Lion's Den Lounge and Bar

Lions Den is not just a bar--it's a full-on blast of a party that perfectly embodies everything that makes the Bay Area special. From the moment you walk in, you're embraced by a genuine, welcoming energy. The owners are true Bay Area locals, and you can feel their authenticity in every corner of the space. That sense of love and community is so contagious that it attracts an incredible crowd w/ fun-loving people who are all about good vibes. No pushing, no pretension--just pure positive Bay Area energy. The dance floor is where it's at. For anyone looking for a safe and fun place to let loose, especially for girls' nights out, Lions Den is an absolute gem. You can dance without a care in the world and know you're in a space that has your back. The drinks? Incredible. The pours are generous!!!! The DJs are always on point! Plus, the ventilation here is a game changer. With fans keeping the air flowing, you can dance the night away without that stifling, claustrophobic feeling you get at other places. I've celebrated multiple birthdays here, and it's always been a blast. Spending NYE 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 at Lions Den felt like coming home to an unforgettable party. NYE SPECIFICS: The upstairs is free, offering a lively and open vibe, while the downstairs with its $25 cover charge (or free entry after 11 PM) hosts a killer live band that elevates the night. If you're looking for a spot to celebrate, dance, and be surrounded by authentic Bay Area love, Lions Den is it. I can't recommend it enough!

I recently attended an event here in Chinatown with a large group from my organization. The experience was a mixed bag for me, but here's a breakdown: Food: I tried the wings, spring rolls, and chow mein, and all were seasoned pretty well. I'm not sure if the food was made in-house or catered, but it was decent overall. I also had a couple of drinks--Stella and a Gin and Tonic--which were standard but good. Service: The staff seemed fine, though I didn't have much interaction with them beyond ordering drinks. Payment options were a bit limited, as I didn't notice tap-to-pay, and most people just used their cards. Ambience: This is where things were a little hit-or-miss for me. When we arrived around 5:00pm, the place was pretty empty, but it picked up when our event started at 6:00pm. The seating was adequate, though some people in our group had to stand, but it didn't seem to bother them. The lighting was actually a highlight, with colorful lights adding a nice vibe as the evening went on. The real fun began when karaoke started--definitely a high point! It really lifted the mood, especially since the Padres vs Dodgers game was also on the screens, adding to the entertainment. Overall: If you're looking for a spot for a group event, this place might do the trick, especially with the added fun of karaoke and a game on TV. However, if I were going solo or with just one other person, I'd probably choose another spot, as the overall vibe just wasn't for me.

This place is located in the heart of SF China town in an alley. The place is only a few years old and still has that new feel. The ambiance, decorations and finishes are very vibrant, shiny, and pretty. The staff are all cool and chill. There are many drinks to choose from and they also have late night food like hot dogs and stuffed Bao Buns. There are two floor levels here and one official dance floor. Two bars, and two sets of bathrooms. The best thing about this place is the band, guests singers/vocalist and the sing on stage and or sometimes walk around and sing to you in a American Musical style. This place is one of a kind!

I went to a CNY - aka Lunar New Year party here (it's the year of the Wood Snake) with my friend and had a fabulous time. The venue is spacious and they have an area where you can hang your coats! Be careful, Waymo won't take you directly there but Uber/Lyft will!

Friday live music around 8 pm Very intimate setting and very cozy. The staff are very friendly and make killer drinks. They do have food. Chinese fast food like buns and spring rolls by the bar. You can chill upstairs and enjoy yourself in comfy sofa - play Jenga you must. Downstairs is where the dancing and live performances happens. It gets packed at times so come early.

This was an interesting experience for me. It was a social for work that started out pretty awkwardly, but one the Karaoke got going became a lot of fun. The only downside for me was the layout as grabbing a drink became a bit challenging as the size of the audience grew.

Had such a great time at this place! Bouncer was really kind, however a certain bartender was a bit off putting and a bit rude. Didn't stop us from having a good time because the performers that night were awesome and provided a really uplifting atmosphere! After the performers were done they played a mixture of different music which was great. There were people of all different sorts of ages as well! Definitely recommend.

