Last Call Bar

Much-Loved Castro Dive Last Call Bar Reopens with Donna Summer on the Jukebox | Eater SF

"Back in business with new owners Kris Foster and Tammy Soo (and their dog Nom Chompsky), Last Call Bar is a long-standing Castro neighborhood watering hole that reopened on August 23 after sitting dark since the pandemic closure in March 2020; it now operates noon–2 a.m. seven days a week. I noted the same well-loved jukebox still blasting ’70s and ’80s bangers (Whitney Houston, Hall & Oats, Donna Summer), an “old-school, Jeston’s”-inspired fireplace, and the divey character the owners purposely preserved while giving the space a light refresh. The couple, who bought the bar in January 2021 despite never having owned a bar before, emphasize protecting its future and San Francisco history: the spot operated as the gay bar Men’s Room from 1977 until 2008 before Kevin Harrington renamed it Last Call to make clear it wasn’t just for men, and the current name also references its location on the border of the Castro and Mission Dolores as a last stop before leaving the neighborhood. Practical updates include accepting cards for the first time; the menu will remain simple with basic cocktails and likely beer-and-whiskey specials rather than fancy drinks, aiming to feel familiar whether patrons want a cold beer or a dose of disco." - Lauren Saria