12/29/08

What Lee Knew

by anyikui

This little bar is a great place to drink and chat with cool strangers of every stripe. Like the poet the place is named after, it's all about drinking, rubbing elbows, and enjoying life. Check out the poem on the wall near the back, and if you can handle it try a shot of ng ga py (pronounced nn-gah-bay), the South Chinese moonshine with a touch of wormwood and a helluva kick. This drink is featured in Steinbeck's East of Eden--Lee recommends swirling it around the roots of your tongue.

Colorful Chinatown dive bar draws in-the-know night owls.

by Contributor

In Short
During slow evenings, a couple on a date may be engaging in dice games at the bar, while the barkeep plays cards with regulars at the far end of the snaking counter. Beneath a giant hanging lantern, a Buddha statue sits in contrast to the souvenir shop-quality photo of San Francisco's skyline. On busier nights, the red booths in back host boisterous barhoppers.

09/03/05

i love this place

by charmaineinator

this is the best bar ever. you will get a lot of value for your money. my friend and i were attracted to the bar by the fact that it looked like a cave from the outside. if you love dive bars and happen t be in the vicinity of chinaown, definitely check this out. the bartenders are very gracious and they have a lovely tabletop pacman arcade game. the drinks are great!!!!

one tip: take public transportation!!! you will be sloshed and parking's not easy to come by.

and another: watch out... the stairs down to the restroom are quite steep, so hold on to the rails

• Pros: inexpensive, fun, GOOD DRINKS

06/17/02

Great Spot

by dossa_02

I work in the Financial District, but live in North Beach. I often walk home through Chinatown. After many hard days, I have stopped into Li Po for some cold beers and to relax while watching the game. Low-key place that is a great diversion from the SF scene. Great for after drinks with your friends.