Top Wine Bars in San Francisco
Peter Thoeny via flickr.comMaybe it's the proximity to Napa Valley and Sonoma or maybe it's the breeze coming off the bay that creates an ideal temperature for wine drinking, but San Francisco is a city for oenophiles. Heading to San Francisco and looking to indulge in the pleasure of wine? If so, check out our favorite wine spots in the city. Disclaimer: This is in NO way a comprehensive list, but just a starting point. Let us know your favorite spots and may the odds be ever in your favor!
Celebrating it's 10th anniversary last year, Nectar sets the tone as inviting and approachable with a wine list that is both balanced and playful. This neighborhood gem boasts over 400 selections by the bottle and 35 wines by the glass. The problem: figuring out how to leave.
Hôtel Biron Wine Bar & Art Gallery
Hôtel Biron is a place where wine meets art in a tucked away nook off of Rose Alley. Opening in 2001, Biron has about 50 wines on their list, with half of those being by the glass. What makes this place unique, besides the local artists who showcase their work in the bar, is their preference towards wines that are made without chemicals in the vineyard and minimal additives in the winery. Yes, this is not a new philosophy, but the wine list is much more affordable than others.
Exposed brick walls and high, open ceilings create the perfect ambiance for a glass of wine and conversation. Due to it's location near AT&T Park, District melds into a wine bar meets a sports bar during games. Caterina Mirabelli, District's wine director, is a native of Rome who has created a wine list that is straightforward and uncomplicated to let the wines speak for themselves.
Offering California wines in an award-winning architectural environment, Press Club is a well known and sophisticated wine bar for those who really have an affinity for the juice. Each month an artisan vintner is featured at Press Club, where visitors can try the wines directly from the winemaker on select evenings. We recommend checking their website to go on these days. The problem: We aren't there right now!