4/25/2010 12:00:00 AM

Definitely will come back to this place, upstairs is a lounge and you can just kick back with your good friends. Basement is where the dancing happen, not bad music awesome atmosphere drinks are awesome even the bartender are freaking nice. this place is HOT

Commented on 4/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

Their downstairs is a little on the dirty side & stuffy, but hang out upstairs and you're set. Even better, you can be closer to David, Mr. Smith's best mixologist yet! Ask him to whip up some of his favorite cocktails, and he'll blow you away. Last time I was there, he incorporated muddled BASIL and topped it w/ a hint of spicy chipotle flakes. Very creative and most definitely impressive. His ginger cocktail is fantastic as well.

Commented on 4/18/2010 12:00:00 AM

This could have been due to us being in attendance on the hottest night of the year (temperature wise), but I was sweating buckets inside the bar.  My half-hearted attempt at glam was a major fail, with my makeup dripping off within seconds and all.  Some ventilation would've been helpful!

Commented on 4/12/2010 12:00:00 AM

The 2nd visit here -- Saturday night of Memorial Weekend -- I threw a reunion party for another good friend -- again, everyone plus me had a great time!

Commented on 4/4/2010 12:00:00 AM

ohhhhhhhhh yeahhhhhhhh.... I looooooove to shake my groove thang. The basement here is awesome to dance in. Especially when you get here early and you have to whole floor to strut your stuff!

Commented on 3/31/2010 12:00:00 AM

Sitting here at Mr. Smith's, my first time... a nice bartender 'Ben' and one of the partners 'Kevin' is here, Ben is dealing with my every demand/request for the perfect drink...ice here, no ice there... hahaha!! Enjoying the $5 anykind of martini drink... my preference is stoli plain, sometimes shaken, sometimes on the rocks...maybe a twist, something not fancy.

Commented on 3/28/2010 12:00:00 AM

My girlfriends and I started talking to one of the bartenders, David. David asked us if we wanted to try something new and spicy. We agreed and watched him crush a habanero pepper over ice, add some other secret special ingredients and top it off with Hansons soda. Whew! This drink was out of this world! I have never had anything like it in my life. The drink was FAR from ordinary. It was extraordinary!! So sweet with a spicy kick. Wow!! So exciting.

Commented on 3/23/2010 12:00:00 AM

This club/bar is pretty sweet- pretty small, but I liked the music and crowd. Decent priced drinks relative to other similar places in the city. What really got to me, though, was the homeless population lingering right outside of the club and the impossible feat of catching a cab from here. We tried for 30 minutes to wave down a cab before deciding to just catch the bus back towards Union Square and the FiDi. The end-of-night experience was enough to make me not want to come back here unless I've got something picking me up. (Granted, it's not the club's fault and it is in the tenderloin after all).

Commented on 3/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Pros:

Commented on 3/19/2010 12:00:00 AM

At this point I go to Mr Smith's all the time and I Love it more each time!

Commented on 3/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

Why?

Commented on 3/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

This might also be the worst thing about it.

Commented on 3/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

My friends choose to congregate here often, if not for the night, then at the beginning as the initial meeting spot, so that must be a good sign!

Commented on 3/6/2010 12:00:00 AM

- Not super crowded on a friday night. I heard it gets real bad on a saturday night though.

Commented on 3/3/2010 12:00:00 AM

yes, its off the beaten path.

Commented on 2/25/2010 12:00:00 AM

I came here on a Tuesday night after getting denied entry to a show at the Rickshaw.  The place at first glance is kinda sketch looking from the outside, but inside it's super swank.  A rich red interior and a well stocked bar is what greets you at the entrance.

Commented on 2/24/2010 12:00:00 AM

-Take random girls to Magnet to get drunk with other Yelpers

Commented on 2/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Downstairs there is a dance floor if you want to partake in some freaking.  And there is a bar down there as well.  The dance floor isn't very large, so there will be a lot of bumping down there.

Commented on 2/14/2010 12:00:00 AM

Staff there ratchet this up to 5 stars.  Not many lounges or clubs I know hit the high mark because of customer service.

Commented on 2/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

Home of the best spicy blueberry jam cocktail.

Commented on 2/8/2010 12:00:00 AM

Much smaller space than I expected and pretty well packed for a Saturday night.  Diverse crowd, good drinks (mojitos!  Basil gimlets!), gorgeous decor but not overly swanky.  The bartenders were friendly, as was the bouncer.

Commented on 2/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

Ok place that charges $10 after 11pm.  Not really sure why because their dance floor is kind of small and the music isn't great or very loud.  I wouldn't exactly say that it's a clubbing type of place.  They do, however, have very comfortable couches.

Commented on 1/31/2010 12:00:00 AM

just so happened to go a night when DJ illfx was spinning his magic, and I had a crazy wonderful night!  It was a bit empty when we first walked in (saaaaaaaay...11), but it filled up pretty quickly!  The space is perfect and so easy to get to with muni, which is always a plus!

Commented on 1/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smiths is a pretty cool place. It has 2 floors really, the third is reserved

Commented on 1/30/2010 12:00:00 AM

Bar upstairs and sweet dance floor downstairs.

Commented on 1/25/2010 12:00:00 AM

Just when I thought I had outgrown the SF typical-barscene, I stumble upon Mr. Smith's and rediscover why I love this city. You have the best time there! I won't rehash what everyone else has written, but I will emphasize that this jaded barhopper/ex-clubber fell in love at first beat with this unassuming yet energetic gem. Even the bouncer was friendly. A perfect way to end an era in SF.

Commented on 1/22/2010 12:00:00 AM

Nice, fun, and diverse crowd. Less creepers and fresh 21ers.

Commented on 1/16/2010 12:00:00 AM

Hosted my bday party here the past Saturday night. Bought bottle service and had the entire mezzanine to ourselves. Very chill, the music was top 40/hip hop.. appreciate the smooth transaction Kevin! Would def. come here again and taken into consideration for future parties.

Commented on 1/11/2010 12:00:00 AM

- My friend swears that they make the best gin & tonic although I cannot vouch for that because gin makes me hurl.

Commented on 1/10/2010 12:00:00 AM

Cons

Commented on 1/5/2010 12:00:00 AM

This is the 2nd time I've been here, but it was soooo great the first time I totally didn't remember ANYTHING. Haha, so...now I can legitimately write this!

Commented on 1/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

I look forward to going back to have another gimlet...too bad it's not open right now!!

Commented on 1/1/2010 12:00:00 AM

Drinks were great, average price (about 7ish for a vodka drink), but mixed REALLY well.  The bartenders Brad and David were super nice to me all night, even though you can tell by looking at me that this is not really my scene.  Interestingly enough, this is not because of the staff, decour, location, or vibe.  Everyone who works there was very nice to me, I like how the place feels, I like the layout (dancing is downstairs and you can escape it or dive into it whenever you want), and the bathroom is clean.  The clientele unfortunately reminded me a little too much of home (The OC) and that was the only drawback for me.  This could have been because there were 3 birthday parties going on (which apparently is their specialty) and that was the way the dice rolled.

Commented on 12/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

-Take them to Mr.Smith's. Make out with one of them

Commented on 12/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

On the top it is a bar that we didn't hang out at all. We headed straight to the bottom which has a dance floor, a bar, and a DJ stand. It was dead when we got there (around 9) but it picked up later on. We got drinks that were reasonably priced and I opened a tab (so convenient). We chatted for a while and got another drink before it was bumping.

Commented on 12/15/2009 12:00:00 AM

David was a great bar tender - he was always on top of it and never made us wait even when it got pretty crowded.  

Commented on 12/13/2009 12:00:00 AM

The best thing about Mr. Smith's is that it's popular.

Commented on 12/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

In reality I have a (fairly) stable single personality that most closely aligns with the swanky guy I described above, so I had a great time once I came inside. The cocktail waitress, Erin, was extremely friendly and attentive, and it sure didn't hurt that her sleek, black cocktail dress really accentuated her figure. Even with a large crowd, she remembered my drink preference, took a minute to answer a few questions about the bar's policies, and cheerily wished me adeiu while encouraging me to return. Between her and the well-mixed, well-priced well drinks, I certainly will!

Commented on 12/8/2009 12:00:00 AM

Who wants to go to a club that is filled with 90% straight girls? You'd THINK some straight guys, but apparently not, or else there wouldnt be such a glut of girls.  A very circular thought...  

Commented on 12/5/2009 12:00:00 AM

Must come back here to relive my Friday night

Commented on 11/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

Okay, so being a senior college student, my friends and I walked in at ~10PM cus we wanted to avoid the cover charge. Yeah, college problems 101. Some of my friend's friend came in at 10:30PM and had to pay $10. Either way, the place was really neat. The ground floor is a bar, upstairs is a lounge, and best of all, a sketchy underground dance floor!! I went on Friday night and they played awesome oldie remixes with a lot of top 40's too. Most people didn't arrive till around 11:30 ish but we were fully entertained beforehand by the really cool bartender (Andrea?)! My friends and I had a blast here and everyone is so friendly!!

Commented on 11/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

I don't know why people have an issue about the neighborhood... Not like you see someone that is packing heat, about to hold up a liquor store.

Commented on 11/18/2009 12:00:00 AM

- we had bottle service, with good service

Commented on 11/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

I've also been here when it turns into a club/lounge. It was my friend's birthday so we were upstairs. The music was a lot of fun and the atmosphere was awesome. I also like the decor of the place.

Commented on 11/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

I really don't get what the big deal about Mr. Smith's is.  People always get so excited about going there -- so much that i don't have the heart to tell them otherwise.  

Commented on 11/10/2009 12:00:00 AM

...

Commented on 11/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

This place was alright. I believe it's just always $10 cover. That's not bad, but paying money is never good.

Commented on 10/28/2009 12:00:00 AM

Great parking outside - I didn't think the area was too sketchy. Most of my friends found parking across the street.

Commented on 10/26/2009 12:00:00 AM

Several Visits Later(We've lost Count Already)

Commented on 10/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

- Fun, speedy, polite bartenders. It's a bit strange for a service industry that I rarely see bartenders smile at their patrons. Mr. Smith's bartenders smile and give high fives. Also, I love bartenders who taste test the drinks before they serve them.

Commented on 10/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

A good 45 minutes later, the party arrived, and we moved all over the place. The bathroom, downstairs, upstairs, outside... Everywhere! It was crowded (it was a Friday or Saturday night), but the vibe was very lighthearted and all of the patrons were in great moods. Plus, I think it helps that the bartenders were friendly, poured a great drink, and made sure everyone was helped.

Commented on 10/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

Music: DJ sucked on Saturday 4/7. There were no top 40's. It was liek techno that was unpopular and a mix of nivana's smell's like teen spirit which the youngings didn't recognize.

Commented on 10/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

"WHADDAYA MEAN YOU AIN'T GOT NO MOTHERFUCKING DICK?!?"

Commented on 10/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

When we first arrived i was unsure of this place... right when you walk in is the bar and it had 2 booths...there was an upstairs but it was closed at the time for a private party, then there was a downstairs, we were calling it the basement, thats were all the loud music was and all the dancing

Commented on 10/13/2009 12:00:00 AM

How on earth am I supposed to have a decent happy hour when all the good conversation is in my sloppy sloshy head (heeh). Bev, Laura L., and little ol' me arrived 3 hours after our suggested time to meet up with Bev's Bro..$10 cover charge on a Friday (not happening...door guy was nice to let us sweeties in for free..yup good to be flashy ladies...

Commented on 10/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

I got so drunk here that I almost don't remember what an ass I made of myself.

Commented on 10/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

Great happy hour! Bartenders are friendly and attentive. The board games are a nice touch.

Commented on 10/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

still rocking it out after all these years.

Commented on 10/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

*reel em in*

Commented on 10/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

It was unvaried, uneventful, and lifeless. So we left. We'd give it another try another night.

Commented on 9/27/2009 12:00:00 AM

Slow night, not sure if that is normal...this part of town doesn't have as much foot traffic. BUT I loved the atmosphere inside and the drinks are fantastic. I would go back again for the jalapeno margarita.

Commented on 9/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

- Well dressed, mixed crowds, and dudes who don't hit on every single chick they see.

Commented on 9/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

Wonderful Gin and Tonic

Commented on 9/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

it was definitely a nice change from the shitty birthday experiences my friends have been having from places such as bubble lounge, cigar bar, and slide.  but i shall save those stories for their respective reviews.

Commented on 9/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

Bartenders know what they are doing.  You can trust them here.

Commented on 9/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

"I had no idea a hot bitch like you could be found at 7th and Market, right where I buy my crack rocks and Carl's Jr. Six Dollar Burger."

Commented on 9/10/2009 12:00:00 AM

I do love how they don't hold the line. We made it at 10:55 and no cover bc of the guestlist.

Commented on 9/6/2009 12:00:00 AM

The bartenders are very nice and gave my group free bottled water since there were a few drivers and a few drunk people.  The drunkeness was a result of their triple shots - I felt like I was gulping forever!

Commented on 9/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

So great prices, friendly staff, cool interior, and most importantly good drinks equals my new favorite bar.  I highly recommend Mr. Smith's Champagne Thursdays.  Since I'm currently in Texas, I'm waiting for that next trip to this lovely bar on 7th Street.  And how will I celebrate my next and final trip back to San Francisco?  With buying you a champagne cocktail on a Thursday nite of course at Mr. Smith's.  I'll see you there.

Commented on 9/3/2009 12:00:00 AM

A lot of fun to be had at Mr. Smith's. It's not a big bar, but even though it was pretty packed, it's still comfortable.

Commented on 9/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

There really aren't too many places to sit.  Because of the other birthdays both the top lounge area and the seats in front of the bar were occupied even before we arrived.  Fortunately there was one "reserved" area that was empty.  We decided to keep this area warm for the other group and when they never showed up, we got to have this nice couch to ourselves all night.  

Commented on 8/30/2009 12:00:00 AM

Decor and atmosphere is sexy, and it was mellow when we went (around 9:30-10:30p). Cool music too - the DJ played a mix of "Dutty Love" I had never heard.

Commented on 8/27/2009 12:00:00 AM

Inside, the place is a bit narrow that there were constantly people bumping into me while I was trying to get to the bar.  There are some tables and couches to lounge around in the back and one near the front corner, but other than that, you'll most likely be standing.  I didn't drink too much that night because I was driving, but the drink that I did have was decent.  The crowd consisted mostly of Asians from what I can tell that night and looked mostly in their 20's.

Commented on 8/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

It's hard to give a bar/lounge a bad rating due to the main premise of their existence . . . ALCOHOL!  YUM!  I'm not a lush, but there's nothing like a tasty chilled vodka mixed drink in hand.  Let's move on toward the review of Mr. Smith's.  

Commented on 8/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

This place isn't terrible, but I wouldn't go here as a first choice... or a last either... It's usually someone else who suggests it.

Commented on 8/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

I had a party here last weekend and it was great.  I had no problem reserving a table and getting everybody in.  And the table service.. bartenders.. everybody was EXCELLENT.  The girls that took care of our table kept clearing the table and were accomodating for our requests for more water, mixers, napkins, etc.

Commented on 8/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

I have to respectfully disagree with Vic A about a couple of things.  

Commented on 8/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

Checked it last Saturday night from midnight to 1 AM.  The crowd was 70% male and 30% female...so much for the X chromosome thing.  Most of the gents with the same derivatively clich stripped button down shirts and blue jeans, and the ladies of mediocre quality (reminded me of one of the joints around South First Street in Man Jose). And this is the best the City has to offer?  God, I hope not.  Maybe I just hit it on an off night, or maybe, Mr. Smith's has already flatlined into mediocrity.

Commented on 8/18/2009 12:00:00 AM

The drinks are poured stiff though, a pair of vodka and sodas will run you nearly 20 dollars- not including tip. The liquor selection is good, with all the standard and top-shelf selections, and  the bartenders here are always willing to pour something exotic and fun, regardless of the crush of patrons who constantly swell up to the bar on each floor.

Commented on 8/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

Hands down the best lounge/club I've ever been to. Maybe it was a good day, maybe I was lucky, who knows, I can still justify my five stars for the following reasons:

Commented on 8/3/2009 12:00:00 AM

So this was my second time to Mr. Smith's I have to say the drink specials made it better this time even though it was a private party we paid to get tickets to.  I had a drink with Ginger, Vodka and Lime was tasty and didn't give me a hangover.  They usually have good DJ's downstairs and I have no complaints except some of the bartenders are a little bitchy sometimes most are really friendly however.  I definitely prefer this place full but not over crowded gets really hot downstairs even with the fans on after awhile.

Commented on 8/3/2009 12:00:00 AM

The bar's set up makes it so that everyone just sticks to their own private little groups.  And i really feel that there is an unusually high amount of uncomfortable staring shooting around the room.  Kind of like what people do when they are bored.  I dunno, Mr. Smith, whoever he is, has never shown me a fun time.

