The apple doesn’t fall from the tree when it comes to this new nature-inspired cocktail escape from the team behind The Treasury, Third Rail, and The Beehive. Like all of the industry vet’s drinking destinations, upon entering, you immediately want to sidle up to the bar and put down roots while sipping expertly-crafted drinks with flavors derived from plants, fruits, herbs, and spices, many of which also have delightfully clever names, like, “Pretty without the R,” which is made with vodka, hibiscus sage, bergamot, baijiu, caraway, and soda, and “Apple Propaganda,” which is made with Botanist Gin, green apple, juniper, pisco, bay leaf, and elderflower tonic), and is a play on Johnny Appleseed. You may plan to pop in for a drink, but be prepared: Heartwood is the kind of bar that makes it very easy to forget about the outside world and passing the time, in part because of the cozy exposed brick walls/wood beams and floors/high tin ceilings aesthetic, but also because of the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and tasty snacks, such as pigs in a blanket, mushroom satay with peanut sauce, smash burger sliders, and bite-sized fried chicken are all worth an order.
How to book: Walk in.

We appreciate a mean cocktail, but we equally appreciate enjoying it in a bar that doesn’t take itself too seriously. This is precisely what Rendezvous, a new afternoon to late-night watering hole on Lombard Street, delivers. Shaher Misif, the award-winning bartender at the helm of this new spot, is all about cocktails without the pretense, and with each new delightful and kitschy moment, such as Espresso-tini shots served in everything from mini honey bears to tiny toilet bowls and the “Netflix and Chill,” made with butter-washed bourbon cocktail served in a popcorn box with popcorn garnish, we were more and more inclined to agree. The “intimate” bar seats about 35 people in total, but it’s less about the space and more about the fact that the smaller size allows the friendly bartenders to interact with the patrons in a way that one doesn’t usually see in SF these days. While it doesn’t look like “Cheers”—a neon sign lights up the entrance, windows are draped in sheer, sequin-covered cloth, and the back bar is full of My Little Ponies, Rubber Duckies, and other knick-knacks—it’s not hard to imagine walking in and hearing everyone cheer your name.
How to book: Walk in.

There’s nothing SF loves more than a “secret” bar. But in the age of the Internet, nothing stays a secret anymore, so instead, we’ll call describe The Felix as more of an underground cocktail den. To find it, you’ll first need to spot a neon Felix the Cat. You’ll then be asked to find a framed photo of the bar’s actual namesake (we won’t ruin all of the fun moments), which will open a door that takes you down a staircase to a glamorous basement bar with graffiti-covered Prohibition-era photos, velvet couches, and Mahjong-tiled tables. The drinks all feature Asian spirits and ingredients, like the Bohemian Rhapsody with Sông Cái Floral (a Vietnamese gin), green chartreuse, chrysanthemum syrup, and a Crème de Cassis float. In fact, if you like chartreuse of any color, you’ll be happy to know it’s featured in several cocktails (the Felix Swizzle with green chartreuse, yellow chartreuse, Malibu rum, ginger beer, and cardamaro is especially tasty and maybe even too drinkable). The snack menu is limited right now, but don’t sleep on the tom yum-flavored Chex mix. And while The Felix is only open (for now) on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, the mood, while always a little sexy and a little sultry, is definitely also dependent on the time of day and which DJ is in the booth.
How to book: Walk in.

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: Book online.