Grab a ringside seat for Obama-Romney II

It’s hard to believe the first presidential debate between President Barack Obama and Republican challenger Mitt Romney was barely two weeks ago, since we haven’t been able to tune into any type of media without hearing about the showdown.

And while Thursday’s vice presidential debate appears to have been a draw, it’s unanimous that our Commander in Chief gave a less than commanding performance in the Oct. 3 debate.

But thank God for second chances. On Tuesday, Obama and Romney head to Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York for their second sparring match. The debate, moderated by CNN Chief Political Correspondent Candy Crowley, will be in a town hall format covering foreign and domestic policy.

Here are SFBay’s picks on Bay Area hot spots to view the second presidential debate. The action begins at 6 p.m. PDT.

In San Francisco

If you’re downtown, check out the Obama vs. Romney: 2012 Presidential Debate Watching Party at Temple nightclub (540 Howard St.). The event is hosted by Tech4Obama, and is free for anyone that RSVPs with Eventbrite. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.

If you want a more cinematic experience, head out to the Outer Richmond to the Balboa Theater (360 Balboa Avenue). The historic theater built in 1926 — which has seen its share of presidential elections — is opening its doors to host this free event, which begins at 6 p.m.

For you Missionites, swing by Mutiny Radio‘s Occupy the Debates Watch Party (2781 21st St.). The screening is free, and the public is welcome to go live on-air with the Mutiny Radio DJs to voice opinions after the debate. Event begins at 6 p.m., and is BYOB. Don’t forget to RSVP!

And around the Bay Area

With all the debate viewing parties in the Bay Area, this may be the funniest one. Watch Obama and Romney hash it out with some of funniest local comedians at The Washington Inn (495 10th St., Oakland). Comedians will provide commentary and political standup after the debate. The event begins at 6 p.m., and tickets are $10.

Chew over the presidential debate with pizza at Bobby G’s Pizzeria (2071 University Ave., Berkeley). Watch the event on one of their five HD flatscreens, and then continue the night with their Tuesday night open mic night. Admission is free, but you’ll have to pay for food and drink.

If you like Obama and barbecue, the Obama for America Oakland headquarters (126 Broadway, Oakland) will be rooting for their man and flippin’ burgers during the debate. The event begins at 12 noon for those interested in making calls to recruit local supporters.

If Romney is your dude, the Marin County Republican Party is hosting a presidential debate shindig at the Marin GOP Election Headquarters (1031 C Street, San Rafael). The $10 ticket will get you access to munchies and wine.