Commented on 8/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

So I'm a pretty huge fan of this place, since I almost always have a great time. Every once in awhile its a total miss, but I would say that's 1 out of 10 times. There usually isn't a cover before a 11 pm which is nice. The drinks are pretty good. The music downstairs is always on point and the djs are always cool about playing requests.

Commented on 8/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

"You're clean? Great -- then I don't need protection."

Commented on 7/28/2009 12:00:00 AM

5 stars!!!

Commented on 7/26/2009 12:00:00 AM

As mentioned by others the atmosphere is great.  The drinks here are very particular though, I was disappointed that two of my favorites, the bloody mary and Irish coffee aren't served here.  Fortunately they do have great dirty gin martinis, extremely friendly & helpful staff and doormen, and very good music.  I like this place a lot.

Commented on 7/12/2009 12:00:00 AM

Better sound downstairs would make this place way more enjoyable, but everyone else seemed not to notice.

Commented on 7/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

I actually really like this place. Not overly crowded. Room to dance and I really like the dj Fri nights.  Had our bachelorette party here as it was the perfect venue.  Our cocktail waitress took good care of us.  Good drinks, good music, good crowd what else do I need to say.  It seems as if the party is down stairs in the basement. Then you come up to the main level or third to cool down.  Cheers!

Commented on 7/7/2009 12:00:00 AM

The only drawback, as others have said, not the greatest neighborhood and tough to get a cab home late night.

Commented on 6/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

This place does it right! The bartenders make GREAT GREAT drinks. And they do it with style. Management is always very nice and welcoming. really superb.

Commented on 6/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

They refuse to serve Long Islands and "Bomb Drinks" which totally tickles me and I got a large dose of not-so-secret pleasure every time I heard Brad tell one of the Orange County-esque girls this info.

Commented on 6/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

There are three floors for an open feeling.  Just avoid being downstairs all night or you'll be sweating like little miss piggy!

Commented on 6/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

Darin Poses As A Breeder, Take #901,276,028

Commented on 6/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

What is surprising is that a classy establishment like Mr. Smith's would be willing to host my league's end of the year party. Or more specifically, my kickball league's OPEN BAR. Open Bar to your average SF denizen means "Sweet, I'll have a couple pints before heading off to the night's target destination." Open Bar to kickballers, very similar to yelpers, means "Sweet, that sounds like a challenge. How long do we have?"

Commented on 6/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's definitely made my birthday this year!  Although it took a week for a bottle service response, I was able to reserve a table without even having to give out my credit card info.

Commented on 6/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

and BOOM theyll hook you up with $100 bottles! {Stoli, Sailor Jerry, hendricks, or tequila if you really wanna get HYPHY.} bomb djs....shout out to Kool Karlo. and chill doormen that will see to it that you dont get snatched up on the streets of san franpsycho!

Commented on 6/7/2009 12:00:00 AM

3. 3 bars (3 floors) and room to dance downstairs

Commented on 6/5/2009 12:00:00 AM

I even ended up making out with a cute girl and getting her number here, but trying to talk to other people here was like pulling fucking teeth. The only time I have seen more awkward and lame people in a club was at a geeky start up party.

Commented on 6/4/2009 12:00:00 AM

High male:female ratio too, if you're looking for that type of thing.

Commented on 5/31/2009 12:00:00 AM

"I really wanna rifle through your basement. I bet it's dark and moist and wet with lots of wiggle room."

Commented on 5/31/2009 12:00:00 AM

But seriously.. it's a great place because of the service.  I'd go again.

Commented on 5/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

I have mixed feelings about this place.  

Commented on 5/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

Plus, it will always hold good memories from the Yelp Elite Holiday Reception.

Commented on 5/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

"So your drinks were a little weaker than I expected -- that's okay, babe. I won't hold that against you since your Strawberry Mojitos are sweet and intoxicating."

Commented on 5/15/2009 12:00:00 AM

Mixed crowd so that's a plus.  Definitely a great place to throw a birthday party!

Commented on 4/26/2009 12:00:00 AM

7/12/05

Commented on 4/18/2009 12:00:00 AM

Let's make it simple:

Commented on 4/16/2009 12:00:00 AM

I could see it being a good time, it just wasn't that night

Commented on 4/14/2009 12:00:00 AM

Go to the bars upstairs, in the VIP area, and the one down stairs when this place is crowded. Less crowded and much more accessible. Don't make the rookie mistake of hitting up the main bar the moment you get in.

Commented on 4/12/2009 12:00:00 AM

Just a short walk from the Civic Center BART. Some places intentionally keep a long line outside so it looks like a really popular spot. Not Mr Smith's. They realize that the point is to get you inside!

Commented on 4/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

The gleaming dark wood and the rich colors create a space that is warm, sensual and tempting.

Commented on 4/5/2009 12:00:00 AM

don't meet many bartenders who will be as attentive.

Commented on 3/30/2009 12:00:00 AM

I had a great night at mr. smith's again this past weekend!  The doormen and bartenders are so great every time I've gone. The bar on the main floor was packed but the wait time on drinks was not bad! Good, quick service on drinks. The dance floor downstairs was packed too with people shakin their booties all over the place! The music was good. House, pop, reggae...a really good mix of stuff you hear on the radio with sick beats from songs that aren't on anyone's radar. The dj (dreadlocks...) kept the crowd dancing with songs that we all know but then turned them around, threw in his own flavor, and mashed them up so we can love them all over again!  Whatever he was playing, it got everyone out jumpin around! I will for sure be heading back soon. Smith's is always a good solid night out!

Commented on 3/30/2009 12:00:00 AM

The noise was at an obnoxious level where you have to shout in order to be heard by the person RIGHT NEXT TO YOU .

Commented on 3/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

I came here this past weekend to celebrate a friend's birthday. FYI -There was a $10 cover charge. When we arrived we went straight downstairs and started dancing. Well we danced for about one song and then headed back upstairs (the music was not that great). We had a champagne cocktail that was really good and then mingled for a bit. There was a bachelorette and bachelor party going on but besides that the crowd was not too exciting. We decided to explore the rest of the club and ended up walking up to the 3rd level where two private parties were being held.

Commented on 3/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

This 1st visit here I threw a birthday party for a good friend -- everyone had a blast.

Commented on 3/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

-I carry my old roommate out and she hits her head on the sidewalk

Commented on 3/20/2009 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's bartenders were incredibly on point.  We didn't have to ask for a thing.  I've never been to a bar where you could get such a beautifully hand-crafted cocktail, before you are even done with your last one, for $5 on happy hour.

Commented on 3/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

I liked Cloud Nine but I just love Mr. Smith's.  

Commented on 3/15/2009 12:00:00 AM

I arrived a little behind schedule (fashionably late) but ended up waiting for the prior party to leave. I didn't mind the wait because Kevin gave me a bottle of Champagne which I shared with my friends who were now coming in at a steady rate. No one had a problem with the guest list. Everyone got in and without issue. When we were seated in our area we had nothing but fun fun fun! Our mixers for the vodka and rum I bought for bottle service were brought to each table on a tray with carafes and small glasses. It was nice having a whole section/floor to ourselves. I thought that wandering people would be an issue. I think the key there is to invite just enough people to make the upstairs full and then wandering people will feel uncomfortable seeing everyone mingle and go back to the main floor. At least that is what I observed.

Commented on 3/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

Great place to check out. First time I came here, I was heading over to SOMA for dinner and happened to just walk by. As I walked through the doors, I was pleased to see the decor was very mellow and laid back. As it was a Tuesday night, it was pretty empty with about 4-5 people at the bar. Sat down and ordered a couple drinks. The bartender was very friendly and very cool to talk with. The drinks themselves were "meh" at best. I recently went back to Mr. Smith to go clubbing and it was cool to see such a drastic difference in atmosphere. The bouncer was awesome and extremely friendly. The music was great and fun to dance to. Again, though, the drinks were not that great. In fact, they didn't have some of our favorite drinks like Irish Car Bomb, Long Island, etc... In fact, they couldn't even make a Mohito because they ran out of mint....how sad is that? Nevertheless, we had a great time there, dancing and mingling with friends.

Commented on 3/8/2009 12:00:00 AM

This is the second time I've been here. The first time was before I got on Yelp.  I think I liked it the first time. But that was around a year ago.

Commented on 3/3/2009 12:00:00 AM

This place really pissed me off, if you can't tell.

Commented on 3/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

This is going to be my 100th review!!!

Commented on 3/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

Drinks are strong, come before 10pm to avoid the cover and make friends with the bartenders. Mojitos here are good, not made with that sugary nasty mix. Upstairs has table service, street level is chill loungy. Basically invite a bunch of people and everyone will find something they love about it.

Commented on 3/2/2009 12:00:00 AM

Pros:  Nice size and multi-level space, friendly bartenders, dj dancing in the basement.  Cons:  Drinks are pricey ($8 bucks for a gin and tonic!).  Defin. worth another visit.

Commented on 2/27/2009 12:00:00 AM

I like long islands and bombs of all kinds.

Commented on 2/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

This place has two floors, with the bottom seeming more sizeable than the top. It's a pretty okay lounge place, but it's not one of the better ones in the city. For better times and better music, try elsewhere.

Commented on 2/24/2009 12:00:00 AM

The drinks here are pretty decent, they run about $6 a pop and the bartenders are great, I never had to wait more than a minute.   Dancing is on the floor below the bar, and watch out because it's a hot sweaty mess, but a fun hot sweaty mess.  Even though the temperature was sauna-like, the music was ok, I even knew a few songs and dancing is always more fun when you know the words.  

Commented on 2/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

A great place for a starter drink on a Thursday night - they serve $5 champagne cocktails this night of the week.

Commented on 2/23/2009 12:00:00 AM

Three stars for "willing to come back only if I'm already in the area."

Commented on 2/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

10/19/05

Commented on 2/22/2009 12:00:00 AM

the  bartenders were very cool and we're incredibly fast. even while pouring and making drinks they were still on the ball asking around who had been helped and who needed a drink.

Commented on 2/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

The crowd leans toward swanky and trendy, but the location keeps it from getting too posh.  I was thoroughly surprised in a good way.  I did leave before 10, so I can't speak for the late night crowd, but it was good after work on friday.  well drinks were $3, i think.

Commented on 2/21/2009 12:00:00 AM

LOCATION: One block away from the Civic Center BART station. One block away from the 800 all-nighter bus. Extremely convenient for those of us that don't want to drive!!!

Commented on 2/17/2009 12:00:00 AM

I give the place four stars for the fantastic unnamed cocktail the bartender made for me. Sometimes when you go to a bar and ask them to make you something sweet, they hand you the cocktail menu. A bartender who is comfortable with his skills will have no problem recommending something to you and if they're really into their work, surprising you with some new concoction. I consider that the mark of a good bar.

Commented on 2/10/2009 12:00:00 AM

The hottie that had me wet and sticky wanted to just show me off here tonight and I just did NOT like the vibe...tooooo forced by the skankers that were hangin out tryin to rub my hottie...!!!

Commented on 2/9/2009 12:00:00 AM

I will come back here for the interesting drink offerings. They had something with acai liquor on the menu that looked interesting. The music was not very danceable, though.

Commented on 1/31/2009 12:00:00 AM

Over the years I've been here a hand full of times and even though it gets really crowded like any other bar/club I've always enjoyed myself. I've lost a couple of friends here before only to find them 20 minutes later or the next morning at a stranger's house. It's centrally located, nice inside and usually has good music. No long islands or bombs of any kind at this bar, but I guess that's OK. It keeps the riff raff out.

Commented on 1/30/2009 12:00:00 AM

What made this club so so versus others is the fact that the crowd both times we've went was quite rude, with the bouncers having an attitude with all of the dudes who were there. The music was okay, but I have problems with dj's who play songs twice while you're there, a true rarity when club hopping nowadays. It could have been just the dj, but this has happened both times I've been there.

Commented on 1/29/2009 12:00:00 AM

I would definitely come back here again, maybe on a weekend to check out what the scene looks like.

Commented on 1/28/2009 12:00:00 AM

There's a dance floor downstairs if you like to dance to top 40 with drunk kids.

Commented on 1/26/2009 12:00:00 AM

crowd ~ definitely mixed..

Commented on 1/25/2009 12:00:00 AM

Also heard from the bar tender that the liquor store a few doors down is losing their lease, so many the block could lose a bit of the element associated with it.

Commented on 1/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

- reasonable drink prices

Commented on 1/19/2009 12:00:00 AM

overall i had a great time!

Commented on 1/18/2009 12:00:00 AM

P.S. I usually avoid writing reviews of the places that have Yelp events at them, because I know my review will be mediocre in comparison with the brilliant Yelper reviews that are going to go up on the same day. Mr. Smith's was just so fun that I did it anyway.

Commented on 1/15/2009 12:00:00 AM

There are a lot of ways I've enjoyed and still enjoy going to Mr. Smith's, but my favorite has and is for some sort of special occasion. Over the years, the club has been the home for many a happy hour gathering, the celebration of someone's birthday, a choice vantage in the VIP area upstairs on a big night, and even the location of Yelp's first holiday party back in 2005 (which I helped to organize).

Commented on 1/14/2009 12:00:00 AM

Another spot that I recently checked out for the first time, and I really dug this place the moment I walked in the door. Awesome decor, good music (not too loud or obtrusive, but right on the border) and friendly staff.

Commented on 1/13/2009 12:00:00 AM

I had only one drink here (thanks for the mind eraser, Suzanne!) so I can't vouch for the quality of the drinks, but the mind eraser didn't work as advertised (and was a rough swallow...what the hell is in it?). I'm a big boy, so it would probably take three of them to do the trick...

Commented on 1/13/2009 12:00:00 AM

"Love the button tufts in your plump sofas and the way you wrap every curve in that hot crimson/gold wallpaper."

Commented on 1/11/2009 12:00:00 AM

street parking but it's not too safe, let's just say there are peeps chilling/sleeping around your parking spot.

Commented on 1/10/2009 12:00:00 AM

- DJ played ok music

Commented on 1/10/2009 12:00:00 AM

Around 11 on a Wednesday night, I ran into a friend who was coming home from a potluck we both admitted to being a little sauced and decided lets get in one last drink. We wandered around the corner from his sparkly soma  studio complex, only to find it was closed for no apparent reason. We were now determined, he mentioned Mr. Smiths and I shuffled willing..... right well anyway it was not surprising that a moments step from a flea infestation  at civic center that it looks very nondescript on the outside.  Stepping inside you are transferred to an elegant lounge, that takes it's cues from an English old boy's club, but never breaches the line of  stuffy or uncomfortable.  It is a warm and inviting dark but not dreary Sherlock Holmes style study. Now that you know the feel..... We were instantly greeted by the bartender who got to our drinks and recommended a spicy margarita for me..... which I go on record was a fun shake up to this classic.  I feel confident that anything I order will be crafted with care. There were only a few people there. Several good looking hipsters and a few stragglers from happy hour.  Over all I had a great stumble, and have no reason not to go back for more.

Commented on 1/8/2009 12:00:00 AM

I just realized that my previous review of this place doens't do it justice considering what's happen here

Commented on 1/8/2009 12:00:00 AM

Basically this is like the Bubble Lounge, but even nerdier and they charge a cover.

Commented on 1/5/2009 12:00:00 AM

Outside neighborhood is a bit on the slummy side, but there's plenty of street parking.

Commented on 1/1/2009 12:00:00 AM

The place at times can also get very crowded and I'm not such a huge fan of that either.

Commented on 12/29/2008 12:00:00 AM

- One ladies room with two stalls, and another unisex bathroom downstairs. The more bathrooms the better. They are also fairly clean.

Commented on 12/24/2008 12:00:00 AM

Oh, watch out for the SOMA prices too, it's definitely $8 beer night.

Commented on 12/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

Go there if you want to find a place close to nothing....I would pass on a Sat night and get my hotties hoppin in to make it a scorchin one.

Commented on 12/20/2008 12:00:00 AM

Go when DJ Marc D spins. Again, he freakin' rocks.

Commented on 12/18/2008 12:00:00 AM

I celebrated my birthday at Mr. Smith's on friday night with a bunch of my friends. It was my first time there, so I didn't really know what to expect, but I had a wonderful birthday experience! Kevin at Maximum Productions was really helpful with organizing my party. He got all my friends (~60 people) on the guest list, and even reserved a few booths for us to sit at, all at no additional charge! They do a great job hiring their staff here. The bouncers were nice (whudda thunk??), the bar tenders were polite and helpful, and the wait staff was super friendly. The place was wonderfully decorated with lighted wreaths all over the walls. And when it was time for us to go dancing, there was a downstairs area with a dance floor and a DJ spinning hip-hop. The only down-side of the night occurred after we left the club and couldn't find a cab... I would definitely go back to Mr. Smith's, but this time I'll make sure I have an easy way to get back home!

Commented on 12/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

Seriously, they are ON POINT.  They were almost superhuman, and yet nobody appears to be cracked out.  INSIDE the bar, that is.

