Knockout

Bar · Bernal Heights

Knockout

Bar · Bernal Heights

5

3223 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110

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Knockout by Ricky Rodriguez
Knockout by Ricky Rodriguez
Knockout by Cindy C./Yelp
Knockout by Ricky Rodriguez
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Highlights

Punk bands, bingo, dancing, karaoke & diverse DJ dance parties  

Featured in The Infatuation
Featured in Eater

3223 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110 Get directions

theknockoutsf.com
@theknockoutsf

$10–20

Information

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3223 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110 Get directions

theknockoutsf.com
@theknockoutsf
𝕏
@knockoutsf

$10–20

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Last updated

Aug 14, 2025

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@infatuation

13 Great San Francisco Bars With Activities

"There’s always something going down at this Bernal Heights dive bar, so even your average boring Monday can become not-boring with a simple trip here. Mondays are also when karaoke happens and everyone in the place unleashes their inner Mariah Carey. If you’re not already convinced to make this your new go-to spot, this place also hosts DJs and live musicians, has a pretty sizable dance floor, and does Thursday night bingo. " - julia chen 1, will kamensky

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/guides/sf-bars-with-games
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@infatuation

17 SF Bars Where You Can Dance - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"The Knockout is a dark, divey bar that hosts a wide array of live music every weekend—but what you’re really here for is the Sweater Funk dance party. On the first Saturday of every month, you’ll be teleported to a world full of '70s and '80s soul, funk, and boogie, making this the perfect stop for groove aficionados of all types. So get your best disco shades (or thrift some up on Valencia)—and don’t be surprised when someone sees your outfit and yells, “Disco!”" - Ricky Rodriguez

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/guides/the-best-sf-bars-where-you-can-dance
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@infatuation

The 22 Best Restaurants & Bars In Bernal Heights - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Fog machines and punk rock bands combine to create one of the most fun live music bars in the city. Even without the music, this Bernal Heights place would still be a great dive, with well drinks, Happy Hour, and bingo nights. Expect The Knockout to be your last stop of the evening, because once you walk in, you won’t ever want to leave." - Lani Conway, Will Kamensky, Julia Chen 1, Ricky Rodriguez

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/guides/best-bars-restaurants-in-bernal-heights
View Postcard for Knockout
@infatuation

The Knockout Review - Bernal Heights - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"There’s always something going down at The Knockout—so even your average boring Monday can become not-boring with a simple trip to this Bernal Heights dive bar. Mondays are also when karaoke happens and everyone in the place taps into their inner Mariah Carey. If you’re not already convinced to make this your new go-to spot, this place also hosts DJs and live musicians, has a pretty sizable dance floor, and does bingo on Thursdays." - Julia Chen

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/reviews/the-knockout
View Postcard for Knockout
@eater

Where to Eat and Drink in Bernal Heights - Eater SF

"Punk is alive and well and getting plastered at the Knockout. The bar’s associated with nearby punk record store and label Thrillhouse Records, hence its leanings. The venue is usually a big scene with beer and music and dancing, but the pandemic has chilled out the show and moved it outside. They’ve got disco and funk listening parties in the parklet, and are featuring food from Outer Orbit." - Caleb Pershan, Becky Duffett

https://sf.eater.com/maps/maps-best-restaurants-bars-bernal-heights
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Travis Prickett

Google
If you are coming here for a concert or live music temper your expectations. Worst audio experience I’ve ever had at a concert. Band came on an hour late due to audio issues with the venue. Couldn’t even hear the lyrics of the band. Drinks were meh, standard overpriced dive bar fair. Beer I had was a bit skunky. If your favorite band is playing here I would recommend skipping out and going to their next show. You will be disappointed.

Karen A. Schneiders

Google
The Knockout is a bar, not a restaurant. It is a rad, old skool dive bar with regular live music. Not for everyone, but if you need a seedy, dark, beer bar with grimey, punk rock aesthetic, look no further.

Virginia Lomeli (Gina)

Google
They have a new karaoke guy that apparently doesn't know how to operate karaoke. Had to restart computer??? Silence in between songs. He seemed to really be struggling. They should bring back the old guy. At least he knew how to operate karaoke. Huge shame this used to be my favorite karaoke night. Will adjust my review when they get someone that knows how to operate the karaoke system.

