Where to Drink
San Francisco's Leading Wine Bars
Exploring the Most Exciting Wine Bars in San Francisco
San Francisco is home to some of the most exciting and eclectic wine bars around, and you don't need to drive to Napa to experience world-class sips. The city's wine scene has evolved into a playground for wine lovers. So, let’s dive in, and we’ll take you on a trip through some of San Francisco’s leading wine bars.
Bar Part Time
Let’s kick things off with an absolute party. Bar Part Time is as far from your typical wine bar as it gets—think dance floor, glittering disco ball, and natural wine flowing as freely as the beats from an impressive lineup of DJs. This isn’t just a place to sip; it’s a full-on bacchanal. Natural wines reign supreme here, and if you swing by on a Tuesday, you can enjoy $10 off bottles for on-site consumption. Wine party, anyone?
Source: The Infatuation
Roaming Goat
On the flip side of the spectrum, we’ve got Roaming Goat, a Mediterranean gem tucked away on Union Street in Cow Hollow. With a cozy, narrow space and a wine list highlighting regions like California, Armenia, and Georgia, you’ll feel like you’re on a mini wine tour of the Mediterranean. The food? Expect small plates like hummus, olives, and kebabs that perfectly complement the exotic wine selection.
Source: Instagram
Bodega North Beach
Perfect for meeting friends at an outdoor table or cozying up at the bar, Bodega offers a relaxed vibe and a wine list that’s easy to explore. With selections from California and a few European options, wines are grouped by flavor categories like "flirtatious whites," "funky reds," and "bring me the funk" for orange wine enthusiasts.
Source: The Infatuation
Key Klub
A newer kid on the block, Key Klub in Lower Nob Hill is a must-visit for natural wine enthusiasts. Sister to North Beach’s Bodega, this spot blends the rustic charm of an old-world wine bar with a modern, buzzing vibe. Pair a plate of steak frites with a bold European red or share a bottle of Berkeley’s Hammerling Wines with friends as the night heats up. It’s casual meets cool in one go-to spot.
Source: The Vendry
Decant SF
Part wine bar, part retail shop, Decant SF is all about inclusivity and education. With about 10 wines by the glass available at any given time, this is a great place to sample different varietals from around the world. If you’re in the mood to splurge, grab a bottle off the shelf and crack it open right there—the corkage fee is just $16. The selection leans heavily toward Old World wines, and you can pair your drink with cheese, charcuterie, or even some tinned fish. Yum!
Source: Eater SF
Buddy
Sometimes, you just want a wine bar to feel like home. Enter Buddy in the Mission. Cozy, casual, and brimming with charm, Buddy is like hanging out in your cool friend's living room—but with a way better wine selection. The vibe is low-key, the wines are natural, and the food is always on point. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick glass or staying for a long chat with friends, Buddy’s got you covered.
Source: Buddy The Bar
Ungrafted
Ungrafted, a wine bar, restaurant, and shop in Dogpatch, is run by sommeliers Rebecca Fineman and Chris Gaither. The venue offers a full menu of snacks and larger plates to pair with wines. For those looking to learn, take a class with Fineman, Gaither, or other expert sommeliers on staff.
Source: Ungrafted
Fool's Errand
Tucked away off Divisadero, this cozy wine bar extends from a long, inviting space to a few sidewalk tables. With a diverse selection by the glass and bottle, Fool’s Errand features wines from Portugal, Slovenia, California, and Greece, plus a special focus on Riesling with both German and Californian options. Beer lovers are also covered here!
Source: Urban Daddy
Bar Gemini
Since opening in June 2023, Bar Gemini has quickly become a San Francisco favorite for natural wines. Led by Subject to Change’s Alex Pomerantz and Dominique Henderson, with a small plates menu by Ernest chef Brandon Rice, the bar offers 12 zero-zero wines (no added yeasts or sulfites) by the glass or carafe, along with several options on tap.
Source: CNTraveler
Birba
Nestled in Hayes Valley, Birba is as charming as they come. With its minimalistic, white-washed interiors and small patio, this tiny wine bar offers a carefully selected array of primarily European wines. The limited seating can be a challenge, but once you’re in, you’re in for a treat. The food is simple but solid, and the wine list will have you coming back for more. If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot, consider yourself in for a delightful evening.
Source: Birba Wine
San Francisco's wine bars are as diverse as the wines they pour. Whether you're looking to dance under a disco ball, nibble on Mediterranean bites, or sample West Coast varietals, there's a spot for everyone. These bars represent just a handful of the city's many incredible wine experiences—so grab a glass and start exploring!