Commented on 12/10/2008 12:00:00 AM

Bravo, Mr. Smith, you've got me interested.  Very interested.

Commented on 12/9/2008 12:00:00 AM

I wasn't scared by it, just pissed that I was there for so long.

Commented on 12/8/2008 12:00:00 AM

Went during a week day, so don't really know what the scene is like on a weekend. On a Wednesday night, Mr. SMITH's is a great mellow hang. Happy hour is until 8:00, the guys behind the bar told me that they have the entire Sean Connery 007 collection -- a story there?

Commented on 12/8/2008 12:00:00 AM

It's as simple as that.

Commented on 12/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

I'll keep this brief.

Commented on 12/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

People get ready for a confusing review... most, the initial, has been written at the bar on my treo, at the beginning of the night, then i came home, read what i wrote and had to make some side notes, the side notes and this first paragraph are AFTER.....otherwise  in parenthesis)

Commented on 12/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

The dance floor in the basement was smallish but had a smokin' live dj. The music ranged from techno dance to remixed dance pop. FUN! And did I mention that they have a bar down here too...hehe...

Commented on 12/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

they are only getting 4 stars from me b/c even tho there were only 5 people in the whole spot and i was meeting friends who had a bottle and i we were 2 lovely ladies they still tried to charge us a cover - they did not succeed... BUT HONESTLY - there were 5 people in there.

Commented on 11/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

All in all, not a bad place. I'd go back if I'm ever out in the area again.

Commented on 11/29/2008 12:00:00 AM

If the drink's didn't taste like Kool Aid I probably would have given it five stars. Seriously, the weakest drinks I've ever been handed over a bar. I ordered a G&T and the gf got a Midori sour and it came to $13, which I was thrilled with given how nice the place is, until we took the first sip. Oh well. Whatever. I'll let it go and get on to the rest of it:

Commented on 11/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

Bar/lounge dealie place playing pop and hip hop with dancing down stairs.  There is also an upstairs section, but I'm guessing VIP (i didn't go up there, or at least I don't remember).  Drinks were good, though they said they don't serve long islands or long beach or something.  It wasn't my drink, but annoying that i had ask for a alternative.  

Commented on 11/20/2008 12:00:00 AM

The dancing room (lower level) was just way too crowded and had no ventilation. I spent most of my time on the ground level near the bar, there was hardly any room to move because it was so crowded. I feel like it's a cross between a lounge and a club but not very successful in either.

Commented on 10/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

But who can pass up the chance to drink glasses of champagne for only $4 a pop on a Thursday nite at a classy joint?!!  And I'm a chug-your-drink kind of guy when they are freaking delicious (See?  Not classy), and you could either have straight up champagne or champagne cocktails.  So of course, I had both because in addition to being a chugger, I'm an only-drink-stuff-that-is-fluorescent kind of guy too.  The plain champagne was lovely, and the pineapple champagne cocktail that I had was to die for.  I'm gonna try all the different ones now since this place will definitely be on my social calendar every Thursday nite.  As referenced before I went on Champagne Thursdays so I can't speak of any other nites.  I have no idea what those other nites are like.

Commented on 10/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

Plus One star:  Decent looking girls.  I guess the term "decent" is relative, but you can trust me fellas.  Scouts honor!

Commented on 10/13/2008 12:00:00 AM

Came here 2x, once for a grad party, and the other time for a bday party.

Commented on 10/11/2008 12:00:00 AM

The entire staff makes the place.  Very attentive cocktail waitresses, eager bartenders, friendly door guys, and last but not least extremely handsome management  add to the ambience.  The decor scores with the likes of Club Otis & Dragon Bar.  My mood seems to change like the wind, so the fact that there are 3 different places to get your jollies off, I could just walk downstairs to shake my tailfeathers (DJ is good on sat. nights).

Commented on 10/9/2008 12:00:00 AM

If it weren't for its crappy location, I would have given 4 stars...at least once you get inside its pretty nice. Kind of a diamond in the rough.  The bartender who made my drinks was really nice. It's cool that they have a bar on each of the 3 levels, and each level has a separate purpose. Drinks were reasonably priced. However I didn't think the music they placed on the dance floor was all that interesting and I thought they played a lot of songs that weren't made to be danced to, like Green Day  :-/

Commented on 10/6/2008 12:00:00 AM

i was nervous because i heard it was crowded but i never felt it was (maybe because i was in my own little world though). it was small but it never felt stuffy or sweaty.

Commented on 10/5/2008 12:00:00 AM

It's got an seedy location, but you forget about it once you're inside. It's fun with an excellent happy hour that includes many great fruity cocktails for mad cheap so I spoiled myself a bit. :) The bartender was friendly and attentive, the music was nice and at just the right volume (in the background not the foreground), and the crowd was a nice mix of late-twenties to mid-thirties 9 to 5ers.

Commented on 9/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

it was pretty packed in the inside so you might get a few elbow jabs or your drink knocked when trying to pass through..

Commented on 9/29/2008 12:00:00 AM

Something that also was a good and welcome surprise in a bar was to find a clean ladies room ... with soap! I know it's weird to get excited about a clean restroom. I mean who goes to bars for the toilets? But eventually all that drinking kind of well.. you know. So a bar restroom sans pee all over the place and an overflowing toilet is like an oasis.

Commented on 9/29/2008 12:00:00 AM

probably wouldn't come back here voluntarily.

Commented on 9/26/2008 12:00:00 AM

I thought the drinks were really good, though my Ketel One citron martini had an uncooled shot thrown in at the end. It was like sipping  a shot. I liked the 3-level option -- wasn't cheesy like it could be. I have no idea what the prices are like (seem high) and the location is very gritty. But, the bar had a nice feel, though a little too crowded for my tastes. The scene was hipster Silicon Valley - but I think that is just Yelp people.

Commented on 9/22/2008 12:00:00 AM

"Whoossziit yerrr luuukin' aaat!!  What the...huh...hellllloooo hot stuff...this tastes like shooess..."

Commented on 9/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

I went to Mr Smiths last night with a group of friends for a bday party.  I have to say that I love this place.  First off, the manager (owner) Kevin hooked us up with a reserved table to accomodate my friend who is in a wheelchair.  Huge props for that! The club and people who go there have a great vibe.  Folks are friendly.  Drinks are well poured.  Dj spun super great music and had everyone on their feet dancing.  The servers are beautiful and friendly and fun too.  I totally recommend this place and I can't wait to go back.

Commented on 9/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

came for a birthday celebration, and the night had all the elements of a good time

Commented on 8/31/2008 12:00:00 AM

Dissent in your group about whether to go dancing or go somewhere that you can sit on comfy seats, get impeccable service and hear each other talk?  Mr. Smith's solves this problem perfectly.

Commented on 8/28/2008 12:00:00 AM

After 2 years of following promoters and club hopping, I decided it's time for a change and find a place in the city where I can be a regular. Mr Smith is the place. Each time I've been here, the door guys are chill, the bartender are extremely nice, and the crowd is conversational...

Commented on 8/24/2008 12:00:00 AM

It;s fun but they seriously need more ventilation in the downstairs dance floor.  You jump and dance and sweat and you can't feel air anywhere.

Commented on 8/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

***************************************************************************

Commented on 8/19/2008 12:00:00 AM

You'll have a grand old time, rack up a large tab, and stumble off into the night. Probably to Mel's Diner.

Commented on 8/18/2008 12:00:00 AM

Got lost looking for this place but so worth it. I noticed that the door guy is clutching a glist, crap that's means there's a cover charge.

Commented on 8/18/2008 12:00:00 AM

Cover was $10 for a Sat night. Parking is okay, we got lucky. Careful for all the crackheads and gross guys that holla at you when you walk to your destination. Hey but what's new, it's SF's TL district right? Haha

Commented on 8/16/2008 12:00:00 AM

Flashing my sweetest smile I can muster @ 11 PM & acted a bit clueless abt the glist, I got myself & my bf free ^_^ while my other friends got charge. tee hee

Commented on 8/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

I had a great time, cover is normally $10 (but we got in free w/ a VIP pass). When you leave, get a cab and get out...it's in a really sketchy part of town. I will definitely be going back to Mr. Smiths!

Commented on 8/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

The one reason why I am giving Mr. Smith's 4-STARS is because I had 9 glasses of sparkling wine... yes, you heard me right, 9 glasses of sparkling wine, plus appetizers (roast beef sandwich, cheese with crackers/bread, fruits, chicken salad and cookies) for only $15!  

Commented on 7/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

this is essentially the home for my band (gosta berling...yes a shameless plug). we host a monthly indie rock showcase in the basement. i say this to point out that one of the great things about the club is that kevin (the manager) is open to great ideas that help the club and the people with the ideas.  if you're not into the crazy weekend scene with djs, sit at the upstairs bar on a quiet weeknight. or come by on third thursdays and see good local indie bands and film-makers in the downstairs room. the bartenders are all very cool, the vibe is relaxed.

Commented on 7/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

I was a little skeptical of this place originally because of the name.. and the fact that I have never been to a club where I thought the bouncers or bartenders were too nice.

Commented on 7/24/2008 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's crowd is a nice mix of eclectic and professionals mixed together. People are not pretentious and the lady's always come prepared to impress.

Commented on 7/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

"Hey baby girl, dunno why everyone calls you Mr. Smith's 'cause you're more like Mrs. Robinson. Oh yeah, RAWR like a cougar."

Commented on 7/22/2008 12:00:00 AM

If you get bottle service here it's worth noting that you get a 1 Liter bottle as opposed to a 750ml like you get in most other places.  Nice touch.

Commented on 7/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

Went to Mr. Smith's for a private event the other night and really loved the place. Cozy interior, great music and one could still talk to one another without screaming like crazy. The crowd and staff seemed less full of themselves and not as poshy fakey as in, say, the Redwood Room. The barkeeper was one of the best we ever saw, super friendly and really knows his trade. One of the owners even mopped up a spilled drink on the floor himself -- rare view. Before I can give five stars, I've to check it out on a regular night ... like a Wednesday ... only $5 for a Martini, mhhh ...

Commented on 7/20/2008 12:00:00 AM

This place does turn into a dance club but I prefer this place to be an intimate place to chill with my friends or significant other. Or even the bartender! The bartender that impressed me the most was Pat. I told him to surprise me with a drink and he sure did. He made a delicious San Francisco breeze with a bunch of ingredients(literally he splashed ten or more things in that shaker) and he put such extra care. Plus it was fun to see him and his other bartender buddy having a good time behind the bar showing how to cut the fruits and doing something else flashy with a lighter.

Commented on 7/19/2008 12:00:00 AM

I think the DJ has a major case of A.D.D. He was spastically changing the music every 2 minutes. The music was good - mostly fun top 40 music - but before I could barely make out the tune he would transition to another song.  I was singing along to Black Eyed Peas "Boom, Boom, Boom" and was cut off mid "Boom"...what's up with that?! Nevertheless Mr. Smith's is a fun place to go with a big group of friends. The drinks are reasonably priced compared to other clubs in SF and I love the downstairs dance area. For parties you can also reserve the upstairs area.

Commented on 7/16/2008 12:00:00 AM

the interior of mr smiths is small and cozy, with comfy pillows on bench seats, mirrors and decent art. bathrooms were clean, bartenders were quick and friendly with good prices. they have a delicious champagne and fruit puree drink that was suggested to me by one of the tenders which I drank in about two sips (although not really enough champers for my taste) and fabulous dirty martinis.

Commented on 7/15/2008 12:00:00 AM

Tonite, I was here on a Saturday, rolled in about 12:20 and the place was packed. Upstairs was super chill, a place you can get away and just talk to people without having to yell over the music.  Music was good, a bit of Kanye West, Madonna, and Daft Punk.

Commented on 7/13/2008 12:00:00 AM

Downstairs is the dance floor.  I thought it was okay.. but the whole club plays the same music.  It's not posh.. but it's nicely maintained.  They could use more bathrooms.. it's simply two stalls for the ladies.

Commented on 7/12/2008 12:00:00 AM

Guys at the door were amazing; good at keeping control, let me come and go as I pleased (with a hand stamp) and were just generally nice.

Commented on 7/10/2008 12:00:00 AM

With that said...enjoy!

Commented on 6/28/2008 12:00:00 AM

for more info check out:

Commented on 6/27/2008 12:00:00 AM

The doorman kindly reminded me to watch my step as I exited the building, which is a really nice touch. Now, if he had pointed out that a dive bar crawl isn't such a good idea after several snifters of fine scotch, he would have been an unsung hero.

Commented on 6/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

I came here on a Sat night for a friend's bday party. Let's keep this short and simple

Commented on 6/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

"Is your g-spot where the DJ spins your decks? I think so."

Commented on 6/22/2008 12:00:00 AM

*shake your booty*

Commented on 6/8/2008 12:00:00 AM

in conclusion, mr. smiths = awesome.  'nuff said.

Commented on 6/7/2008 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's is like a reliable friend. You can always depend on em'! They're my go-to place when I need a chill crowd, a dance floor, decent music and welcoming bouncers.

Commented on 5/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

What's been said before about the atmosphere is accurate-- the textured wallpaper is a great touch. The seating is comfortable and clean, and the lighting was nicely balanced-- warm, one might say. Oddly enough, after two visits, I still haven't visited the upstairs area, and it wasn't until reading a few reviews here, after the fact, that I knew there was a basement!

Commented on 5/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

The decore inside was super nice...it was great to find out that we can lounge on comfy velour couches and sip our yummy cocktails. I really love the bowler hat painting and the upstairs lounge area. Wow...a recliner with tons of space for good talks or a shagging too. How handy!  A bar upstairs so you don't kill yourself on your 5 inch stilletos to go downstairs to get your liquid elixirs.

Commented on 5/21/2008 12:00:00 AM

Update: Ok, so I have to upgrade my rating to five stars. Went a couple of times on the weekend, bouncer DJ knows his trade and our names now, bartender Ben does the best Apple Martinis in The City and remains cool even if on duty on the party floor aka the basement. Only letdown: why does Mr. Smith's close at 2am? Why is it that you can't sell drinks after that time? Learn from Europe, US of A! ;-)

Commented on 5/13/2008 12:00:00 AM

I was drinking Gin & Tonic, and couldn't tell it there was any Gin in it at all...

Commented on 5/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

I didn't see the full bottle menu but the champagne by the bottle prices were less than most places.  Also, they carry a really inexpensive bottle in case you want to enjoy the pop and sparkle without spending in the normal $100-300 range. They have a really creative menu of champagne cocktails.  I can't wait to work my way through that list!

Commented on 4/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

First of all let me begin by saying that I am not classy.  Not at all.  Despite the fact that I am slightly overeducated I'm still that latino boy from rural South Texas growing up next to cows, orange groves, and taquerias.  Don't believe anyone else who says otherwise.  Bougie my ass, I am a man of the people.  And freaking ghetto fabulous.  Represent!  

Commented on 4/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

I dig the multi-layered feel of this bar. Seems as though if you needed to find a nook or cranny to park yourself, you'd be able to here.

Commented on 4/28/2008 12:00:00 AM

Went there on a Saturday night around 10:30pm. We paid a $10 cover (or rather my friend did), then decided to leave a few minutes later b/c it was really empty. On the way out, I asked if we could have our cover back (yes, I'm shameless) and the bouncer gave us three free passes that each admit two so that was nice. So if you ever change your mind after you've paid cover, ask for those passes for a future visit. We went to Etiquette then came back after midnight. Still not too packed. The hip hop was really good but the dance floor is in the basement with just a big fan for circulation. A bit ghetto. And if it was packed, probably a fire hazard.

Commented on 4/27/2008 12:00:00 AM

I'm not a clubber by any means, not even sure if this is a 'club'. All I know is that there was a line outside. As I came upon it (mere steps from the Civic Center BART station - bonus) I saw the line and thought oh god, please let that NOT be it. Obvi it was. The line was quick, made my way inside for a birthday party, noticed that the average age was about 21.01, enjoyed the bottle service (and seating) then split. I didn't make it downstairs, or upstairs or anywhere else for that matter, so I can't speak to the dance situation or the bar tending for that matter, but if you are a divey type that finds yourself invited to Mr. Smiths, go for it, it ain't half bad.

Commented on 4/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

I doesn't matter if i'm there picking bottles or catching a brew after working out, Mr. Smith's has that nice atmosphere and I'm always having fun there. To Vic A. and Stellah D. an interesting tid bit about bars in Europe is that they are designed to have a refined and elegant look and that was the effect Mr. Smiths was trying to go for. If you could see the basement area, there are wall drawings that spoof British Police. Now one of the bars back home in New York that I used to drink at was made out of a referbished brothel and that was a very shabby bar in comparrison to Mr. Smith's. So be sure to hug your favorite bartenders, barbacks, doormen, manager and waitresses, because they are the warmest crew put together.

Commented on 4/24/2008 12:00:00 AM

The music was okay- a blend of hip hop (both new & old) & pop. Though there needs to be a larger rotation of music, rather than the constant playing of particular new songs after every 2-3 songs. I understand that it brings all the girls to floor, though sometimes there are other songs that brings the girls.

