The Tastiest Beer, Wine & Spirits in San Francisco

Ferry Plaza Wine Merchant

★★★★☆ 3.8 (460) • $$

"We came in two days in a row to do wine tastings and purchases. This wine bar is one of the shops that closes a bit late than other shops at ferry building market place. So if you want to hang out longer this is the place to be. We had wine tastings on both days, hubby also bought some reserved wines to take to dinners. The selections were great and prices were reasonable. They serve caviar and other finger foods, the Mediterranean mezze was tasty with our wines. Service was very friendly and attentive. I really liked the relaxing vibes. If you are a wine lover you should definitely come in to try some wines and hang out for an hour or two!"

Little Red Window

★★★★☆ 4.1 (42)

"I'm an empanada fan, but I'm also a real picky one. In fact, I'm more often disappointed​ than not. But man, these were amazing! Really loved the dough! It's not thick and doughy. It's on the thinner side, yet substantial enough to contain all that delicious filling. The filling to dough ratio is also on point too. They're not large, but honestly, I don't like those massive overstuffed ones with the filling to dough ratio all off. My favorite was the beef, but the pork and peppers and chicken ones are also great. They're all super tasty without being overly salted. Literally,​ keep your eyes​ out for a little red window. That's where they're taking orders and operating inside a small kiosk. No tables or seating. Just strictly take out from a little red window. So cute! They're not exactly inexpensive at $6.00 each, but they really are good, and some of the best in the Bay!TIP: Frozen empanadas are also available to take and bake at home. I wish I had picked some up!"

Mission Street Oyster Bar & Seafood Restaurant

★★★★☆ 4.1 (779) • $$

"Good food, fast service, chill environment. My friend and I came here on a Friday for lunch and were the only people there (not generally a good sign) but I was pleasantly surprised. The food was good, champagne was cold, and the oysters were fresh. It's a cute little place and parking wasn't bad, we parked around the corner on the street. I ordered the crab cakes as well and they were yummy. Will def be back!"

Wine Impression

★★★★☆ 4.1 (57) • $$

"I was torn, horribly, horribly torn, in my star rating for A Wine Impression. On the plus side, the shop has a nice selection and the owners are incredibly knowledgeable in that comfortable and friendly way that allows for any question. I got a fantastic education on sherries (my new obsession) and spent some delightful time discussing the merits of Greek wines.On the minus side, I had to wait a loooooooooooonnnnnnng time to have that conversation.I've been in A Wine Impression several times now and it seems like a typically nice San Francisco shop in which to browse. The charm and the draw, however, is the knowledge level of it's owners - but there aren't enough of them to go around! If this shop were the size of Vino SF or D&M it might work - but this place gets enough business and has enough space that they really need a couple more passionate salespeople. Should the owners discover a good cloning method and multiply themselves about three times, I will add another star."

Broadway Liquors

★★★★☆ 4.1 (18) • $

"Christmas evening and Broadway Liquors is not only open, but home to $5 highballs to go, 8 different It's It ice cream cookie sandwich flavors to choose from, and a faux eyelash selection better than any beauty store I've ever been in. Commence our final Hoodrat Holiday of 2014.It's Christmas and all my family is 2500 miles away but it's totally cool because I hate holidays and my partner-in-crime, Dana G, and I have planned a Festivus for the record books. Outside is miscreant central but inside is pretty friggin clutch for booze on the run and a number of other really rad items for the anti-holiday of your dreams. We were actually on our way to a really nice orphan x-mas dinner with the nicest group of lesbians you've ever met and their super cute dogs and needed some booze-y provisions (and It's It, naturally) to ensure the evening was a success. They have plenty of wine and bubbles, chilled or room temp, and a decent selection of high gravity party beer. Just be sure the 6er you grab is full as they do sell singles, apparently, so it took us a few tries and a case re-org to get a full pack. They sell these little things called BuzzBalls that look like a mix between a grenade and something you'd stuff your bra only they're filled with 20% alcohol cocktails that fit in your palm. The green one tastes like a margarita you'd get in the suburbs (actually not that bad), the chocolate creamy one is actually delicious and as gross as it looks I'd totally get this again, and there's a red one called a 'Strawberry Rum Job' that we didn't try but got for the party strictly based on name alone. The counter guy was totally with it and new his inventory like the back of his hand. We walked up asked for bobby pins (located behind the counter) and her knew exactly what we were talking about. That paired with the (literal) hundreds of faux eyelashes makes this my favorite one-stop shot for a Hoodrat Holiday with bonus hot mess pre-game."

