By: Kat Bein By: Kat Bein | March 28, 2024 | Food & Drink, Guides,
San Francisco is a city known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of delicious food and drink options for locals and visitors alike.
One sip that’s made its mark is the Paloma, a refreshing tequila-based drink made with grapefruit and lime juice that's perfect for a warm day or a night out on the town. With so many bars and restaurants in San Francisco serving up their own unique versions of this classic, it’s worth hitting the streets and trying a few!
See also: 4 Of The Best Cosmos In SF
To help you navigate the vibrant San Francisco cocktail scene, we compiled a list of the best Palomas in the city. From traditional takes on the drink to creative twists that push the boundaries of flavor combinations, these Palomas are sure to satisfy your craving.
2516 Mission St.; 415-550-6970 / Website
Located in the Mission District, El Techo boasts a rooftop setting perfect for enjoying palomas with a view of the city. Pair your delicious cocktail with some guacamole made with cojito queso, or perhaps yuca frita, tacos de canasta dorados or empanadas de carne.
5929 Geary Blvd.; 415-387-4747 / Website
A family-run operation since 1965, this place serves Yucatan cuisine with a smile and invites you to become is new best friend. Renowned for its extensive tequila selection and expertly crafted cocktails, Tommy's is a must-visit for paloma enthusiasts.
974 Valencia St.; 415-643-5656 / Website
Known for its lively atmosphere and creative Mexican fare, Lolo's paloma is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The classick cocktail here is served simple, with your choice of tequila, grapefruit and lime salt. While you're there, feast on Lolo's Western Pacific flavors in the style of Jalisco delights.
2251 Market St.; 415-896-4496 / Website
Traditional flavor is on the menu at this Mission District spot that also caters to the vegetarian set. The cocktail menu is ample, with whiskey melonade, a spicy Mexican Gringo, the popular Sayulita Miracle adn more. For this list’s purpose, you should try the Salted Paloma with your blanco tequila, grapefruit pamplemousse, lime, agave and soda.
12955 San Pablo Ave, Richmond; 510-307-5749 / Website
If you’re willing to make the drive to Richmond in the East Bay, you’ll be rewarded with more tequila than one can imagine. El Agave Azul specializes in tequila flights, which are great for tasting an array of wonderful sips, but if you just want a fabulous paloma, this one comes with El Tesoro Blanco, elderflower liquor, squirt, lime and a salted rim.
Now that you’re definitely in the mood for Mexican, try one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in the city.
Photography by: Richard Clark/Getty