Commented on 4/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

A friend introduced me to Mr. Smith's a few weeks ago... liked it so much, we went back last weekend with another fun crew.  Normal bar scene on the ground level, music and dancing downstairs.  Great DJ (same one both times I went so maybe he works every Saturday night?), stellar music (mostly a mix of hip hop and 80s classics), lots of shaking our tail feathers (one of my favorite ways to spend a night!)... I'll be back.

Commented on 4/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

I mean the staff and all are pleasant enough...it is not their fault that the hottie men are not goin in for blah-thunder thighs and siliconed pads on the bridge and tunnel shiksaz.....

Commented on 4/13/2008 12:00:00 AM

The downstairs reminds me of a hot, crowded, sweaty fraternity basement where people get freak nasty! Our contact, Kevin, was great in handling our guest list we gave him. We brought in a ton of people. However, by 12 30, the place was SO crowded (not just with us), that is was uncomfortable, causing people to leave- especially downstairs. The music could be better, but overall, a fun experience. I would like to come back, as long as I get here before 11 so I don't have to pay a cover.

Commented on 4/11/2008 12:00:00 AM

I thought the atmosphere was shiek, but it was not busy while I was there and that was pretty lame. The dance floor was completely empty and the people that were there were already pretty hammered. For my very few nights out that I get to have it was OK, but I don't know if I'd go back.

Commented on 4/10/2008 12:00:00 AM

I love having unexpectedly great nights and that's what I had on Friday at Mr. Smiths.  After getting turned around by my GPS that made me make at least 3 illegal left hand turns (once almost onto a one way street), I finally found perfect parking right outside the bar.  I have now resorted to blaming my GPS for my bad driving ...

Commented on 4/10/2008 12:00:00 AM

Good bar, GREAT music, and a whole bottom floor dedicated to all the dancers. A win in my book.

Commented on 4/7/2008 12:00:00 AM

In the downstairs level, there was a really compact area to dance. It was packed with a dj that was whack. The music was horrible. The song selection wasn't anything that blew me away. I like an eclectic mix of everything from rap, hip-hop, r&b club mixes, rock, old school songs,  top 40's, etc.

Commented on 3/30/2008 12:00:00 AM

This is a great place to meet new manz, esp. when half the crowd on the dance floor went to your college. Familiarity breeds easy hookups.

Commented on 3/19/2008 12:00:00 AM

I met a lot of new yelpers (new to me, not to yelp), and it was a really easy place to sit and be social.  Not loud enough where you couldn't hear your neighbor, and just the right amount of breathing room where you could circle the room, do your rounds of pleasantries, and come back without pushing anyone too much.

Commented on 3/17/2008 12:00:00 AM

i just celebrated my birthday here. i give 4 stars because it was the best birthday celebration ever (excluding birthdays before the age of 15).

Commented on 3/14/2008 12:00:00 AM

+1 for the bouncer remembering carding my friend when he used to work at rouge back in 2004. HAHAHA

Commented on 3/13/2008 12:00:00 AM

At first I thought...'what kinda low budget operation is this place running that when you call 411 it sends you to 34 7th Ave?' !  Mind you I was not pleased when I got to that other residential neighborhood. But I finally made it to the correct location.  The guy at the front door then proceeded to give me a little bit of a hassle for not knowing the name of the party I was there to attend.  No big deal..Once in, everything got better.  Drinks were right point.  Prices were not too bad.  Place got crowded quick, and seemed a bit on the Asian side...but all in all...it was an OK experience.  The service was actually great!  There was a blond little girl that was apparently new there, and she was very attentive and took care of me real well.  Somebody should give her a raise!  Parking was a little iffy...but what the heck it's the city right?  Music was also on point.  Very nice...

Commented on 3/12/2008 12:00:00 AM

if i didn't already have a yelp account, i would start one just to write this review for mr. smiths.

Commented on 3/11/2008 12:00:00 AM

Thank you to Mr. Smith's for hosting a scotch sampling evening! My palette has been expanded. After a sampling of two Glenfiddichs (still don't care for it) and two Balvenies (good, but none-the-less outclassed by Talisker and Macallan), I had a very happy mouth.

Commented on 3/10/2008 12:00:00 AM

I attended this past Saturday night, and will never go back. We were hanging out in the basement, which was a hot and overcrowded deathtrap. The beer selection was embarrassing, and the drinks expensive especially since it cost $10 to get in. Upstairs definitely had more character -- high ceilings, nice decore and lighting -- but again was ridiculously crowded, and I was worried about the tall blonde next to me vomiting as she wobbled in her heals and her eyes rolled back in her head. Boo Mr. Smith's!

Commented on 3/6/2008 12:00:00 AM

The bartenders are easy on the eyes and very sweet.  The owner, Max, is gracious, friendly, and laid-back, and I liked the fact that he seemed to want to get to know his clientele, even though they've been open for awhile.  Just like when you're in a relationship, just because it's comfortable doesn't mean you stop trying.

Commented on 3/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

*get a drink*

Commented on 3/3/2008 12:00:00 AM

My Biggest complaint was the sound quality downstairs.  The speakers seemed pretty blown out, and generally the music was hard to listen to.  The DJ was decent, though there were some poor mixes and questionable song choices.... Though there were also some really good mixes and really good song choices.... Hit and Miss i guess.

Commented on 2/28/2008 12:00:00 AM

unfortunately, we were there last friday nite and stayed till 11:15pm & mr. smith's was still dead.. the place had a lot of potential...they have a downstairs for dancing and the DJ was already spinning some great songs but too bad no one was dancing. they also have another upstairs level w/more seating, more like a lounge type.

Commented on 2/24/2008 12:00:00 AM

Star #4 - I will say it again, who you are with can make or break an experience, and I always have a blast here, with old friends and new.

Commented on 2/23/2008 12:00:00 AM

An enjoyable time overall at a nice, laid back bar in SOMA.  What made the experience even better was the nice bartender and the kind note he had us pass on to the bartender at Marshall at Bamboo Hut.  B/t Thunder and Marshall, our night was made much better!

Commented on 2/19/2008 12:00:00 AM

+1 because they accommodated a 120+ person guest list for a birthday for 3 people. VERY WELL DONE.

Commented on 2/10/2008 12:00:00 AM

Highly recommend.

Commented on 2/7/2008 12:00:00 AM

Otherwise, the place is pretty nice.  The drinks were a little pricey, but seeing as I just moved here from Amish Country Pennsylvania, everything seems pricey to me.  It was a bit crowded when I was there on a Saturday evening, but not so bad that you couldn't get around.  All in all, I had a good time.  The bartenders were good, the people were nice, and the place didn't smell like grim death (unlike some of the other bars I visited back home).  So, it gets a solid 4/5 from me.

Commented on 2/2/2008 12:00:00 AM

But yeah, I don't like paying money to pay too much money to drink.

Commented on 1/25/2008 12:00:00 AM

-Meet random girls in North beach visiting

Commented on 1/18/2008 12:00:00 AM

SUPER FUN!  Think New York City, very hole in the wall.  But once you walk thru the doors, you'll be having a night of meeting all the most fantastic people in the city, great dancing to awesome party music AND the drinks....you get your $$ worth.  Bartenders are friendly to the core.  The crowd isn't snotty or ghetto, you'll meet those who want a night out with other fun younglings in the city.  Mr. Smith is definitely now my favorite place in SF.  Hey, "if it's not fun, why bother?"

Commented on 1/15/2008 12:00:00 AM

cleanliness: 2/5 (inside was better than outside)

Commented on 1/8/2008 12:00:00 AM

Seriously.  You will sweat.  Not so big on the ventilation.  Keep the dark eye makeup to a minimum, ladies, as it will smear.  I, myself, was a hot mess after a good 1/2 hour.

Commented on 1/6/2008 12:00:00 AM

The decor is nice (kinda' fancy pants), but...

Commented on 1/4/2008 12:00:00 AM

service: 2/5 (bartenders constantly pushing their way through with what i assume are clean glasses)

Commented on 12/30/2007 12:00:00 AM

-1 star for the music downstairs - Horrible mixes, but since I do not have to go downstairs to enjoy a tasty cocktail 5 stars for the upstairs, which is where you will find me.

Commented on 12/30/2007 12:00:00 AM

*dance dance*

Commented on 12/21/2007 12:00:00 AM

I briefly checked out the upstairs and it looked pretty chill. Didn't get to see the downstairs, but I heard from several people that they have a DJ spinning down there on weekends.

Commented on 12/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

Went here for my sister's birthday. Reserved tables were small, they could probably fit 6 people max (total, they had 2 tables). It was pretty crowded by the bar, no room to move. I'm used to crowded dance floors, not crowded aisles to get downstairs to the dance floor. It's more of a chill lounge/bar. It's three levels, reminds me of Agenda Lounge in downtown San Jose. Top level was blocked off for private party. Staff was real cool/helpful/friendly. Crowd was mixed, people seemed to be older though, maybe late 20s (I'm freshly turned 21). Music was all over the place lol, from rock to 80s to top 40 to rap. I'm more of a rap/top 40 fan while at the club, but this dj would play two good songs and then go on a complete tangent. So I'd just stop dancing for a bit, walk around until he played another good song. Thought there'd be multiple DJ's but it was just one playing music throughout the whole place.  It's a nice place, but just wasn't my scene...maybe if I was older..like 10 years older, jk.

Commented on 12/11/2007 12:00:00 AM

The decor is fairly nice, but resembled a cave due to poor lighting.  I can appreciate that Mr. Smith's is trying to be chic, but the dance floor and stairs are nothing short of ghetto.  The DJ had good songs (mostly hip-hop), but tended to stop them just when they are getting to the best parts.  Who's ever heard of switching songs in the middle of "Baby Got Back"?!  That's just blasphemy.

Commented on 12/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

$10 cover Fri., mostly hiphop music

Commented on 12/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

Mostly likely you're wondering about the crowd.  I've been here twice, and i guess i my luck is weird or maybe that's the way this place is.  But the first time I went, it happened to be some puerto rican or latino benefit night or something cause there were a lot of mexicans/latinos there and they were playing alot of salsa/latin music (sry, i'm not well versed enough to differentiate or identify these things).  So it was kinda weird for me cause i didn't really know.  Then the second time i went here, there were clowns.  No, not a bunch of drunk goof offs, but actual clowns.  They came in to chill and have a drink I guess.  They were are wearing their clown suits and hair and makeup.  And as one passed to go the bathroom, i looked down, and lo and behold... red shoes with the that were big and boxy in the front.  Too bad they weren't drunk and crying or swearing, or yakking.. cause I would have love to take that picture.  Maybe if I go to this place again there'll be more clowns?

Commented on 12/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

Soooo... Maybe it was the night that I came, but I can honestly say that I did not have a very good time.  We came here for my friends birthday and she had an area reserved.  When we got here it wasn't ready and then they sent us to someone elses area.  Also there were some pretty rude people, which instantly made me not enjoy my time.  Drinks were all right, but there was nothing special. Maybe in the future I'll give it another try, but for now I think I'm good.

Commented on 12/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

The $10 cover is steep for a bar/club mix, when in north beach most of the bar/mixes are free or $5 (thinking kells, east side west).

Commented on 12/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

Usually when places are super crowded I get annoyed.  But somehow Mr Smiths walked that line between being fun lots of people and bad too many pushy people.  Plus its a good thing when I spend most of the night yelling "wow this song reminds me of junior high/high school dances"

Commented on 11/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

Geez, this placed was packed on Saturday night, all 3 floors were full, you can barely move. Hip hop on the basement, house on the second floor, VIP feel on the 3rd floor. Staff were friendly & pour hard drinks w/c I like. Mixed crowd!

Commented on 11/25/2007 12:00:00 AM

I seemed to frequent Mr. Smith's on a weekly basis when I first moved to SF. Convenient location, easy to get into, reasonably priced drinks, and a nice downstairs dance floor. What more can you ask for in a bar.

Commented on 11/21/2007 12:00:00 AM

But I can certainly hold my liquor.

Commented on 11/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

Cal's office holiday was here last weekend, so I'm reviewing it based on that experience. It was closed to the public and they catered the food. I'm not sure if the caterers were in any way affiliated with the venue, but they were really good (food and servers). The manager guy was pretty friendly, as were the bartenders. The music was interesting, and they also had a live jazz band. I felt really mature being there, sipping on champagne and having rack of lamb as finger food. It was fun, but we had to leave before they opened it up to public (10p) because I had finals to worry about! I'd like to come back on a regular night to see if the experience will be just as good.

Commented on 11/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

*touch your toes*

Commented on 11/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

Visit 1:

Commented on 11/15/2007 12:00:00 AM

Bizarre. Where kids from Marin go to feel like they're a banker in a NYC club or something. Bottles of Goose OMG! It also feels like there's a sweet 16 party going on at all times too. Some drunk underage girl standing behind me fell right on her ass. At like 8 o'clock. The people who work there are pretty cool, and the drinks are good.

Commented on 11/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

The bouncer had to do a double take on my ID.  Cause I'm old.  

Commented on 10/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

An okay club to party, but I've experienced better times at other places.

Commented on 10/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

And watch out for the parking.  The area seems to have 2am street cleaning every night.  At least that's all the street parking we found.

Commented on 10/25/2007 12:00:00 AM

The best thing about Mr. Smiths is that it is like three bars in one.  Once you got tired of dancing downstairs you could go up one floor to the bar or two floors to the lounge area.

Commented on 10/24/2007 12:00:00 AM

I'm officially old.

Commented on 10/22/2007 12:00:00 AM

The interior of this place is pretty nice as well, and even though the place looks small from the outside you wouldn't really have guessed that its all three levels!  The bordello decorations are interesting and the bar area looks pretty poppin'.  However, the dance floor was kinda small and the mix of music was a bit weird.   The night we were there the DJ kept mixing hiphop then rock, and reggae back and forth.  I don't know about that mix....

Commented on 10/21/2007 12:00:00 AM

"Dayumm, there were all sort of beautiful people all up in your bidnissss! You're a classy chick."

Commented on 10/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

Very cool, wasn't expecting an atmosphere like this at these prices. I was pleasantly surprised. I would give it them 5 stars but I only had a couple beers, so can't really attest much to the speed and quality of mixed drinks, though I assume they are excellent. I loved the dark, artsy decor, the dim lighting and the dog-friendliness (! really? yep, there was a guy whose playful english bulldog was just roaming around, sniffing people, and they were pretty cool with it. I was, too, it was a cute dog). Anyway, I love this place. Will gladly come back on any weekday happy hour.

Commented on 10/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

....Nish N. once called me Mrs. Smiths for good reason.

Commented on 10/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

We hit up this spot for my friend's birthday and we had a blast. Great crowd, seriously, and service was satisfactory. The music was good, but on the night we came the dj sucked. Poor skills. Good club overall.

Commented on 9/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

Although the music didn't stimulate much booty-shakin' action from us, at least there were other people dancing.

Commented on 9/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

Affordable drinks and fast service, enough to make you unabashedly willing to make a fool of yourself on the surprisingly spacious and well attended sublevel dance floor. Barely noticed being on the younger-side of  a decent crowd of 24's to the low 30-somethings.  And if you and your friends ARE the party, this is definitely a place you will enjoy.

Commented on 9/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

Ummmm and HOW did i STILL manage to spend $80 at a bar where it was open bar the first two hours?????? geeez... talk about drink happy

Commented on 9/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

I'm a fan.  Whether it has been a birthday party, a random night where you just want to get out or a place you want to go when the other club sucked, I've always had a good time here.  My friends and I usually spent most of our time downstairs.  The music has been good every night I've gone.  WHen we need a break from all the dancing, just head up stairs and chill for a bit by the bar.

Commented on 9/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

1:30am...tired, sweaty & satisfied.

Commented on 9/16/2007 12:00:00 AM

Ill just get it out of my pants right now. This isnt my type of place. I felt like i was at a party thrown by my cousin who is in corporate sales. That said, i liked how dark it was, but i didnt even notice the music everyone else was talking about. Maybe it was generic, or it was the fact that i had been up three consecutive days. Who knows...im not keeping fucking score, Chadwick. What i did like, was how cozy and warm everyone was. Even the couple dry fucking each other in the corner. They looked cozy. And the guy who was about 50 who brought his 22 years old assistant there. Cozy. She was kinda rocking this Eva Langoria thing, 'cept she looked...well....scared. Eh well...HA Youth. You kids. It definitely has more of a romantic couple vibe than a hang out with Lou vibe. The bar is situated beneath a Gracie school of Jiu Jitsu. Which translates to "Sweet Way of Killing on the Ground", so that alone gets it some points.  Maybe im used to the Lower Haight Rate, but it seemed a little pricey, but what do i know? I never really go to these types of places. Maybe ill have to bring the Bee down here and see how it is as a couples place. Ill also have to check out the rest of it, as someone told me there are more layers.