This bar makes me feel so at home. I have so much fun here. There are not a lot of places that feel authentically SF, and Lion's Den is it

We had such a fun night dancing here for my friend's birthday! They played tons of great songs (throw back to our college days) and they even had these amazing fans pointed at the dance floor to cool you down. Drinks were standard, my partner was so bummed they didn't have the bao anymore.

Lion's Den is a must visit when barhopping in Chinatown. They play live music until 11pm then it's a DJ. Love visiting this spot. It can get a little stuffy inside so it's a good thing they have fans. Drinks are reasonably priced and service is good. I've been here several times and the music always hits. Overall a fun place to go to!

This is a cool hidden gem in China town SF and Saturday nights is the time to go and check out. DJ starts around 10:30pm and gets lively and great spot to end the night when you're in SF.

As soon as I found out a lounge had opened up in Chinatown during covid, I knew I had to come check it out. I came here on a Saturday night to enjoy some live music and dancing. We came after dinner, a little after 9 pm, and it was pretty empty since it was still early. The live band, Funky Sound Experience, was in the midst of crooning covers of mostly R&B songs from the 90s and 00s. The upstairs area consists of a bar plus some lounge-y seating that was completely full when we walked in, and downstairs has another bar plus the band area and the reserved tables. There's not much non-reserved seating available downstairs, only a couple of stools behind the reserved area. There's not really a dance floor per se; most people were dancing in the empty area in front of the band. The menu has a variety of Asian apps as well as cocktails, wine, and beer. I was the DD so didn't get a drink, but my friend got a double IPA to sip on. The band played until 11, when the DJ took over. We stayed for another hour and the music was pretty good if you enjoy pop and top 40s like me. There were a bunch of people dancing between 10-11:30, but by midnight the dance floor was down to just a handful of people and we left soon after as well. Overall I thought this was a fun place to check out on a Saturday night. It seems like it'd be a chill place to reserve a table for a special event like a birthday and enjoy some live music.

I was having an amazing time at lions den with my friend until a bouncer named Vee (or V) started harassing me because I was taking a break from dancing. I put my head down for Less than 5 seconds to recuperate my energy inside a very sweaty bar, and Vee started asking me if I needed to leave / needed some water. I politely declined, but shortly after, Vee told us in a very threatening tone that we would be kicked out of the club if we "kept effing around". Keep in mind, I had only had 2 drinks at this point, over the span of multiple hours. This bouncer made me very uncomfortable and honestly ruined my birthday night. I did not feel comfortable inside the bar after Vee approached us and verbally harassed us. I have a photo attached, so hopefully someone in management can talk to her about this. The music was good, but my night was overall ruined by this one bouncer.

My friend took me here when we were bar/restaurant hopping on this weekend as the last destination. It's a cute place in China town, even tho it was a rainy night, we had a great time here, it was playing good music so we danced like a crazy...

This place was lit , my friends and I came around midnight with and we made our way to the dance floor. The DJ was playing 2000s to 2010 classics and we all had a blast dancing and vibing. The basement is a bit small though, and it did get steamy and hot, but thankfully there was AC and it wasn't too packed that night. They also serve hotdogs and meat baos, which are 3 bucks (I think), which is not bad; I appreciate the Chinese option of meat baos. Overall, Lions Den was a really fun place, and I would go again!

Definitely a sleeper if you're visiting SF Chinatown for some live music and drinks. Maybe skip on the Palomas, stick with the beers instead.