Reese's Pieces

Google
My favorite dive bar in the city! Definitely the best spot to see local and touring bands play. I've seen some of my favorite shows here!

Maddie Minogue

Google
This spot has local artist performances with cover charge. Cool spot with fun drinks, kind of divey in a purposeful way. Outdoor seating separate, if you want a quieter environment.

D Chase

Google
I can't believe this was my first visit! Super fun little dive with fantastic bands. We made the trek from the north bay to check out Jonny Manak and The Depressives, Genuine Parts, and more. Frontside Five was so amazing we went to Oakland the next night to see them again. This place is small, but the sound is good. Drinks are solid, and a decent selection of beers on tap. We found parking just a short walk away, too.

Krystal

Google
It was fun to watch my friend perform. My spouse and i didnt go for drinks. But the vibe was good and sound was great for the performances

Ross Jackson

Google
Just your classic dive bar with a stage. Lots of good drinks to choose from and three booths.
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Mia D.

Yelp
Gave the place a second chance. Our Thursday bartender was friendly & attentive! We played 3 rounds of bingo & had fun! Guy calling the numbers was funny ! The root beer float cocktail was delish.
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Jessica H.

Yelp
We came for Simpson's Trivia and it was super fun. The drink prices were great and the service was okayyyyyy... but i may have a high bar as i am also a server and come from a family of Bartenders.
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Matthew G.

Yelp
I had my doubts about this tiny venue for the Airiel / Deserta / Asteroid No 4 concert... but it turned out to be awesome! Enjoyed the layout, lighting, sound quality, service and drinks in a cozy, intimate venue. The drinks weren't bad (the watermelon mezcal paloma was actually really good), and the prices reasonable, too!

Priya A.

Yelp
I have been trying to get some contact information and call the business because I left my belongings there and I can't find any contact information! Writing this review after email, still nothing. I don't live close by. There should be some way to contact, what if it was my credit card!!!!!

Peter V.

Yelp
This is going to sound petty. I came here to see an old friend play in his band. All I had was a credit card and the door is cash only. I tried getting my bank to set up a pin so I could use the ATM, but had no luck. While I know this is mostly my fault, their flyer said nothing about being cash only to get in and it wouldn't kill them to get a card scanner for the door. I would have loved to get inside to spend money on beverages and watch a show, but I had to turn back home instead and tell my friend I'd have to miss his show.
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Nina C.

Yelp
I love The Knockout! Awesome staff and great ambience. There's a full bar, vintage black and white photo booth, dance floor, stage, pinball game, and both booth and barstool seating. There's outside seating as well. They offer a wide range of musical styles and other events: live music, DJs, even Simpsons trivia! Come check it out and tip your bartender and the artist of the night! Street parking only.
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Nhi L.

Yelp
Came here on a raining Friday night and it was extremely packed and busy. The vibe of the crowd that night were full of people on the younger side which was made it very lively and full of dancing! This was my first time here so I can't really compare it to how it is on other nights but I had a great time. The drinks are cheap here as well but can be difficult to flag down the bartender for drinks. I also saw other people having the same problem when trying to order drinks. It also did get extremely packed later that night where people were standing shoulder to shoulder so my group ended up leaving. But overall a great place to come to with good music!
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Deanna C.

Yelp
I can't believe this was my first visit! Super fun little dive with fantastic bands. We made the trek from the north bay to check out Jonny Manak and The Depressives, Genuine Parts, and more. Frontside Five was so amazing we went to Oakland the next night to see them again. This place is small, but the sound is good. Drinks are solid, and a decent selection of beers on tap. We found parking just a short walk away, too.
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Cindy C.

Yelp
Came all the way here to enjoy their 90s Simpsons Trivia & Watch Party. Every 4th Sunday of the month from 6-9pm. Pleasantly surprised to see so many people show up for the event. Bar was pretty packed, almost no place to walk. Dive bar all the way, but it has its charm I guess. Love the decor on the walls. Considering why we were there, SO and I HAD to try their Duff beer. Not bad, not bad at all. We then tried their version of a Tequila Sunrise (forgot what it's called sorry). It wasn't too strong, which is my preference. I liked that they let you bring outside food in for the event. Didn't care for the cigarette smoke that kept suffocating us all from those standing right next to the door smoking. Very limited seating area. I think they set up an extra table, but just for the event. Big giant movie screen to watch the episodes on. Only interested in coming back here for the trivia nights.
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Scott L.