Commented on 9/15/2007 12:00:00 AM

*do the monkey, do the monkey*

Commented on 9/15/2007 12:00:00 AM

OK so let me describe this SWEET HEAT drink and then I will go into the atmosphere of the place.

Commented on 9/10/2007 12:00:00 AM

i definitely won't write off mr.smiths...i'm willing to check it out again some other time and hopefully there'll be more ppl...

Commented on 9/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

cost: ??? didn't pay for any drinks + $10 cover

Commented on 8/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

Ed, yes you were there...albeit early as hell!

Commented on 8/24/2007 12:00:00 AM

MR DJ, you really should let the music play... at least to the end of one song, broham. Annoyed the shiznits outta me. but good beats =)

Commented on 8/20/2007 12:00:00 AM

Although the cocktails were expensive, this place still rocks. It takes two beers, two mix drinks, and a few friends to make this place a night to remember. It's a bar to show your fellow co-workers a good time after work. Located near Market.

Commented on 8/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

We randomly went here after dinner. We were looking for a dive type bar...that's not what we found though from the outside, you probably can't tell. Compared to the other establishments, this place looks like the Fort Knox of bars. Dark, outside, bars over the windows, small fence, ie. stay out if you think you're not welcome. Inside, there is a long bar with lots of stuff so the drinks shouldn't be a problem. There are a bunch of tables and I think all of which can be reserved. The is a male and female washroom so you may end up waiting in line. There is also an upstairs which has tables that can be reserved, but also a smaller bar. It's a second level that overlooks the lower level. Could be nice to reserve for a night. Anyway, don't know what else to say other than it's a viable option for a bar. They also do have happy hour going on. Don't remember what their deal was, but it was reasonable.

Commented on 8/13/2007 12:00:00 AM

I love Mr. Smiths.  They do tons of charity events, which is a big plus to me, but honestly, the atmosphere is just incredible.  Even on a Friday night, you can go hang here and feel like you've got a place to be without having some guys breathing down your neck (or against your boobs, in my case-being 6'4" and all), and still have a chance to be social.  You can hang out upstairs and be cool, or you can chill on the mainfloor with the crowd, or seated with your group, or you can dance the night away downstairs.  Fabulous bartenders, manager, and dorguys.  I love this bar.  I wish it weren't so friggin incovenient to get to.

Commented on 8/9/2007 12:00:00 AM

I loved the vibe in this place - the three floors are a wonderful use of the space and it was the perfect place for our yelp event.  Good picking, Nish and Jeremy!  My only problem with this place is the fact that the neighborhood around it isn't too nice, but otherwise would be a place that I hung out at more.

Commented on 8/7/2007 12:00:00 AM

First time here and it was a blast! Great dj, everyone was friendly: bartenders, coat check dude and even bouncer! I will definitely be back here to dance the night away. Yes drinks are pricey, but they can make a tasty martini, which I appreciate.

Commented on 8/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

there's something about brick and white candles that's effortlessly sexy.  though i only drank a yelptini (and none of their signature drinks) that night, i really enjoyed myself, and i will surely go back!  my only qualm is the area, which is not so fabulous.

Commented on 7/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

OK, so I'm a bit biased, I don't own the place but I am trying to drink my way into being a shareholder...It's a great venue in an unexpected location now if Kevin would only order a couple more bottles of Talisker...

Commented on 7/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

bartenders serve stiff drinks, but hmmm, i don't know why i feel like i need to say this, but none of the bartenders are hot.

Commented on 7/22/2007 12:00:00 AM

Now children, this story is called, "If You Grab a Cute Boy by the Arm."

Commented on 7/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

Only complaint would be that the music is a bit loud for conversation. I'll go back and see how the place feels like on the weekend, after a brew fewskies.

Commented on 7/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

Fucked up location, but it's that much more attractive that it's not in a nice neighborhood. Except on Thursday nights when all of a sudden at like 11pm it turns into your bridge and tunnel nightmare full of girls from Fremont lap-dancing the striped shirt crowd.

Commented on 7/16/2007 12:00:00 AM

Damn..shut the place down on a Wed. nite! now that is PHUN with a PH! An exciting find in my adventure of "where have i not been? ".

Commented on 7/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

+unique cocktails that are blended with fresh fruits and vegetables

Commented on 7/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

aside from the fact that I was assaulted on the way to meet my friends at this bar (minor but still freaky) I really enjoyed myself. after I threw myself through the front doors without even showing my ID, I was thankfully greeted my many friends and smiley yelpers. I love coming late to things like this, when people are already tipsy, generous, and sufficiently loose.

Commented on 7/10/2007 12:00:00 AM

If Mr. Smith's was a dress code, I'd call it business casual -- functional and not over the top. The laid back atmosphere is fitting for large groups deep in conversation who have no interest in screaming over the music. Big thanks to the adorable bartender who hooked my girls and I up with some stiff drinks. I don't know if I'd rank this venue as a mixologist's heaven, but I will give them some street cred for the delightful concoctions. As any one on the verge of a mental breakdown after a rough work week, I left the bar quite smashed that Friday evening. In fact, I barely recognized the old hobo popping a squat outside of the bar. You're in bliss when the Tenderloin seems like innocent Disneyland.

Commented on 7/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

I like Mr. Smith's because it can be chill and it can be poppin.  If you go during the week, it has the feel of a lounge you can meet up with a friend and catch up.  If you want a large crowd and are ready to party, go on Saturday.  That's normally when people book tables for parties so the place fills up.  Fridays are hit or miss.  On the last Wednesday of the month, there is a ladies only wine tasting from 6:30 to 8:30 pm.  Guys, if you go here after the wine tasting, don't expect there to be lots of chicks.  The last time I went, the place cleared out pretty fast.

Commented on 6/30/2007 12:00:00 AM

we did it up big for my 30th and went for the bottle service at mr. smith's. this allowed us to reserve a block of booths for our party. perfect since this place was pretty packed by 11pm. mr smith's has the kind of upscale yet non-cheesy vibe so many bars lack these days. i love the combination of victorian style wallpaper with brick walls and funky-chic lighting.

Commented on 6/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

After the bad experience at Whisper we head over to Mr. Smith's,where we are pleasantly surprised...

Commented on 6/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

The goose was a bit watery but at least there was no skimpage on the chaser!  However I have to say that maybe the alcohol wasn't strong because of my own alcoholic tendancies to drink like a camel :)

Commented on 6/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

but beware, the bouncer charged us $10 cover exactly after 10pm (yea, and there was no one inside)...so, we decided to not go in. and then the bouncer decided to "waive" the cover...(that's more like it i say..)

Commented on 6/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

Went for NYE 2k7. Hefty price tag ($150) but "open bar" and apps all night. Great space with 3 levels and cute bartenders. That's all I can really remember. Oh, and it's in a sketch neighborhood but most good venues are.

Commented on 6/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

*mow the lawn*

Commented on 6/13/2007 12:00:00 AM

they ordered pizza for the whole bar and we listened to live jazz. you can still talk while the music's playing. i like how it's almost invisible from the outside. also it's right next to the Federal Building. what a fine looknig edifice!

Commented on 6/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

I really liked this place.  With the bar and lounge upstairs and the club downstairs, it makes for an exciting night.  The bartenders were pretty quick with the drinks and the club was really movin'.  It was really, really hot downstairs but well worth it.  Attractive ladies, good drinks, 4 stars.

Commented on 6/4/2007 12:00:00 AM

i agree with gummibear h. but it seems like from other ppls yelp reviews, that this place is pretty good to host for birthdays.

Commented on 6/3/2007 12:00:00 AM

- the crowd was lacking, so the place was quite dead.

Commented on 6/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

Had a "private" party there even tho a bunch of blazers kept trying to sit in our booths, but the waitress was super accommodating and sweet.  all in all a good time, but i don't know that i'd go out of my way to go back.

Commented on 6/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

Also, the downstairs dance area can get pretty stuffy.

Commented on 5/24/2007 12:00:00 AM

The crowd was a joke, though. Really nerdy and awkward. Do not go here to try to meet girls or new people. I was approached by several girls and I ended up walking away (I usually give everyone a chance and am very tolerant) because of their atrocious social skills. This is coming from someone who is no paragon in that department.

Commented on 5/23/2007 12:00:00 AM

I'm a sleezy bastard for doing this but I love going to this place because there are so many drunk desi chicks. I scored here more than any other place, though scoring by my definition is probably not what you're thinking. I've gotten some numbers here and made out with some girls. Sad thing is it's usually after 1am whenever everyone, me included, is too hammered to remember anything so I have no idea what these girls look like. Still I cannot hate on a place where a girl comes up to me and starts making out with me without me saying a word to her. God bless Mr. Smiths, even if it's filled with 21 year old Berkeley Indian chicks.

Commented on 5/21/2007 12:00:00 AM

Star #1 - The most kick ass door guy EVER! The man made sure every drunk stumbler watched their step, and reminded everyone to close out their tab as they left. All doormen should do this, but he is the first I have seen add this extra touch. Quality customer service!

Commented on 5/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

Remember when this space was Cloud 9?  Remember how it used to be fun and then became very totally-last-year, a little shop-worn, and not-so-fun?  Well, the owners of Mr. Smith's did exactly the right thing.  They completely changed it, from the layout of the space, to the decor, to the vibe.  Cloud 9 is now a misty memory.

Commented on 5/17/2007 12:00:00 AM

I went here for the first time for a friend's birthday--most of us had never been before. I can't say we'd missed much. It was one of those bars where I just couldn't discern what the vibe or appeal was--it wasn't overly crowded or empty and there was everybody from middle aged hipster to young college student there. Drinks are weak and overpriced--stick with the wine and beer. Music was unmemorable. I enjoyed hanging out with my friends, but I'd rather do that with a better backdrop than Mr. Smith's.

Commented on 5/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

Three levels of entertainment.   Hip hop is cool.  Even my husband, who ONLY listens to industrial, had fun.

Commented on 5/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

There are a lot of places to lounge at Mr. Smith's if you have made a reservation. However, no reservation = no luck. I didn't find this place too fabulous. I would come back here again for some SWEET HEAT but that is about all.

Commented on 5/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

Star # 3 - The decor. I love old fashioned bars, with textured wallpaper and carved darkwood detailing...and I love loft areas with couches....and I love basements that have the feel of a rec room, brings back childhood memories from when I lived in Chicago and we had the coolest basement ever!

Commented on 5/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

I had A LOT of fun! Came here with my girlfriends. It was SUPER hot downstairs in the dance "basement" (Hah) but be smart, dance near the fan. ;)

Commented on 5/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

My kickball league is full of a bunch of drunken hooligans. This shouldn't be a surprise; most are. We're a bunch of twenty- and thirty-somethings who refuse to grow up and still hold onto a slice of college bacchanalia.

Commented on 5/5/2007 12:00:00 AM

In the unclaimed land of 7th and Market lies the Switzerland of San Francisco: not SOMA, not Tenderloin, and certainly not the Mission, Mr. Smith's is a good place to test out your alter-ego. Are you a hipster trying to break-in to the swankster scene? Gel your hair and try out your new costumes at Mr. Smiths. Dot-commer trying to boost your hipster credentials? Put on your skinny pants and get wasted at Mr. Smiths. Marina girl with a crush on a SOMA lofter? Buy some square-framed glasses and name-drop at Mr. Smiths.

Commented on 5/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

It's not too bad, as far as SF bars are concerned. Drinks are definitely not too expensive, and they usually play pretty good music. As others have pointed out, it's not overflowing with people and a lot of people usually have private events here, which makes it a little nicer. One night I came and the whole place reeked, and most of the people there were giant d-bags, but eh, that's kind of par for the course for the city. Definitely not bad.

Commented on 4/30/2007 12:00:00 AM

The entire place rocks considering what neighborhood it's in. Since it's right by my school, a bunch of us decided to end our quarter with drinks and dancing. Three levels to explore in such a compacted place. It was beyond fun. The dj had a good mix going and the drinks were plenty strong. It's a classy spot with no pretenses. We need more spots like these. Honestly, it's the people/friends that you surround yourself with that makes a place pop.

Commented on 4/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

5 stars for being the first bar-tender to ever put Chipotle (dried pepper) in my cocktail.

Commented on 4/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

*** update #2: just received a great letter from the club! gonna give it another shot... stay tuned...

Commented on 4/23/2007 12:00:00 AM

Dayum, this place gets crowded.  I felt like I was back in a college house party, only everyone at Mr.Smiths was older, better dressed, and richer.  Went here last week for a friends birthday, unfortunately she was like one of 5 people having a party there that night.  We got here around 10pm and I swear by 11 it was jam packed.    

Commented on 4/23/2007 12:00:00 AM

The only downside to this place is the location.  Buuuuutttt, as soon as SF cleans up 6th and the new Litigation bldg goes in, that should take care of it.

Commented on 4/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

we went on a friday night so it wasn't crazy crowded.  all our friends had a great time.

Commented on 4/10/2007 12:00:00 AM

This place draws in a more sophisticated crowd, but that didn't stop my friends and me from tearin up the dance floor downstairs. I had some sort of peach martini, which was delicious. But the rest of the drinks, like cranberry vodka, was so-so. Watch out when you pay by credit card--the receipt that says "Mr Smith's copy" actually has your whole credit card number on it. $10 cover, but that's not too bad for me, considering that it's a really nice place and the DJ was pretty good too. I'll definitely be back here, especially since there was a guy handing out VIP passes for free entrance next time =)

Commented on 4/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

I like the upstairs lounge area.  Didn't stay here too long but they place had a good feel.  I plan to go back.

Commented on 4/4/2007 12:00:00 AM

Oh and the music is pretty mainstream...not such a bad thing.

Commented on 4/3/2007 12:00:00 AM

So I have driven past this place so many times as I try to get through this rough part of the city as fast as I can and back to the marina and to my surprise my kickball league had a mid season party there. I love the gated front door, makes you feel like you are on pelican island (jail), then the overall apparence is actualy nice, drinks were ok and resonable, now off downstairs...OMG..I felt like I was in a dungeon and I would run into the man in the iron mask, luckily for me I did not and we gave this place 30 minutes and we were OUT!

Commented on 4/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

Great bar and service and the perfect location for an all out DYL Yelp take-over for our very own Me A's 30th birthday!

Commented on 4/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

cant wait to go back.

Commented on 3/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

All in all i have always had a nice time here.  The bartenders are super nice and space in itself is nice as well.  I was also really impressed with how they took care of my friends when they were in town for a bachelorette party.  I myself was not a part of the festivities but I was there and I did help the Maid Of Honor connect up with somone at Mr Smith's to make sure they got in okay and had a table for them.  The feedback from Lisa (M.O.H.) was that they were awesome the whole night!!  They had a blast.

Commented on 3/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

I enjoyed my first experience at Mr. Smiths. It was also my first DYL...so a lot of firsts for me that night. The staff was exceptional that evening. I was greeted at the front door with a smile. Not sure it they're always like that, perhaps they had been forewarned about the borrage of Yelpers that night. Not only were the bartenders attentive, courteous and sweet...they also bought us FREE PIZZA! Now, I know that Yelpers can be picky, tempermental and sometimes demanding...so what better way to win everyone over then to buy our affections with FREE FOOD!! Yes, I liked it. Yes, I ate three pieces, and yes...I went out to dinner afterwards too. Thanks Mr. Smiths for the good service, free food and the opportunity to meet all of those nice yelpers! Yeah!

Commented on 3/22/2007 12:00:00 AM

i like the vibe and decor, but the crowd was a little blah.  maybe too many b-day partys going on.  

Commented on 3/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

update:

Commented on 3/12/2007 12:00:00 AM

I'm not big on clubs or places where you are smashed in on a dance floor with people who drink themselves to the point of going home with anyone that can talk somewhat coherently which is why I'm always wanting to dance- because I never go to places with dance floors!  But this is the perfect mix and balance.  Great bar area with comfy lounge couches and a lower level dance area that is not so packed that you can't move.  The crowd too, is not super snotty Marina area people, and not people that just got out of college.  Mostly people in their mid to late 20s, and early 30s, that want to work hard, play hard, relax and have fun dancing and drinking with friends!!!  Liked it so much last Spring that I went 5 times in one month, and that was when I was only living in SF half the month!

Commented on 3/11/2007 12:00:00 AM

i went there this past Saturday and had a good time until some drama happened between my group of frends but what's a night out without drama, right?  No?  Okay -- whatever.

Commented on 3/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

Though I haven't been here in a few months, I saw someone else's review, which prompted me to join the fan club.......

Commented on 3/8/2007 12:00:00 AM

This is how I roll, bitches.

Commented on 3/3/2007 12:00:00 AM

-Is drunk, wet, jumps in my bed, and snores like a freight train

Commented on 3/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

We got there a bit late and only had one round of drinks. I got my drink of choice - Jack on the rocks.  It was a pretty good amount of whiskey.  I appreciated that much.

