San Francisco’s bar scene is an experience all its own. From rooftops with skyline views to candlelit corners pouring natural wine, this city serves up drinks with serious style. Whether you’re a local planning your next night out or a visitor chasing something more memorable than a generic cocktail lounge, here are five of the best bars in San Francisco right now—each with a distinct story, vibe, and flavor profile.

Verjus – For Natural Wine and Parisian Energy

Tucked into a cobblestone block of Jackson Square, Verjus feels like a slice of Paris in the heart of San Francisco. With its floor-to-ceiling wine shelves, rustic French dishes, and standing-room charm, it’s less bar, more experience. The focus here is on natural wine—think funky reds, pét-nats, and orange wines from small producers across Europe. But the food deserves a moment, too: rich terrines, seasonal salads, and maybe the best omelet in the city. It’s the perfect spot for those who drink with curiosity—and appreciate a good pour with personality.

Trick Dog – Where Cocktails Meet Creativity

Trick Dog in the Mission District is more than a bar—it’s a concept. Every few months, the menu completely transforms, inspired by everything from horoscopes to Pantone swatches. But no matter the theme, the drinks are always balanced, bold, and beautifully presented. The team behind Trick Dog (the Bon Vivants) has a serious reputation in the cocktail world, and the vibe inside feels like a neighborhood spot with world-class talent. If you’re a fan of innovation, storytelling, and a little design drama with your drinks, this is your bar.

Bar Crenn – French-Inspired Luxury in Cow Hollow

Created by three-Michelin-starred Chef Dominique Crenn, Bar Crenn is one of San Francisco’s most refined cocktail lounges. With its Parisian salon vibe, dim lighting, and beautifully composed drinks, this is where cocktails meet fine dining. Each drink is crafted with precision, using rare ingredients and seasonal flavors. It’s a must-visit if you’re looking for a high-end, artful experience in the city.

Cavaña – A Rooftop Bar with Latin Flavor and Skyline Views

Located in the heart of SoMa, Cavaña is the rooftop bar San Francisco didn’t know it needed. With sweeping views of the Bay and a cocktail menu rooted in Latin America, it’s a place where mezcal meets elegance and ceviche meets the clouds. The ambiance is elevated but approachable—perfect for golden hour drinks or a full night out. Standouts include their signature Cavaña Margarita and a deep rum selection that celebrates the Caribbean. It’s also one of the best date spots in SF if you’re looking to impress.

Bar Sprezzatura – Effortlessly Stylish Italian Cocktails in the Financial District

A sleek, Italian-inspired bar tucked into One Maritime Plaza, Bar Sprezzatura brings European charm to San Francisco’s Financial District. Known for its refined amaro-based cocktails and elevated small plates, it’s a perfect after-work or date-night destination. The vibe is intimate and chic without feeling overdone—exactly what you’d expect from a place named after the Italian concept of “studied nonchalance.” Don’t miss their house martini or the warm focaccia paired with a bitter aperitivo.

True Laurel – Experimental, Intimate, and Mind-Bending

Helmed by the duo behind Michelin-starred Lazy Bear, True Laurel is a cocktail bar for the flavor-obsessed. Everything here is made in-house—from tinctures and syrups to clarified juices—and the result is a rotating lineup of drinks that feel more like culinary experiences than casual sips. There’s also a small but thoughtful food menu, making it an excellent pre- or post-dinner stop. The space is cozy and understated, letting the drinks speak for themselves. Don’t skip their signature clarified milk punch or whatever seasonal spritz they’re experimenting with that week.

SF Bar Society – A Hidden Cocktail Gem in Union Square

Tucked beneath the vibrant streets of Union Square, SF Bar Society is one of the best hidden bars in San Francisco. This speakeasy-style lounge offers a moody, upscale setting perfect for date nights or post-dinner drinks. Known for their clarified cocktails and precise mixology, it’s a top-tier stop for cocktail lovers seeking a more exclusive experience in downtown San Francisco.

Moongate Lounge – Lunar-Inspired Cocktails in Chinatown

Located above the award-winning Mister Jiu’s, Moongate Lounge is a Chinatown favorite offering some of the most creative cocktails in San Francisco. With drinks inspired by the lunar calendar and traditional Chinese ingredients, this bar delivers an immersive experience unlike any other in the city. If you’re looking for one of the most unique bars in San Francisco, Moongate deserves a spot on your list.

ABV – Mission District’s Award-Winning Cocktail Bar

A mainstay in the Mission and consistently ranked among the best bars in San Francisco, ABV is a must-visit for anyone who loves a solid drink in a laid-back atmosphere. The cocktails are clean, balanced, and served quickly—making it a go-to for industry professionals and casual drinkers alike. The food menu is equally strong, rounding out an experience that’s effortlessly cool without trying too hard.

Saison Wine Bar – Where Fine Dining Meets Wine-First Cocktails

Footsteps away from the Michelin-starred, Saison restaurant, Saison Wine Bar is one of the most refined drinking experiences in San Francisco. This minimalist, wine-forward bar offers a curated list of rare bottles, Champagne, and thoughtful wine-based cocktails in an intimate setting. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply exploring the city’s high-end bar scene, Saison Wine Bar delivers a blend of luxury and creativity that feels truly elevated.

When it comes to bars, San Francisco doesn’t play it safe. These spots push boundaries, celebrate craft, and prove that going out for a drink can be as memorable as any fine-dining experience. Cheers to chasing flavor—and always finding it in San Francisco.