Yelp
As a touring band who drove 500+ miles to play here, the last thing you want is for the staff of a venue to be utterly rude and dismissive to you. Even the sound engineer was rude which is pretty rare.
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Alexa P.

Yelp
My favorite local Mission dive bar... great events nightly like bingo, karaoke, even local bands! They carry great local craft brews and I love hamm job, whiskey and an ice cold hamms! Really does the trick after a long day at the office. My coworkers girlfriend told me there will even be a Grateful Dead cover band playing there on Halloween night! (Called Touch of Gay playing at 10:55pm) what more could a guy like me ask for. TLDR Went for the bingo stayed for the awesome local music and DJs!!!
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Julane S.

Yelp
What a great find on Mission fantastic music and amazing bartender loved the vibe . Would definitely go back

Leona F.

Yelp
I decided to check out this place after seeing the party hosted on eventbrite. I was reluctant at first since the venue seemed pretty small. Customer service here is absolutely horrible and the bar is so small. My friend and I sat at the bar for about 15 minutes and no one checked in with us. There is no room to sit, stand or dance. My friend and I ended up leaving very shortly after arriving. If you are looking for a nice place to hang out with friends on a Saturday evening, try elsewhere.
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Stephanie K.

Yelp
Had a great time here after dinner! I was able to snag a table and get drinks. The vibe was really fun with loud music and a bunch of people (outdoors). The tables are decently spaced out as other outdoor restaurant tables are, but there were a bunch of people standing around between the tables socializing with drinks. I personally felt okay because it was outdoors and people weren't really near me, but I can imagine that some people may not be comfortable so they can probably just stand further away from everyone lol Drinks were good though and the staff was good about letting people in one and at a time to use the bathroom.
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Rebekah T.

Yelp
The Knockout is a pretty fun bar. It's very close to my stomping grounds, old and new... Who am I kidding? The city is my playground. Love the Bingo Night on Thursdays, one bingo card per drink. People call out numbers and adding a little extra with the Ohhhhh 69, winning for the kitschy prizes. I was trying for a Monster Jam posters/book covers for my 3 year old nephew. I love love the Knockout and will be back to play some more Bingo soon.
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Thomas L.

Yelp
The Knockout is a dive bar in Bernal Mission, a very nice one with a good Character. They often do shows of local and domestic Bands which are mostly around 10$ admission. They also have pub bingo, Simpson's trivia and my favorite Part Bat Cave which is an old School Goth Party with drag queens and lots of bands! Their cocktails are simple but strong just like it should be in a dive bar their Big Ass Magerita will definitely get you started. Most importantly the crowd is always open minded and nice!
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Conor T.

Yelp
I was at Knockout at about 5:30pm on a Sunday. I ordered a Vodka Martini, extra dirty, and after drinking the extra portion the bartender gave me, asked for a few extra olives (he gave me a small extra portion that didn't fit in the glass when I first ordered, which is cool - why I'm giving this two stars instead of one). If this bartender had simply stated to me, "Yes, you can have more olives, but I will have to charge you for it" there would be no problem here. However, he was so uptight and rude with his response that I didn't even feel comfortable asking to pay for more olives in my drink - and nor did I want to with the attitude he'd just given me. The attitude he gave my upon asking for extra olives was truly atrocious, though. Sure, I had three olives in my beverage upon ordering, which is great. But when I asked him for some extra olives, he replied with a pretentious "No." At the very least, he could have said that it would cost me extra for some more olives (and if he had asked I would have gladly paid). But he opted to say, without explanation "No..." and I was absolutely shocked by his disrespectful attitude. I don't ask for much, and when I do it is with a courteous and kind demeanor. This bartender chose to opt for the opposite type of attitude. Like I said before, I would have paid for more olives in my drink, but he didn't even mention it as an option - just gave me a solid no.
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Jimmy L.