It was raining sheets, but Jamie W. and I were invited to a private birthday party by a friend who invited dozens upon dozens of guests to the contained space. It was a full house, but we were glad we braved the storm clouds because it was a cool retro-vintage spot on Wentworth Place. There was a front room and a back lounge large enough to accommodate live music. I was enjoying reading all the old framed newspaper clips on the wall highlighting the premiere of "Flower Drum Song". Both rooms were equipped with full bars, and they offered quite a selection of tropical libations each priced at $15. I started with the Shanghai Low Ball, a tantalizing mix of Myers Rum, ginger syrup, grenadine, lime, and Angostura bitters (photo: https://bit.ly/3J5yOww). Our birthday host had quite a spread of food catered for the evening including some rather addictive mochi mini-donuts (photo: https://bit.ly/3KKWqrC). It gave me an excuse for a Lion's Den, which nicely blended bourbon, bitters, and simple syrup into the perfect ending (photo). Jamie and I are definitely coming back to bask in more of the old Chinatown vibe emanating from here. COCKTAILS - 4.5 stars...tropical libations ideal for a chilly evening AMBIANCE - 5 stars...nice vintage vibe, relaxing lounge SERVICE - 5 stars...like a private club TOTAL - 5 stars...worthy of a true Shanghai gesture RELATED - Exploring Chinatown? Here's a collection of places I've visited and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2WoF1Z2

Super interesting bar in china town. We were looking for a speakeasy and this popped up so we decided to check it out. It was honestly really poppin and the age range inside was the largest I've seen from young people sitting and drinking to old people dancing to the live music. It was nice that the bar area anyone could stand at had hooks for your jackets but the tables required reservations. The drink we got was both bad and expensive and I noticed you could have a steamed hot dog which is very interesting. I decided not to try that one. They also graciously showed us their basement where we were told you could buy a liquor box for 3-4k and have access to the lounge one level below, but I would rather be in the main back room with the live music. Overall will not be back and this is definitely not a speakeasy.

Walked in to this incredible bar with amazing drinks served by amazing bartenders. What was even crazier was they had a whole live band a floor below that added to the saturday vibes of this establishment! Definitely a place to take your partner when you are in the chinatown area.

We celebrated my sister's 40th birthday at Lion's Den and had the best of times. The venue and staff were great and this helped create a truly joyful atmosphere. Sidenote: this party was our mom's first time going to a club and with the live band, Pure Ecstasy, it was her first concert as well.

This is such a fun bar/lounge! My friend and I went last night, and we can't stop talking about how great the ambiance was. There is a lounge upstairs which is quieter and better for talking. Downstairs is where the best part is - the live music! They had the band Slam Effect on Friday night when we went, and they brought such good energy! They did popular covers that were great for dancing. We were there between 9:30-11pm, and the crowd was mostly older couples dancing at first but closer to 11 it started to fill up with a lot of younger people. They have good cocktails, and they serve bbq bao buns and hot dogs as late night munchies. So fun & we can't wait to come back. This would be a great spot for a birthday party too.

I brought my husband in last Sunday for the works (hair cut, beard shaping and shave.) My son recommended his new barber "Minnie". When we arrived in the area, parking is hard to find in the street but we were lucky to find someone pulling out. I learned there was a parking garage on B St (I believe). We walked into Lions Den. The chairs and deco were upscale with a touch of royalty. Everyone was happy and upbeat. You feel like you're in a family environment. Minnie greeted us and was ready to start crafting her art. She was friendly and sociable. She even made sure me and my toddler were comfortable as we sat at the couches in the back of the shop. She was quick and precise with the cut. My husband got a low fade that blended into his beard. She steamed his face and gave him a shave from the neck up. He looked clean, fresh and fly! My husband loved his new cut. Minnie will be our new barber for our 4 sons and my husband. Thank you Minnie! We'll see you again soon!

Excellent venue. Please check out the Frank Sinatra impersonation show. This award winning performer is a real Chinatown treasure. It's not to be missed.

This the late night go to spot. I was introduced to this bar by a rapper that goes by the name of Rymeezee and Son of Paper. Great music and they performed here with many other amazing artist. I ordered food and it was delivered by another shop next door and got the drinks in house. They also have a VIP section downstairs that Hella low key with signature alcohol beverage and a dope karaoke system! Truly a den to enjoy! I love this spot! Shout to to the group called Dear Asian Community that host events and put me on to the downstairs den. I highly recommend this spot.

