Seemor
The Cigar Bar & GrillCWorth Trying
850 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94133
· Bar, American restaurant, Live music venue
· 4.4/5 Google (1118 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
A lively cigar-friendly salsa and bachata hub with strong cocktails and music-forward energy; food and service can be inconsistent and smoke is part of the deal.
Why it gets a C for overall quality
The Cigar Bar & Grill delivers a distinctive experience as one of SF's rare open-air cigar lounges with live Latin music, drawing loyal regulars and dancers nightly. However, food quality remains inconsistent—cocktails and bar bites shine while hot mains like salmon risotto disappoint—and service varies significantly between nights, particularly during peak hours. The historic courtyard setting with live music creates genuine destination appeal, but unreliable dining execution and smoke exposure limit its broader appeal beyond the core cigar-and-dance crowd.
Restaurant Summary
Step into a historic corner of Jackson Square where the courtyard hums with live salsa and bachata, cocktails arrive smoky and bold, and the crowd skews ready to dance. One guest put it simply: "I danced all night and left smiling." However, there are some review authenticity concerns you can safely set aside here; the mix of photo-rich locals and repeat dancers feels genuine. The cooking leans toward Latin-leaning bar bites and sturdy cocktails rather than chefly theatrics. Empanadas and fries pair well with a smoked Old Fashioned, while heartier plates like short ribs get nods. Hot dishes can lag on busy nights and a salmon risotto drew complaints, so this is a place to prioritize drinks and dancing over a long, intricate meal. Families should note the cigar-forward environment, louder music, and late-night energy. There is no clear kids menu in reviews, and smoke in the open-air courtyard is mentioned often. If you need a child-friendly dinner, consider eating elsewhere first, then return later for adults-only dancing.
At a Glance
- One of SF's few open-air cigar lounges with live Latin music
- Strong cocktails; smoked Old Fashioned praised
- Food consistency varies; long waits during peak hours
- Expect smoke exposure in courtyard and sometimes indoors
- Parking scarce; covers typically $10-15 on dance nights
What Sets It Apart
- open_air_cigar_lounge
- live_salsa_bachata_with_lessons
- historic_spanish_style_setting
What People Love
- Energetic salsa and bachata socials
- Open-air courtyard for cigars
- Friendly dance instructors
- Smoky, well-made cocktails
Points of Concern
- Service can be slow or curt during peak times; some reports of being ignored
- Food quality uneven; avoid complex dishes when crowded
- Smoke smell lingers on clothes; sensitive guests may struggle
- Review patterns show signs of some over-enthusiastic marketing language; weigh detailed reviews more heavily
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$40-60 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Based on reviews, focus on cocktails and bar bites (empanadas, fries). Save ambitious mains for quieter nights.
Perfect For
- A dance-first night out with friends
- Date night with cigars and cocktails
- Out-of-towners seeking live Latin music
- After-dinner drinks and a social vibe
Location Insights
Area: Historic Jackson Square near Financial District; nightlife and design studios with after-work and weekend crowds.
Safety: Generally busy and well-patrolled; typical urban precautions at night; stairs-only entry noted by a reviewer.
Nearby: Near North Beach nightlife, Embarcadero, and office corridors; draws dancers and cigar fans.
North BeachNorth Beach offers a bustling dining scene with numerous Italian restaurants, cafes, and bars. The atmosphere is lively and social, attracting both locals and visitors looking for authentic cuisine and vibrant street life. It is known for its walkability, historic charm, and a mix of casual and upscale dining options.
Telegraph HillTelegraph Hill is a quieter, more residential sub-area within North Beach, known for its scenic views and proximity to Coit Tower. Dining here tends to be more relaxed with a focus on neighborhood eateries and cafes, appealing to locals and visitors seeking a peaceful environment.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday16:30–22:00
Wednesday16:30–00:00
Thursday16:30–02:00
Friday16:30–02:00
Saturday18:00–02:00
Sunday18:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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