The Napper Tandy

This neighborhood Irish corner pub is more than just a place to slam a few post-work Smithwick’s or a certain insensitive drink on St. Patrick’s Day. A recent facelift upped this former dive to a sports maven’s haven in the heart of the Mission, boasting nine HDTVs and a huge projector screen in their back room to catch every nuance of every game under the sun, 365 days a year. Not unlike a traditional pub you would find in Ireland, owner Marissa Brown wanted to bring a piece of home to San Francisco, serving traditional Irish food like Guinness beef stew, Sheppard's pie, and fish and chips. Their motto, "You are a stranger here but once," about sums up the warm and friendly vibe you will find at The Napper Tandy. (Jackie Andrews)

3200 24th St., SF | (415) 550-7510

Cruz Skate Shop

Located in La Lengua – that long, skinny stretch of the Mission sandwiched between Bernal and Noe – Cruz Skate Shop is a hybrid skate shop catering to both the skateboarding and roller derby communities. Skateboard shops are no longer a rarity these days, but Cruz is one of only three roller derby shops in the country and the only one of its kind in California. Whether you’re a B.A.D. derby girl hopeful or a skate punk looking for a new board, Cruz can help you gear up. They stock up on hardware for both sports, as well as roller skates, boards, and safety gear. For the non-athletes who want to support a local and female-owned business, check out their cool apparel, books, zines, and tote bags that embrace a punk and D.I.Y. aesthetic. (Jackie Andrews)

3165 Mission, SF | (415) 285-8833 |  cruzskateshop.com

Etcetera Wine Bar

Those of you who have been around the ‘hood for a minute might remember when 795 Valencia was an oxygen bar. Oh, the early aughts! The spot has changed hands a few times, but Etcetera may be the best yet, and after only six months in business have solidified their seat among the heavy wine hitters in the Bay Area. This warm and cozy wine bar offers a classy respite from the dive bar scene but without the pretension or excessive posh that your typical wine bar may offer, with monthly wine flights and tapas specials on top of the classic cheese and charcuterie plates and full dinner menu. Their flammenkueche, a French spin on pizza with a crispy crust and crème fraiche, is to die for and their two tapas with bottle of wine deal for $35 can’t be beat. (Jackie Andrews)

795 Valencia, SF | (415) 926-5477 | etceterawinebar.com

James Choi at his family owned corner market turned sandwhich hub of the Mission.