San Francisco
2. Sluts
SoMa
$$$$

In any other place than San Francisco, a wine bar called Sluts might raise an eyebrow, but in this town, it barely elicits a reaction except when one learns that it’s a natural wine bar since, well, most wine bars don’t lean into the bawdier side of life. The bar is the brainchild of chef and owner Imana, who describes it as the “weird little sister” of her Oakland restaurant Hi Felicia. There’s no shortage of fun things to look at in the dramatic space, which is moody and full of dark blues and purples, including a neon “spit or swallow?” sign making the obvious double entendre of wine-tasting and, well, you get it. There’s also no shortage of fun things to drink, assuming you’re into natural wine (there are also some non-alcoholic versions available). As far as food, unless you’re into gas station eats, maybe don’t go hungry. But if you enjoy Cup O’ Noodles and Chips Ahoy, then, by all means, partake.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

3. Blind Pig
Chinatown
$$$$

From the creative mind of award-winning bartender Derrick Li comes a sexy new “speakeasy” on the second floor of Cathay House with amazing views of Grant Avenue and the California Street cable cars and a sultry lounge vibe that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. Think ornate seating, cozy booths, a horseshoe-shaped bar, 20th-century Chinese and Victorian decor, and towering ferns throughout. The drinks use Asian-inspired ingredients like red bean five spice, salty taro pandan, and baijiu, a high-proof spirit usually distilled from fermented sorghum (a grasslike ancient grain), and are as beautiful as they are delicious.
How to book: Walk-ins only.

5. Hazie's
Hayes Valley
$$$$

Hayes Valley has really turned into a mecca for drinking and dining, and this recent addition from the Hat Trick Hospitality team (Brixton and Rambler) and celebrity chef Joey Altman fills one of the few in the neighborhood—a place that’s super chill with quality eats and drinks. Located in the old Stack’s space, Hazie’s is great for casual hangs with friends with shareable comfort food, including Dutch Crunch profiteroles for dessert, and cocktails that go down easily, including a few large-format concoctions, such as a pineapple spritz for two. There’s plenty of bar and communal high-top seating, as well as regular tables, all of which create a fun and bustling scene in an already bustling area.
How to book: Walk in or make a reservation via SevenRooms.

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