Care for a cocktail? These seven San Francisco mixologists are pouring the tastiest concoctions.
Shaher Misif
SHAHER MISIF, RENDEVOUS
What makes Shaher Misif’s cocktails so memorable? His flair for vessels and expertise in mixology. At Rendevous, he serves a smoking tequila pineapple concoction in a bong. 2030 Lombard St., 650.260.3591, sfrendezvous.com
NICOLAS TORRES, TRUE LAUREL AND BUDDY
Nicolas Torres uses different techniques to make sustainable, innovative drinks at this Mission District venue. For example, the classic Southside, a combination of gin, lime and mint, is given a slushy update that’s refreshing and well-balanced. 753 Alabama St., 415.341.0020, truelaurelsf.com
Andre Sierra
ANDRE SIERRA, TERRENE
At Terrene, Andre Sierra embraces the kitchen’s zero-waste and composting practices. After juicing lemons and limes, Sierra roasts the peels until they become fragrant citrus ash. He mixes this with salt and sugar to create a rim or garnish for the cocktails. 8 Mission St., 415.278.3777, 1hotels.com/san-francisco/taste/terrene
TIMOFEI OSIPENKO, BAR IRIS
Japanese-inspired ingredients are highlighted at Bar Iris, where Timofei Osipenko has created a menu of nonalcoholic options. There’s also a comprehensive list of Japanese whiskey and refined cocktails made with unexpected ingredients like yam, yogurt, and seaweed. 2310 Polk St., bar-iris.com
Emily Parian
EMILY PARIAN, EMPRESS BY BOON
Emily Parian creates seasonal cocktails to pair with Cantonese cuisine at the luxe bar at Empress by Boon. We love The Golden Snitch, a mix of Calvados, cognac, vermouth, pear and lemongrass. 838 Grant Ave., 415.757.0728, theempresssf.com
MARCO DIONYSOS, COMSTOCK SALOON
With a decades-long career spanning too many bars to mention, Marco Dionysos is one of the city’s most iconic mixologists. Currently, you’ll find him shaking cocktails at Comstock Saloon, where he recommends the Pisco Punch, a drink that was wildly popular in SF in the 1870s. 155 Columbus Ave., 415.617.0071, comstocksaloon.com
CATERINA MIRABELLI, BACK OF HOUSE
As the beverage director for Back of House, the group that oversees nine SF hot spots, Caterina Mirabelli is one busy bartender. Enjoy her signature drink at Flores: The Ay! Dos Mio is a mixture of mezcal, lemon juice, agave, Cabernet and egg white. 2030 Union St., 415.796.2926, floressf.com
Photography by: ALBERT LAW; MICHAEL MCCARTHY; JEAN BAI
