Amnesia: A Spot to Remember in San Francisco's Mission District

The cozy beckon of Amnesia's red-lighting has become a fixture in
San Francisco
's Mission District-a figurative heart of the neighborhood, geographically if not culturally. Featuring an eclectic mix of live music and karaoke-everything from
Bluegrass
Mondays to Indie-rock to the weekend swarm of underground DJs-Amnesia (

853 Valencia St.
) also offers one of the most complete beer lists in the city. Rows and rows of taps separate themselves into three sections: Light, Dark and Belgian (Chimay, Maredsous, Leffe, etc.)-and are priced accordingly: $4, 5 and 6. In addition to the draughts, Amnesia boasts an impressive collection of bottled beers, including everything from delicious local micro-brews to high-end Belgians. And, as a wise man said, there are few ails that can't be cured by a fine Belgian stout. The bar also stocks a variety of wines for those disinclined to enjoy a pint. Liquor, however is not served at Amnesia-although between all the beer and wine selections, bar-goers hardly seem to miss the hard stuff.

While the ultra-hip Mission District (the neighborhood in San Francisco bounded by Dolores to the West, 16^th to the North, 24^th to the south and Mission to the East) can easily bend under the weight of trendy bars and snobbish patrons-try walking around the area on the weekends-Amnesia's atmosphere remains a winning combination of easy-going clientele, friendly and knowledge bartenders, and good beer. No thumbed noses, here. Anybody in search of beer advice would find both a sympathetic ear and a well-versed mouth in Amnesia's wait-staff. And, play your cards right and you might even be granted a taste to see if your palate and wallet agree on a selection.

The place itself is small and narrow-a happy drunk might mark it, "quaint," a mean one might lend a phrase like, "packed." Either way, the bar gives off a warm glow of energy-especially from 6-8 pm, Amnesia's happy hour ($2 pints). The ambiance of Amnesia alters daily with the change of patrons and bands-but only slightly. On any day of the week expect to meet friendly, down to earth folk. The dress code (there is no official one) is as lax and low key as the establishment.

One theory as to why this Mission District gem remains relatively little-known and cozy is due to the secretive nature of its attendants-I've taken to barring my windows since writing this article. Of the Amnesia customers interviewed, many expressed regret in singing the praises of their "own" bar. Still, a good secret doesn't stay a secret for long and that certainly seems to be the case with Amnesia, as business has been expanding ever since it debuted in the neighborhood. Yet, the added business only seems to enhance Amnesia's charms. It's still easy to get served, still easy to navigate yourself to the bathrooms. And still easy to feel right at home.

Another lovely facet of Amnesia is the romantic element. Call it the red light, call it the warmth of Belgian beer, call it what you will, Amnesia is a perfect spot for a romantic interlude. A cheery bar with a gregarious and charming atmosphere, what more could you ask from a date-spot?

Whatever the reason that brings you to Amnesia, just be glad that you're finally here. So, relax. Take a seat and order whatever beer or wine catches your fancy-try and get there for happy hour too. So, before I leave you, let me offer one piece of final advice: Don't drink too much or you may end up forgetting the name of this place.