Persona

Cocktail bar · Lower Nob Hill

Persona

Cocktail bar · Lower Nob Hill

2

685 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102

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Highlights

Speakeasy-style bar with craft cocktails and DJs  

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685 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102 Get directions

persona-sf.com
@willtylerjames

$20–30 · Menu

Reserve

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685 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA 94102 Get directions

+1 415 400 4598
persona-sf.com
@willtylerjames
𝕏
@persona_415

$20–30 · Menu

Reserve

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Oct 26, 2025

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@infatuation

12 SF Bars & Restaurants With Live Music - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"This large candlelit cocktail lounge on the border of Lower Nob Hill and Union Square has plenty of seating to watch the weekly live performers that take to the stage Wednesday through Sunday. Each night has a different theme—there’s Latin, soul, and jazz, and on weekends, a live DJ spins everything from funk to indie rock. No cover or admission fee here, so you can spend those extra dollars on their extensive drink menu or a few bags of popcorn." - julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez, patrick wong

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/guides/live-music-bars-restaurants-san-francisco
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@infatuation

Persona - Review - Lower Nob Hill - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Persona is over-the-top and dramatic, in a showbizzy kind of way. To get to the Lower Nob Hill basement bar, you descend a staircase underneath a mirror lit up by neon Persona signs. Inside, it’s brighter than the Times Square ball drop, and made up of about 85% reflective surfaces. On top of being swanky as hell, this place is also spacious enough that it’s pretty easy to get a table or couch, even if you’re drinking with a crowd. So spread out with your going out crew when other bars in the area are full, and sip Thai tea and palo santo-infused gin cocktails while listening to DJs or watching the TVs behind the bar." - Julia Chen

https://www.theinfatuation.com/san-francisco/reviews/persona
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Michael Wu PhD

Google
Love this classy bar. This is the 3rd bar my wife and I went for our annual weekend bar hopping. It's on my want-to-go list for a while, so I am glad that we visit it finally. The drinks are excellent, and the service is superb. Depending on what you order, the presentation are also quite a show. The venue is chic and classy and it looks like it will turn into a dance club after dark with DJ tables and everything. We will have to come back again.

Alejandra Garcia

Google
My visit to Bar Persona in San Francisco to celebrate the end of the year was simply amazing. From the moment we walked in, it was evident that this place was special. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, adorned charmingly with balloons that created a festive and cheerful environment. The service we received from the girl who attended to us was nothing short of extraordinary. Always with a smile, her willingness to assist us was noteworthy. Her friendliness significantly contributed to the overall experience, making us feel welcome and well taken care of. The drinks were unquestionably a standout highlight of the night. They were incredibly well-crafted, showcasing a level of skill and attention to detail in mixology that truly made a difference. The drink I ordered was especially delightful, and my companions shared the same enthusiastic opinion. In terms of recommendations, Bar Persona easily tops the list. It’s a place worth visiting for those seeking a pleasant atmosphere, good music, and exceptional cocktails. The combination of festive elements, friendly service, and well-crafted drinks creates a complete and satisfying experience. I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest this place to anyone in the area looking to enjoy a memorable night.

Briana Villarreal

Google
Nice setting and good drinks. Personally recommend, I Love Yolanda, with no serrano pepper- sweet, smooth w/slight zest. Will say when looking online I had booked a reservation thinking it was necessary. There was plenty of seating available, atop of that I didn't see any sort of direction to be seated at the reserved tables. Been looking to try it out and would be back, enjoyed the high quality service from the bartenders.

Kiran Singh

Google
Cute underground bar with lots of persona! They had Halloween decorations up & different rooms to sit at. Service was great. Cocktails were okay. I got the fungi old fashioned. It just tasted like a regular old fashioned with a piece of mushroom in it. Will have to come back to try more of their drinks, cheers!

Cody Jaffe

Google
Upon walking downstairs, we were immediately impressed by the cool and suave vibes of Persona. We really loved how spread out and relaxed the space felt, unlike many of the other cramped bars in the city. My partner started with the Devil in Miss Jones, while I had the Intersection. We both loved the Devil in Miss Jones, which was surprisingly well balanced. The mezcal, beets, cucumber, turmeric, ginger, lime, and celery bitters all came together beautifully and formed a nicely composed drink, with a slight bit of earthiness from the beets and smokiness from the mezcal. We both had never had a similar drink to this before, and loved it. The Intersection was pretty tasty as well, although not quite as balanced. The first few sips were balanced nicely, with the citrus, bourbon and Thai tea flavors pairing well with the egg white foam. However, the drink became a bit less balanced over time and the flavor of Thai tea in particular became a bit lost towards the end of the drink. For our second round, I ordered the Pay Close Attention while my partner ordered the Café Noir. The Pay Close Attention had an interesting mix of flavors with the gin, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves reminding me of flavors from Thailand. The Café Noir also had a nice rich coffee taste, with a hint of sweetness from the gum syrup that made it finish nicely on the palette. Overall, we really enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere in Persona and tasty drinks! We would definitely come back again!

