Hook-Up Horror Stories: Tindervention is a free stand-up show built around dating app disasters — comedians workshopping the kind of material that writes itself, which means the sets are usually sharp and the crowd is loud. No date confirmed in the listing, so check SFFuncheap for the next installment; venue is in SF proper. No cover, no ticket required.

Separately, Cobb's Comedy Club runs periodic free nights under a secret guest list format, currently hosting a show called "Get it?!" — a comedy gameshow hybrid. Cobb's is at 915 Columbus Ave in North Beach, a ten-minute walk from the Powell Street BART or a straight shot up Columbus from the Embarcadero. The guest list model means you sign up in advance; spots go fast and the room fills by doors.

Both shows are 18+ in practice given the venues, though check individual listings. Neither charges at the door, but Cobb's has a two-drink minimum at the table — budget accordingly.

The Tindervention format works because the theme gives newer comics a specific target, which tends to produce tighter five-minute sets than open mics. The Cobb's gameshow structure breaks up the standard parade-of-sets format, which helps if your tolerance for cold lineups is low.

If you have two hours: Do the Cobb's guest list night. The room is professional, the sightlines are good from anywhere in the house, and North Beach gives you a post-show drink option on every block. Arrive at doors, not showtime.