By Alexis Berry By Alexis Berry | May 6, 2022 | Feature Food
Here are the best cocktail lounges in San Francisco, no matter what type of drink suits your mood.
This swanky bar is historically rooted in the Prohibition era, possessing the ambiance of an actual speakeasy, where libations of hand-selected merit, housemade juices and purees and an organized cocktail menu set each beverage apart. Enjoy a private experience in the hidden library or take your interest a step further with The Beverage Academy, a hands-on workshop where enthusiasts can learn how to concoct the perfect cocktail, every time. 501 Jones St.
Nestled in the Yerba Buena district, this literary-themed oasis entices with book-lined walls, stylish ambiance and specialty sips named after classic and modern characters. The historically authentic housemade punch is a must-try, honoring the original formula of citrus oil from freshly zested fruit alongside quality spirits and spices. Have a more intimate hosting in the Hemingway or Fitzgerald rooms—perfect for VIP gatherings and celebrations of every occasion. 662 Mission St.
The Alchemist sets the bar for what it means to be a true cocktail destination, deviating from the usual sports bar experience. Whimsical and fun, this dimly-lit, Steampunk-themed hotpot boasts an extensive selection of beer, wine and nonalcoholic sips for every level of drinker. The real highlight, though, is the quality cocktails: each signature beverage is concocted with fresh seasonal ingredients, tinctures, house-made infusions and handcrafted syrups. Our favorite? The Starstruck, crafted with top-shelf vodka, Liquid Alchemist Blood Orange, Chareau, shiso, citrus and seltzer. 679 3rd St.
Established in 1907, the Butterfly Lounge in Hotel Majestic draws inspiration from the surrounding Victorian neighborhood of Pacific Heights. The walls of this elegant cocktail bar live up to its name, adorned with a collection of rare butterflies and insects. Decor aside, mixology is a passion at Butterfly Lounge, with a dedicated staff serving up refreshing, colorful cocktails made with fresh fruits, superior mixes and even smoke. The goal: To serve each and every guest a drink and experience that they can’t get anywhere else. 1500 Sutter St.
This nautical-themed pub is not only a San Francisco classic, but one of the finest rum and exotic cocktail destinations in the world. Smuggler’s Cove boasts over 700 different types of rum—the largest selection in the country—along with cocktails inspired by three centuries of rum history. Choose from over 80 exotic and traditional cocktail recipes made from premium spirits, liqueurs, housemade ingredients and freshly juiced citrus alongside exclusive rums that can’t be found anywhere else. 650 Gough St.
Keep it classy at 15 Romolo—this sexy back-alley hideout expertly combines comfort and refinement, making it the perfect place to unwind for locals and drifters alike. Jam out to an in-house jukebox with a glass of sparkling bubbly or a specialty cocktail in hand. We recommend a vodka-based Pixie accented with lemon, mint and elderflower or a frozen daiquiri for optimal deliciousness. 15 Romolo Place
One of San Francisco’s most famous cocktail bars, critically-acclaimed Trick Dog is no stranger to “best of” lists. The trendy Mission District staple is housed in a converted warehouse transformed with a distinctly artistic aesthetic and eclectic decor, serving up a vast array of delectable craft cocktails. Whether you favor classic connotations or modern mixtures, this artistic escape has a drink for every cocktail enthusiast. 3010 20th St.
Gin lovers, rejoice! Whitechapel, a steampunk distillery in the Tenderloin, is dedicated to the zesty spirit, housing over 400 types of it—one of the largest collections in the country. From martinis and French 75s to flights, punches and more, the pub is the city’s premier expert on all things gin. Distressed subway tiles and the domed ceiling are not-so-subtle nods to London train stations, while Victorian-inspired decor transports guests back to the 1890s. 600 Polk St.
Old-school vibes abound at The Alembic, from the dark wood floor and leather booths to the throwback tunes on replay. Edgy cocktails like the ‘death becomes her’ features Death’s Door White Whiskey, a house tiki mix, rum fire and absinthe, while bar bites range from the classics—think warm olives and mixed nuts for snacking—to elevated plates like the bone marrow served with bacon jam and a garlic puree. Don’t miss the boozy floats on the tavern’s dessert menu! 1725 Haight St.
There’s no arguing Comstock Saloon's place in San Francisco history—the lounge is housed in a historic space that dates all the way back to 1907. Sip expertly crafted vintage cocktails among antiques that narrate the saloon’s storied past, including an 18-foot mahogany bar top from 1890 and vibrant blue-and-white barbershop tile flooring. Standout offerings include the Hop Toad made with Jamaican rum, apricot brandy, lemon and angostura bitters and the ominous Blood & Sand with scotch, sweet vermouth, orange and cherry brandy. 155 Columbus Ave.
Located in the heart of the Financial District, this post-work hot spot specializes in whiskeys from around the world alongside craft cocktails and a rotating selection of local beers and wines. Low lighting and design elements built from old whiskey barrels, staves and original charred brick add to the bar’s warm, vibey ambience. Our drink of choice? The Kentucky Buck, strawberry-infused Bonded bourbon with lemon, ginger beer and bitters, packs a strong yet refreshing punch. 246 Kearny St.
Photography by: BY M.S MEEUWESEN/UNSPLASH