Sathira Katugaha

Google
Some of the best drinks I’ve had, excellent service and a very cool atmosphere. I would highly recommend their agave based drinks and particularly the 30mm. Was absolutely blown away by everything I drank.

Baloo

Google
Great music! Service was excellent! Dragos is the best bartender!

Maria Drp

Google
They have a lot of interesting cocktail options, and the atmosphere is good. I would say the drinks are slightly overpriced. That's my only complaint. I got the Arctic Elixir. If you're into anise and similar flavors, you'll like it.
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Jon C.

Yelp
Persona is so underrated. You have to walk past the big neon sign and go down the stairs. Once you do, it's a dimly lit huge space with plenty of seating. At night there's a DJ that plays great music. The staff is super friendly and attentive. I've been here several times and the bartenders would have conservations with me when it wasn't busy The cocktails itself were great and reasonably priced. I believe they have a happy hour but haven't been. Definitely need to come back for that next time!
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Benny C.

Yelp
This place is now my new favorite place in The City. Everything from the vibes, to the drinks, to the service, to the drinks were on point. Albeit a few drinks were on the pricier side, this seems to be normal for drinks in the city. We started off with taking a tequila shot as recommended by the bartender that went down super smooth. I had booked a reservation and we were led to the back area where there was booth type seating and small round tables lined all in a row. The music and hustle and bustle can still be heard from the main area so we weren't missing any action from that side. The drinks here are absolutely amazing. My cousin had this matcha mirage cocktail that consisted of matcha, gin, mint, and lime that was probably the best thing I've had that night so far. Strong, yet sweet and tart. Perfect combo. I had the Intersection. This consisted of Thai tea, egg whites, bourbon, and milk wash. This is very similar to a whiskey sour which is usually my go to. Loved the Intersection. The fragrance and creaminess from the Thai tea and egg whites really brought how how smooth the bourbon was from the drink itself. I need to come back to try everything else.
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Krista B.

Yelp
My fiancé and I had such a great time at Persona! Aesthetic - 10/10 Moody, vibey, everything I want in an underground bar! It's very sultry and while there wasn't a DJ at the time we went, I can see how a DJ in that space would elevate the bar even more. Staff - 8/10 Our bartender made our drinks perfectly! Admittedly, when we asked for guidance on drink choices he kinda just lead us to reading over the menu which is why I'm only rating an 8 out of 10. Our Order: - Tropical Tease - I LOVE a clarified drink and this one did not disappoint! Perfectly tiki but moody. - Intersection - My fiancé loved his drink! It went down too smoothly. When in SF, check out Persona!
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Dominic B.

Yelp
Came by Persona when they officially re-launched their renovations. The updated space is even more sexy, intimate, and chic than it already was. DJ space has been moved closer to the stairs. Left side of the bar now has an almost enclosed feeling with collapsable highboy tables for two, in addition to the plethora of seats and couches. Right side of the bar has an elevated seating area as well as a pool table. Left side is definitely more for lounging and right side for standing and activities. Ordered with my go to bartner, Marcus, who always delivers exceptional service and make delicious cocktails. I star every visit with an Intersection which is like a variation of a sour cocktail. One of my absolute favorites. Another cocktail I;ve been ordering recently is the Devil In Miss Jones with mezcal, beets, cucumber, turmeric, ginger, lime, and celery bitters. Earthy yet very refreshing cocktail that's a beautiful deep red color. Persona continues to be one of my go to bars in SF.
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Shanelle A.

Yelp
My most favorite bar in downtown SF hands down! Staircases lead you to their underground bar, which has very low lit mood lighting and a DJ to set the vibey mood. Group ordered a round of cocktails (tropical tease, espresso martini, matcha mirage) but the fan favorite was the sweet paradise, which comes with a torched sprig of rosemary that's out up right in front of you. The bar was recently renovated from my last visit, so there's more comfy couch lounge space to sit and yap with your friends. Service was attentive and quick. Always love coming here and my friends are impressed by the drinks/ambience every time.
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Dianna H.

