Knockout

📍 Gay bars in San Francisco

8.0

Knockout is a beloved dive bar in San Francisco, renowned for its raw, punk-rock energy and commitment to showcasing local talent. The venue thrives as a hub for live music, hosting everything from intimate performances by up-and-coming bands to lively karaoke nights—though consistency in technical execution can vary. With a no-frills, gritty aesthetic and a focus on affordability, it’s a go-to for those seeking an authentic, unpolished experience.

The atmosphere blends friendly service with a laid-back, slightly seedy charm, perfect for unwinding after a night out. Outdoor seating offers a quieter escape, while the indoor space delivers bold sound quality—ideal for smaller acts. Drinks and beer are solid choices, though quality can fluctuate, making it best enjoyed for its community-driven vibe and live entertainment over fine dining.

Features and services of Knockout

Highlights

  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Karaoke
  • Live music
  • Live performances
  • Quiz night

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Dancing
  • Happy-hour drinks
  • Spirits
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Outside food allowed

Amenities

  • Toilet

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards

Knockout is in position 9 out of 37 in gay bars in San Francisco

Customer Reviews

★★★★★
★★★★★

Knockout has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 402 reviews on Google

Richard Harty, J. Jr

Had an awesome time here. Some great DJ music being played. The drinks are the right price and the service is friendly. I would definitely go again...probably will.

Richard Harty, J. Jr ☆ 5/5
Maddie Minogue

This spot has local artist performances with cover charge. Cool spot with fun drinks, kind of divey in a purposeful way. Outdoor seating separate, if you want a quieter environment.

Maddie Minogue ☆ 4/5
D Chase

I can't believe this was my first visit! Super fun little dive with fantastic bands. We made the trek from the north bay to check out Jonny Manak and The Depressives, Genuine Parts, and more. Frontside Five was so amazing we went to Oakland the next night to see them again. This place is small, but the sound is good. Drinks are solid, and a decent selection of beers on tap. We found parking just a short walk away, too.

D Chase ☆ 4/5
Travis Prickett

If you are coming here for a concert or live music temper your expectations. Worst audio experience I’ve ever had at a concert. Band came on an hour late due to audio issues with the venue. Couldn’t even hear the lyrics of the band. Drinks were meh, standard overpriced dive bar fair. Beer I had was a bit skunky. If your favorite band is playing here I would recommend skipping out and going to their next show. You will be disappointed.

Travis Prickett ☆ 1/5
Mark Lahti

Awesome dive bar! Great place to see a band. It's too small for big name bands, but there are a ton of amazing local bands that can really bring it!

Mark Lahti ☆ 5/5
Karen A. Schneiders

The Knockout is a bar, not a restaurant. It is a rad, old skool dive bar with regular live music. Not for everyone, but if you need a seedy, dark, beer bar with grimey, punk rock aesthetic, look no further.

Karen A. Schneiders ☆ 5/5
Virginia Lomeli (Gina)

They have a new karaoke guy that apparently doesn't know how to operate karaoke. Had to restart computer??? Silence in between songs. He seemed to really be struggling. They should bring back the old guy. At least he knew how to operate karaoke. Huge shame this used to be my favorite karaoke night. Will adjust my review when they get someone that knows how to operate the karaoke system.

Virginia Lomeli (Gina) ☆ 1/5
View all reviews

Information about Knockout

Address

Knockout is located at 3223 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Website

The website of Knockout is: theknockoutsf.com

Business Hours

Monday: 17:00–02:00
Tuesday: 17:00–02:00
Wednesday: 17:00–02:00
Thursday: 17:00–02:00
Friday: 17:00–02:00
Saturday: 17:00–02:00
Sunday: 17:00–02:00

Contact Knockout

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