Yelp
It was very difficult to find a good bar in San Fran on our last night there. Most of the ones we drove by were closed (it was Christmas) or they only served beer. In fact, I think we had to Yelp bars and Knockout was on the list of the ones nearby! Outside, it looked a little sketchy. Dark. I was honestly scared someone was going to stab me if I walked in, but you can't judge a book by it's cover. At first, it looked really crowded. A bit loud from all the chatter, but what bar isn't, right? There was a guy going around just taking pictures of everyone even though some didn't want their pictures taken. Luckily, he left us alone and left soon after we got in so it was a smooth ride from there. The bartender was good and he reminded some of us a little of our business law professor back home. Almost same face and pony tail. Anyway, he was really efficient about walking the counter and taking our drink orders in a timely manner. When we ran out of ideas what to drink, we asked and he suggested "Hot Apple Pie" which was actually a pretty good one (no shame in ordering a sweet drink). We ordered another round and he comped our drinks PLUS he found the time to take a shot with us. Very laid back. We appreciated the fact that he'd take some time to chill with the SF bar hopping noobies. We figured since the service was so good, we could probably take a couple more drinks before we left so jager bombs all around. Left a nice tip and bailed out! I don't drink very often. Personally, I don't like the bar atmosphere but our experience here wasn't based on how the place looked, rather, how it operated. I was impressed and very satisfied with our time at Knockout. When we got home, I made a recommendation for a few friends to stop by there when they decide to go and they did! They had the same bartender and had a GREAT time.
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Dan S.

Yelp
Hey, Yelp. It's me, Claudia. JK! That's an obscure throwback reference to the random ass videos my teacher made us watch in the 90's. Anyways, this review is to tell you about a kick-ass place called The Knockout. The bouncer was cool in/out privileges. They don't have boxing, but what they do have will make you want to move your feet. I came here for Lauren Yellow's 32nd b-day celebration. 4 bands played, here are their names: Band With 1000 Names The Eyesores Dead River Rebels Half Rotten Goddess All of them killed their sets, all of them made you want to dance your ass off. I had 2 Adios MF's and they did the job. This venue kicks so much ass, aside from live punk rock, they also have karaoke and Simpsons Trivia. Check their page for exact dates. If you live in the Bay Area, do yourself a favor and check out The Knockout. I promise that you won't regret it.
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Mick S.

Yelp
I good place for karaoke. Hits some Mondays. Tied with El Rio and Lucky Horseshoe but not quite as good as Slate and Butter.

Steven A.

Yelp
If you want to dive bar this is it. Good place for a drink and to party. Hi Energy Good times!!
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Denise C.

Yelp
This dive bar is not one I would travel very far to go to. I was in Potrero Hill when my friend invited me to Simpson's trivia night, so since it wasn't far, I decided to meet him there. It's a small dive bar with typical alcoholic beverages...no frills...Simpson's trivia was fun to attend and catch some Simpson's episodes, but only fun because I had company that I knew. Otherwise, if I didn't have company, it would have sucked.
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Taj A.

Yelp
Hipster central , fer shozies, but ths did not effect my good time with peeps, celebrating the Giants clinching the NL Pennant. Saturday night was a Debaser night: 90's bay area hip-hop/rap spun with free cover if you are rocking SF Giants gear( $5 without). Upon entering I was completely confused as 10-12 large women dressed in Jane Fonda workout clothes dominated the scene. I am not ironic and did not understand the beep-beep-boop sounds and hipster mustache rounds. I asked the door guy who said they were gonna get it in Nickatina mode in just a few moments. Sweet. Picked a couple 40 oz of St Ide's from the bartender, poured a lil out for Mac Dre/ RBL Posse's Hitman and hit the flo. By 10:30pm it was completely packed and classics from Del, Souls of Mischief, Too Short, E-40 and all the rest of the notable greats had everyone dancing and occassionally getting " thizzle". By the time " I'm a player" by Todd Shaw was blasting loudly - I decided I would hit this Debaser party every time. Myself, my friends, and my $4 22 oz Tecate highly recommend this hip-hop party.
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Justin N.

Yelp
"Ohhhhhhhhh SIXTY-NINE!!!!!" Nothing trumps the crowd energy on bingo Thursday like good ol' O 69. Gee, immatture a bit are we? Good, I like it that way. A few Thursdays a month Knockout steps up to the plate with some seriously fun Bingo. Legit too, I'm talking an old school electric scoreboard keeping track of numbers and reusable bingo cards. Reusable bingo cards that appear to be promotional items from a mortuary with the advertisement at the bottom.... but reusable bingo cards none the less. Win a round and a goofy prize from the table and a free drink are yours, booyah. The vibe is nothing but love, everyone calling back numbers (*especially* O 69), and the announcer is friggen hilarious. Tipsy Justin mumbles "Bbbbbeeee elevennnnn", I needed it to win, and over the mic I get "No, and even if I pull B11 I'm putting it back now. Way to go." Then when someone mocked the background music by shouting "That shit sounds like Legend of Zelda" our quick witted announcer fires back "You're mom is a Legend of Zelda..." So awesome. I learned new bingo lingo, like the term "premature e-bingo-lation" for those jumpy folks calling out false bingo. The bar tenders were all super friendly, cool points for their love of my old school Brewers hat. I dunno, I can't think of a more perfect Thursday night out. Work tomorrow so you don't want to really "party", but drinking some Tecate tallboys and battling witts with the funny announcer while kicking it in a fun crowd sounds great to me. O 69, how you do amuse us.
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Adrienne G.

