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Castro Theatre Castro Theater
Moby Dick Bar Moby Dick

The Castro District

A huge rainbow flag, the symbol of gay activism, flies over the intersection of Market and Castro Streets, the heart of this famous neighbourhood. Indeed every year thousands of gay people make the pilgrimage here, to a place where they don't have to hide who they are.

Originally a working class Irish neighbourhood, things changed in the 70s when gay residents began buying up the old dilapidated Victorian houses and renovating them. It wasn't long before the area's gayness was visible, but it took the AIDS epidemic of the 80s to galvanize the population. Since then the political clout of the gay population has led to the city caring for many people with the disease.

Don't be intimidated if you are straight. Though heterosexuals may be in the minority, the Castro is very friendly and the establishments are a mix of both gay and not-so-gay. It is a nice place for a quiet afternoon stroll, but on the weekend the Castro comes alive with tourists and locals there for the exuberantly queer party atmosphere.

rainbow flag


Sights

The Castro Theatre: 429 Castro St. (at Market St.)
Constructed in 1922, this art-deco building is the most impressive cinema in the city. From its neon sign and bright marquee to the chandelier and Wurlitzer pipe organ played before the evening's films, the Castro retains its period feel.

Corona Heights: Flint St. (at 16th)
If it's a beautiful view of the Castro and the Mission you're looking for, this is the place. Just walk all the way up 16th St, and turn right on Flint.

Shopping

Cliff's Variety Store: 479 Castro (at 18th St.)
You can find anything at Cliff's. From feathered boas and tiaras to electric drills, it's worth stopping by to see such a unique place.

Worn Out West: 582 Castro St (at 18th St.)
This store has a fine selection of cowboy gear, as well as vintage leather jackets and ass- less leather chaps. It's a nice spot.

Dining

Bagdad Cafe: 2295 Market St. (at Noe St)
A great diner which serves large portions, the main reason to go is the view of the bustling intersection. It's also open 24 hours.

Firewood Cafe: 4248 18 St. (at Diamond St.)
They make their own tortellini here, and the pizzas are cooked in wood- burning ovens. Their salads are huge and aren't expensive. On Mondays and Tuesdays almost everything on the menu is 20% off.

Drinking

Moby Dick: 4049 18th St. (at Hartford St.)
For 25 years Moby dick's has been a great Castro neighbourhood bar. Ask Eric: he's been sucking and slobbering on strange dong there since he still had baby dick. It's the type of place you can relax, meet people and chat at rather than dancing. Every day you get two margaritas for the price of one. There is also a happy hour from 3 till 8pm.

Amber: 718 14th St. (at Market)
Great comfortable couches set up in a way that makes it easy to meet new friends, amber lighting and a TV that acts like an aquarium make this a great place to spend an evening.

The Mint: 1942 Market St. (at Duboce)
This is definitely one of the most entertaining bars in San Francisco. It is a good mix of both gay and straight, so you see quite a variety of drunk people singing to their favourite tunes.