This gay bar in SF blends Filipino flavors and LGBTQ pride

Photo from thedetoursf/Instagram

Pride Month is here and the LGBTQ communities are proudly unfurling rainbow flags. What better way to celebrate Pride Month than to have a fabulous night out at The Detour in San Francisco?

If you’re around the lively Castro district in San Francisco, make sure to check out this gay bar where you can play arcade games while enjoying mouth-watering Filipino cuisine with a modern twist.

Owner Shawn Vergara’s vision to blend deep house music, queer culture and Filipino cuisine has created an atmosphere that’s both welcoming and invigorating.

“My goal is to eventually roll out a weekly queer party with that sort of music.” Vergara shares with Eater. 

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An immersive experience

As you step into The Detour, you’ll find yourself in a re-imagined version of the neighborhood arcade and interactive space with neon lights and an industrial-chic interior.

The customized arcade features a mix of contemporary and classic games. Unique décor pieces and handmade art further embellish the immersive experience.

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Their menu features modern Filipino cuisine with a Californian twist. From the Pinoy cult-fave lumpia to longanisa corndogs, adobo wings and pork adobo tacos, each dish offers a taste of home and tantalizes every palate.

Vegetarians, fret not — there are sumptuous options like mushroom pizza and cauliflower tacos. 

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Inclusive space for the community

More than just a place to play games and grab a drink, it also serves as an inclusive community space, open even on weekdays. 

Every first Saturday of the month, they have a lively hangout, as they shared on Instagram: “Our main hangout event happens every first Saturday of the month at @thedetoursf, an arcade bar in SF’s Castro District.”

Additionally, they have bingo nights on Wednesdays, RuPaul’s Drag Race watch party every Friday, with various hosts,  and a special LGBTQIA game night every first Saturday of the month.

While this liquor-licensed gay bar in San Francisco caters to a crowd 21+ years of age, it welcomes all ages every Saturday from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., making it an ideal spot for birthdays, graduations, bar mitzvahs and more.

Check out their website for their full schedule.