Yelp
Found out last minute GENE LOVES JEZEBEL was playing at Knockout & couldn't wait to go This was Jay's GLJ (aka, the *real* British band w/ the original members) and not Michael's GLJ which is only Michael, here in the US, claiming he's the real deal.....long blown out story of sibling rivalry gone horribly wrong but if you're interested, it's all here... http://blogs.sfweekly.com/shookdown/2010/02/what_to_do_mondays_pick.php Vibe of the place was interesting..... About 20-30 people total in the bar - everyone seemed to know each other (as with any good dive bar) and there was the overall sense of hanging out at a friend's BBQ / garage band party, like we did back in high school Dark open room w/ a HUGE layer of dust covering the disco balls hanging from the ceilings, photo booth in the back which could be all kinds of fun; Tron was broadcasting on the tvs at the bar & also onto the wall - awesome! Bartenders offer good & heavy pours b/c there was more than 1 person stumbling outta there after the show - props! After reading all the reviews about the Big Ass Margaritas, we knew that would be our drinky of the night - & boy did that thing pack a whollop! Mine was super sweet; bf's was super salty......he was a trooper & finished his but I only got down about 1/2 of mine & was still feeling a bit silly Great band appreciation, strong drinks & a unique vibe make this place A-OK for me & would definitely look forward to going back
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Robin K.

Yelp
Walked in on a Wednesday Afternoon, and the place was packed. We squished our asses into two stools at the bar, and ordered a Lemon Drop & Dry Martini with a twist. The drinks were stroooong. After 3 or 4 of those I would probably be in for a knock out. The drinks were good, but the trendy hipsters got on my nerves. One particular inebriated hipster girl accused us of taking her seats and her sushi. We sat down in some empty seats, and about 5 minutes later, she shoots her head in between us and starts talking under her breath. I can hear things like, "left to watch the band and our seats got taken, I can't find my sushi, somebody took it.". If you want to start talking shit, woman up and talk shit straight to us. At one point, she took our dinner leftovers, and assumed that it was her sushi box. The expression on her face, when she opened up the box to find Arroz Con Pollo instead of sushi, was purely priceless. I'll probably end up going there again if I'm in the area, to try out their Dive Bar Sushi. Now that's two words you don't see together very often. An oxymoron similar to jumbo shrimp, living dead, or plastic glasses. A pun and an Oxymoron in one review. English Grammar Rules!!
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Rossi H.

Yelp
And I might not be around that much doesn't mean i didn't try. I can say hi and bye. Its all the same, some other time. And I think... I got a few lines left. A few lines left. To try and say that you were a sparkle to my eyes. I say your name in my head during the drinking times and hear your voice at the end of those dark nights So i got a few lines left to say. That I live my life Solitary and confined most nights. Drinking away thoughts and wondering why Desolate Yet still trying to hold onto pride You were a sparkle to my eyes. And will always hold a piece of me despite my tries. You are a sparkle to my eye.
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Jennifer J.

Yelp
One of my favorite dive bars to go to, especially for Booty bassment nights (3rd Wednesdays each month)!! Great drinks & good music. Parking is tough in that area, but there is a parking lot in the Bank of America lot for $12.
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Kemi A.

Yelp
Ok, I understand it was Sunday, but geeze this place was dead and a total sausagefest. I guess I'm the only female that likes funk? Bartender was nice and drinks were cheap, but c'mon let's get it together next time.
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Annette J.

