COW HOLLOW. If you're in the mood to catch a game and down a few beers, make a stop at (or even a beeline to!) Bayside Sports. Every square inch of wall space is covered by TVs (including big-screens) tuned to nothing but sports. The upscale pub also offers pool tables, dart boards, and happy hour specials. Plus, the menu serves traditional pub favorites, like hamburgers, wings, and French fries. In addition, Bayside functions as a meeting place for folks looking to socialize.

COW HOLLOW. Conducive to nights of rowdy cheering and rooting for your favorite team, Bus Stop is a true sports-lover's haven. It's been around for a century, and its longevity can certainly be attributed, in part, to dynamic crowds and ever-present drinks. Stake out a table near the octagonal windows up front, or join a friendly game at one of the pool tables. Great, affordable cocktails are even better amid the sports memorabilia. During happy hour, drink prices are even further reduced.

NORTH BEACH. A former strip joint, this sports bar now welcomes much broader crowds. It's also a great place to catch the game with other like-minded fans. You'll often spot regulars bantering back and forth with friendly bartenders while munching great sandwiches and downing draft beers. When eyes aren't glued to the TVs, the jukebox picks up the slack. Other attractions include pool tables and a museum that remembers the place's strip-club days.

RUSSIAN HILL. Tucked away on Polk Street and adorned with ball caps and other memorabilia, this small sports bar is a favorite with locals. It's a great place any time, but at happy hour (Monday through Friday, 4pm till 7pm), you can relax with the after-work crowd and take advantage of reduced drink prices. Microbrews and draft beers are constantly popular, but don't expect snacks, because no food is served. (Patrons are, however, invited to have take-out delivered to their tables from local eateries ­ Greens conveniently keeps menus on-hand.) Lots of sports competition can be caught on 25 TVs and two large-screen models. Satellite and high-definition reception ensure that the action is crystal-clear.

HAIGHT-ASHBURY. Fifteen televisions and great satellite reception ensure that there's always a game or match on the tube at this neighborhood sports bar. Regulars thrill to everything from football to rugby, and brief distraction is afforded by pool tables and dart boards. If you're hungry, the menu consists of basic bar food like hamburgers and wings. Plus, Kezar offers a variety of draft beers to wash everything down. On weekends, a hearty Sunday brunch regularly pulls in patrons.