Yelp
I recently visited Persona and had a great time! My friends and I came Friday evening, a little after 11 pm, for some Friday night drinks. It was my first time here and I was surprised by how large the place is and how much seating is available. We were able to place two tables together and create a comfy cornerfor the 7 of us. The lounge area is perfect for chilling with friends, whether you're in a big group or just a few people. It wasn't too crowded, even on a Friday night, which was a pleasant surprise. The music was at a reasonable level until around midnight when they cranked it up, making it hard to have a conversation. We finally left around 12:30 as it got too loud for us. The cocktails were reasonably priced (most were around $15-16) and looked amazing. I opted for a mocktail called the Cozy Cool ($10) and it was delicious as well. Overall, Persona is a great spot for a casual night out with friends. I would definitely recommend checking it out.
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Mary V.

Yelp
A hidden gem! I attended a work event at Persona in April and we had a fab time. We took an Uber which worked well. I wouldn't personally want to park or walk around at night in the neighborhood. But once we made our way down the neon-signed staircase we were transported to a dimly lit, vibey bar/lounge. There's a large U-shaped bar with seats, some booths, and various other seating options. There was a DJ (think they offer that weekly) and some space for dancing. The craft cocktail menu is presented in a small book, a fun touch! The Midnight Smoke Show was my drink of choice: tequila, grapefruit, lime, Aperol, salt. The setting, the drinks, the friendly service...I'd definitely go back!
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Sarah G.

Yelp
I attended a work event at Persona and had a splendid time. When you first arrive there's a picture perfect spot to snag a selfie with your group and from there you descend into a really nice, moody bar. It's not massive, but still a good size, when it's packed it may feel a bit tight, but there is still room to move around, and nooks and crannies to sit and have a conversation with folks. The bartenders were great at fixing some NA drinks for me, and overall I enjoyed my time here.
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Anna S.

Yelp
I attended a private work party at Persona and had such a blast! It's in a bit of a dicey area but as soon as you trek down the steep staircase, you're transported into a dimly lit lounge with a swanky bar. We definitely filled up the space with our large party of about 100 or so people. The bartenders remained friendly and calm throughout the chaos and the cocktails were super impressive. I was glad to see so many options available and the bartender even offered to alter a drink a bit since I'm not a huge fan of super smoky mezcal. The sound system was great too with the DJ and live saxophone player perfectly setting the vibe all night long. I appreciated that there were plenty of spots to sit down too including booths, lounge chairs, and bar stools. I'd definitely recommend Persona for your next event.
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Sarah C.

Yelp
I visited Persona as an attendee at a private event. The bar is down a steep staircase off Sutter St. You're greeted by a wonderfully photographable neon sign straightaway. Inside, it feels like a moody speakeasy. The bar is U-shaped. There are booth seating areas on each side as well as a pool table. The bar didn't feel huge but it easily fit our 100+ attendees plus multiple vendors. Staff did an excellent job keeping up with our loud and ravenously thirsty group. They serve an elevated cocktail menu with ingredients like palo santo, kombucha, cold brew, sherry wine, matcha, mushrooms, beets, and more. I don't believe they have food but outside catering is allowed for events. This would make a great option for your private events, friends night out, or date night!
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Maddy M.

Yelp
I attended a work event at Persona, a super cool cocktail/lounge bar that's got ALL the vibes. It's low lit, with a vast bar top and an area with some small tables and sofas for those who want to sit while they sip. The cocktail menu was super inventive and diverse. I also loved the illustrations in their physical menu. Bartenders were a mix of friendly and not so much, which is my experience at most bars. Drinks were mixed well, but the presentation wasn't super consistent between bartenders. I tried their version of an espresso martini as well as the Fungi Fusion, which I HIGHLY recommend. It might have been one of my favorite bourbon cocktails I've had. I never thought I would enjoy a drink with mushrooms in it, but here we are! It smelled like wet soil, but had that lovely full mouth bourbon flavor with a touch of syrupy sweetness. The layout of the bar felt a little claustrophobic to me. It was difficult to move from one side of the bar to the other if it's filled with people. The temperature in the bar was also super inconsistent. It was boiling hot on one side of the bar and freezing cold on the other. Despite my personal discomforts with the layout and temperature, I think that Persona is a fun place to grab drinks and has a menu with options that are sure to satisfy all types of cocktail lovers. Would I recommend Persona for a night out in San Fran? Absolutely.
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Thuy Dan T.