This is a place if you want to go with your friends to have fun and grab drinks. That's not all, I would say if you are on a special date with someone and would like to have one last drink before you end the night - this is the right spot. The service is friendly and this place is casual with a nice ambience and clean restrooms.

Went here last night for a friends birthday party last night. They had rented a space for about 20 of us near the stage. Minimum was fairly reasonable. They also had a few other smaller table areas you could reserve for like groups of 8-10 people right in front of the stage. Service was good from our cocktail waitress. We could tell she was trying to keep on top of a lot of drink orders to make sure they came out reasonably fast. The cover band they had was excellent. Our group had a blast dancing to hits from the last 20 years or so. I would definitely come back here with a group. One thing-- their bartenders seem to be heavy handed on the simple syrup. We think it could have tasted better if they put less in each drink. My husband couldn't have more than one of the "Lions Den" since it was way too sweet for him. I know this is popular for sweet drinks in a lot of bars like in Chicago but it's not so common in SF at the craft cocktail bars.

Went here for the 26th of October 2024 LAST MINUTE PARTY, basically Halloween weekend. No entry fee. Small but packed. Great DJ playing classics and you can easily walk out and in to get fresh air. So fun. Water at upstairs and downstairs bar. no fee. Drinks extra strong but cheap. So so fun. 10/10 recommend :) (mind you all the clubs were 100$ entry fee last minute all the bars packed) amazing hole in the wall in China town

It's a nice venue that has an upstairs and downstairs bar, the downstairs being the lounge and live music area, and a karaoke room in the basement only available for prior reservations. It's pretty lively, feels breathable with how the tables are spaced, and the bartenders are attentive. You'll be able to find it in an alley, there's ample parking in the surrounding area, neat bar to check out!

We turned into the alley way and walked past this bar, then we made a fast U-turn and went in. That's how cool we are... we said - drinks? Yes please! Then out comes the covid card and ID and we swooped right in. It's a lounge-y bar with live band that night. Small, Asian decorative, dark, mysterious and oh so cool. We were out celebrating birthdays and came here to chill with a drank on-hand before our dinner reservations. We each ordered their specialty cocktails and went downstairs to sit on their cushy stools -- it was 7ish PM and empty, the band haven't even started playing yet. So, we hung out for a few minutes, chatted loudly, and then headed out. Fun place for drinks, snacks, entertainment and probably dancing. Happy we made that u-turn for our drinks.

Great attentive servers/bartenders and FIREEE music. They hit such a range of music, I had a great time! I went at 7-11pm on a Friday and it was on the less crowded side but still such amazing time. Would recommend. It's currently getting busier so not sure what it's like at night/night but amazing during evening!!!

This review is only for the use of the space for events. Was fortunate to be able to head to Lion's Den for an event a couple of weekends ago. Right when you enter there is a huge dragon facing you which serves as the main entrance. There is some sitting space to the immediate right but most of the space is further down a hallway. The space is small and a bit cozy but there's a variety of different seating options (bar seating, booth, high tops, open booth facing each other, small tables). There is a stage where I think during certain hours there is a live band. If you continue down another set of stairs (next to the bar), you'll reach a pretty standard karaoke room that has a huge TV screen for group karaoke and just a general hangout with slouchy couches and chairs. Overall, I think the space is well utilized and decorated.

I had a pretty good night at Lions Den before this female bouncer named Vee or V harassed me and my friend for no reason. We sat down on the couch to rest and hydrate after dancing since it was extremely hot inside the bar, and Vee came up to us in a very hostile manner threatening to kick us out because my friend was "too drunk". My friend put his head on my shoulder for less than 5 seconds to rest since we were both tired from dancing and the heat. Mind you, we both only had one drink and were not drunk at all. We proceeded to get up and continue dancing about a minute after this encounter since it seemed like she didn't want us to sit there and she followed us to the dance floor to yell at us. She told us we were "fucking around" and that we would be kicked out but we were just not sure what we did wrong. I talked to the bouncer outside and he also claimed that there were many complaints about her being inappropriate and unprofessional with customers. Hope she doesn't ruin your night like she did mine. I've attached a photo of her so you can be aware.