Yelp
Back in my high school and college days I was a total britpop girl. Spent way too much money on NME and Q magazines, spent my days and nights at Virgin Megastore in Chicago (RIP) buying imported Blur singles for the B sides, and going to clubs where DJs spun sweet tracks and I danced to Pulp's "Common People" until the wee hours of the night. Debaser at Knockout took me back to those days in a big way. Two DJs duking it out between Britpop and 90s alternative/college rock. It was magical. Not sure what the other DJ nights at this place are like but this particular evening was awesome. A surprisingly cool and non-obnoxious crowd, good stiff drinks, and a really solid tunes made this a great night. I didn't stay terribly long but the time I spent was fantastic. On my way out it started to fill up so I could see how the tight quarters could be somewhat stressful but everyone was dancing together and having a good time, so it wasn't that big a deal. If I lived in SF I could definitely see myself spending a lot of time here.
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Molly S.

Yelp
Old school charm, not really into the screamo music scene... Just a heads up But it seems like they're good friends, and place for that local vibe
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Kathleen W.

Yelp
I never would have found this bar ... but a local Mission-ite took me here after dinner. Drinks were cheap, cash only. We spent the money we saved on drink playing Pac Man, Frogger and Donkey Kong - drunk or sober, I suck at it ... Don't believe me when I say it's the controllers that's broken. Spent the rest of my money making faces in the photo booth. Pictures are awesome - full color, great quality. $15 spent on the photo booth ... with a digital camera in my purse.
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Kat C.

Yelp
Such a fitting name for such a kick-ass bar! Not only do they have scheduled live music nights, they host bingo tournaments on Thursdays. It's a bit of a way out in Bernal Heights but if you're willing to make the trek, you're bound to have a good time. It's also right next to Dell'uva! (See review here: http://www.yelp.com/biz/delluva-san-francisco#hrid:i0fBrxZRjMfxc4ukx9Xa8g)
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Mark Z.

Yelp
Five Stars - Guinness on tap! Five Stars - Hoegaarden on tap! Five Stars - 2 ounce pours shots of Jameson! Five Stars - Very fun underwear dance party on Valentine's day! Many Stars - Everyone coming up to me and saying my date and I were the hottest couple there with the best looking asses in the place ....... priceless !
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Kelly S.

Yelp
When I want to Mod it up, dress in my favorite vintage skirt, twist and shout and get my teenage dance fever out - this is my place. I adore the vibe and just the concept of Knockout. Venture south via Bart or the 14, or 47 deep to the outskirts of the mission, just as the hill starts to climb and you've passed the infamous El Rio, then Cancun to your left, there you'll see it, just as Valencia and Mission streets kiss. The doorway almost impreceptable, the sign hidden by a tree. But when you think you must have passed it, you'll see the hipsters outside smoking a cig, and you've arrived. Grab a whiskey or Tecate, it really doesn't matter, bring your drink to the floor and dance your brains out of your ears. Tip to the wise, arrive early as it ain't that big and the joint gets elbows to butt cheeks by midnight. Coming from the OC where every club is a bump-and-grind contest, all playing top 40, all scantly clad over made bimbos and all that jazz, this is my escape, my breath of not so fresh air. It's a night out that's fun and still sexy without being slutty. Don't think, just take it in. Oh, and don't leave without hitting up the super-sized photo strip booth in the front side. Super cute and high-quality pics. Only downsides for me are the $4 cover and its distance from the rest of the citay.
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Kristin Marie S.

Yelp
It will Knock-You-Out! Ok, bad joke. We went for bingo last Thursday and wow was it fun. They let us bring in like $30 of Burger King. Sure it sounds like not a big deal but that stuff smells. The crowd was definitely into the game and we didn't get booed as haters. Actually the bar was filled with other bingo loving haters. Someone won, boooo!!!!! All in good fun. When we finally won, we got to double hate. Hate you for winning and hate you for booing our win, Bam! Take that fellow bingo players. My friend won a pirate kit. It came with an Ali Baba sword, Michael Jordan earring, Captain Hook accessory and an eye patch. I have no idea what the bar is like regularly but I want to try out Bootie Basement. I hear it is amazing!!! Oh, oh and they have Sweet Tea Vodka. It is good stuff. Seriously, try it. My friend in NJ is obsessed with the stuff. My sister actually has to drive back bottles of it from South Carolina for her friend. It's that good!
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Nikki M.