Yelp
Such a bar with some amazing handcrafted cocktails that are so unique and intricate! Gives you speakeasy vibes walking down the stairs to a dim-lit large room with a small stage, large bar and some lounge seating. We were there for a work off-site and it was so fun. There's a little stage area where a DJ and a saxophonist were playing. The dance floor pretty much congregates in front of the stage. The bartenders were all so friendly and very knowledgeable about the cocktail menu to give recommendations of savory, sweet, or strong cocktails. Overall, a great time!
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Melodie M.

Yelp
This was the perfect place for a private party - in unexpected ways. Moody lighting, fun papered walls, nooks created throughout the space to accommodate small and large groups, let's just say that memories were had here! This bar was able to hold a large party, but also at least 3 seperate food vendors, an ice cream bar, a face painting station, a photo booth, a dj, a live saxophonist, and a stilt walker / balloon artist! Plus, we danced! This doesn't even mention the pool table or the giant lovely bar in the middle! I had an excellent mocktail here, hand crafted in front of me. Thank you!
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Lizzie S.

Yelp
I've been here for a few events and have a great time each time! I love the interior design and decor (you descend on some stairs and they have a cool neon sign, the vibe is definitely giving speakeasy) and the pool table in the back, and they also have a live DJ! They have killer cocktails and I love the vibe. I went a little after 9pm on a Sunday night and it was pretty busy until I left after 11pm. There were people drinking solo, people who looked like they were on first dates, couples, people visiting from out-of-town (as well as Alameda), and a girls' night out group. On a Sunday night! After 11pm! Service was good and friendly and helpful. I also met one of the owners Jose Natividad--he commented on my Warriors headband, he asked where I went to high school in the Bay, and it turns out he also co-owns a bar near where I grew up! Barrelhouse in Burlingame. Great company and people, I'll be back to Persona in Lower Nob Hill.
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Brittany B.

Yelp
Craft cocktails, low light, good vibes, and erotic references - this is my type of spot! I was introduced to this swanky below ground gem by way of a company party, so while my experience may not be the most traditional, it sure inspired to return! First off, if you're considering this spot for your next event, book it. We were able to fit 3 separate food vendors, a performance artist, a face paint vendor, Photo Booth and live saxophonist comfortably into the space. Secondly, if you're simply coming for a cocktail, not an event, you're still in for a treat. The cocktail menu is creative and robust and the bartenders are skilled and service oriented. I have nothing but gratitude for this spot for providing such an amazing experience. I'll certainly be back when I'm in town.
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Gabi M.

Yelp
Persona was the venue for a private work event I attended recently and it was great! It's got a speakeasy vibe and self defines as "a social club, cocktail bar, after-work spot, and event space." I'd say it definitely fits the bill! The craft cocktails went down easy and looked beautiful too, service upon entering and at the bar was friendly and efficient, and overall ambiance was super fun... I know our group brought in some food from other local businesses and entertainment as well, so I can't speak to going to Persona on a non-event night, but I'd definitely return to check it out on a future visit to San Francisco! As others have mentioned, use caution when going up and down the stairs.
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Jasmine T.

Yelp
Persona is a vibe! I ended my San Fran trip with a night out at this bar and it was so much fun. I loved the neon sign at the entrance. The venue is very spacious and has several different seating options. Their cocktail list is also filled with tasty options. I was here for a themed party but it's definitely a grown and sexy space if you're looking for a good date night or girls night spot.
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Alexa D.

Yelp
I went here for a corporate event and we really enjoyed it! The bar really is the center point- it's stunning and they have a really cool cocktail menu with plenty of unique drinks and non alcoholic options. The bartenders are really kind, passionate, and quick too! Every drink had a special flourish or design to it and you can tell they take pride in their drink. The ambiance was so fun! It's dark and moody and modern with some really cool decor. Only downside's were the steep staircase coming down (be careful in heels), the bathroom wasn't well maintained, and it is really loud in there. Great for friends who are acquainted but tough spot to get to know new people.
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Mikhala F.

