Adam S.
Yelp
I won't hold the fact that this spot is a Saints Bar against it. But, since I have the opportunity, I would like to point out that the Saints are a bunch of cheating little ******* for deliberately targeting Brett Favre with cheap shots during the NFC Championship game. Yep, they got busted, but they got to party with Mr. Lombardi. Me, I got more heartbreak. I've never seen a Saints game here, but I plan to come and talk all sorts of trash about my absolute least favorite team in the NFL. The Saints were ridiculous cheaters in 2009/2010 - They should have lost their rings.
That's feels better. Now, that one unfortunate fact aside, it's a cool bar. I've got nothing against New Orleans itself. There is a New Orleans theme to the decor here, but other than that it's hard to see much evidence in terms of the drinks, music, etc. They do have one beer from Abita. I'm primarily a beer drinker, and I'm not blown away with the tap list - they could use at least one higher ABV IPA beyond regular Lagunitas. It's kind of a small bar and it's all in the one area - there's no quiet corner to hide. The decor is pretty cool and they have a nice juke-box. I've been impressed with the bartenders across the board - not because of any mixology prowess, they just seem like a cool group of people that help build the community of regulars that makes a bar more than just a place to grab a beer and watch sports. That is what brings it up from a 3 to a 4.
The location itself is also an asset. You're in the confluence of the Cow Hollow, Marina, Russian Hill and Fisherman's Wharf. Corner of Van Ness and Lombard. As you are making your way from one district to the next, it's sort of at the crossroads. It's opens reasonably earlier and stays open all the way until bar close. There are a lot of motels/hotels very close, so you'll find this a reasonably friendly spot if you're visiting from elsewhere. And, if you happen to be coming back, it's a good place for a "final final" before calling it a night.
(Pro Tip: Viking's Giant Subs is next door and they are open until 8:30pm - you're fine to bring in food if you'd like to grab a sandwich as you are enjoying your afternoon or early evening drink.)