Pro tip: the entrance is NOT on Grant, despite it looking like it could be on Grant on Google Maps. I read some news articles about the Lion's Den and had to come see it for myself! SF Eater said it would be Chinatown's first new nightclub and live music venue in decades, aiming to bring back the glamour of 1940s SF Chinatown, the heyday of the Chinese-American bar-nightclub! At 7:30pm on a Friday night, they were not that busy, but we were able to get in without a reservation. They filled up around 8:30 or 9, and reservations started at 9:30pm. I love the history of the business and the building. They offer fun music (it will be live music as SF/CA opens up more) in an amazing setting: I love the decor, including pink plush couches, cool tables, and even better walls. There are TVs playing music videos, and a piano in the front too where DJs stand and play sometimes. The upstairs bar has more upscale cocktails, and they offer food from nearby modern Asian fusion spot RM 212. I'd recommend some of their signature drinks--some original and fun cocktails. 5 stars for the decor, setting, and service--and their outfits! Will definitely be back, so excited to see the vibes as the city opens up.

Next level vibe in Chinatown. Sebastian took care of our group and did a next level job, will be back again. Reasonable prices and great service.

I ordered a Lion's den and it was like a sweeter version of an old fashioned. The bartender asked if I liked it strong and of course I said yes and she delivered 100%. The entrance to the bar is in the alley directly behind the building (there is a sign on the back entrance you'll see if you go by Google maps to go around back) and the place is kind of split into two parts. The bar part is what you'll see when you first walk in and the dance floor/lounge part is down a flight of stairs (where there is also a bar) with the stage. The drinks are pretty good. The decor is very nice and complimented the vibe of Chinatown. If I wanted to get drunk and listen to live music all night with my friends this is the place I'd go. All the employees are so kind here. The place is clean and well maintained.

This is a true Chinatown jewel !! You are first greeted by the doorman/bouncer who confirms you are vaccinated (commonplace nowadays). The entrance is inviting as you come upon a large wall hanging depicting a bird and dragon, along with a shrine in honor of ancestors and then you descend to the lower level to hear the live music and DJ. Chinatown's first new nightclub and live music venue in decades, aiming to bring back the glamour of 1940s SF Chinatown, the heyday of the Chinese-American bar-nightclub! This place has a deep history. There were a couple of 2-person tables outside that were separated by decorative red fences. The main entrance of the Lion's Den is located in a side alley, on Wentworth place, which is not too difficult to find. The alley is also relatively quiet and safe at night

I was very excited to come here and check out this historic spot that's bringing live music & dance back to Chinatown! Love the concept, layout and design. I would've loved it even more if they had live music and dancers now but due to Covid all they had was a screen playing jazz music & oldies. My hubby and I had reservations for dinner at 6pm in the Piano Lounge. We arrived early and had our temperature checked. We were led across a small seating area and bar, down some stairs and into the Piano lounge. Overall small spot but can fit up to 190 people when full. Downstairs was a party! Apparently all the local firefighters decided to converge for drinks so it was loud & rowdy. I was thinking it would be intimate small tables/gathering but it was a party. Much respect to our local firefighters though!! We sat down and waited for our bento boxes. Excellent food by a third party RM 212. My hubby especially enjoyed the five spice chicken skewers and can't stop raving about them! Service was excellent throughout and had several people come by to check up on us. Recommended spot to come when they bring the live music in the future!

Enjoyed visiting this little hidden gem. Loved seeing the historical pictures and hearing about the establishment's history. Service was quick. Drink was tasty and music was just right.

