Driftwood

I should be embarrassed that I had not discovered this longtime SoMa bar after all these years, but I refuse to live in regrets. Too exhausting. After all, after nearly two decades of Yelping, you have to forgive me for overlooking a watering hole that really syncs up quite well with my sensibilities. In the late afternoon to the early evening, it's a relaxing, low-key spot.The space is dimly lit but with bright front windows that make it feel welcoming. There are rustic touches to the decor like tree stumps, wooden posts, and maritime paraphernalia strewn about. And you have to love a place that has seat pillows on the bar stools. That's what I call civilized. Anyway, I walked in when I saw a small sandwich board advertising $9 Manhattans.Even though I had not had a Manhattan since the first Clinton administration, I thought I should make an exception (photo: https://yelp.to/Zv2yLb6VGk). In fact, I made a couple of exceptions because the vermouth was smooth and the bourbon quite rich. Plus Chris, the bartender/owner was great company. No surprise that I've been back a couple of times, and the quality of his $13 craft cocktails never wavered.I've had the Oakland Sour, a lovely, rather idiosyncratic concoction with Bok Gin, Cocchi Americano, Lavender Syrup, Lemon, and Egg White (photo: https://yelp.to/jSEmreQlQa). On my last visit, just today, I tried the Good Times, which amusingly looked like a Diet Coke but was instead a smooth, slightly sweetened mix of Four Roses Bourbon, Cherry Heering, Averna, Walnut Bitters, and Orange Bitters over a big ice cube.Periodically there's live music here, but Chris mentioned that there isn't currently a regular schedule. I'd like to come back with Jamie W. for a performance and a cocktail. I also found out Driftwood is a drop-off point for a sustainable seafood subscription service called Sea Forager. To go with its maritime theme, I guess you can pick up a whole fish while you tipple. Glad I found this spot. Like I said, no regrets.COCKTAILS - 5 stars...creatively conceived libations nicely executedAMBIANCE - 4.5 stars...very chill in hereSERVICE - 5 stars...Chris does his job very wellTOTAL - 5 stars...glad I found it as late as I wasRELATED - Exploring western SoMa? Here's a collection of places I've patronized and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2H0vGTV

This place is fantastic! Super welcoming, cozy, and inclusive. Drinks that are reasonably priced and delicious. Great selection. My friends and I happened on this place on a random Fri night and I'm glad we did.

Just wow !!Came here in a Friday nite I had no idea what I was in for It was a total accident that I came here I happened to park right in front of the venue earlier that nite When I came back to my car I was in for an awesome surprise We a saw a live dance off Drag Queen dance off Attitude and all LOL Bartenders were great Crowd was great Vibe was great

A friend recommended this place, particularly for a date spot, and I've been here a few times on the weekends. Love the atmosphere. The drinks are solid and usually are in the $10-$20, if my memory serves right. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable. Will definitely come back again!

Good drinks & aesthetic.There's seating in the first room, bar, and second back room. Disclaimer: I went for a private event.

One of the queer gems in Soma's necklace. Lovely gay-owned cocktail, beer and wine bar with lovely lighting and ambience. Friendly bartenders with a local neigborhood feel and several themed nights - e.g. Jukebox Wednesday. Some nice nooks exist for tucked away conversations and sometimes they have a DJ on the weekends for a real party with a dancefloor space in the back!

This is a great bar that I have been to several times, the latest visit was on Pride Sunday. The bar knows how to throw a party with delicious cocktails, fun music, and good people. They even had free food and the punch with the fresh watermelon was divine!

Stumbled upon this bar and really enjoyed it! Delicious drinks (we tried the mule and whiskey sour) and fun driftwood decor. Was pleasantly surprised to end up there on a night with live music -- the band was bluegrass/folk and fantastic!

Want to know why they call it driftwood? Go to the bathroom and take a few nsfw pics with the wood lol. Amazing drinks and friendly bartenders. One of the better bars in SOMA.

Good vibe, great old fashioned! Chris was a charming bartender. Comfortable environment to hang & chat with friends.