Bars
Bubble Lounge Right
in historic Jackson Square, this very upscale, multi-roomed champagne
bar features around 300 bubblies on its list. The main room is very
beautiful, in a traditionally clubby sort of way .
Bubble Lounge
Nova Bar A
hip little bar in the SOMA neighborhood with modern, trendy decor. The
bartenders are friendly and the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. Try
one of their constantly changing range of tasty infused vodkas. Great
place for a drink after work. Easy parking. 555 2nd Street 415 543 2282 Dis. access
Nova Bar
Vesuvio This
landmark watering hole was a major Beat and hippie gathering place and
attempts to carry on the alternative tradition amid the stained-glass,
psychedelic décor. Check out the literary and other memorabilia on the
walls and sit on the narrow balcony, from which you can survey the
action below. 255 Columbus Ave 415 362 3370
Vesuvio
Americano Bar The
outdoor patio is the big draw at this uber-chic, buzzing bar filled
with beautiful people. The views will amaze, as will the drinks and the
inviting sleek interior space. Try the plum mojito and the baked goat’s
cheese, but beware of the pricey bill. 8 Mission St 415 278 3777 Dis. access
Mecca This
dolled-up industrial space attracts some of the Castro’s prettiest men,
including the occasional drag queen, around the glowing circular bar,
with red velvet and chiffon drapery. It’s also a supper club featuring
New American cuisine. 2029 Market St 415 621 7000 Dis. access
Mecca
Edinburgh Castle Pub A
hugely happening place incorporating live indie music, a fish ‘n’ chips
delivery service, as well as darts, pool, and general carousing in the
Scottish manner. Medjool The
orange, red, and gold decor will delight you as you enter this funky
Mission bar and lounge. The Mediterranean wines combine perfectly with
tapas-style dishes. Be sure to venture upstairs to the rooftop terrace
where panoramic views of the city await you. At night, DJs play club
music with a Persian feel. 2522 Mission St 415 550 9055 Dis. access
Ruby Skye A
Victorian playhouse has been restored in lavish high-tech coolness,
incorporating a captivating blend of Art Nouveau and Daliesque
Modernism. And where else can you see trapeze acts on a Saturday night
or puff cigars in a private billiards room? If you want to fit in, wear
designer gear. 420 Mason St 415 693 0777 Dis. access
Destino Relax
and experience the passion of flamenco and the intensity of tango every
evening. This place exudes a special energy and serves the best mojitos
in town. South American food, too. 1815 Market St 415 552 4451 Dis. access
Lefty O’Doul’s Opened
in 1958 by the local baseball legend, this Downtown landmark is a
cafeteria-style sports bar with live piano music. Good fun when the old
crowd starts on their renditions of even older show tunes. 333 Geary St at Powell 415 902 8900 Dis. access
Top 10 San Francisco Tipples
Cabernet Sauvignon This full-bodied red, with overtones of blackcurrant, is a Bay Area favorite. Try the Robert Mondavi Winery. Chardonnay Of the whites, this is the most popular, fermented in French oak barrels, lending it smooth vanilla tones. Try Sterling Vineyards. Other Red Wines Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Zinfandel are giving Cabernet Sauvignon some healthy competition of late. Other White Wines Sauvignon Blanc, White Zinfandel, Chenin Blanc, and Pinot Grigio are whites that can tempt you away from the Chardonnay grape. Sparkling Wines Top French wine producers such as Mumm and Moët & Chandon have set up wineries in the Napa Valley . Cocktails Mojitos – white rum, ice and fresh mint – are an old standby still going strong. Beers and Ales Local breweries abound in the Bay Area, such as Anchor Steam Beer . Tea A huge range of infusions, springing from the healthy attitude that dominates here. Coffee Many more ways to drink your coffee than there are in all of Europe – latte is still the blend of choice. Mineral Water The top local brand comes from, and takes its name from Calistoga in the Napa Valley.
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