By: Kyrie Sismaet By: Kyrie Sismaet | May 25, 2022 | Food & Drink, Wine and Spirits, Neighborhoods, wine, Community,
San Francisco is known for having a treasure trove of fantastic wine bars, but a hidden gem for a luxuriously delightful atmosphere lies in Castro District's swanky Blush! Wine Bar.
Located on 476 Castro Street in the heart of its historically significant neighborhood, Blush's sophisticated interior seen through its wide windows invites you in not only for a glass of their many top-quality wines, but also for an experience that's intimate, relaxed and genuinely friendly.
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Inspired by the posh wine bars of Europe, Blush's resplendently adorned and cozy interior lends the perfect atmosphere to sample one, or a few, of their extensive wine list featuring over 50 different premiere varieties.
By the bottle they showcase 120 different wines, and our recommendations here are definitely their plush 2016 Stonestreet Chardonnay (for $72 a bottle), and 2018 Ser Winery Dry Muscat of orange peel and almond notes for their whites.
For their spectacular reds, we urge you to taste their earthy and vanilla 2017 Argentinian Padrillas Pinot Noir and their smoky 2019 Portugese Animus Tinto Douro, or take home a $200 bottle of their 2011 Malbec Georges Vigouroux, Château de Haute-Serre, ‘Icône Wow’ from France.
Blush also has a wide offering of exquisite roses, ciders, and draught beer, guaranteeing there's something for everyone.
Not only do they shine with wine, but also in their delectableand authentic food offerings. All French-inspired, their small plates, antipasti, and entrees are artisanally crafted by the incomparable Chef Martin. Definitely do not skip out on their imported European cheeses and charcuterie as well, all which delicately pair perfectly with their wine, which you can ask their highly-experienced staff to guide you.
Finish off your meal with Fondant au Chocolat, or lava cake with with vanilla bean ice cream to be fully transported to Europe!
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Blush is also a solid supporter of the Castro music and arts scene, featuring live performances of relaxing and creative jazz every Tuesday and Thursday, French Improv, and enjoyable Queer Comedy on the first Wednesdays of every month. Their gleaming walls also proudly showcase local art, adding to the already-artful provisions and service.
Make sure to view their calendar to stay up to date on all their rotating events.
From the exceptional full service of excellent libations, serene environment, and involved community uplifting, it is no wonder why Blush was named the favorite wine bar by the Bay Area Reporter in 2012.
Next time you happen to be strolling in the vibrant and enthralling Castro District no matter what time in the day, definitely make a point to stop into this cute and lavish lounge for a quick European getaway.
Photography by: Maksym Kaharlytskyi/Unsplash