William Cross Wine Merchants & Wine Bar

★★★★☆ 4.4 (119) • $$

"I love this place. I really didn't want to write review because I don't want anyone to know about it. It's literally a hidden gem. My new neighborhood bar well technically it's a wine store with a small wine bar in the back of the store. I love the people that work here. So knowledgeable and a nice heavy pour. The have wines by the glass or Stiegl beer on tap. They also have bottles of beer. They also do wine flights. Just check the board. And cheese, crackers, meats, olives, and chocolate to buy. Whatever you don't finish they wrap up for you to take home. Their wine selection is fantastic. You can buy a bottle and drink in the back bar or take it out in the back patio. Dogs are welcome as well as babies. They have board games to play too. Every time I come here I always make new friends from all over the city. Come have a glass of wine with me!! Lol"

Oceana Market

★★★★☆ 3.9 (180) • $$$

"Feels like I've been coming here forever.Amazing chocolate selection. And amazing cheese selection.Organic produce is available. Many international ingredients available.Great selection of vegan and non-dairy food.Staff here is amazing."

Mike's Liquors

★★★★★ 4.6 (105) • $$

"Mike's Liquor is a hidden gem where you can find interesting aged California wines. Based on their location and store front, you would never guess that have older vintages of some premium Cabs that you cannot find at bigger and nicer wine stores like K&L or Wine Club. Prices as of Dec 2007:$117 - 2003 Insignia$82 - 2000 Silver Oak Napa Valley$85 - 1998 QuintessaThe manager (owner?) here is surprisingly very knowledgeable about wine. He was honest, admitting 1998 was not a good year for Napa Cabs. While Mike's Liqour cannot substitute my trips to K&L, it is a good place to know."

G N G Liquors

★★★☆☆ 2.7 (15) • $$

"Before going to work... Sometimes I come here to buy myself some sodas and also bought myself a mini size bottle of Moet Champagne you can take a look at my posted picture!!!This is G N G liquor store is a good place to shop at!!! When you need to buy Champagne o a Bottle of Beer or Sodas but it depends what kind of Champagne, Beer, Soda sometimes they may not have it!!! Another thing what I buy sometimes is the Lottery Scratchers or the Mega Millions!!!If your here as tourist visiting from another country or another US State of America try going to the G N G Liquor store it's good place to shop at when needing to buy a bottle a champagne or beer!!!"

Woody's Liquor Store

★★★★☆ 3.6 (8) • $$

"Ever since I moved to the area, this is my corner store to grab candy and the guy who work is friendly. Stop by here when I need something to chew on while I wait at the bus stop. They have kinder chocolate here and it is one of my favorite! Clean store, I am sure you can find most simple stuff you need in here!"

The Whisky Shop

★★★★☆ 4.4 (103) • $$

"Before this pesky pandemic hitI dreamed of returning to Scotland.Drinking scotch until I lose my wit,all troubles and worries forgotten.But alas, covid, here we are.My house, a penitentiary.But though I cannot travel farI can bring Scotland to me.Enter this fine establishment a dreamy selection of whisky.And the staff, truly heaven-sent.Their persuasion is a little risky!George, thank you for your suggestionthe Edradour was the best I've ever tasted.Trust everything George says without question.A visit to the Whisky Shop is never time wasted."

San Francisco Wine Trading Company

★★★★☆ 4.4 (132) • $$

"Excellent resource for rare and hard to find whiskeys of the world. I've made 3 purchases from these guys and their customer service and attention to detail is superb. Never been disappointed, I usually find what I need and I only resort to this route as a last option when all other local stores fail. This is the second bottle of Midleton I've bought so they always have stock, they even have the unicorn-rare Midleton Barry Crockett Legacy which is virtually impossible to find on the shelves. If you're an Irish Whiskey fan bookmark this site, they will come in handy one of these days.Regular follow up and status on your order by email with full tracking. Ground shipping to the Nashville area is $32 for the first bottle, $40 if you buy any two bottles. You will need to be at home to sign for your order, no exceptions."

Rutily's Market & Deli

★★★★★ 4.6 (121) • $$

"Small corner bodega with a little deli inside. One of the owners, Georgina, was working and is so sweet! She makes all of the salads and also some homemade middle eastern dishes like babaganoush and tabouleh. I ordered a turkey sandwich that was huge! I had half for lunch and half for dinner it was so big, and only $13!"