Yelp
This was such a vibeeee, and the perfect spot to have our company offsite on our final day of our conference! As we walked in, the dark moody interior, mirror wall, and Persona neon set the mood for an incredible spot. The ambiance feels like a speakeasy, being in the basement level and low lighting - which I loved! We had a DJ playing, photo booth, and some food vendors onsite, which was awesome from the event planning aspect that we could bring other partners in to enjoy this large-scale event. The cocktail menu was incredible! I loved the book with options described and illustrated on each page. As a visual learner, this made it even easier to choose. Each cocktail was simply incredible: delicious, strong, and well-crafted. I asked the bartenders for guidance on which they'd recommend and they were kind and attentive. We had such much fun celebrating here - highly recommend for a cocktail or an event!
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Regina C.

Yelp
Persona was a gem we accudentally bumped into! And wow, I'm so glad we entered because it became the coolest bar of the night. It's a little bit of a speakeasy if you think about it. We saw the sign and entered underground. It was fairly empty when we entered and the interior of the place got us sold already. It was sophisticatedly elegant. We got a total of four drinks: Matcha Mirage: Gin, Matcha, Mint, Lime, and Agave. Intersection: Bourbon, Thai Tea, Citrus, Egg White, Sweetener, and Milk Wash. I Love Yolanda: Blanco Tequila, Mezcal, Serrano Pepper, Pineapple, Agave, and Lime. Cafe Noir: Vodka, Cognac, Galliano, Mocha, Cold Brew Espresso, Gum Syrup, and Coffee Liqueur. Matcha Mirage was my favorite. It had a good balance of taste and alcohol which I loved!! Definitely coming back here with other friends next time I'm in SF!
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Deepak G.

Yelp
I recently checked out Persona and I have to say, it's a pretty solid spot for a night out with friends. The drinks and cocktails were top-notch - I highly recommend trying out their specialty cocktails, they're definitely worth it. The place has a great vibe for a large night hangout - it's spacious and has a cool, laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for kicking back and relaxing with your crew. Plus, the staff is super friendly and attentive, which always makes for a good time.
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Mahima R.

Yelp
Classy lounge yet still has a fun upbeat energy and good music that goes from hip hop and dance music to calmer beats as well. Great djs, talented bartender, and creative cocktails. Most people are sitting down but there's definitely a little area where people get up and dance a bit near the DJ. Also really like how it's a little more dressed up here (especially in SF). Most of the drinks off the menu are really great. I got a tequila based drink and a whiskey based drink and both were fantastic. I've been here a few times and have never been dissatisfied with any of my selections.
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Aaron O.

Yelp
A vibey underground bar right near union square perfect for weekend dates. The dim lighting gave a very intimate feel with my partner and the drinks were perfectly suggested by our bartender. Needless to say, the drinks were delicious especially the mezcal ones! Dont forget to take a picture while walking down the stairs!
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Mylesha D.

Yelp
I recent had a really fun, private work event at Persona! Seriously, what a gem of a place to find in the city. The vibe here is just perfect for a chill hangout or a lively gathering. But what really set this place apart were the bartenders. They were like the life of the party, super fun and friendly, whipping up delicious drinks for us all night. I wanted to be friends with them haha Next time I'm in the city I would love to go back and hangout there.
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Farah A.

Yelp
Tunes, ambiance, service and set up, this place just gets it... and just when you think it couldn't get any better their cocktail list truly steals the show. A large group of us checked Persona out for a private event a couple of weeks ago, and I'll just say that from start to end, everything about it was 5 stars. Upon entry we got ID'ed and walked down the stairs where cool walls and neon signs led us to our Carnival themed event. Now since it was a private event, some things may have been different (music choices, food vendors, etc) but overall, I can see myself going back for drinks to hang out and groove. Their drinks were so unique... think of a fusion of different flavors, ingredients, garnishes and spirits to make the most perfect cocktails. I loved the cocktail book they have, that explains everything about each drink -- beautiful touch! My favorite was the Matcha Mirage. With mint, lime, gin, matcha, and agave, I mean what's not to love about it! Theres just so much variety in their cocktails and each one has a beautiful presentation to add to the experience. This is definitely a spot I'd be going back to next time I visit!
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Mia R.

Yelp
Persona is a whole vibeeeee. Came here for a work event where they had the whole spot to ourselves. Persona has some of the best craft cocktails- they were on point and so were their bartenders! I was enamored by how well they worked a huge crowd and never compromised the integrity of each craft cocktail. My overall favorite was the matcha cocktail and I swear I'll be thinking of it until I have it again. It is hands down the best matcha cocktail I've ever had (because, honestly, matcha cocktails are pretty hard to do). From the outside its super unsuspecting how cool it'll be once you enter. You enter by going down a set of stairs and they truly transformed this space. There were different food vendors at different parts of the venue (although pretty small and intimate), we were able to fit around 70-100 people in here for our event with vendors and even a photobooth! Overall, such a cool space and loved how we had our work event here because I'd love to come back for their amazing cocktails if I'm ever in town again!
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Stacey I.

