The Sherwood Cocktails and Lounge

Cute, cozy bar. I stopped by last Sunday & enjoyed a round of cocktails by the fireplace. John the bartender was friendly & welcoming. I'll definitely be stopping by next time I'm in the area.

This will sound a bit weird, but part of me writes this with regret. Not because I don't want to do this or that I think The Sherwood isn't deserving of the rating, but because I wish I had written this after my first couple of visits instead of doing it now. Although the vast majority about this place hasn't changed, the one thing that has, though, is probably the most significant thing - their cocktail menu. Not only was it filled with delicious offerings, but I loved how it changed with the seasons (fruity and bright profiles in the spring/summer, darker and heavier one in the fall/winter). That being said, it's not like their current slate of handcrafted drinks is anything to scoff at. Plus, it's not like I've hated getting to know the new one either!Compared to the other handful of spots along West Portal where you can grab a drink, The Sherwood definitely stands out from the rest. While I can't say how it compares to its predecessor, Portals Tavern (it was a decades old dive bar, so I imagine it was quite dated), what I can say is that the warm, relaxed lounge vibe here is entirely unlike the Irish pubs you'll find nearby. As for the aforementioned menu, it's slimmer than it used to be, but the dozen or so options they do have are pretty interesting, along with an array of spirits, beers, wine, and mocktails). There's also a Happy Hour menu with its own collection of cocktails, but it's limited to 4-6pm Tuesdays through Thursdays and all day on Sundays.-- STRAWBERRY GINGER MULE (Old Menu) - Tito's Vodka, Fresh Strawberry Puree, Fresh Lime Juice, Gosling's Ginger BeerIt stinks that they don't have this anymore, because it was so good! The Tito's and ginger beer worked great together, but I loved the strawberry puree and the nice hit of sweetness it added. Hope this comes back one day!-- KAPALUA (Old Menu) - Plantation Rum, Hennessey, Luxardo Amaretto, Coconut Puree, Lime, and Pineapple JuiceUnfortunately, another victim of their menu change. I liked that neither the Hennessey nor the amaretto overpowered everything and how the rum and all of the fruity flavors invoked memories of my trips to Hawaii.-- SPICED GINGER MULE (Happy Hour Menu) - Vodka, Lime, Ginger BeerPretty much in line with your typical Moscow Mule. Without the strawberry puree, this one had a slightly sharper taste to it with a bit of a snap from the ginger beer. Still, it was both tasty and refreshing.-- TOMMY'S MARGARITA (Happy Hour Menu) - Cimarron Tequila Blanco, Lime, AgaveThis certainly tasted like a HH version of a margarita, as it wasn't super strong, but I actually didn't mind. The overall flavors were pretty classic, weren't very sugary, and complemented each other well.-- HI-FIVE - Fylleangst Aquavit, Cinnamon, GrapefruitThe grapefruit in this loosely reminded me of a greyhound, but the Fylleangst Aquavit made this decidedly its own. The flavor has a bit of spice sort of taste to it, especially with the cinnamon, but it's still light and highly drinkable.Beyond the cocktails, the thing that's always been consistently great about The Sherwood has been the folks that work here. Every one of the bartenders I've come across has not only been adept at making my drink, but they've been ridiculously friendly and engaging. What's more, they're great at recognizing and greeting regulars (as my friends who come here almost every other week can easily attest to).While I obviously hope they bring back some of their original menu offerings, whether it be permanently or as seasonal offerings, even if they don't, The Sherwood is still an awesome spot have around, especially in West Portal. The neighborhood has always felt fairly sleepy and underrated, so it's fantastic to see exciting places like The Sherwood open up. I just hope this place doesn't get too popular, as i would definitely miss being able to walk in and snag a seat without a hassle!

Love love! The Sherwood is a west portal classic. Not only are the drinks amazing, but the ambiance & atmosphere is so cozy. One of my favorite cocktail lounges in the city. The bartenders are so sweet. The drinks are delicious. -1 Star because it is on the pricer end but honestly not that bad. Bonus points for them playing the bee movie last night!

Sherwood Bar and Lounge in West Portal, S.F. is a gem that knows how to keep the night alive! Our evening was a boozy adventure through expertly crafted Manhattans, Gold Diggers, and Old Fashioneds that were more than just drinks--they were experiences in a glass. The bartenders here are nothing short of cocktail wizards, mixing up magic with a dash of flair and a sprinkle of charm.As for the crowd, it was packed to the rafters, but in the best way possible--think of it as the perfect people-watching paradise. Sure, squeezing through the sea of patrons felt like a game of adult Twister at times, but hey, isn't that part of the fun? If you're looking for a spot where the drinks are as spirited as the atmosphere, Sherwood Bar and Lounge is your go-to. Cheers to a night well spent and a hangover well earned!

Nicole is the best bartender on earth, adaptations are her specialty. Great atmosphere and ambiance. Fireplace was roaring. Shout out to Danny as well for his professionalism and friendliness. Love the staff and the atmosphere!

1 bartender and 1 bar back AWEFUL SERVICE sadly it was a cute place! Too bad and their apps are soooo little!

Nice cocktail spot. Great spot to kill time while waiting for a table at Elena'sReally nice interior.Almost like a hotel lobby feel

Sherwood aspires to be a cut above from the casual dives on West Portal. Given their higher prices and upscale decor, I expected better and faster service. That's the only mismatch, and it depends on who is working. The times I've been there's only been one bartender so it is single point of failure (or success, depending). I don't mind a bartender chatting with customers as long as no one is waiting but the last time I went I saw she wasn't exactly busting it. People go here for a leisurely hang so in general no one is in a rush.

Nicole and Tanya are the best!! Such an amazing neighborhood bar. Classy and yet familiar!!

Cozy and comfortable. It is pleasant to sit on the sofa and armchairs. The electronic candles on the table create a romantic atmosphere. Thank you guys:)