April 30, 2005
12 Galaxies, located at 2565 Mission Street, was a beloved nightclub named in honor of local street personality Frank Chu and his famous “12 Galaxies” protest signs. The venue was a vital part of the Mission’s indie music scene, hosting underground heroes like Phil Lesh and Mudhoney alongside up-and-coming local acts. It was a cherished cultural hub that even saw Carlos Santana film a music video on its stage before it permanently closed on August 28, 2008.
September 6, 2003
Tonic, formerly located at 2360 Polk Street, was a popular nightlife spot in Russian Hill. Known for its plush, dark-blue velvet couches, creative cocktails, and a jukebox that specialized in British alternative bands, it was a go-to for a rowdy night out. The bar closed its original location in April 2018, citing high rent and a changing neighborhood, but later reopened in Lower Nob Hill.
October 31, 2003
The Dogpatch Saloon, located at 2496 Third Street, is one of the oldest bars in the neighborhood, a classic establishment that has served the community for generations. Originally known as the Palm Cafe, it was renamed in 1998 and has since stood as a proud local landmark. It represents the area’s blue-collar roots and has remained a constant through the Dogpatch’s rapid evolution. The saloon is still open as of August 29, 2025.
October 10, 2003
Bruno’s, at 2389 Mission Street, was a legendary restaurant and nightclub that played a pivotal role in the Mission District’s nightlife. Revived in the 1990s as a retro-chic supper club, it became a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s burgeoning scene. Known for its live music, classic cocktails, and distinct circular bar, Bruno’s was a beloved institution that captured the spirit of a bygone era for a new generation before its eventual closure. The restaurant closed in 2020, but as of early 2024, there are plans for it to reopen.
September 27, 2003
Dalva, located at 3121 16th Street, is a long-standing classic bar in the Mission District, situated next to the historic Roxie Theater. Known for its long, narrow space and unpretentious vibe, it has been a neighborhood fixture for years, serving as a go-to spot for drinks before or after a movie. It’s a quintessential Mission bar that has hosted countless locals and conversations over the decades. The bar is still open as of August 29, 2025.
September 27, 2003
Yo’s Sushi Club Voodoo Lounge, at 2937 Mission Street, San Francisco, was a unique Mission District spot that fused Japanese cuisine with a mystical, voodoo-themed ambiance. It was part of a wave of creative, hybrid concept restaurants and bars that added to the neighborhood’s eclectic character in the early 2000s, offering a dining experience that was as much about the atmosphere as the food. The lounge has since permanently closed.
August 29, 2003
Charlie’s Club, located at what is now 1499 Valencia Street at the corner of 26th, was a local bar that served the Mission neighborhood. Like many classic neighborhood spots, it was a simple, unassuming place for locals to gather and unwind. The location has since changed hands, with Charlie’s Club closing sometime before 2006.