Wild Side West is a lesbian bar and neighborhood hangout at 424 Cortland Ave in San Francisco’s Bernal Heights. Since 1962, it has paired a classic dive-bar feel with a backyard garden full of sculptures, recycled objects and tucked-away seating. Head outside for a drink among the greenery, or stay in for pool, sports on TV and the eclectic art. Wednesday brings Miss Kitty’s trivia and comedy show. The bar welcomes a mixed crowd and has a long history of supporting the LGBTQIA community.
A lesbian bar in Bernal Heights
Wild Side West opened in Oakland in 1962, founded by Pat Ramseyer and Nancy White. The name came from the Barbara Stanwyck film Walk on the Wild Side. The bar later moved to San Francisco, settling at its current Bernal Heights address in 1977.
Its identity as a lesbian bar remains central, while the room welcomes a broader crowd. The long-running neighborhood bar combines an old-school tavern atmosphere with a place for queer community and allies.
The garden and its sculptures
The backyard is the bar’s standout space: a multilevel outdoor area with greenery, sculptures and small seating spots. Some of the art grew from objects left outside when the bar moved to Bernal Heights. Neighbors had protested the move and left items including broken toilets and other discarded material; the owners turned those objects into garden art.
The result is an informal, eclectic setting where groups can settle into separate nooks. On a clear day, take a drink outside and explore the garden’s corners. The indoor walls also carry changing art.
Pool, sports and Wednesday nights
Inside, Wild Side West keeps the focus on drinks and hanging out. There is a pool table, and televisions show sports when there is a game to watch. The atmosphere is casual, with a jukebox adding music.
Wednesday is the night for Miss Kitty’s trivia, a mix of comedy and competition. Other themed events are part of the bar’s program, so check its website if you are planning around a particular night.
Planning your visit
You’ll find Wild Side West at 424 Cortland Ave in Bernal Heights. The garden is a good reason to visit in pleasant weather, while the indoor bar has pool and screens for game nights. The bar is open into the evening, with later closing times Thursday through Saturday than on the other listed days.
There is a no-laptop policy at the bar. If you need to use a computer, choose a seat outside instead. Busy periods can mean a wait for service, so a quieter weekday visit may suit you better if you want a more relaxed drink.
FAQ
Where is Wild Side West?
It is at 424 Cortland Ave in San Francisco’s Bernal Heights neighborhood.
What can you do at Wild Side West?
Have a drink in the outdoor garden, play pool, watch sports on TV or join the Wednesday trivia and comedy night.
Is Wild Side West a lesbian bar?
Yes. It opened in 1962 as a lesbian bar and welcomes a mixed crowd.
Can I use a laptop at the bar?
The bar has a no-laptop policy. Outdoor seating is suggested if you need to work.
