5 Bay Area Cocktail Bars We Can Play Footsie In
Want to cozy up over a cocktail and get to know each other before some private time? I’m not a big drinker but I love going out for a drink or two before getting cozy together. My favorite drinks include:
- Dry whites including albariño, viognier, and pinot gris
- Rosés
- Bubbly
- Natural wines
- Bourbon and whisky cocktails
- Vodka cocktails
- Tequila cocktails
Here are some cute cocktail bars where we can have a good time!
1. North Light
North Light is an adorable bar, restaurant, and bookshop in the Temescal area of Oakland. While books are not the main feature, we can peruse their well-thought-out selections on the shelf at the front of the establishment. They have a lovely patio and sweet indoor seating. I adore the mood lighting, the friendly staff, and the creative cocktails and mocktails here.
2. Bourbon and Branch
I’ve only been here once but it was really fun! Bourbon and Branch is an SF bar that sends you back to the Prohibition era of the 1920’s. Even though alcohol prohibition ended nearly 100 years ago, you must still follow the “speak easy” rules of the bar to be allowed in. You use a password to enter, no cell phone usage is allowed, and there is no photography allowed either. Their cocktails are truly next level both in terms of taste and creativity. I love the fun ambiance and great drinks.
3. ABV
I haven’t had a chance to try this very celebrated bar yet, but I’d really like to. It’s won some awards and tops almost every single “best bay area bar” list. The decor looks chic and modern, and I like that their menu has a section for cocktails of each type of liquor.
4. Saison Cellar & Wine Bar
This is another SF spot I haven’t been to yet. This is the wine bar of Saison, a two-Michelin-star fine dining restaurant. The wine bar is a bit more casual than the restaurant and offers some truly delightful selections by the glass and bottle. They also offer selections from their own winery.
5. Wunderbar
The first time I went here I realized how little I know about San Mateo. The downtown area is actually so cute. Wunderbar is a tarot-themed speakeasy in the back of a German beer garden. The menu is a series of cards where each beverage has its own mystical looking symbol and recipe. It’s a truly unique experience that I’d love to share with someone sweet!