Fred's Liquor & Delicatessen

★★★★☆ 3.6 (25) • $

"This place is rad! I stumbled upon it while heading to the 24-hour Safeway for booze on the way home from work. I get out at midnight in the East Bay so there's never anything open when I want to pick up something to take home. The place gas a great selection (although no vegan ice cream?!) but great booze selection! I'm stoked to have stumbled upon this gem!"

Judah Ninth Avenue Liquors

★★★★★ 4.6 (36) • $

"Hospitality at it's finest. I needed change for a MUNI fare. Grabbed a bag of M&Ms because I was uncomfortable just asking for change. The person behind the counter was genuinely nice. I felt like I could run in there for help for any reason and feel taken care of. Just like the days of old."

New Daly City Market

★★★★☆ 4.4 (174) • $$

"Been coming to this spot for YEARS since it's a local gem in the neighborhood. Amazing sandwiches that never disappoint. My go-to is their pastrami on Dutch crunch with "the works." Their garlic spread truly gives it that signature flavor!"

Dapper Beer Wine Coffee

★★★★★ 5 (4)

"Dapper is the best! The owner, Matt, is so sweet and always stocks the best selections of wines, champagnes, and rose! High quality, delicious and interesting assortment of drinks. There are high-end snacks, candy, and some essentials too (milk, cheese, eggs). Love this neighborhood spot!"

Park Presidio Liquors

★★★★☆ 3.8 (21) • $$

"My favorite of the many Richmond corner stores. Great selection of random items. All the folks here are great. Just the right level of interaction, friendly but I won't get stuck here in a conversation too long. The most convenient of convenience stores."

Friends Liquor

★★★☆☆ 2.8 (32) • $$

"I'm only giving it four stars cause I didn't have a chance to try the sandwiches, but everything smelled amazing! I just got in for water and some gum, and the clerk was super friendly and pleasant and I really wanted to get a sandwich but I was already full from an earlier lunch. But they had a really amazing variety of snacks. I ended up getting some random cookies and some red vines and some other things. But all of the sandwich stuff smelled so good! I'm looking forward to going back. However, the store had all of the basics that a corner store could have and then some. When I make it back to get sandwiches, I'll update!"

George’s Market

★★★★★ 4.5 (22) • $

"The music that always blares out of this cool little liquor store makes waiting half an hour for the 37 bus almost fun.Excellent liquor selection, and amazingly friendly guys. Also, they have a non-bank ATM that you'll definitely end up using if you're hanging out at Amber or the Transfer."

Bitters & Bottles

★★★★★ 4.9 (168) • $$

"We stumbled upon this place while exploring downtown SSF. They have a great variety of spirits including things like a strawberry gin from Japan that we'd never heard of, let alone seen, before.The prices are slightly high but not outrageous, and frankly, if you want to support local businesses as opposed to big box liquor chains, you can do that here and it won't break your bank.I appreciate the good customer service and knowledgeable staff. We had a bunch of questions about both gin and bourbon and found the staff helpful."

Adel's Wine Cellar

★★★★☆ 3.7 (30) • $$$

"******************************* 936 ******************************* While waiting for Zazie, we walked up this way to venture out and work up our appetite. We randomly ran in this Adel's Wine Cellar because of the gorgeous sunflowers that they sell here. Then I walked in the shop with the though this is just any other neighborhood wine shop. Little that I know to my pleasantly surprise, I saw a decent selection of Barbaresco, Alsace, then I was staring at it. I then complimented the man who ran the shop. He asked if we would like to see more. Hell yeah, I said. He pointed us to the room upstairs. Only if I knew, I was like the kid in a candy shop. I left my lover and started to touching almost every bottle here. The old wold wines selection is freaking AWESOME. It's my kind of wines. Oh my lovers, amazing selection of Grand Cru Bordeaux, Burgundy, Michel Chapoutier, he's the king of Rhone in the last 2 decades - Northern and Southern Rhone, and Sauternes. - 1995 , 1996 M. Chapoutier Chateauneuf-du-Pape La Bernardine, Rhone- 1975 Chateau Palmer, Margaux, Third Growth. Troisieme Grand Cru Classe in 1855. I got a few of these at home and drank a few at Picasso in Bellagio, exquisite. - 1981 Chateau La Mission Haut-Brion, Pessac-Leognan, Cru Classe de Graves in 1959 - I can drink this all day, every day!- 1982 Domaine de Chevalier, Pessac-Leognan, oh LOVE! Think of a kid in a candy shop. Well I don't eat desserts or anything sweet, but I drink fine old word wines. We picked up a few bottles and can't wait to pop it soon. For those who complain about the price points, I beg to be differ. If you want something at BevMo, go there. Adel's Wine Cellar is definitely wine lovers like myself. We know what we want and we get. If you try to compare with Internet price, you got no idea what you will get. There''s no return policy online through brokers. Plus shipping cost, tax, insurance, you end up paying more. That's not including the condition of the bottle. Price changes as the bottle shoulder fills, it can change the bottle price from hundreds to thousands of Dollar. So with this old world wines, you need to know what you are getting. Well, I found my little "candy shop" and I can't wait to come back to visit all my future lovers. For now, I got to drink those lovers in my cellar that we just got from Adel's Wine Cellar. I'll be back.... SOON!P.S. if you are bout to scream at me, I'm not professional, I'm just a level II Somm. That's all. Thank you!"

