Holy Water

We liked this spot in Bernal Heights - your classic neighborhood bar. It's in a great location on Cortland Ave which has several bars, restaurants, cafes, and a brewery down the street. But the street is hilly, so beware of a steep hike up the road if you plan on walking.

The ambiance was intimate with the mood lighting and string lights. But it was also pretty casual. Perfect for date night or hanging out with friends. I'm not religious but I loved how they incorporated the theme into the decor and the menu.

No issues finding a table/seating on a Friday night in June. I'm assuming that's because Bernal Heights is a little out of the way, so it doesn't get too busy. The staff were nice and efficient - nothing that particularly stood out in terms of service.

If you like tequila/mezcal, you won't find a lot of cocktail options on the menu. I got the Infante which tasted like a pretty basic margarita - nothing special. But my friend got the Espresso Martini which also had tequila in it. It was delicious! Tasted like straight up coffee. I believe espresso martinis are typically made with vodka so this was a nice surprise!

This didn't impact my rating, but the one con was that it was crazy loud inside. Not sure why everyone felt the need to *scream* at each other while talking in such an intimate bar lol. But that's not really the bar's fault.

Overall, I wouldn't go out of my way to come here, but if you're in the area, stop by!

(++++) dog-friendly
(+) good for groups (many high tables available) or stools at the bar
(+) comfortable setting with 2 clean bathrooms in the back, music isn't loud so u can easily have a conversation with anyone
(+) decent rotating beer selection
(+) service is fast and friendly
Not sure if they still have Happy Hour? I've been there at 5:30pm and it was full priced beer, another time after 4pm.

Love the ambience! Not super busy with a good amount of tables. Would be a good vibe for a date or hanging with some friends. Drinks range around $14-$16. I ordered an espresso martini which was really tasty.

Bartender was rude and unfriendly. Maybe it was an off night, but he wasn't very friendly and then when I gave him a cash tip, he just snatched it and didn't even say thank you overall not a great vibe. The cocktails were great, but the bartender wasn't.

Packed local bar on courtland. Great ambiance, fun drinks. Classy drink menu and excellent bartenders. Kind of place you could go into and describe an essence and the bartender would concoct exactly what you want! It can get loud on weekends so just prepare for that!

We spent about -- 30 seconds-- (literally) taking pictures of the decor by the entrance when the bartender on shift shouted across the bar and I quote; "Show me your IDs, this isn't a museum" in the most rude and condescending tone. We literally walked out right then and there. I have been in bars in NY, LA, and all over Europe and never has someone been overtly rude like this to the point where I felt the need to leave immediately. Congrats- you just lost out on an over $100 tab as there were four of us. You expect us to take that attitude from you, then order drinks, tip you and pay part of your salary for the night?
Isn't the point of the decor to be a photo op? To attract more people into the bar??? How dumb are you really to make such a stupid and unnecessary comment. We came in Friday, July 19th at 9 pm- I highly suggest you fire the bartender on shift. He was wearing a hat and had a beard and long hair. Absolutely wild to hear that coming out of his mouth.

I loved the string lights hanging all across the ceiling. That type of decor could be really tacky but they managed to do it in a really cute way. The walls are covered in photos of Jesus & biblical characters, crucifixes and rosaries, which was a wee bit for this Catholic girlie. But ultimately the vibes were great and fun and I would come back. Loved my gimlet and my date got the zombie which was massive and strong (in a good way). I still don't know what kind of alcohol was in it would get both again. It was crowded, but the bartenders seemed to work pretty quickly.

The atmosphere and vibes here are just what we were looking for after dinner - cozy and fitting for a neighborhood bar. The walls are decorated with religious relics, but even if you're not particularly religious, the ambiance adds a nice touch. We tried the gold rush and the Texan cocktails, both of which were great. The bartender was friendly and provided good service. If I'm ever looking for a spot for a drink around I'll be looking forward to returning. it's a great spot for a laid-back evening out.

I went in on a Wednesday night coming all the way from Napa.This bar is most beautiful and comfortable and the best photo op ever and has such chill vibes, drinks are amazing. Love every about it amazing service. . With just one bartender makes this wonderful place not the place it is . This bartender with some what long hair and a goatee (reddish hair) is so disrespectful and ignored me and my man walking up to bar when he was not busy . I had to literally call him out after he served others that came after us . Then when I get his I guess you would call attention he puts his finger at me walking away told me to wait . Then gives us a menu. Still got the drink because it is so delicious and I had a day at work. Whatever you do avoid this bartender. I for sure will go on other days when this bartender is not in. So disappointed, honestly this is not the first time he has done this I came with a larger group one day and he ignored us again. We left and spent our hard earned money elsewhere. The owner needs to get this guy in check.

Super cool bar in the area! Highly recommend checking this place out. There's plenty of seating area from tables, the bar, and barrels to stand by. When I went in on a Thursday night it was pretty packed. It was impossible to get a spot at the bar and had to wait a while to find somewhere to sit. Even though the bar was packed, the bartender helped us out quickly and got us our drinks. I really appreciate that!

Great drinks and would love to come back and try out more of their cocktails!