If you’re on the hunt for the best wine bars in San Francisco, Verjus needs to be on your radar. Nestled in historic Jackson Square, this beloved Parisian-inspired wine bar and restaurant has officially reopened after a long hiatus — and it’s better than ever.

Originally opened in 2019 by acclaimed chefs Michael and Lindsay Tusk (of Michelin-starred Quince and Cotogna), Verjus quickly became a hot spot for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone craving a slice of European charm in the heart of San Francisco. The pandemic may have temporarily dimmed its lights, but as of late 2024, Verjus has returned — and it’s once again one of the hottest restaurants in San Francisco.

The newly reopened Verjus retains its signature red lacquer ceiling, glowing marquee menu, and welcoming, casual ambiance. But the space has been subtly transformed to elevate the experience: the former wine shop has been converted into a formal dining room that now accepts reservations, while the addition of a DJ booth gives the space an unexpected late-night energy. It’s a mix of European sophistication and San Francisco cool — perfect for date nights, group hangs, or solo glasses of Burgundy.

The menu at Verjus is a celebration of French culinary tradition, infused with California freshness. Standout dishes include:

• A fluffy Boursin omelet
• House-made manchego sausage
• A beautifully executed pâté en croûte
• Pain perdu (French toast) for dessert, or their new banana mille-feuille

The wine list — expertly curated by Matthias Cattelin — focuses on French natural wines, with standout selections from Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Champagne. Plus, a new cocktail program designed by Thad Vogler (Bar Agricole) introduces timeless drinks like a Vieux Carré and Pisco Punch, each with an elevated twist.

Verjus continues to support local producers, sourcing organic produce from Fresh Run Farm and featuring artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The establishment hosted their own brand of Farmers Market during the pandemic, offering organic farm produce and artisan breads to the community. The farmers market is now held at it’s sister’s restaurant, Cotogna, during the summer months.

Located at 550 Washington Street, Verjus operates Tuesday through Thursday from 4 PM to 10 PM, and Friday and Saturday from 4 PM to 11 PM. The kitchen open at 5:00 PM until 10 PM daily, with drinks and bar snacks available until late on weekends. Reservations for dining is highly recommended in advance and via sevenrooms. Walk-ins are welcome on a first come first serve also.Since the bar opens at 4 P.M you have a high chance getting in and ordering small bites until 5 PM when the full menu becomes available. regardless of the day of the week, Verjus is a fun vibrant place with incredible bites that will leave you full and happy.

Whether you’re rediscovering a local favorite or experiencing it for the first time, Verjus is once again a must-visit destination for San Francisco food and wine lovers. With its vibrant atmosphere, impeccable curation, and culinary finesse, it’s no wonder Verjus is one of the top restaurants in San Francisco right now.