Harlan Records is a small-mid sized bar in Downtown SF. It could be a little hard to find, but I enjoyed that it was tucked away from the main street and sidewalk. Once you stepped in, you immediately feel the "coolness" of the space, with the bar sprawled out on your left and rows of cozy seating on your right. I loved the wooden interior decor from the chairs and tables to the wall paneling holding vinyl records on the shelves. My friend and I visited Harlan Records early in November, and they had a live performer for Día de Muertos, which was super cool. The bartender was also very nice and accommodating - he took orders at our table even brought the drinks over to us! I ordered their espresso martini, which was pretty strong, but I quite enjoyed it.

Cute divey bar. Got service really quick and everyone in my party was happy w their cocktail. Really cool aesthetic. Thank you!

My friends and I came here around 10:30pm on a Saturday night and it was crowded (in a good way). We were able to get the last high bar circle table! It was very intimate but also super fun! There were couples, groups of friends, etc. My friends & I got the Mai Tai, Brass Monkey, and Gin&Juice. I really like the Gin&Juice the most. We also got 3 Jameson shots and those shots were big! For the waters, it's self served. I would come back here again!

Terrific alley bar in downtown San Francisco featuring an eclectic Art Deco interior with a great collection of vinyl stored along the back walls and a nice old-fashioned stereo system playing classics while you enjoy friends and some great drinks. This is a very enjoyable saloon with a nice cocktail counter and responsive bartender, ample standing around area, booths of various sizes and chairs and tables. They also have some live music nights and other goings-on, so check their website. They are located on Harlan Place, which is basically an alley off of Grant Avenue between Sutter and Bush. Go there for some nice vibes and drinkage.

The vibe is wonderfully chill with music at just the right volume - you can actually have a conversation without shouting. Love the thoughtful decor and the knowledgeable bartenders who mix up great drinks. Perfect for a nice evening out.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Mai Tea cocktails here straight up tasted like juice. They weren't super strong, as I didn't feel anything after drinking mine, so it's possible they were mostly juice. Still, they tasted quite good. They have a live DJ, which is great for setting the vibe, but it's really loud, and there are tables scattered all over the floor, so this place isn't exactly conducive to chatting or dancing. I think it's the perfect lounge to stop by for about 30 minutes during a bar hop, just enough time to absorb the positive high energy from the mixed sounds.

Pros: Solid drinks. (Almost) perfect music. Ample seating. Cool layout and vibe. I remember being so excited when I discovered Harlan Records and it's a good sign that after being here several times, I'm still excited. The bar layout is great with a super-cool, laid-back, 1970s vibe. There's an elevated DJ counter with a legit vinyl player as well. I haven't yet had a bad cocktail and service is on point. When the music is rocking 90s-2000's hip-hop, R&B or 1970s soul/R&B, Harlan Records really feels great. When someone starts playing techno, it feels as wrong as a fart in a crowded elevator. Luckily, this has only happened once so far. The neighborhood is like a funeral in progress like the rest of downtown SF but that's not the bar's fault and hey, at least you're not in SOMA. The bar is in an alley so there is fun outdoor seating as well if you remember your arctic parka jacket. Overall - equally recommended for dates and a fun group night!

Super cool vintage chill vibey bar!!! The bartenders are super nice and very knowledgeable. For my sober curious / AF (alcohol free) family, on the bottom right of the cocktail menu "Liar's Dice" - will create a personalized mocktails based on patron's taste preferences. They nailed it and it looks like a cocktail so feels very inclusive and tasty (not too sweet). The music was SOOOO good. They had a mix of men and women DJs - all swanky music. It does get loud so may be hard to hear conversations in a bigger group. Definitely will come back!!! If you're hungry, go around the corner at ChickenG for non greasy, crispy and flavorful fried chicken sandwich/fries!!

Yes the entrance is actually in an alleyway, but it's right next to the (back exit?) to The Irish Bank. Dropped by early on the way to our dinner resi, it was super chill, there was another group in the back also pregaming before going to dinner, and a sprinkle of a few couples at the bar and tables. Only saw one bartender running this place (remember it's still early) but he kept things going. Got our drinks quickly as well as getting the check settled without waiting too long. I didn't notice the back of the menu until it was pointed out, they also offered snacks. Great spot to meet up or hang out.

Would definitely recommend! We were visiting from out of town and ended up coming here twice because we loved it so much! First of all, the ambience is unmatched! The whole thing is a vibe and I'm here for it! I loved the records they were spinning and it was totally seamless. I love the different seating areas as well. The drinks were fantastic! Everyone in my party was raving about theirs. I got the CREAM and loved it! The service was fast and kind. Whenever I'm in San Francisco, I'll be coming back here for a relaxing, but fun time.