Yelp
Oh! This is where the hipsters went! I was wondering. Decent prices, decent space (not overly hot, but just enough hot to be sexy sweaty) and a rather unpretentious crowd. 90s night is where I run into hip former coworkers and reminisce about 90s music. It is bittersweet because some of it just makes you feel old, but other songs just make you dance and laugh. Like really, that Harvey Danger Song?! Warning: the bathroom line is incredibly long (one stall) for all the ladies. So avoid breaking the seal until the after party. Paranoia Paranoia everybody's coming to get me!!
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Gina T.

Yelp
Not only Coolest Dive bar but Coolest bar I have ever been in. It's hipsters night everynight, and I don't mean old people. Upside: its a place where the chances of having a bad time is unlikely. Comon how many bars have people crowd surfing? Bad side: have a big bladder to hold ur pee for a while. All in all I love this place and all my peep that come here on the daily. If you have never been, Go! It's Unforgettable while sometimes regrettable. Peace.
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Luke S.

Yelp
This is one of my bernal heights faves. I"ve had some great photobooth moments here. I've had some drunken walks from other bars here. had some heartfelt moments here, I've seen bands play here that were excellent. My friends band MC Meat hook and the vital organs played here and rocked. They have a great happy hour here. can't really know what kinda ratio its gonna be like here this place gets pretty random. The crowd is always great here, I love it.
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Mary S.

Yelp
I LOVE this bar. If you see me there on Thursday, I'm probably gonna be yelling: B eleven B-B eleven!! I've been here at least once week for the past forever. Jason the bartender is a total doll. LOVE! Good music, photo booth, old movies on the screens (think old godzilla "dudes in suits" movies. Again, I just love this place. They have a good night on some Saturdays called debaser where it's all 90's grungy goodness. I get drunk and dance to Sonic Youth. It's amazing.
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Mother L.

Yelp
Woop Woop!!!!! It only took me one time and Im a fan! My NEW favorite Friday night hangout when its oldies night. Primo has got it going on. It's packed, great music TONS of drink choices, photo booth, dancing and even though its packed I've never had to wait very long for someone to take my drink order. Great bar staff, that keeps up with the pace of the bar. Nothing more annoying then a messy bar, you wont find that here. And theres a huge luchador drinking a beer on their sign out front what more can you ask for!!!!!
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Jon T.

Yelp
The KO is a pretty rad place to hang out. It doubles as a fun place to hang out when there's no djs/bands and a really packed, sweaty mess of people on club nights. Teenage Dance Craze and Oldies Night are both really good times. Plenty of people come here for Debaser too, but I have no interest in re-living the 90s unless specifically through britpop or shoegaze. Beer selection is good and I've heard the mixed drinks are made very strong. I use to think it was kinda lame how far out the KO out is, but then I discovered I can just take the 24 back direct to my house. May need to start heading out here more often...
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Gopal R.

Yelp
I've been here twice. Once to see this band called Astral, right after getting burrito-jacked at Tacqueria Cancun next door, and once to see Jeremy Jay. When the bar isn't absolutely packed its actually a rather pleasant place to sit down, drink a few beers and listen to some obscure-ish indie rock type stuff. Its got that dingy indie dive kind of thing going on. They sell Hamm's beer by the can for $2. When it is packed, however, its very difficult to move around inside, and you have to really get all up in peoples' personal space to order a drink. The Jeremy Jay show was like that. There were all these indie-rocker girls screaming "Jeremy Jay!!!", and trying to cram themselves in front of the stage. The other girls would stare daggers at them as they slunk past one at a time in that little hand-holding daisy chain you see in crowded places. For the few minutes I actually lucked into a seat at the bar, people were leaning over my shoulder to order drinks. I got to chat with this one girl for a while as direct result of that. She was drinking Maker's Mark in a shot glass, and dripping Coca-Cola into it with a straw. "That's pretty slick", I told her, and she smiled back at me for second before taking another sip. After that, I went over to the KUSF table and bought a t shirt. Ty Segall, the opening act, let me take a few pictures of him as he leaned up against the wall near the bar. We chatted for a few minutes about guitars and reverb and stuff. Outside on the street, people gathered around me to bum some smokes as soon as I took the pack out of my pocket. This one guy and his girlfriend told me a story about how there's some dread-locked guy down by some tacqueria on 6th & Market who put weed on everyone's table to celebrate April 20th last year. Sounds intriguing. It was an intriguing kind of night, I suppose.
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Jim P.