Sippin'

★★★★★ 4.5 (65) • $$

"2 bars in one venue... smoky down home sports bar below called Bottoms Up. Chic, modern wine bar up top called Sippin'.Eli exemplified service. He was eager to please, affable and recommended amazing wines and whiskey. He explained that the happy hour wines are open bottles which can be quite exceptional.The cabernet sauvignon had structured tannins offset by lush rich dark fruit. The pinot noir was velvety and also gushing with cherry and dark berries. A grest deal for $5 a pour.But it was the armanac like Yamazaki 12--a Japanese whiskey I've longed to taste since it became infamous, that captivated me. Seductively smooth with sultana like sweet fruit and scintillating nose... it was a treat.The meat and cheese board was Parma ham (?), salami, aged white cheddar and baguette for $5.Awesome find in the neighborhood."

Ladora Liquors & Delicatessen

★★★☆☆ 2.5 (10) • $

"ALRIGHT LADORA! I've been coming to this store ALL MY LIFE and the one time this happens to me, I'm finally back in San Bruno and of course I'm gonna give my money to a family own business. We ALWAYS purchase our liquor, cigarettes, cigars, etc. from here and it never disappoints EVER. But this one time I come in after a long drive from Antioch and missed this area, my 5 pack of backwoods was ALL TORN UP! Every Backwood I pulled out was ripped or torn without me unraveling them and my gosh my heart sank. Reminder, I don't mind spending money, but the quality of having any curtesy had me so sad that a place I've been going to all my life ripped me off and knowing that a 5 pack of Backwoods isn't cheap anymore. Maybe I'll only buy my liquor from here only."

Verve Wine

★★★★☆ 4 (39)

"This is the same Verve, as the one from NYC's Tribeca neighborhood. It's one of the new places now amongst other nice shops along Fillmore Street in Pacific Heights. Inside this beautiful new space, you'll find wines from all over the world at varying price points. I saw many in the $20 to $50 price range. Unfortunately, I arrived when they were just about closing, so I didn't get a chance to chat with them extensively, but if you're in the neighborhood, it's worth a peek inside. The huge marble table in the center is a wow-piece! I wish I had a kitchen that would accommodate a huge center table like that.If you want to rose all day this summer, they have a huge offering of rose wines out in front. I love a glass of rose in the warm weather, but I think it's really because I like the attractiveness of the pink blush hue in a wine glass. Their focus is on wines from smaller producers, which make your wine buying excursion ever more interesting. They also pride themselves on service and provide sommelier consults for you on wine selection and wine pairing. You can also book tastings and seminars with their sommeliers."

Cable Car Wine And Spirits

★★★★☆ 4.2 (10) • $

"I've only bought lotto tickets and bottles of water or cans of soda here but the guy behind the counter is super nice!"

Easy Money

★★★★★ 4.9 (58) • $

"Your money can go a long way here!At first when I walked in, I thought it was one of those Chinese owned stores that sold everything useless, plastic, and 'Made in China.' Boy, was I wrong! It looked like an indoor flea market with all brand name items similar to one of those Dollar Stores but even better. When I was inside, I saw delivery people dropping off all sorts of packages.There's tons of stuff everywhere and no space is neglected. I saw lots of stuff for $1 in front of the store and even more bargains inside. Grant it, I was just looking for a pack of smokes, even the prices blew me away. A little old Russian lady helped me out in the front cashier desk and sold me a pack of Marlboro's for $5.50 after tax. Now that's a bargain!You could probably spend hours inside looking at everything the store sells. I didn't go deep into the store to browse through as my car was parked in a metered area and I was looking for a decent place to eat. If I'm in the area again, I'll definitely hit up this place."

