FRIDAY FIVE
Parlez-vous wine? You better—you live in San Francisco.
Everyone knows one of the many benefits of living in the Bay Area is our close proximity to wine country. But what’s even better is that you don’t have to travel to Napa or Sonoma to indulge in world-class vino. Plenty of idyllic wine bars exist throughout the city to make your Tour du Vin dreams come true.
Here are our five best recommendations.
1. Terroir Natural Wine Merchant
This wine bar epitomizes many San Francisco clichés: it focuses on natural wine and is a bit overpriced—but, we must admit, it’s typically worth it. The ambiance of this SOMA establishment easily takes you to a European countryside for the evening, with a focus on wines from France in addition to some selections from California. The vinyl beats spinning in the background make the perfect backdrop for intimate conversations among friends or a date, too.
TBI tip: The cheese plate never disappoints.
www.terroirsf.com, 1116 Folsom Street (SOMA)
2. High Treason
This Inner Richmond watering hole on Clement Street has arguably the best wine selection in the city. It also nails the cozy, neighborhood atmosphere. The menu is extensive but servers are both extremely knowledgeable and friendly, so they can help you find what you’re in the mood for. Lunch is offered Friday, Saturday and Sunday (think sliders, toasts, and sandwiches) and a more extensive menu daily after 5pm. The snacks and small bites, especially the insanely delicious duck fat fries, are perfect for sharing.
TBI Tip: Indulge in the Panna Cotta for dessert. Just do it.
www.hightreasonsf.com; 443 Clement Street (Inner Richmond)
3. Ino Vino
An Italian-inspired wine bar nestled in the humble neighborhood of Cole Valley, this 30-seat intimate spot is owned by Claudio Vallani, originally from Tuscany and who previously served as sommelier at Michelin-starred Quince. Expect Italian food, too, like pizzas, salads, bread, prosciutto, and more. Happy hour is where it’s at, with $7 glasses of wine and some small bites.
TBI tip: Get a table on the sidewalk the next sunny weekend day.
www. inovinosf.com; 108B Carl Street (Cole Valley)
4. The Hidden Vine
A Financial District favorite for after-work drinks, hanging out at the Hidden Vine is like boozing in your great uncle’s rustic library. Located off of a side alley, this bar has brick walls, mahogany tables and a fireplace that will make you feel regal inside (in addition to the tasty wine.) But it’s not all high-class—this bar is also known for its bocce ball court where you can head out with friends or co-workers. Expect typical (high) SF prices here.
TBI tip: Get here early—tables tend to fill up.
www.thehiddenvine.com; 408 Merchant Street (Financial District)
5. Birba
This adorable nook of a wine bar in Hayes Valley has a rural European feel to it, with a small, intimate space(perfect for dates) located off of the main drag in the neighborhood. Birba owner Angela Valgiusti worked as the sommelier at Slanted Door for more than a decade before opening up this shop in what she wanted to feel like the wine bars she visited while living in Italy—and it does.
TBI tip: Get adventurous with your wine selection here—ask for the server to surprise you.
www.birbawine.com; 458 Grove Street (Hayes Valley)