Commented on 2/28/2007 12:00:00 AM

The club itself is sweet, off the beaten path of Market Street, slightly away from the urine stench of homeless. Three levels of personality, lounge as you walk in and dance floor in the basement.

Commented on 2/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

When you go downstairs to partake in the booty-grinding action, it's almost as if you walked into K-Fed's (c)rap(py) video, minus the decor, bling, and that background noise in the form of "Lose Control."  The tiny space is jam packed with sweat-lubricated 20- & 30-something year-olds.  The men are either feeling up some poor, inebriated girl, or checking out the meat while dancing with everyone and no one at the same time.  If you need air, you have to walk upstairs, as the dance floor is devoid of ventilation, save for the two big fans that re-circulate the musty, thick air through your hair.  Doesn't that have ghetto-fabulous written all over it?

Commented on 2/20/2007 12:00:00 AM

I first heard of Mr. Smith's via an invitation from my friend Lisa.  Scared that the clientele would consist of guys in button down shirts and their best interpretation of "The Gav's" hairdo, I was pleasantly surprised.  Everyone I met that night was so much fun and extremely nice.  The staff was great too.  When they heard that it was my first time there, the bartender came back with a handful of VIP passes.  They all made great cocktails and were very forgiving when the consumption of them all made me forget my card.

Commented on 2/19/2007 12:00:00 AM

You'll find me gazing at the wall.

Commented on 2/18/2007 12:00:00 AM

Went here for a dual bday party of mine and a buddies...

Commented on 2/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

Great little bar nestled in a kinda strange location. Classy decor and great bartenders ;) I like to stop in every now and then for a cocktail and interesting conversation!

Commented on 2/7/2007 12:00:00 AM

really love the scene here.

Commented on 2/4/2007 12:00:00 AM

This review is for their VIP service.  I have never been to this club, but i was thinking of having my bday party here.  I've called and emailed Kevin the event coordinator several times to try to book a table for my bday.  He barely responds and when i was finally able to talk to him about visiting the place to check it out he flakes! I call him the night of my visit and he didn't pick up my call or called me back.  I mean WTF! I'm trying to give this place my business but i guess they don't want it.  I've heard good reviews from Yelp and from friends about this club, but I guess they have not experienced working with Kevin.  I don't like putting people on blast but at the same time consumers need to know the type of customer service they may be getting.

Commented on 2/2/2007 12:00:00 AM

walk downstairs, dance floor, smaller bar, booths

Commented on 2/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

The place formerly known as Cloud 9, has awoken to be a classy/trendy space amidst the neighborhood that hosted the grimy streets of Rent the Movie!

Commented on 1/31/2007 12:00:00 AM

EVERY single time we come here its always a blast.

Commented on 1/30/2007 12:00:00 AM

Showed up here right as it was opening around 6ish, so we made a b-line straight for the bar.  Was pleasantly surprised to find Yelp happy hour drink specials there for our DYL.  I'm sure they have great happy hour specials anyway, but they even made nice menus for the occasion.  Cuz yelpers matter!

Commented on 1/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

upstairs is bigger bar, booths, bathrooms....

Commented on 1/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

*dance dance*

Commented on 1/29/2007 12:00:00 AM

this place reminds me of the basement at asia SF, but the music sucks more. the Dj for some reason felt compelled to play flo rida low like 2 1/2 times....started off with a lot of mash ups and then started getting into old songs. old songs are cool once in a while, but then it really killed it. it got super crowded and annoying for a while and then i was pretty much done being happy before 1am. blah, placed started to empty a little after 1am, i'm sure it would have been emptier if it wasn't for such a large birthday party.'

Commented on 1/28/2007 12:00:00 AM

update: i called the bar later in the week after not hearing anything from them regarding my coat and left a voicemail.  they never even bothered to return my call.

Commented on 1/28/2007 12:00:00 AM

Star # 2 - The bar was packed but the bartender remembered my last name the entire night as I racked up drinks on my tab. Plus they have good drinks. Plus they have a good selection of Scotch, which is always a plus. Again, in case you didn't hear the first time, quality customer service, which is huge.

Commented on 1/28/2007 12:00:00 AM

good "young" but not "Bar None young" crowd.

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

Considering the neighborhood isn't the nicest in the city, its really easy to get to, just being a few steps off of Market street, and I would definitely come back.  Maybe ill even stay to check out the dancing portion of the evening.

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

This was by far my best DYL experience - the Hubby and the Cousin in tow, we partook of a fraction of what Yelpers are best known for!

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

The MFBF had a blast! The Cousin had a blast!

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

I didn't realize this was a bar/club at first when I walked by because there were no signs and the only identification that a bar might exist is a bouncer standing near the front entrance, other than that, you might just think its a shady massage parlor or a place where black market deals take place in the back at first glance.

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

This is a great place if you like crappy music. And if you're lucky enough to get there after 10pm you even get to pay a $10 cover. Awesome. They try to bill this as an exclusive and swanky lounge but it's really just pretentious without merit and the location is so out of the way that when you decide to bail you're pretty stranded. On the plus side, the bartenders were fast and it seemed like the word around town is this place is a dud so you'll have it almost entirely to yourself. My recommendation, skip it if at all possible.

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

My first visit doesn't count because I showed up drunk and don't remember a thing. The second time was yesterday for cupcakes and cocktails...the former of which I had none and the latter of which I had several. The bartender mixes up some tasty gimlet concoctions including the berry balsamic and ginger marmalade, which were $5 until 8! Happy hour specials also include $4 martinis and $3 well drinks.

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

*toss out your fishing line*

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

*sprinkler ch-ch-ch-ch-ch-chhhhhh*

Commented on 1/27/2007 12:00:00 AM

might have had a little TOO much fun last night.

Commented on 1/26/2007 12:00:00 AM

Great location (easy to find parking, taxis readily available, and theoretically BART-able - we've done it before!), huge bar @ the main level, one upstairs and another downstairs too, fun music (although you know it's closing time when they start to play arg, reggae), and an AWESOME crowd (I think every time we've gone, one of the single girls has found a cute boy to make out with!). Since the dance floor is downstairs it sometimes gets a bit stuffy but a place that pleases all (from those that want to lounge to those of us looking to dance the night away!).

Commented on 1/25/2007 12:00:00 AM

I recently held a birthday party at Mr. Smith's on a Friday night and had the BEST time! We reserved the 3 table section near the main bar and it was well worth it. Kevin (the general manger) was extremely helpful and responsive when setting everyone up on the guestlist. Our hostess was as sweet as pie and made sure everyone had a drink in hand throughout the night. The entire staff, from the bartenders to the bouncers, were very friendly and accomodating. I can appreciate a classy place with top-notch service, without the snooty attitude. At around midnight, we moved down to the basement level for some dancing. It was packed but we found ourselves a good little spot near a fan to keep cool and dance the night away. The DJ played some great hip-hop/ Top 40 and the crowd was diverse and lots of fun! Everyone was there to have a good time. The only reason I am giving it 4 stars is because the area is not the best, however, I didn't feel unsafe walking around. Once you get inside, the space is beautiful and you forget where you are. I highly recommend Mr. Smith's for hosting a party and will definitely be returning in the future!

Commented on 1/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

-One girl comes home with me

Commented on 1/14/2007 12:00:00 AM

I don't think I can add any new reason as to why this place isfabulous, as many Yelpers have reviewd it extensively.

Commented on 1/11/2007 12:00:00 AM

Some guy kept taking my hat the second time I was here. But that's ok, he seemed harmless & nice. Nonetheless,

Commented on 1/6/2007 12:00:00 AM

There were a really big concentration of beautiful girls there.

Commented on 1/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

I went here for a friend's birthday party and definitely enjoyed it. It has three different levels, making it very interesting to watch drunk people trip down the stairs. The drinks are AWESOME. I was feeling adventurous so I just asked the bartenders to make me something "sweet", "strong", "fruity", etc. and they definitely delivered just the right drink every single time! The music on the dance floor was varied, which was good because there was pretty much something for everyone. This place is overall a good time. Gotta take a way one star for the shady location, though.

Commented on 12/30/2006 12:00:00 AM

music is excellent

Commented on 12/21/2006 12:00:00 AM

my roommate and i had our birthday party here a couple months back, and it was by far the best experience with a club that i've had in this city.

Commented on 12/18/2006 12:00:00 AM

my only complaint was the DJ. we were there saturday night and it seemed like the guy had ADD. he would put a great song on and then 30 seconds into it change it to another song. i know he was trying to keep the energy going, but sometimes people would get really excited to hear a song, only to have it abruptly end. and come on, who interrupts prince's "kiss"? that's just shameful.

Commented on 12/14/2006 12:00:00 AM

One standout thing about this place is the most friendly bouncer I've seen in a LONG time.  This guy was great, after checking our IDs he smiled and told us to have a good time, and when we left he told us to have a good night too.  One thing is for sure, politeness goes a long way when all the bouncers in the city act like royalty and sometimes like they have something stuck up "there".  It's nice to have a someone smile and tell you to have a good time!

Commented on 12/14/2006 12:00:00 AM

main level and upstairs is cool looking, basement level looks like, well... a basement.

Commented on 12/3/2006 12:00:00 AM

Other than that, I did not like how the bottom floor had a unisex, one toilet bathroom.  By the time it hits 12:30AM there's about 20 people (men, women and drunkards who you'd think were 14 years old) waiting in line plastered, which can either be a good thing or bad thing, depending on who's standing next to you.

Commented on 12/2/2006 12:00:00 AM

Cool digs. You kind of want to go in with platforms and bell bottoms.  But I don't think anyone still drinks Cadillac's or whatever they are called. Cool people and you have options to lay low or schmooze.

Commented on 11/28/2006 12:00:00 AM

Great after-work place and when the crowd is right you could end up spending an entire night here. Lots of fun and a definite return is upcoming for me.

Commented on 11/16/2006 12:00:00 AM

Seriously. You need to go. You will have an awesome time.

Commented on 11/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

Now first off I should begin by warning you that a full 2 months (I think) have elapsed between my being in Mr. Smith's and my reviewing it. Now this is not, as some could quite well guess, that the alcohol consumed that night has only just worn off and allowed my long term memory to begin functioning again. Instead, very boringly I might add, it's purely because I've been too busy to write up a proper review.

Commented on 11/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

Perhaps my expectations were too high.  Perhaps I was in a funk and still sulking that our cab driver dropped us at the wrong bar.  Or perhaps this place just isn't that great.  Regardless, our out-of-town friend ran into one of his childhood friends here, which made my first Mr. Smith's experience a rather memorable one.  I'd come back, but most likely just for a drink or two en route to another location.

Commented on 10/27/2006 12:00:00 AM

You see the problem here is not the atmosphere, nor the service, nor the people. It's one thing, pure and simple. The glasses. When you order a Vodka and Tonic, there should be a certain weightiness to it, an impression that you're getting your money's worth. Unfortunately here, even if the measure is the same as elsewhere, somehow you feel short changed. My advice - go buy some decent sized glasses and make sure people feel like they're really getting a good drink. The rest will take care of itself.

Commented on 10/27/2006 12:00:00 AM

I remember this space when it was Cloud Nine, an all white, very contemporary bar/club...Max has once again completely outdone himself with this redo...he transformed the place with rich colors, dark wood bar, hardwood floors, sophisticated upholstery, and the exposed brick wall.  There are three floors, one for dancing, on for lounging, and the main floor....I don't care much for the location, but I will brave the crackheads to hang out at this very cool spot!

Commented on 10/26/2006 12:00:00 AM

-Girl is in my shower taking a shower with her clothes on

Commented on 10/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

Overall, I would come at least once, preferably when it's crowded since the drinks won't be the most impressive thing there. Hopefully, the people will be.

Commented on 10/17/2006 12:00:00 AM

the bartenders were super nice and very accomodating. i would highly recommend this place.

Commented on 10/14/2006 12:00:00 AM

My first experience was during the Yelp party last year.  I thought it was the perfect place for a private party, but I had no idea about it's normal nights.  So I ventured out this past weekend with a friend and had a blast.  We got there early, so it was easy to get a drink and settle down.  They had great music and when the people started pouring in there was still room to dance.  The only down side was for the prices, the drinks were not that good.  In fact one drink I had ($8) wasn't even filled up.  But the bouncer was friendly (which made my friend feel comfortable) and we couldn't have had a better time.

Commented on 10/7/2006 12:00:00 AM

EDIT -- I remember what the three stars were for:  the gin & tonics were good.

Commented on 10/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

Bitches.

Commented on 10/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

-Random girls get into a fight with each other

Commented on 9/30/2006 12:00:00 AM

Inside was beautiful, great layout and decor. Yelpers gradually filled the place and I've never met so many in one night. It was a very conducive place for circulating! The bartenders were very friendly and mixed up some yummy special shots, which Kathryn T. named the Eazy-E. Then the dance floor opened up and slowly there was enough of a crowd that my self conscious self was able to dance, and I, and everyone else around me, was having lots of fun. I can't remember if the music was good, but it was definitely danceable. At 12:30 I decided that I was sober enough to do the 20 minute bike ride in the rain home, and so I left, to much regret. My favorite DYL event ever!

Commented on 9/25/2006 12:00:00 AM

The place was comfortable though I didn't see the upstairs. The downtairs seating towards the back has some sort of weird reflection effect going. I could make out the conversation of the people at the far end perfectly.

Commented on 9/25/2006 12:00:00 AM

I've only been here once, but for some reason I don't have a strong desire to go back.  Maybe it was because I rolled in with my roommate's investment-banker crew, only to find more investment-banker crews.  Maybe it was the really crappily techno'ed-out 80s mix that night.  Meh.  I didn't hate it, so we're off to a good start.

Commented on 9/25/2006 12:00:00 AM

That's right.  Use the $10 your parents gave you to get in, kiddies.

Commented on 9/24/2006 12:00:00 AM

Every element of Mr. Smith's  was great, from my experience locking my bike up in front, to the decor and dance floor experience.

Commented on 9/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

I came across this place with a friend of mine while wondering SOMA looking for some tipple.  We ambled in and sat down for a drink...at which point the 'bouncer', who was sitting at the bar, asked us for our ID's as if it was an afterthought.  A nice guy though, unlike many of the more bossy bouncers.  The bartender (Thunder) was very friendly and quickly served up a few beers for us.  When we mentioned where we were off to next, he enthusiastically mentioned that we should see a friend of his at another bar (Bamboo Hut).  

Commented on 9/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

Ammo's knows Mr. Smith...and Mr. Smith knows Ammo. This is a fantastic venue to host an event, in addition to kicking back with friends and coworkers for some drinks after a long day.  Alongside having a friendly bar staff, Max and Kevin go beyond the call of duty in helping people stage private events.  Drinks are good, space is great without being gritty or pretentious. Parking can be an issue at times, so hop in a cab with friends and have a good time.

Commented on 9/19/2006 12:00:00 AM

b) turn gay

Commented on 9/19/2006 12:00:00 AM

The music was a pretty good mix of popular and aset of old school. There was no drama and the manager was very attentive to our needs. OK so I can't remember too much of the last half but it was really fun and I would highly recommend this place for people looking to have a private party.

Commented on 9/17/2006 12:00:00 AM

oh and they don't serve buttery nipples! wtf?!?

Commented on 9/13/2006 12:00:00 AM

I also like the space.  The main floor has a long bar and a long couch along the wall with tables.  The top floor is a small loft with a separate bar.  The basement also has a separate bar and is where the main dance floor is.  I think it's only open on Fridays and Saturdays though.

Commented on 9/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's is a great place to end up, especially if you're on the run from other, lesser bars like Anu. For a start, it actually has enough bartenders to serve the number of people there. Secondly, it has a really nifty little dance area downstairs, which once you have gotten beyond its basement-like stature and drunken enough to be "in the mood" is a great place to dance, stagger and flirt. Or all at once if you're feeling brave. So why then, observant readers might ask, have you only given it four stars?

Commented on 9/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

Came here for a friend's birthday gathering a while ago. The music that night was somewhat questionable (Madonna Vogue mashed up with Britney Spears' Stronger???) but the drinks were strong and the conversation kept flowing.... Definite straight crowd here, but the sight of two gay men going it at on the dance floor didn't turn many heads. (I don't know if that a compliment to the liberal attitude of the patrons or an insult to my two friends. :)

Commented on 9/7/2006 12:00:00 AM

So...the saturday night DJ sucks. Sucks sucks sucks.  Hey, I like Journey but not at 11:30 at night.  And in between rap songs.  I'm not even going to get into his lack of mixing skills since I wasn't here for a DJ battle.  There were other weird choices of music and I have never seen the energy level of a crowd become so low so fast.  The bouncer, who I really like otherwise, tried to tell us that if it was all rap music, if people walked by and they could hear Tupac coming out the doors the club would attract thugs.  A. I'm not asking for all thugish rap, just consistent good music to dance to.  If you are goign to play Journey or other music like that play it as one of the last few songs. B. Um, no one is wandering in this area at night.  Mr Smiths is definitely a destination place.  The only people who actually "wander" into this area probably aren't going to be paying the 5 dollar cover C. Sure variety is good but if you end up trying to please everyone you please no one.  Anyways, I like the space, like all the people that work there but will never come back on a Saturday.  I'll prob move it back up to 4 stars if I decide I like the Friday night DJ

Commented on 9/6/2006 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's is just ok.  Don't really get why we keep coming here.  Good club for big groups?  I don't know.  I always get plastered whenever I come here.  Drinks are normal prices.  Dance floor is always crowded.  Kinda ghetto.  People always have their birthdays here.  But I wouldn't choose to go here on my own.