The Hollow Cow Market

★★★★☆ 3.6 (69) • $

"Notably cleaner than most convenience stores, they seem to have a decent array of items you'd suspect at eye-popping prices that reflect the tonier neighborhood. They had very little to offer in their deli case and no falafel but then again it was Sunday mid-afternoon.They did have fresh tulips that grabbed my eye, fetchingly displayed in bouquets right outside the shop. The flowers must catch some traffic- if you can find a place to park (degree of neighborhood parking difficulty, 9.3/10).But I had my lucky parking charm with me. That kid really has magical powers making parking spots appear."

Wayne's Liquor

★★★☆☆ 3.1 (15) • $$

"First time I've been to Wayne's liquor in Chinatown on a Saturday afternoon. They have a huge selection of water, variety of beers, wines, liquors, gummy candy, snacks, bananas, and lotto tickets. The staff was really nice when I was there and for their hard liquor the prices are on the lower side on some of stuff such as Hennesey VSOP and Hennesey XO. The place is pretty small as other yelpers had mentioned but everything is clean and neatly organized so you can just get in and out. Friendly staff. If I am in the area I will be back!"

Royal Liquors

★★★★☆ 3.9 (60) • $$

"Great store and location. Sammy the owner is wonderful. Great selection of beer, bourbon, scotch, japanese whiskey such as nikka, hibiki. They also have other brands and Kavalan. Sammy knows his stuff. Great selection of bourbon, rum, vodka, irish whiskey, wines, and a very amazing collection of mini bottles. Royal liquors even has buffalo trace store picks and four roses store picks. Hopeing royal liquors gets more in the future. Keep up the great work!"

Castro Liquor & Wine

★★★☆☆ 2.9 (19) • $$$

"I have a huge soft spot for KD's Liquor. Many a drunken night I have been there when I needed to fulfill my sweet tooth. It's also right on the way home from a bad day when I need some wine. Now, you people that frequent Casto must have seen it and have probably been there at least once. Right on the corner on Castro and Market this is the most convenient place to stop by if you are on your way home drunk and need some munchies or perhaps you get off at the station and just need to pick up some wine on the way home. KD's actually has quite a selection of things for a convenience store and really everyone there is super nice. That is even more amazing when you think of all the drunk people that show up there (I have seen you and maybe been one!)."

Donato Enoteca

★★★★☆ 3.8 • $$$

"I discovered this authentic Italian gem over a year ago, and it has remained my favorite Italian restaurant in the Bay Area! The customer service is consistently outstanding, and every pasta dish is crafted to perfection, cooked to the ideal 'al dente' texture. I can't recommend this place enough!If you appreciate authentic Italian food made the right way, then Donato Enoteca is the spot to be!"

Soma Wines & Spirits

★★★☆☆ 3 (66) • $$$

"It is very obvious that this place has premium prices. YES, you can get that same bottle of liquor at Costco or online for cheaper. Did you really come here to get a good deal on liquor? I would assume you're not a moron and the answer is no.You come here because you need something quick and you happen to be in the area. The area is unforgiving on the weekends (there really isn't much open late) so this place is perfect for a quick stop for some last minute essentials.I come here specifically for their energy drinks. I buy them in bulk off amazon but sometimes we run out so we walk here to get a few before our next order from amazon arrives.The snack and drink selection is great, the place is super clean, and it's open late. I could not ask for anything else."

White Palace Liquor Store

★★★★★ 4.6 (97) • $

"I stopped in and got the Charli Special: mortadella, ham, salami, and cheese. This sandwich was 10/10 of delicious and everything I had hoped for. The deli portion is open until 11pm, so great late night spot!"

Drink Liquor

★★★★☆ 4 (30) • $$

"I came here solely to get the morning paper since I all had was a card. When I walked in, as I do with many stores I walk into, I got sidetracked and decided to buy a couple drinks as well. So I went to the register with my 2 drinks & newspaper at hand, gave the cashier my card, and was quickly told that the CREDIT CARD MINIMUM was $8. Ugh!So for some reason I have issues trying to buy things when I feel like I'm being forced to, so I search around up and down all their aisles and decided on just purchasing a small bottle of Tylenol. My total came to $12 that day ... when all I wanted was a paper. Oh well ... I only have myself to blame, I should've had coins.... and when the charge came up on my statement it said Dirink Liquor; not sure what happened there."