Buddha Lounge: A Chinatown Dive Bar with a Story
Experience a classic Chinatown dive bar with a colorful history, unique drinks, and a friendly atmosphere at the iconic Buddha Lounge.
The Buddha Lounge, established in 1951 in San Francisco's Chinatown, is a beloved dive bar known for its distinctive entrance, 'Lucky Buddha Beer,' dice games, and eclectic atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists. Its history includes a unique incident where a mural of Buddha caused international protest.
A brief summary to Buddha Lounge
- 901 Grant Ave, San Francisco, Chinatown, California, 94108, US
- +1415-362-1792
- Tuesday 1 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 1 pm-2 am
- Thursday 1 pm-2 am
- Friday 1 pm-2 am
- Saturday 1 pm-2 am
- Sunday 1 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Try the 'Lucky Buddha Beer,' a unique import served in a Buddha-shaped bottle.
- Challenge the bartender to a game of Liar's Dice for a fun and engaging experience.
- Check out the historic mural of Buddha, which once caused an international incident.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Dragon's Gate at the southern entrance to Chinatown, walk north on Grant Avenue. The Buddha Lounge is located on the right side of the street at the corner of Grant Avenue and Washington Street. The walk is less than 5 minutes.
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Public Transport
From downtown San Francisco, take the BART to the Montgomery Street Station. From there, walk north on Grant Avenue towards the Chinatown Gate. The Buddha Lounge will be on your right, at the corner of Grant and Washington Street. Alternatively, take the 30-Stockton bus, which runs through Chinatown, and get off at a stop between Broadway and Bush Street. The fare for BART is $1-$3 , and the bus is approximately $3.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere in San Francisco, a taxi or ride-share is a convenient option. A ride from Union Square to the Buddha Lounge typically costs $13-$17 and takes around 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of day and demand.
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Parking
If driving, several parking garages are available in Chinatown, including the Portsmouth Square Plaza Garage (733 Kearny St), North Beach Garage (735 Vallejo St), and St. Mary's Square Garage (433 Kearny St). Hourly rates range from $4, with daily maximums between $30-$39. Street parking is also available, but limited to 2 hours unless you have a residential permit. Evening parking (after 5 PM) at Portsmouth Square Garage is $8. Be aware that parking can be challenging to find, especially during peak hours.
Discover more about Buddha Lounge
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