One of the nicest venues I have seen In San Francisco Chinatown in quite a few years. Steven Lee the proprietor, has done a great job in establishing a great place to party and socialize in one the most historic areas of the City. It has become a go to place for me in terms of listening to great local bands, singers, DJs, enjoying good food and drinks, and reconnecting with friends old and new. I highly recommend Lions Den and look forward to what new and innovative events they have in store for the future.

Wow. The energy in this place is amazing! Came here with a crew after a wedding. The funk band killled it and the crowd was totally vibing, the most diverse, amazing crowd in a long time.

The drink menu at Lion's Den is extensive and impressive. The bartenders are skilled mixologists, crafting delicious and creative cocktails that cater to every taste. From classic favorites to unique signature drinks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The quality of the beverages is exceptional, and the presentation is visually appealing. One of the highlights of Lion's Den is the live entertainment. The talented musicians and performers create an electric atmosphere, setting the stage for a memorable night. The diverse range of music genres keeps the crowd engaged and adds to the overall enjoyment of the experience.

A pretty good spot for a big group of friends! They have a live band playing in the early evening, and a DJ later in the night. The drinks are pretty strong, and their cocktails are fun and tasty. Weird comment but their bathrooms here are actually quite clean and well-managed for a bar.

This post was long overdue. I celebrated my Birthday with friends and reserve 4 tables at Lions Den. Our host Irene took care of all our tables and orders. I know they are short staffed yet the waitreses did a tag team to make sure that everyone's order were addressed. The band (Mirage Band) was great! It is nice to see that there is a club lounge in Chinatown and with a $3 validated parking at portsmouth square, this place is the venue!

What a great spot to meet up with friends, have a drink, listen to good music, dance a bit and party! I am not that familiar with Chinatown so I was not sure whether or not Wentworth Place was an actual street or alley. No matter as it's all about the destination in this case. You are first greeted by the doorman/bouncer who confirms you are vaccinated (commonplace nowadays). The entrance is inviting as you come upon a large wall hanging depicting a bird and dragon, along with a shrine in honor of ancestors, etc. This main floor has a bar and a retro sitting area in case you want to relax and get away from the fun downstairs. While sitting and sipping on your drink, definitely take in the old school photos from "the good ole days". Walk down a flight of stars and you are greeted to a modern, speakeasy type space where you either stand, sit at the bar, or partake in one of the reserved tables. Note that the reserved tables have a minimum purchase requirement of food (from a neighboring joint) and drinks. We were here when a friend of mines band was playing. The music was on point, the crowd lively, with all having a great time. After the band played, a DJ came on to keep the party going!

Jastin's resto Bar House, im so excited for this opportunity and to suceed my dream business and thankyou to help me godbless have a wonderfull to all thankyou for helping me

Chinatown's got new nightlife blood with the introduction (return?) of Lion's Den. I say "return" because there was Lion's Den here in the 40's, and it's the goal of the club to bring back those 40's party vibes. The city is still warming back up to the idea of nightlife, but I can definitely see this becoming a pretty popular place. They have a bar with some tables at the entrace but when you walk past it, you end up in a lounge with private tables and a stage for DJ's and piano players. The drinks are delicious and the service is great. The manager Irene actually rememebered my friends and I when we came back and helped us get a table. Definitely the kind of place you want to spend your Friday night at. The address is on Grant but the entrance is on the other side of the building. You'll have to access via Wentworth.

They are playing football on Sundays and Mondays on their big screen!!! Woohoo!!! Drink specials, fun crowd. And food can be ordered too. So glad to see this space become a hub for sports fans.

Came by and checked it out with my cousins a month ago and the place was packed and the DJ played some really good music there. They have multiple lounges with bottle service and two bars with 4 bartenders so the wait time was under 5 minutes to get our drinks. Great vibes!

Wow, I've lived my entire life in SF and just found out about this place. It's super discreet and lively especially when there is a live band! We came on a saturday night and there was a live band with singers and the entire bar was dancing. There's ample room to stand, but probably need a reservation if you want to sit down and enjoy bottle service. I will definitely be back and try it again on another night!