In last month’s issue, this column explored three very remarkable Bay Area clubs: The Pacific Rod & Gun Club, the University Club and the Presidio Golf Club. None of these are particularly exclusive, but they have unique features and histories that make them worth exploring.
BY PAUL DUCLOS
Published: March, 2010
The Turf Club offers patrons what is described as “fine cuisine,” but really is just standard fare. The hamburger is first rate, though, and the Bloody Marys are stiff and spicy.
A caveat: children are allowed, but fortunately they are required to dress and behave like adults. So, in fact, are the adults. All guests are requested to dress in refined casual style. In other words, no sweat pants, t-shirts, baseball hats and thong-style shoes. Guests who arrive in shorts of any type, tank tops, or clothing with offensive logos will be denied access.
Not so, alas, with the Occidental Cigar Club in San Francisco. But it has other virtues. Children, no matter how smartly attired, will not be admitted. This is a “bar bar” of the top order, where one can toss dice, imbibe hard spirits, curse, and indulge in the one last remaining taboo: smoking. As the name suggests, cigars are the main attraction, but pipe and cigarette smokers are welcome, too. Mainly a guy’s bar, women are permitted to use the unisex bathroom, but a sign instructs them to leave the toilet seat up when leaving.
This is an owner-operated joint located downtown, which attracts a diverse group of professionals. One might encounter the occasional bore here, but running into a city supervisor is unlikely. Another sign on the wall says it all: “Smoking prohibited except for designated areas, such as the bar, where we invite you to enjoy your cigar without threat of public stoning or fear of imprisonment.”
Finally, there’s the ill-named Family Billiards on Geary near Masonic. Not to be confused with the Bohemian Club’s “family” affiliate, this pool hall is strictly old-school, and off limits to anyone under 21. It features 18 well-maintained tables and a digital jukebox. There’s beer and good food, too, with very reliable service provided by lavishly tattooed bar maids. The origin of the name remains a mystery, as families are not particularly evident here. But there’s a decidedly tribal element in place thanks to the plentiful groups of young people who make this a destination. Really good players are encouraged to enter the tournaments—held twice a week—but novices are welcome to shoot any time. The cues Family Billiards provides are not the greatest, but many fine sticks are for sale at reasonable prices. Best of all? No strollers, crying babies, or warring spouses.
