Bourbon and Branch

A trailblazer of San Francisco's current cocktail scene, this Prohibition-themed spot pours a wide selection of spirits, alongside a robust menu of classics and twists thereon. The Branch also offers classes at its Beverage Academy (beverageacademy.com) and serves flights of culinary-style cocktails in the adjacent Wilson Bar. In speakeasy tradition, reservations and a daily password are required for entry, so call or email ahead. However, on many Fridays and Saturdays, one of the bar's many rooms, the Library, opens for those without reservations. The bar does not serve food.