Commented on 9/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

If you want a semi club full of retards in sportcoats & Big BIG shirt collars outside the jacket, crackheads more than willing to get you a cab, a DJ that plays mash up crap, and then a slap in the face for having to pay a $10 cover then by all means show up to Mr. Shits for a shity time.  I guarantee it.

Commented on 9/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

I had SO much fun here. It really is one of the best SOMA clubs in my opinion.

Commented on 9/3/2006 12:00:00 AM

Update:

Commented on 8/30/2006 12:00:00 AM

And when you order a drink, he'll say, "Make it two."

Commented on 8/27/2006 12:00:00 AM

If you're going to go to a club, this is the place to go. Love the multi-level options - you've got a VIP area on the top floor, a pub-like scene on the main floor and a dance club on the bottom floor. All without being too big. David and Eric are the best bartenders ever, and Kevin is a charming manager. Perfect spot if that's the scene you're looking for.

Commented on 8/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

I actually gave this place two stars initially, but now that I remember the water all over the floor that kept getting inside my friend's heels, I'm giving this place one star.

Commented on 8/13/2006 12:00:00 AM

I absolutely love this place.  Just went again last weekend.  And, please, please, please OVER TIP Amery the bartender on Fridays.  She is an incredibly wonderful person who makes excellent drinks.  

Commented on 8/6/2006 12:00:00 AM

ahh, any bar other than an irish pub that is able to serve/make irish car bombs will always remain in my dearest heart. what can i say, i love that drink and it really is nice to go to a bar/lounge that serves it w/o having some drunk irish ppl throw punches at the end of the nite.

Commented on 8/4/2006 12:00:00 AM

other: Agree with previous review by Nomad G. about the crowd

Commented on 7/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

Isn't that the reason everyone goes here?  

Commented on 7/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

Cosy and friendly bar with a great mix of people. Been here many times but didnt realize that I've not reviewed this bar/lounge! Friendly bouncer, bar tender, people, just an overall great time. Super packed on the weekends and most week nights.

Commented on 7/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

Checked this place out after the Yelp party yesterday.  Kind of a typical SF bar, but still very cute.  Reserving judgment on the clientele until I go there when it's not randomly filled with Yelpers.  Dance floor wasn't open on Wednesdays it seem, but upstairs at the bar they played this warbly, generic club music, which they kept at a surprisingly perfect level for conversation.

Commented on 7/21/2006 12:00:00 AM

comfortable, welcoming, soft lights, good ambiance. decorated, but not gaudy. plush but not over stuffed. great selection of bottles. the bartenders are super, too!

Commented on 7/18/2006 12:00:00 AM

There's only one reason this place doesn't get five stars: I approached the dj to request the greatest song on the planet, and he rudely told me he didn't have it. Liar! Who doesn't have Ice Ice Baby?! Other than that, I had a great time shakin' it on the dance floor at Mr. Smith's. The crowd was fabulous (mostly because my crew was there), the drinks were stout and the tunes were rockin. I'm a hip-hop girl; I like to jiggle my big ole booty to some poppy tunes, and it seems as though most clubs in SF play house music. Not this club! We sweat our bums off to Beyonce, Lady GaGa, Black Eyed Peas, T.I....hellz yeah!

Commented on 7/17/2006 12:00:00 AM

restrooms are spotless

Commented on 7/16/2006 12:00:00 AM

We pre-party'ed before coming into the bar so there was no real need to drink inside the bar.  This place has a small "VIP" lounge upstairs. I didn't see anything that was special besides having your own full bar and not much seating. I was turned off by walking through this area because it smelled like body odor and was filled with 90% males.

Commented on 7/16/2006 12:00:00 AM

i worked with kevin and max, and they were so accomodating and nice.  i originally reserved one table but when they saw the growing number of people on my guestlist, they gave us the 2 tables up on the second level without sticking a 2 bottle limit on us (we got 2 bottles anyway).  not to mention, our bartender annalisa (?) was the homie...  that girl was awesome!

Commented on 7/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

The staff is FABULOUS here. Nicest bouncers I have ever encountered in my life!

Commented on 7/5/2006 12:00:00 AM

I am such a sucker for exposed brick. No joke. It's my kryptonite. I absolutely cannot hate anywhere with exposed brick; especially not a three-floor sexy lounge with a feast of rich colors and textures. Difficult to get a bartender's attention? Whatever. I'm happy just looking at the wall.

Commented on 6/30/2006 12:00:00 AM

I went to college, like most of the people on this site, and it was pretty fun.  One thing that sucked in college was going to overpriced bars with preppy bast***s and the rich sons and daughters of Saudi Sheiks and foreign dictators.  Well, Mr SMiths reminds me alot of those places.  With a DJ who plays a best of NOW 347 with a mix of all the parts of the 80 that should be left there, drinks that are both watered down and the price of five acres of farmland in Vietnam, this place is great if your blacked out and wont remember or are feeling like burning those hundred dollar bills isnt fun anymore.

Commented on 6/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

This place is awesome.  Has the right crowd, right vibe, good bartenders and good times.  I have gone here for many occasions and it always has been a good experience.

Commented on 6/28/2006 12:00:00 AM

i don't remember much about the drinks, but hey, that must mean they were good...

Commented on 6/27/2006 12:00:00 AM

Love it!  Max, Kevin, and the rest of the crew are fabulous. Great staff, great drinks, great DJs. Always a fantastic time. Champagne Thursdays rock!

Commented on 6/26/2006 12:00:00 AM

Been back to Mr Smith's 5-6 times since the original post and I still love it!

Commented on 6/25/2006 12:00:00 AM

Yes, I do think the bartender's are hot, and once again, that may be the reason I went there more then once.  Not only are the bartender's hot, but very sweet, plopping down free drinks in front of us without question, while getting us drunk off of our butt's.  On top of that they offered to let us take body shots on them, now isn't that just great service?  Although that was a great offer,  I had to decline,  I didn't want to feel as if I was on an episode of Elimidate.  

Commented on 6/14/2006 12:00:00 AM

 I loved the downstairs area where there were cartoons of british cops.  Will definately go again.

Commented on 6/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

I don't understand why people go here.  This is my third time here (not by choice - you gotta go where your friends want to celebrate) and I still leave unimpressed.  First off, last night required a $10 cover charge after 11. Sooooooo not worth it.  The music is abysmal, alternatively early 90s mixed in with recent stuff, and then shit from outta nowhere. I prefer hip hop myself, so anything that isn't is just plain bleh.  While his transitions from song to song weren't as bad as some I've heard recently, his mixes of actual songs were definitely lacking in something...maybe skill? I also ordered 2 glasses of champagne last night.  While I'm not expecting quality champagne at a bar, the least I expect is something still bubbly. What'd I get? I got one glass topped off with an old bottle which had been open for god knows how long which was completely flat. Completely. Not a bubble. Not a fizz. The second glass was topped off with a newly opened bottle which was at least bubbly.  

Commented on 6/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

28th B-day party

Commented on 6/9/2006 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's is the ideal bar experience. From the polite bouncer to the attentive bartenders to the mindful manager to the skilled DJ, everything is just great. There are three levels of the bar that make it perfect for whatever you want. First, theres a nice long bar where you can be social and drink. Downstairs, there's a gritty dance floor that reminds me of speakeasy parties and basement college parties -- all positive associations. Then there is a loft upstairs where more intimate groups of friends can take over and enjoy. I'm telling you, it's perfect. If only they had some late night weekend drink specials...

Commented on 6/2/2006 12:00:00 AM

The place is really beautiful, with really classy wallpaper( yes i noticed the wallpaper), booths lining one wall, and a nice long wood bar.  Apparently an upstairs area that they reserve at times for private parties and a dance floor downstairs exist as well, but i did not stay for the dancing.  

Commented on 5/25/2006 12:00:00 AM

This place rocks. It's got a great, funky layout, three floors, and is cozy, trendy, and happening, all at the same time. The furniture's great, and you can simultaneously have an intimate conversation and chill out with friends, as well as dance on the dance floor (located on the bottom floor). The ambience is inviting and classy. The crowd has tended to be a little homogenous when I've been there, but all in all a nice little place.

Commented on 5/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

i think the decor is nice too...almost like ambassador lounge but w/o the stuffiness.....

Commented on 5/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

Oh, if you're coming out late the bouncer will probably ask you if you paid your tab. Some may think this is rude, but considering that if he hadn't have asked me I would have left my credit card at the bar, I found in incredibly helpful!

Commented on 5/9/2006 12:00:00 AM

He'll probably ask for another dance.

Commented on 5/9/2006 12:00:00 AM

Mr Smith's is fabulous!! Had an incredible time there at the Yelp Holiday Party and even suggested it be the venue for my upcoming birthday celebration.  Great space, music, and staff...what more can you ask for??  I am revising this posting today to add that Max Y. ( a Yelper!!) is awesome....I am working with him to plan the birthday event and he's the best. SF is lucky to have scored this hot spot!!

Commented on 5/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

I'll come back because the drinks seem good. It's crowded, but that's expected at any small SF dance club.  We weren't rubbing up against the person next to us, though there was some bumping.  I'll come back in case this was just an off-night for the DJ or something.

Commented on 4/24/2006 12:00:00 AM

i don't _do_ guys in striped button down shirts. i have no idea what yelpers generally dress like, so ummm no offense to anyone. really. i just rarely leave the mission, by choice and by convenience, and so it's kinda daunting to be in one of those stripey stripey money clubs. and also, i don't really think a place can be swank or lush or whatever if you have wall to wall people packed in and unable to move. i think swanky places should leave room to chiiiilllll. this place was packed, and people smelled. and we checked out the dance floor, and people were doing not the robot, but rather the thing where you put your elbow out at a right angle and push it back and forth like a pendulum. for real.  the saving grace (and this is a big exciting saving grace) was that i thought this one guy was my roommate pointed out this one guy i recognized and said "oooh! i think his brother is TOTALLY hot!" and then i saw the brother and it was jeremy from yelp. awesome taste, roommate.

Commented on 4/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

-Rommate gets fucked up, gives her camera to some random guy who looks like Tom Cruise

Commented on 4/21/2006 12:00:00 AM

-4am: She leaves pissed off that I cant' get her a cab. And she leaves her shirt

Commented on 4/9/2006 12:00:00 AM

Music was good, not overly crowded, bartenders were friendly  and poured generously.  Crowd was decent but I think I missed the memo on the shirts with the ugly ass floral patterns on the front.  This place has meat market potential but is not a bad place to go with a group of friends.  I was thoroughly amused watching two girls to my right whisper to each other and repeatedly circle the wagons as they spotted another guy who started putting on the "I am dancing next to you and all of a sudden, I am actually dancing with you" Night at the Roxbury move.

Commented on 4/3/2006 12:00:00 AM

Now it is a "straight" bar (Um, is anything in San Francisco really straight?), but this seasoned and discriminating homosexual bar-and-club hopper had a great time.  And I would much rather have a sweet and smooth delicious treat cooling my lips and mouth made from champagne over what other maybe not so discriminating homosexual bar-and-club hoppers get in their mouths at the Castro.  I don't know about you, but I'd rather rather have a treat that keeps me away from the public health department every six to eight weeks thank you very much.  

Commented on 3/30/2006 12:00:00 AM

Kevin was really nice and got us all taken care of when we got there. We had bottle service and the waitress was really nice. The only complaint I had was the area we were in had tons of people over flowing in our space. I understand the place isn't very huge but it was sort of annoying having people in the way and hovering over us. But i liked it...it had a downstairs as well with dancing and a bar. The place was packed and we had a really fun night. =) The prices were reasonable too.

Commented on 3/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

You can go there any day of the week, and it is a different scene each night.  

Commented on 3/27/2006 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's has a great space, plays great music, has a good sized dance floor, and has superb bottle service.  I would give it 5 stars...but have to give it four because of the clientele.  I just can't figure out why the crowd is always so dorky.  Not that I think I'm cool or hot or anything but I've been to Mr. Smith's 3 or 4 times now and it seems like the most attractive people who go there work behind the bar.  I'll still go back, though - the place has it all - it's like a bar/club/all-inclusive resort!!!

Commented on 3/27/2006 12:00:00 AM

Two words, Mr. Shit's.  

Commented on 3/26/2006 12:00:00 AM

Went here for the Yelp holiday party. It was a bit crowded but with good people. Also had pretty good drinks. I really enjoyed the upstairs balcony with the cozy couches.

Commented on 3/15/2006 12:00:00 AM

Good size bar/club.  Not really into those super big clubs like Suite 181.  A good place for a small group.  You have the main level and upstairs for hanging out, and a small dance floor in the basement.  Didn't digg the music though.

Commented on 3/12/2006 12:00:00 AM

I had my birthday party here and once I got inside it was awesome but the problem was getting inside. My friend also had her birthday party there the same night and both of us had set up lists beforehand with the club owner or manager and when our friends got there both of us were told we weren't on the list. We asked them to check again and were told that we were not on the list even though from where I was standing I could clearly see her name on the list along with the rest of her list. My list was never found. They eventually let us all in but it was definitely not something I wanted to deal with on my birthday.

Commented on 3/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

Really nice bar with really friendly and chatty bartenders.  I really like the feel of the place - when you are inside you completely forget about the crack alley right outside of the bar...

Commented on 3/7/2006 12:00:00 AM

We brought in about 40 people to the lounge and EVERY SINGLE ONE had a great time.

Commented on 3/7/2006 12:00:00 AM

minus 1 star for the shade-meister area its located in.

Commented on 2/25/2006 12:00:00 AM

**update: i found out the club was also hosting a stanford MBA night.  definitely willing to assume that probably influenced my impression.

Commented on 2/23/2006 12:00:00 AM

The music though... it was wierd.  The DJ played some hip hop, then moved into some other genres that nobody seemed to appreciate, since we were all just standing around the dance floor.  I like going clubbing to dance, and this wasn't what I was expecting.

Commented on 2/21/2006 12:00:00 AM

I recently went to Mr. Smith's for my birthday.. and I have sort of mixed feelings.  The main problem I found was that there is NO seating... there are maybe 15 stools at the bar, but other than that, all the tables and booths are reserved for bottle service.  However, about 30 mins into being there, we decided to get bottle service, and the bartenders were very cool/nice and hooked us up... they definitely made it a good experience!  If you are going to go there, I highly recommend reserving a table, because it makes the night way more enjoyable.  I like the set-up of the bar as well, as the dance floor is downstairs, and kind of out of the way, so my friends who didn't like to dance could chill upstairs and chat, while my other friends could get their groove on.  I like to dance, but I could only stay on the dance floor for about 10mins at a time because it was HOT!  I liked the decor... and overall had a good time.  The neighborhood is a little weird - the actual location of the bar isn't bad, but we parked like 5 blocks away and it was SHADY!  Anyways, I would go again, if I was in the area.

Commented on 2/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

a) castration

Commented on 2/20/2006 12:00:00 AM

the legend has it that mr. smith once went to washington and ripped into dubya and the neocons about, um, pretty much everything. as expected, our hero was met with vile hatred and choking rage from the dark side. he was immediately branded a traitor, and an executive order was issued to arrest our mr. smith in the name of national security. fortunately, our hero was able to escape and went into hiding. no one has seen mr. smith since then...

Commented on 2/16/2006 12:00:00 AM

-9am: Roshni "So she was wearing onlly a bra when she left"

Commented on 2/15/2006 12:00:00 AM

Definitely a fun bar, but I'm not so sure I'd get pumped up to go there on any random night.  It's a good space, the upstairs lounge area is very chill.  Good drinks... good music... but not my favorite bar in the world.

Commented on 2/14/2006 12:00:00 AM

This is a great place to venture to on a Friday night. People pack themselves in as the night progresses, and the up-tempo dance music becomes the catalyst for a wave of bodies in motion- swaying and shifting- as if one. The seduction in  the universal movement of nearly everbody  there is magnified downstairs on the dance floor itself, where a DJ spins anything from hip hop, to techno, to pop.

Commented on 2/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

-We make out again at 3am. Someone calls and she runs out in the hall

Commented on 2/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

The loft and the bar area are stylish and sleek, very cool brick wall behind the bar, however not a big fan of the basement which can get stuffy and reek of B.O.  Outside the lounge is even worse, the stench is like walking in an over used Port-a-Potty.  I couldn't walk away fast enough to avoid the odor.