Yelp
My boyfriend and I realized that the 6 years we have been together, we have never been to a bar for date night. Persona was the perfect place to have date night. It's a cute, low key bar, yet up to par with the vibes. Persona is more of a lounge type bar but doesn't give stuck up bougie energy. I definitely find myself coming back. We arrived around 8:30 PM and realized that was early. It was definitely mellow. Once 10:00 PM hit, it was so packed and loud LOL. Summary: Drinks: 9/10 rating Ambiance: 9/10 rating Service: 10/10 rating Parking: 0/10 rating Favorite drinks: 35 millimeter (for refreshing drink people) Mai Tai (not on the menu, but you can request it) What we ordered: Don Julio Tequila Blanco 35 millimeter Sweet Paradise Mai Tai I Love Yolanda Espresso Martini Matcha and Gin with Lime DRINKS: 9/10 rating OH MAN LOL. Now that I am typing out what we ordered, man did we order hella drinks and I will just say, if you care, don't wait until you are hella buzzed and tipsy because you're just gonna keep ordering drinks without realizing it haha. We paid about $223 including tip. But, it was worth it and fun. Depending on what you order, they have a good variety and balance of mellow alcoholic drinks and strong alcoholic drinks. If there are drinks you do not want to order from the menu, for the most part whatever you request, they can make. For example, they did not have Mai Tai's on the menu. But, we requested it and it truly was one of the best Mai Tai's we had. Most of the drinks were $15-$16 on the menu. AMBIANCE: 9/10 rating When you enter, all you see is a pitch black stairway with bright teal colored lights that spell out Persona. I thought that was so cute and fun. The bar is located downstairs and was very dim and dark. The most lighting comes from the bar. Everywhere else was very dark. There is a mixture of bar stools, booths, and bar seating. The alcohol display is pretty. The menu was very fun! The images that they have are accurate to what you are served. A lot of the pages that did not have the drinks on it consisted of erotic film images and phrases. They actually sell their menu books for $10 and will give you a fresh new one. DJ arrives at 10:00 PM. His name is Jay and he was cool. If you have a song to request, unfortunately, they do not just play any genre. They try to fit the music to the ambiance and vibe of the bar. They primarily pay upbeat lounge music. My boyfriend requested "I'm Coming Out" by Diana Ross, and the DJ actually agreed to it LOL. SERVICE: 10/10 rating Shoutout to ALIAH!!! What a sweetheart. She was so fun to talk to and constantly conversed with us. I honestly hate when people say "Well yeah, theyre supposed to talk to you so you can give a good tip". And although, that may be true, Aliah was genuine asf! I also appreciated how she greeted us right away when we arrived. She also made us some of her specialty drinks that were not on the menu. We definitely would come back again because of her. PARKING: 0/10 rating It's night time at Sutter St. Are you really going to drive and think you're going to find parking and drive after drinking? Yeah no. TAKE AN UBER. Fun fact, this is a sister bar to Barrelhouse and Vinyl Room in Burlingame!
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Darylynn D.

Yelp
I really like this place. You walk down the stairs into neon lights that say 'Persona'. One you are inside there is plenty of seating at the bar or at the tables. You order from the bar and the servers were very welcoming. I had the Matcha Mirage, which is matcha and gin; two of my favorite things. There's a live DJ Sunday - Saturday 9p-2a!! I'd love to come back here.
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Lauren P.

Yelp
Had a private company party here and it was fantastic! The bar is dark but it's a whole vibe and very Instagram worthy. The cocktail menu is unique and the cocktails themselves are gorgeous. I'm not a cocktail girly so I didn't get one, but all of my coworker's drinks looked great. The had a nice selection of wine so I was set. The bartenders were super nice and quick which is hard to do with a big group like ours. The bar itself is also laid out nicely and has plenty of seating and tables. Bathroom was also super clean! Overall it was a great spot to host our group and we had a great time. Those stairs to get down to the bar are pretty steep though, so choose your shoes and steps wisely!
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Meg B.

