Shotwell's is a cash-only bar in the Mission District that’s been around since before the 1906 earthquake—it started as a grocery saloon at the corner of 20th and Shotwell Street. After the quake, the owners converted it into a full saloon, and that’s basically what it’s been ever since. The place has real character because of that history, not because someone tried to manufacture it.

Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area, which is honestly one of the better setups for bringing your dog out for a drink. You’re not stuck in a tight corner or squeezed next to strangers—there’s actual room to settle in with your dog beside you. The Mission is a walkable neighborhood, so if your dog needs a break, 20th Street has decent foot traffic but isn’t overwhelming. Nearby, you’ve got access to small parks and the general bustle of the Mission, so it’s easy to time a visit around your dog’s needs.

Inside, the bar keeps the original bones of the old saloon. It’s the kind of place where you can actually taste what’s being poured and talk to people without shouting. The cash-only policy means they’re not trying to be trendy—they’re just operating the way they always have. Expect beer, spirits, and straightforward cocktails rather than elaborate drink menus. Locals come here regularly, which usually means good drinks and decent prices, though your money goes further at some other Mission spots.

If you and your dog are exploring the Mission’s restaurants and shops, Shotwell’s makes for a natural stop. You get a drink, your dog gets to sit outside with you, and you’re in a space with actual history rather than a corporate facsimile of one. Bring cash, and check their current hours online before you head over, since bar hours can shift seasonally.