Commented on 2/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

I love this place, and I loved it when it was Cloud 9 too.  But, Max, why do the girls disappear at midnight?  I don't see a dance floor full of glass slippers, so something else must be going on.

Commented on 1/29/2006 12:00:00 AM

Speaking of impeccable service, I can't say enough great things about our wonderful waitress and the super sweet bartender - actually, every Mr. Smith's employee we came in contact with was great.

Commented on 1/18/2006 12:00:00 AM

On another note I am waiting for some Yelpers, Lisa G. and who knows else, (Who else, so many cool folks!!!  met so many interesting people, Yelpers really are neat!!!) really looking forward to my second yelp-ish hang... (and now looking forward to my 3rd, 4th and many more events to come!!!)

Commented on 1/18/2006 12:00:00 AM

i have been here a few times this year, and only now felt the need for a review. it is a nice venue, good music, bartenders are never annoyingly busy like at other clubs but i've got one beef...

Commented on 1/11/2006 12:00:00 AM

Another club that's entirely too crowded. We had a table here too but who wants to sit all night? I went downstairs to dance and it was really fun until people started showing up. Way too hot and crowded and the DJ Saturday is a total dick. First of all when I got there I was sober and asked him if he took requests. He huffed and puffed and said, "I guess so." I was just trying to be polite. Then I requested my song and he said, "Oh sure, I'll play that!" After an hour w/o hearing the song I went back to him to see what was up and he rudely said that he told me he was going to play it at the end of the night. If people requesting songs pisses you off buddy, maybe being a DJ isn't the right job for you. Anyway there were 0 good looking guys and the guys that were there we're trying way too hard. Trust me I'm not looking to meet a guy in a bar but I do appreciate eye candy. We left there and headed to dance with the beautiful boys in the Castro. Again, I've heard this place is cooler on week nights but I can't believe how many people they let in.

Commented on 1/10/2006 12:00:00 AM

everyone in my party enjoyed themselves immenseley. if they wanted to dance they could downstairs and avoid conversations or if they chose to get to know one another better up by the bar was perfect for light exchange. it wasn't too noisy upstairs that you had to shout to be heard.

Commented on 1/9/2006 12:00:00 AM

I can't help but go because Yelp keeps hosting events here! I like the lounge on top, hot 'n sweaty club on bottom combo. You know if you spend enough time on the top floor, you'll eventually find yourself shaking your ass on the bottom floor. Gotta love it!

Commented on 1/8/2006 12:00:00 AM

I like this place. I was pleasantly surprised at the soft opening; the space is comfy and the basement is a great place to shake your thing. I enjoyed the friendly staff and owners. Frequent this place and enjoy a fun time with your crew.

Commented on 1/8/2006 12:00:00 AM

2007:  Beautiful bar, but sadly, not my scene. I'll be at Happy Daze with the rest of the ugly people.

Commented on 1/2/2006 12:00:00 AM

I'd go here again, but definitely not if I'm anticipating a fabulous night on the town with all my girlfriend's.

Commented on 12/28/2005 12:00:00 AM

If you grab a cute boy by the arm at Mr. Smith's and ask him to dance, he'll probably say yes.

Commented on 12/21/2005 12:00:00 AM

I would have to say not bad. DJ Marc D freakin' rocks the house when he spins on Friday nights.

Commented on 12/20/2005 12:00:00 AM

I went here for the yelp event so I'm not really sure on the regular crowd, but I had a ball here and the decor was fabulous.  The drinks were pretty strong and the bartenders very friendly.  

Commented on 12/18/2005 12:00:00 AM

Anyway, the owner is a nice guy and I dig the vibe here. The b&w cartoon they had going on the tv above the bar worked well. Or maybe I only think it did because I was pretty drunk at the time.

Commented on 12/17/2005 12:00:00 AM

i don't "club" much, but i know for a fact that there are better spots than this basement/garage looking establishment. i felt like i was at a high school garage party! the music selection was questionable also. i'm all for listening to some early 90s tunes on my own time (big fan!) but not when i have to pay $10 cover to a cave party! not only was some of  the music choices were horrible, but the dj actually thought it would be a good idea to mix it! if we didn't have to pay the $10 cover, i would have given them 3 stars..maybe.

Commented on 12/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

drink quality:  n/a

Commented on 12/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

The DJ can range from just ok to inspired.  

Commented on 12/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

This was a blast from the past, and not in a good way.  What was with the music there last nite?  They played that song i hate, milion dollar s put your hands up, single ladies, put your hands up, right when i walked in, and i knew i was in trouble.  There are two floors, the bar floor then the dance floor below. The top floor was packed, the bottom was fairly crowded and it was still early.  That was the one big plus to this club - PEOPLE.  (well, women).  The most recent songs were from 5 yrs ago and they had songs that were probably from the 70s and before we were born.  The music was SO BAD that even though we paid $10 we decided to go. We tried to warn our last friend not to come in, but she had just paid the minute before she saw the text  message.  sigh...  So, if you like bad, old music, go here on a friday night.  (the second star is for having people in the club).  Oh, and no dress code, wear your flip flops, sneakers, tshirts if you like.

Commented on 12/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

Much love to the dj who was throwing down some Robin Thicke & Pharell. The eclectic mix of ppl threw me off for a hot second, but got used to it. Ppl were laid back & friendly (a rarity in sf lounge). My girls & i made room to dance & soon all the ladies were shakin it! Had TONS of fun. Definitely gonna go again....

Commented on 12/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

I'm not sure if I went to the same Mr. Smith's as some of the other Yelpers... or was it an off night?

Commented on 12/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

First review:

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

I thought that Mr. Smiths was a really cool venue - I liked the upstairs, and downstairs. The downstairs seemed to be more chill than the upstairs, and the bartenders were friendlier (although they couldn't make me either of my first choice drink selections due to limited ingredient variety). When it's really crowded, there isn't good traffic flow through the first floor, but maybe they limit the crowd when they aren't having a special event. A fairly neat place if you are into the location and the vibe.

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

sometimes its the people that make a place worthwhile. for mr. smith's, kevin, valeria and zev could hold up the venue on their own because they are so damn accomodating!  that's just the icing, people...

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

The crowd is always young and fun, too.  Never had a bad time.

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

A loyal fan.

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

The upstairs area is much more open and welcoming.  Though the round couch was cool, the new velevet seats and damask seats are even better.  On the main floor  the bar is really beautiful and would be worth the space even if it crowded the room but it seemed like the floor was well laid out and that congestion wasn't significant.  

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

Star for letting three fabulous girls in cover-free, star for the club itself. But everything else was bland, the vodka was grade-F, and worst of all the dj thought he was some sort of artist instead of just the run of the mill dj.

Commented on 12/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

Overall, it's a nice place, perhaps try getting in a little earlier in the night, when you can stake out  some prime real estate on the leather bench seating that adorns one wall. It's perfect for people watching, stealing a kiss from a date, or making a move on somebody you convienently 'bumped' into.

Commented on 12/12/2005 12:00:00 AM

What can I say about this place that hasn't already been covered??    Mr. Smith's has it all.  Watch out for the femme fatales.

Commented on 12/11/2005 12:00:00 AM

Again, this area downstairs had its own bar that was small and in the corner. Like upstairs, it was musty with some areas having a body odor smell.

Commented on 12/11/2005 12:00:00 AM

BUT DJ Jah Rocker is absolutely the best DJ in SF hands down. Don't even argue with me about this. It's fact. He also happens to be an awesome guy too. Big props to Mr Smiths and bigger yet to Omar.

Commented on 12/11/2005 12:00:00 AM

I was pleasantly surprised to see how sophisticated and elegant this club is.  From the website (all black), I expected more of a modern, trendy club, and I was glad this was not the case.  It's way more cool than that.   I loved the exposed brick, dark colors and soft lighting.  The layout of the first floor is nice in that it is an open space, but segmented into different "rooms" so that you can create an intimate environment with your party, whether you are 10 people or 2.  I was here for a wine-tasting, so I didn't get to sample the cocktails, but I will have no trouble returning to do so.  

Commented on 12/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

Very sketchy neighborhood, so plan accordingly and have your limo waiting when you want to leave :)

Commented on 12/6/2005 12:00:00 AM

Mr. Smith's is a great lounge/club hybrid.  If you are looking for a place to meet up with your friends and half your group wants to dance and the other half just wants to chill and drink, Mr. Smith's is your place.  I'm more of a dive bar kinda gal, but I don't mind this place at all.  The drinks are pretty standard price for a lounge or club ($10 for a grey goose martini), but the service is good.  The bartenders mix good drinks and are actually nice.  The music downstairs in the "club part" is pretty standard hip-hop mashed up with rock songs (ie nirvana vs. 50 cent.).  Go before 10pm if you want to avoid cover on the weekend.

Commented on 12/4/2005 12:00:00 AM

It's fine.  Nothing really great or horrible about it - definitely better than a lot of the dance clubs in san francisco - mainly because of the separation, so you can just do the drinky thing upstairs and then go downstairs and sweat to the feel good funky 80's jams.  

Commented on 12/4/2005 12:00:00 AM

Bonus points go to Mr. Smith's for their funky location...wouldn't expect to encounter a place like this on 7th Street!

Commented on 12/2/2005 12:00:00 AM

I thoroughly enjoyed my birthday, least that's what all the blackmail photos of me indicate =)

Commented on 11/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

Dude.  I totally made out with Taye Diggs.

Commented on 10/20/2005 12:00:00 AM

2 floors, quite a bit of space. Downstairs has the music but is kinda questionable and hot. Good music though.

Commented on 10/7/2005 12:00:00 AM

The first time I was there was a Thursday, and from my extremely hazy recollection it was pretty mellow, not that many people there. The last time I went was a Saturday for a bachelorette party, and it was awesome. There were people there, but not so many you couldn't dance (downstairs). The main level was a little hectic, but not too hard to get drinks. There's a $10 cover, but get on the guest list by emailing them and it's free. I'd go back for sure.

Commented on 8/31/2005 12:00:00 AM

On a down note I showed up drunk, pounded about 5 mixed drinks and did not feel a damn thing.  I'd love to attribute that to my alcoholic super powers but I'm pretty sure it means the drinks were really weak.

Commented on 8/19/2005 12:00:00 AM

3 stars for the upgrade of the interior...before it was cloud 9.  i wasn't really into the crowd there.  the music was ok...the dj was sort of cheesy.  it's fun if you like that kind of scene.

Commented on 8/1/2005 12:00:00 AM

Oh... and Roshni.. that thing about professing your undying love to people you don't give a shit about.... hmmm I seem to have that problem to ;) well...not that I don't care about them... just that I'm not REALLY in love with them. bartender excluded though... It's always fun to try to make sense of drunken text messages the next day ;p

Commented on 7/28/2005 12:00:00 AM

the main level bar was nothing special. The layout is funky. On one side there are booths, in the middle there is a small area to walk (which gets smaller with people hovering around the bar counter) and normal bar stools.

Commented on 7/27/2005 12:00:00 AM

finally cruised over here with some friends (for the first time) this last saturday night.... first, no cover. very nice. i used to frequent this club quite a bit when it was cloud 9, and its always been a great space. i'll admit though, i'm a bit partial to the former cloud 9's look over this new re-vamped look... i especially miss that enormous white rotating couch they used to have on the 3rd level.(great fun after a few drinks) also, i didn't see many people dancing which was another difference. wasn't loving the bottom level at all.... it was way too packed and stuffy. i could barely get through without spilling my drink. luckily at one point in the night, we were asked to join some guys at a VIP table where we were treated to LOTS of free drinks. woohoo, score! i met the chef from Iluna Basque here and he's such a nice guy. overall, a good saturday night choice... fun people and a really good time, i'll be back.

Commented on 7/26/2005 12:00:00 AM

This place is definitely not my cup of tea.  But then again I may change my mind after I try their champagne special Thursdays.

Commented on 7/22/2005 12:00:00 AM

This bar seems like a little oasis in a somewhat crappy area around the civic center, not quite tenderloin sketch, but on the outskirts of it. It's unassuming exterior though belies it's comfortable interior.

Commented on 7/15/2005 12:00:00 AM

The only downside here are the lines that form up the stairway and past the Men's room into the main bar area. It can take 10 or 15 minutes to get from the back to the front door. That's a long time when your  friends are waiting outside beyond the rope.

Commented on 7/14/2005 12:00:00 AM

I love Mr. Smith's...the crowd isn't too Vintage 415-ish (but still good looking)...which is a GREAT thing, but still has the upscale feeling in the decor.  The service is GREAT from the bartenders to the owner.  The bartenders make amazing drinks (anything with Basil is a safe bet) and are so nice and very attentive.

Commented on 7/10/2005 12:00:00 AM

Waaaaaaaaaay too many chicks.   The owners were great, as were the bartenders.  The dance floor was hot and sweaty, but depending on your blood-alcohol content, tolerable.

Commented on 7/1/2005 12:00:00 AM

-Clearly, this is the beginning of alot of problems

Commented on 6/30/2005 12:00:00 AM

Thanks to its discreet exterior I could have walked past this place any number of times without noticing it. Great multiple-level space inside though the downstairs was entirely empty on a Tuesday night (well what can one expect). Still the main bar was great if a little tight. The upstairs area was nice though the seating arrangement didn't allow for all that many people to actually sit. Some of those little leather stools like in Jade might have been handy. The bar staff were very efficient and friendly. Can't remember much about the music though.

Commented on 6/29/2005 12:00:00 AM

Very cool bar in the city. Not too much going on around 7th at Market right now, so hopefully Mr. Smith's can start a new trend in the neighborhood. The place definitely feels pretty classy, and the three levels is a great idea. Each floor comes with its own slightly different vibe. My only gripe would be some areas feel a bit narrow, especially on busy nights. Still though, the layout of the place was done in a great way when you think about the space they had to work with -- I'm not sure it could be improved. Definitely a fun place to check out though!

Commented on 6/29/2005 12:00:00 AM

bartenders are super attentive

Commented on 6/20/2005 12:00:00 AM

Nice place, bartender's are ok... 3 levels.  Its sort of a hidden treasure.  It's much bigger than it looks.  There is a downstairs dancefloor.  I was here on a Friday for happy hour.  The music was so good I had to go downstairs and shake the DJ's hand.  Will definitely comeback here... esp for happy hr :)

Commented on 6/16/2005 12:00:00 AM

We went to Mr. Smith's for the first time last night and thought it was brilliant!  

Commented on 5/28/2005 12:00:00 AM

i'll still be back tho.

Commented on 5/13/2005 12:00:00 AM

I also noticed that they had 1/2 off for champagne on certain nights but I yet to go then, so I can't comment much on that....yet.

Commented on 5/9/2005 12:00:00 AM

i liked the place better when it was cloud nine.  the decor has the feel of an early 1900's brothel. i was expecting a madame to come walking down the stairs and greet me with the establishment's offerings.  the bar on the main floor takes up too much of the limited floor space. there's no more dance area on the main floor and it can get quite difficult to walk through when busy.  the upper section lost much of its ambience with the disappearance of the rotating circular couch and is now just a very average loft space (very similar to jade's loft).  nonetheless, we still had a fun time shakin' our bootays on the dance floor in the basement.

Commented on 5/8/2005 12:00:00 AM

I FINALLY got to go to Mr Smith's on Wednesday, for the Yelp holiday bash... and my god i don't know why I didn't go any sooner! They did an amazing job revamping the space, especially upstairs. And wow.... do they have THE hottest bartender. I thikn his name was Brad?? I don't quite remember... but he was definitely the reason why I got so wasted. Well, that is, on top of the fact that I was schmoozing with the "elite" crew.  Hot bartenders = very drunk girl. I will definitely go back to check out the champagne selection I keep hearing about though!!!

Commented on 5/8/2005 12:00:00 AM

until now, that is. apparently there has been mr. smith sighting on yelp. ha, leave it to yelpers to out an exiled hero. according to the reviews, mr. smith has been hiding somewhere in the seventh street area. wow, can this be true? is mr. smith really hiding out in the skid row of our very own city? i must find out. so i ventured out to perhaps the most wretched part of town. man, this area can get pretty sketchy. however, i suppose if a person wants to disappear, the 7th street is perfect for that as no one really cares what's going on down here. sad but true... anyhow, i arrive at his pad and well, mr. smith, aren't you hiding out in style? exposed brick walls, upstairs lounge with swanky couches, strong drinks, good music, attractive crowd and attentive staff. um, mr. smith, all this is great, but let me give you an advice. dude, you should play it down, or the feds will find you and send you to guantanamo. no one wants to see that. so mr. smith, please tone it down and keep fighting cuz you inspire me...

Commented on 4/29/2005 12:00:00 AM

Mr Smith's has the feel of an old world bordello to be sure, with it's deep tobacco leather banquettes and gilt papered walls. The staff are all charming, and the drinks, well mixed. Mr Smith's is a fine new addition to the SOMA bar scene.

Commented on 4/24/2005 12:00:00 AM