Yelp
Walking down into Persona and the first thing you see is the vibey mirror sign, your first stop on a instaworthy journey. The space is actually larger than I anticipated. Attending as a guest of a large private party, there were several stations for food, and a photobooth, as well as 100+ people. It was full, but not overly packed and plenty of space to the move around. The service was top notch, we had a small prefix menu and it was some of the best drinks I'd had in the city. Its a dark and moody space, but plenty of llittle elements adding to the ambiance. We had a blast and I would come back here on my own as well
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Kaveda J.

Yelp
Fantastic drinks and absolutely phenomenal drinks! Our bartender was also extremely friendly and had a great chat with us! Highly recommend! A beautiful place too!
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Michelle Z.

Yelp
Persona is my favorite bar in SF! The vibes inside are so lovely. It feels like a very upscale and elegant cocktail bar, with comfy couches, dim lighting, clean decor. The drinks here are also so elegant and creative too, not to mention absolutely delicious. I highly recommend the matcha mirage! I think it's one of my favorite drinks I've ever ordered at a bar. It was perfectly sweet and just tasted so light. You'll be tempted to sit here for hours once you settle in. The service here is also fantastic -- super knowledgeable workers, who are very attentive, friendly, and personable. It wasn't too loud inside when we went so it was the perfect environment to sit, sip our drinks & chat! Had an amazing experience here and would definitely come back! Highly recommend if you're looking for a nicer cocktail bar to sit in and chat while you have delicious unique drinks.
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Surbhi C.

Yelp
This bar is one of my favs in the city. I love the drinks and their menu. The bar tender from Romania is super nice and made me a great mezcal drink which wasn't on menu and was very friendly. The place has a good vibe to it and is super chilled.
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Jaky Y.

Yelp
Came here for drinks on a Saturday night with a reservation. They were about 60% full, and we noticed a few tables were sectioned off for reservations. Service was friendly and prompt. Someone came to greet us a few minutes after we were seated, and drinks were delivered decently fast. Prices are reasonable given SF, and the atmosphere was decently casual, relaxed, and fun. The only downside is neither of us enjoyed our drinks very much. Mine was pretty standard/unmemorable, and my partner's was really sweet. All in all, we had a good time, and Persona feels like a place you'd come after work for happy hour.
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Kevin J.

Yelp
In a nutshell: Chill vibes, attentive service, and tasty drinks! I don't want to blow this place up, but also want to acknowledge them for the great service and vibe they've curated. This is one of the only bars in the crowded parts of SF where you can rock up and grab a table after ~9 or 10PM without standing around like a vulture for half an hour. Have been here 3x now, twice for small-group drinks and once for a private party where the back-half of the bar was sectioned off. The drinks are pricy, yes, but they are thoughtful, creative, and well-made. The bartenders and servers (yes, servers) are happy to give recommendations, and are extremely attentive to refreshing your drink or getting water. Definitely a must visit for great cocktails.
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Fanny C.

Yelp
Cute little middle spot in SF. Tried various cocktails and they were tasty. Came here with 15+ people and the waiters were very quick w water, getting drinks to us, etc. I was very impressed with that. It is lively with music so definitely a place that is loud! I would come back and to see more DJs!
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Rehab K.

Yelp
I helped plan my friend's engagement celebration at Persona and it was nothing short of an amazing experience. We were about 30 guests and Persona reserved a corner space for us. The coordinator was extremely flexible to work with and I really appreciated her support and promptness in responses. The best part was that she allowed us to bring our own food and decorations and she also let us personalize the drink menu! The drink selection is extensive and delicious here and the bartenders are all friendly and provide great service. Everyone had a wonderful time and Persona enabled the couple to enjoy their special day. I highly recommend you to check out persona for a special event, celebration, or just a good time with friends!
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James N.

Yelp
This place is an underground bar/lounge which can be easy to miss, but once you see those bright neon lights and stairs, you'll know you're here! We came here on a Saturday night around 11:30 PM and there were tons of tables available. The place is pretty dim but has a nice modern feel. They also have a DJ which plays chill techno music. Last time I was here, they were also nice enough to take music requests. There are a variety of handcrafted cocktails that you can choose from but we opted for the Matcha Mirage. The drink honestly just tasted like a regular mint mojito and there was no matcha flavor whatsoever. I definitely would come back for the atmosphere but probably get a different drink next time.
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Megan M.

Yelp
I came here early on a weekday and it was pretty dead inside. This bar gave me speakeasy vibes because you have to go down a flight of stairs into the basement where the bar is located. I've heard that on other days and times, they become super busy. I got the sweet paradise cocktail and it was so flavorful. The bartenders were super nice providing me with suggestions since it was my first time. This bar was much more spacious than other bars I've been to. They had a DJ setting up as I was leaving. I'm definitely going to come back here with a group of friends. It's such a vibe!
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RJ A.

