SF went a while with its same handful of rooftop bars, but within the last couple of years, they seem to be popping up everywhere, and as denizens of a town with probably the most gorgeous views in the country, we couldn’t be more elated. The newest addition, Cavaña, sits atop the brand-new 17-story LUMA Hotel, and the indoor-outdoor space has views of the city, the Bay, and Oracle Park. The bar was created as a love letter to the cultures of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. You’ll find that inspiration throughout, from the decor and lush greenery to the fun and unique cocktails that showcase Latin ingredients in the cuisine. The arepas cooked over a budare and filled with a mouth-watering brisket are a must-order. And though it’s SF, so one pretty much never leaves home without a warm jacket, there’s no need to worry about the infamous weather spoiling your evening. Cavaña is completely weatherized with retractable glass doors and fire pits that are perfect for a cozy evening out.
How to book: Reserve a table on Resy.

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.

SF’s bar scene is newly enamored with Italian aperitivo culture, and newcomer Bar Sprezzatura is one of the best places to partake, with a chic gold and sky blue accents, plush velvet seating, and a long bar with swiveling stools to cozy up at. The cocktail menu spans some inventive Italian-inspired takes, such as the Cicchetti Martini, with vodka, Carpano Blanco, and olive brine, that’s served with an anchovy-stuffed olive, pepperoncini gran ripieno, and fresh shaved truffle, but there’s also a full negroni menu, a selection of spritzes, and a handful of Italian wines and beers. Snack on savory cicchetti options at the bar, like Guanciale Meatballs and Scalia Anchovies, or make your own charcuterie plate with their salumi and cheese selection. There’s also pizza by the slice, crudo, fresh salads, and pasta and risotto, should you decide to tuck into a full meal.
How to book: Reservations can be made via SevenRooms.

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.

Thad Vogler is known for being a pioneer of thoughtful cocktails made with high-quality ingredients, so it only makes sense that, despite its new(ish) location on Mission Street, his James Beard Award-winning cocktail bar continues to showcase his passion and dedication to seasonal and ingredient-driven drinks and food. The drinks are, of course, the hero, with the 34-seat (all booths) “tasting room” built to showcase a center island where the drinks are (mostly) concocted. The space awash with pale wood is sleek and beautiful, if not also a little stark. This is not a place where you settle in for a night of raucous drinking with friends. It’s a quiet, almost meditative setting where you go to appreciate serious cocktails, many of which showcase single-origin spirits from Bar Agricole’s spirits line. There’s also a front bar for walk-ins, perfect for those times when you still want a quality cocktail but with slightly more casual vibes.
How to book: Make reservations on Tock.