Attention all sports enthusiasts and allies! The Castro is about to turn into the hottest ticket in town for watching women’s sports. Yes, you heard that right—2025 will see the grand opening of the Bay Area’s first dedicated women’s sports bar at 2223 Market Street, right next to Sanchez. It’s about time we flipped the script on the standard sports bar playbook.

This space has seen more comebacks than a sitcom’s cancellation on Netflix—its revolving door of restaurants has not always been kind. From brunch spots that flopped like a bad pancake to a pair of fishy fails, nothing stuck until now. Most recently, the Spanish-Mexican eatery Copas hung up its apron just before serving its third birthday cake. But Rikki’s is rolling into town with a game plan that promises it’s not just another flop.

Named after Rikki Streicher—bar owner legend and co-founder of the Gay Games—Rikki’s is set to honor history while paving the way for future champions. Co-owners Danielle Thoe and Sara Yergovich are ready to bring some serious sports energy to the Castro, aiming to open their doors by May or June 2025. Picture it now: community, camaraderie, and some serious athletic prowess, all under one roof.

But relax, this isn’t just a place for the ladies. Rikki’s will welcome everyone—because good vibes, great sports, and inclusive spaces are for all. Expect to catch everything from the Golden State Valkyries’ WNBA games to that questionable but endlessly entertaining Warriors game—because let’s be real, not every play counts!

Now some may raise an eyebrow and ask, “Is there even enough women’s sports to sustain a bar?” Get your binoculars out because the world of women’s professional sports is alive, kicking, and waiting eagerly for a platform. Look at the success of Portland’s The Sports Bra and the twin cities’ A Bar of Their Own—it’s clear there’s a hunger out there!

Rikki’s won’t skimp on the essentials either. Expect a full bar loaded with your favorite liquid encouragements, about 15 TVs strategically placed for maximum viewing pleasure, and a food menu crafted by former Jamber owner, JD Voss. Talk about a home run!

With crowdfunding efforts already netting nearly $300,000, joining in on this adventure is pretty straightforward—unless you’re banking on your allowance. Just a snap of a hundred bucks can kickstart your investment. Rikki’s might be the new kid on the block when the Valkyries kick off the season on May 17, but mark our words, this bar is ready to score some serious points in our hearts and on the scoreboard.

So, San Francisco, let’s take a seat at the bar where history meets inclusivity—can we get a toast to women’s sports? Cheers!