Yelp
Persona is a vibe and that's all I gotta say. Plus $3 off during Happy Hour, which is a steal! Great drinks at a discount, I got no complaints. I would love to come here when it's a bit more poppin and see what it's like. If you want a well-composed drink or two, then come here wit yo friends!
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Mikayla M.

Yelp
I've been wanting to check out persona for a while so I'm glad I finally got the chance to! I really enjoyed the aesthetic vibe that this place had. There was a bar area and there booths to the side to sit down and chat with friends. It was pretty busy on a Friday night and there was a DJ playing. They had a lot of drink options to choose from -- they all sounded interesting!
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Jen L.

Yelp
Came for drinks with some friends on Friday evening and they had plenty of seats for our group. They have a great cocktail selection and service was fantastic! They kept checking in on our table and served us very quickly with our next order
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Jessica C.

Yelp
The ambience alone is worth stopping in for. That short trip downstairs transports you to a speakeasy that feels otherworldly. I loved the 1970s erotic themed menu, and there were so many options that it was difficult to choose! I finally settled on the Midnight Smoke Show and was super disappointed when the bartender told me they ran out of the ingredients. She recommended a different drink (can't recall the name) that had Thai tea, and I did not like it at all. Definitely not worth $17. The rest of the girls loved their cocktails. It was a rainy Sunday evening when we arrived, and the place was so empty you could fire a cannon through the joint and not touch a soul. I'm sure it gets crowded on Friday and Saturday. It's super spacious with plenty of seating.
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Tanya D.

Yelp
This place was remodeled (used to be The Cellar) and looks great now! It's got a nice ambiance, with booths for each group to sit. There was also a DJ for those that felt like dancing. We were a party of 6 and had enough seats and room for everyone to sit comfortably and catch up. Drinks were great. The only complaint from everyone in the group was that there was no ventilation or air and it got really stuffy and hot. If it wasn't for that, we probably would've stayed longer.
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Pauline C.

Yelp
Amazing cocktails! Came here with reservation on a Friday night. The space is entirely open, with the bar situated in the middle, we were seated promptly on very comfy seating. Music was blasting from live DJ. Felt more like a dance club than speakeasy, except there is no dance floor, perhaps during the week it's less loud and more suited for conversations. Ambiance aside, service was friendly and attentive! It was our server's first night, and she had a more experienced staff to help guide her so we did not encounter any hiccups! The drinks were top notch! It was the best Mai tai I've had with the most delicious syrup pickled cherry on top!
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Chayna C.

Yelp
We went in the middle of the week, on a Wednesday, & the drinks were yummy & you could tell they are handcrafted. I got an espresso martini and our bartender made it a little different than the norm, but it came out delicious & nutty! It wasn't like any espresso martini I've had before, but it was great. I assume because it was a weekday that's why it wasn't busy, but there was only us 2 & another party of 4 sitting at the bar. It was super dim in there & you had to take stairs to go down, almost a hidden basement feel. Our bartender was very attentive & im sure on a weekend night this place has good vibes!
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Matthew A.

Yelp
Persona is an "underground" bar with intimate vibes. Atmosphere felt casual and there was a diverse crowd (birthday party, dates, friends hanging out). Drinks were decent, but service was running slow as the space is quite large and there were several big parties. That being said the spot is a great place for groups as it's got a lot of room. DJ was curating tunes on this Saturday night. Atmosphere was loud but still able to hold a conversation. At one point they had Wheel of Fortune reruns playing behind the bar. Fun to play along.
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Salina L.

Yelp
The perfect place to go to for a girls night out. The vibe was just vibing and the ambiance omg. I felt so classy lol. The drinks were also good and there are a lot of seats available. They also have live music too which was a nice surprise
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May L.

Yelp
Got pulled in by the fancy turquoise neon lights blaring from the entrance. The glowing words were calling to us, and we descended down that stairway. Inside it's a clean, modern space. It's very dark on one half. We went on a rainy day, so it was mostly empty with plenty of room to sit. Ordered the sweet paradise and can confirm this drink lives up to the name. Tasted like a sweet bubbly fruit soda. The added blowtorch on the leaves gives it a smoky edge. Appreciated the metal straws too that brought the drink an icy feel. Service was friendly and had our drinks were ready so fast. Nice happy hour from 5-7pm. Had a great time here.