"Elixir has been a Mission watering hole for longer than phones have existed (1858, to be exact), and it’s easy to see the saloon’s history as soon as you walk in—there’s intricate crown moulding and old architectural plans and vintage photos on the walls. More modern additions include TVs for catching a game and a photobooth by the door, plus 8pm trivia on Tuesdays. The well drinks and cocktails are pretty much what you’d expect, and there are hundreds of whiskies to make your way through. This is a great second stop after a date night at Angie’s down the street, or a warm gathering spot when a Dolores Park hang turns into an after-dark situation." - Julia Chen