San Francisco Bar With A History

Upon entering The Old Ship Saloon in historic Jackson Square, one steps into a building rich with history from the days of The Barbary Coast.

The Barbary Coast was the name of this area back in the 1800's; a maritime district during the day, and what would be called "The Red Light District" today, by night. The bar and restaurant gets its name from a three-masted boat called the Arkansas that sailed into San Francisco Bay in 1849. The story goes that a storm blew the Arkansas aground on Alcatraz Island, and the ship was towed into Yerba Buena Cove and set on the beach at the corner of Pacific and Battery where the Old Ship Saloon is located, today.

In 1851, enterprising Englishman Joe Anthony cut a door into the side of the Arkansas' hull and converted it into what was called the Old Ship Ale House. Anthony installed a gangplank to the Pacific Street pier and posted a sign next to the entrance that read, "Gud, Bad, and Indif'rent Spirits Sold Here! At 25 cents each."

By 1855 landfill had locked the ship in place and a sailors' rooming house had been constructed on its deck. In 1859 builders dismantled the above-ground portion of the ship and constructed a brick hotel on the site. A barroom on the ground floor of the hotel became The Old Ship Saloon.

Until the turn of the century, The Old Ship Saloon operated as a sailors' tavern and shanghaiing den. In 1897, Henry Klee purchased the business, then rebuilt the building following the 1906 earthquake and fire.

Current proprietor, Bill Duffy has owned the historic saloon since 1992. In 1999, he completely remodeled and earthquake retrofitted the bar and restaurant. Today, his building is registered as an historic landmark. Inside, you can still see a sign that reads, "Old Ship Saloon, Henry Klee Prop."

Once inside, you'll experience the beat of the neighborhood along with friendly First Captain, Bill Duffy. His crew would be delighted to serve you a drink, some bar snacks, lunch or dinner, and a bit of history. This popular lunch spot and after work watering hole continues to be a fixture in the neighborhood.

Cheers!

Bars
Libations
Private Parties



American
Dine at the Bar
Dinner
Lunch
Recommended For 21 & Over
With History