Yelp
One of the great dive bars in SF! They have everything as far as music goes from punk shows to disco dj nights. There's always cool 70's and 80's movies playing thanks to the VHS player on the big screens. Wanna get a picture of your visit? Hop in the photo booth! The typical drink special is a cheap beer (Bud, Hamms, PBR) and a shot of well whiskey for $5 or $6 and there's restaurants on every side to help ya fill up! Decor is dark wood with some funky benches and couches, there's also two booths. I've been there a bunch, and I'll be there a lot more!
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Patrick S.

Yelp
To me it seems weird to have a female DJ playing rap songs about fucking bitches. Maybe it's supposed to be ironic? Since everyone in the bar is white, that seems offensive on a whole different level.

Franky F.

Yelp
I actually like this place. Drink specials are good and fair prices. Love coming here when its a bit more empty and there is space for me and some friends to just sit down and talk to eachother comfortably. Lots of cool bands and event nights too. 2 star rating because it seems like a lot of other reviewers run into this issue: there is a particular bartender here that is just the most annoying POS ever. It really seems like he goes out of his way to piss off customers. I and a lot of my friends have had experiences where we order drinks only to be met by a constant barrage of berating from this guy. Lol like my guy, just give me my beer i dont care how much your life sucks id be more than happy to just give you my money then leave you alone. Don't get me wrong, the other bartenders that work the knockout are really great but everytime i come here and see this guy i just know im gonna have to listen to this crybaby yell at me before i can get my drink. Crowd can be a sausagefest but i don't go here to get laid, i go here to be sad so this doesn't bother me that much. Been here on busy nights and tbh i didnt care for it so much but when the knockout is a bit slower and that whiny bartender isnt working, boy is this a nice place to just sit down and be mopey.
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D S.

Yelp
PAUL REUBENS. No, there wasn't a celebrity sighting. It's just that the Knockout looks like the biker bar from Pee-Wee's Big Adventure. They didn't play "Tequila," but they probably should have. Too bad the statute of limitations ran out on my indecent exposure rap. Speaking of indecent exposure, they have a photo booth next to the dance floor, just in case you want to record your inebriation in three second intervals. It's a painfully hip place. Definitely divey, slightly seedy, a smattering of Bernal Heights exiles from Cortland Street -- my kind of shithole. They were also showing The Shining, so you know I'll be back as that's my craigslist m4m hookup movie of choice ("Oooooh, weren't those dismembered twins creepy? Wanna fuck?"). Once again, I was a willing hostage to the charms of fellow yelpers Patrick M and MJ T...look, I love everyone but I'm sorry, they pull up at my office in a white van, club me like a baby seal, and throw me in the back. What am I supposed to do -- resist? Those bitches will pop a cap in my ass, they're all business. Plus, it's not like the rest of you ask me out. Word to my pretty female friends: I'm the perfect dinner date. I'm cute, asian, and fit in your satin evening clutch. So we were at one of the tables next to the window, chatting and otherwise being obnoxious to each other. There were two straight couples seated at the table next to ours. Now, we're friends in real life (right? RIGHT?) but we're also yelpriends, so we were talking yelp, when I noticed one of the harpies rolling her eyes and casting disparaging looks in our direction. They then quickly got up and left. Look you tramp, don't give me that. You're just bitter because you're stuck in your miserable life with your obviously gay boyfriend AND YOU DON'T HAVE A WEBSITE LIKE YELP ON WHICH TO BITCH! TALK TO MY MOTHERFUCKING HAND. Seriously, am I crazy? Does this shit happen to anyone else? Who knew yelping could provoke such hatred amongst the hoi polloi? Anyway, as we were leaving a [expletive deleted]* reveler wanted to prove he was going commando and showed us his pubes. Maybe Pee-Wee was there after all. *property of PM
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Megan W.

Yelp
The kind of place for a big Chimay and a table full of strangers who you may or may not end up hugging at evening's end, even if you're not really a hugger. Because this crazy bitch is so high she's calling you "babe" and handing you her dog and all of a sudden you're part of this weird ad hoc little family. Bars like that are nice.
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Noel J.

Yelp
teenage dance craze is too much fucking fun. I love love love dancing all night long to the best music ever. my only gripe is the bar needs to get some wine glasses, a chimay glass will suffice but come on. i've seen many bands at this space but my favorite evenings are with my love dancing to records. is anything better in life? "the people who do not dance are the dead"