Tony Nik's Cafe

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Contributor

Joined 10 years ago

An elegantly appointed, retro lounge ticking to the time of the Eisenhower hour.. The Scene
Between the cheesy dance emporiums and seedy bars of North Beach sits this decidedly simple little lounge. Open since the Prohibition era, Tony Niks maintains Atomic Age splendor--from the starburst clock mounted on the wood-paneled walls to the sleekly upholstered, curved banquettes lining the room. While the retro-cool look is circa 1949, the atmosphere is closer to 1989, as U2 is more likely than Frank Sinatra to get the clean-cut, 30-something crowd singing.

The Draw
The bar, a haven for locals and restaurant-industry folks, can get swarmed on holidays and big game days, like the Super Bowl. The average night is a laid-back affair, so much so that friendly borders on being too formal. Even on a Friday, there's plenty of room to sit around a tiny cocktail table and share bad jokes with a nearby table.

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drjimbo

Joined 7 years ago

most welcoming neighborhood bar. Fantastic place! It's been there since Prohibition, in the same family the whole time. Real neighborhood feel. The ambiance is amazing with everything original from 1940s. It's been on an upward trend since Devon came on who is one of the best bartenders and who ALWAYS brings her "A" game. The new manager, Sebastian, has turned things so positively, it's made this my favorite in the city. He is a true "paisan" who exudes sincerity, honesty, brotherly friendliness and integrity, AND he makes outrageous martinis. There's alot to be said for the current staff who all have incredible loyalty to the Nicco family and tradition.

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charmingkati

Joined 7 years ago

I like it here. Bar tenders are funny and if you wait for a minute there is usally a place for two to sit at the bar. The only down side I have found is that there are gross men that are always hitting on everyone... but I guess this is to be expected in SF.

If you are mellow you might like that place.

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maribellez

Joined 7 years ago

Avoid, Boring, Messy. Sorry, I used to really like this place. There is a new "manager" that is very pompous and arroggant.

A beautiful woman used to work there that created all these wonderful drinks and really enjoyed entertaining the crowd. This bar has turned into a REAL DIVE bar.

So, I suggest going elsewhere unless you like bad attitude.

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candice1979

Joined 7 years ago

Great Neighborhood Bar. I went to Tony Niks with a bunch of friends and had a great time.

I'm definitely going back soon.

Doesn't Recommend

jennstomp05

Joined 7 years ago

Let me say....then......... I have been going to this place for 5 years. The staff has changed, and the service is not the same.

There are no more fun parties as the reviews states because Victoria is gone !

This is a nice place for one drink, but then move on !

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martinwoods04

Joined 7 years ago

Only at Happy Hours. I have been going to this bar for a few years after work with my co-workers.

Only at Happy Hours 4-7 is this bar cool.

Victoria runs the bar like it's her own place. Food, snacks, killer drinks, and she makes people smile. Her music selection is hot, and her spirit bright.

Thanks Victoria for your years of fun.

Our office is moving and we are going to miss you !

Our recommendation to anyone who want go to this bar is A + !

Don't stay after 7 however, you will not get the same service.

BTW...the reason why this bars rates 9.3 is because we voted for you Victoria !!

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sassyhip

Joined 8 years ago

Easily my favorite.... Tony Nik's is easily my very favorite bar in the City. I will say it's far better on a quiet weeknight when the delightfully entertaining neighborhood regulars take residence on the barstools, but weekends are very lively. Be warned: weekend nights occassionally can be amatuer nights, including the possibility if you're a woman that you could be relentlessly hit on. But nonetheless, it's a great scene: hip without being trendy. The bartenders (Danny, Victoria, Pat, Luke, Pete and Sebastian) are all great and treat their customers like friends. Tip them well.

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kiwwi

Joined 11 years ago

Nice decor, good crowd but... ...the space isn't that big so don't come with large groups. The line for the restrooms can be long too. It's a good spot to stop off at before heading to another bar.

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KDOG

Joined 10 years ago

Buona Sera Victoria!!. Victoria- you're a riot! Talking about fun, you know how to make it all happen..Great drinks, atmosphere, fun and the perfect mix of people is what Tony Niks is all about.. No one does it quite the way you do..Keep up the great job..we love you...