The Foundry SF — Local services in San Francisco

The Foundry in San Francisco is a hostile and blatantly racist venue where people of color are harassed and targeted without a second thought. Minutes after buying drinks, a roaming bartender aggressively tried to rip our drinks right out of our hands—drinks we had just paid for. When I instinctively held on to what was mine, the bartender immediately called over security, painting us as a problem while ignoring countless white patrons around us openly drinking and even holding drugs.

Security was quick to try and kick us out, treating us like criminals without even listening. I only got them to back down when I started recording, proving they were more worried about being exposed than showing any fairness. When I tried to explain that I have a disability that makes it difficult to understand in chaotic settings, they brushed it off, claiming I was “breaking rules” just for holding a drink after 2 a.m.—even though I had bought it long before. Meanwhile, the white patrons around us were left entirely alone. It was obvious: the staff were focused on policing us, BIPOC patrons, while giving white patrons a free pass.

Even after the security let us go, the staff continued to watch and stalk us, making it impossible to feel safe. This wasn’t just unfair treatment; this was harassment, rooted in racial bias and targeted aggression. The Foundry’s culture is deeply toxic, with staff who seem to take pleasure in singling out and policing people of color while letting white patrons do as they please.

If you care about fairness and basic respect, avoid The Foundry. This place makes it clear they do not welcome everyone equally.

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I have been visiting Folsom Street Foundry for several years. I remember the days before an entrance and coat check fee! This place has always been a great place to hang out, drink adult beverages, and play other people's videogames. Tonight I had a terrible experience and will never be returning to the Foundry. My husband and I were 2 well drinks down and stepped outside for a smoke. When we came back inside, we stepped up to the bar for a refill and the bartender told me that I was not to be served. I was not drunk, barely tipsy, and did not have the appearance of having drunk too much. Even the bartender affirmed that I was not acting drunk or slurring words. Unfortunately, she was following her boss's orders to not serve me anymore. Her boss, Meredith, told her that I had come in from outside with a drunken sway, and that she did not feel comfortable giving me more alcohol. Had I been more drunk or smelled of alcohol or slurred my words, I would understand, but I was convinced that it must have been a different patron they were talking about. I had all my wits about me. Unfortunately, Meredith was too busy to talk to me and allow me to prove my case, so I decided to close my tab and leave. I'm really upset to cut my ties with the Foundry. I had a lot of really great nights out, but it seems like I'm going to have to find a new drinking hole. I hope the next person that Meredith refuses service to will at least be given the time of day to...

Ever had a night out that made you wish you'd stayed in? Welcome to my experience at this nightclub. The layout was simple - a large, open square - but that's where the positives end. The atmosphere was ruined by poor lighting and overpowering, bass-heavy audio that lacked any real quality. To make matters worse, the drinks were subpar, with beers served almost warm, leaving much to be desired in terms of refreshment.

However, the biggest issue of the night was undoubtedly the security staff. They seemed to be on a power trip, acting unnecessarily aggressive and confrontational without any provocation. It was as if they were looking for any excuse to assert themselves, creating a tense and unpleasant environment for everyone there. This kind of behavior is not only unprofessional but also dangerous, reflecting poorly on the venue as a whole.

The only silver lining was the friendly bartenders, but it was hard not to feel bad for them having to work under such conditions. Their pleasant demeanor, unfortunately, couldn't salvage the experience. Between the aggressive security, poor drink quality, and subpar atmosphere, this is a place worth avoiding. Unless you enjoy feeling like you're in a poorly lit war zone with a soundtrack, save yourself the trouble and find a more welcoming venue for...