Hello, hello, hello
Can you believe it’s already December? 2018 is quickly coming to an end, but I feel like there is still so much left to be done, said, seen & heard.
I’ve been taking some time off from VivaLaFox X VivaLaVino – needed to answer a lot of the “whys” from this past year. But back to it being December…there are so many reasons why I love this time of the year from: the lights on the trees, scents of cinnamon and pine, sounds of music in the streets, holiday parties, and don’t forget the food x cocktails.
This post is inspired by a recent girls night out. Last Tuesday, a good friend of mine and I met up for a drink, but with no where in particular to go, we brainstormed for a quick minute. What type of ambiance we’re we in the mood for? What was it that we wanted to drink? Where in the city did we want to be taken to?
We narrowed it down to a location that was: dimly lit, not one of our regular spots, somewhere with Christmas music, and made a darn good martini.
Side Note 1: Martinis are a desire of mine in December. Nothing sounds more divine than sitting at the bar, Christmas lights twinkling above, listening to the rain fall sweetly outside, raising a chilled glass to your lips, and experiencing the lingering, smooth finish that is a both briney & sweet. They can be dirty & nice.
Side Note 2: I realized I have yet to do a formal VIVALAVINO approved ‘guide’ of where to grab a drink(s) in San Francisco, so here is the first of many to come.
Our first stop, Top of the Mark, in Nob Hill. It’s one of the older hotels in the city; with a romantic backstory. It’s been said, that before returning back to the Navy/Army, men would take their partners to the “Top of the Mark” to admire the view in one long-last embrace, and point out at their ships and say “When we return, look out for that ship…” BUT the bar on the 19th floor is also known for their selection of specialty Martinis.
P.S. Keep reading why you should go to Top of the Mark for a Martini.
Next stop was the Fairmont Hotel. I love this Hotel. There are so many hidden corners for one to rendezvous – all types of rendezvousing. Feeling fun: Tonga Room (go for Rum cocktails), Sweet: Backyard Terrace & Tea Room, Flirty: The long hallways & climbing stairs over the Laurel Court, Relaxed: Tony Bennett room. We sat in the lobby, beside the Gingerbread House exhibit and underneath the towering Christmas tree.
Looking for a place with a view, history & feeling fancy?
- Top of the Mark. Order their Foggy Martini. On a clear day, it costs $40, on a day with Karl in town, $30. Unlike most martinis, this one is made with Hangar 1 Vodka, Dry Vermouth, and muddled grapes. Delicious, but not dirty enough for my liking.
Looking for somewhere to rendezvous, as mentioned above?
- Fairmont Hotel. Any drink you order will be made well, but their Hendricks Martini made dirty, is thirst quenching. They use the brine juice from the olive jars, rather than at Top of the Mark which uses pre-batched brine juice. This was my favorite of the two that evening.
Looking for somewhere to have dinner, maybe celebrate some exciting news?
- House of Prime Rib. 1 vodka Martini, garnished with olives & blue cheese is all you need. They serve you your martini already poured (as expected), but along with the cocktail shaker for martini 2, and 3.
House of Prime Rib, Martini 2
House of Prime Rib Martini
Looking for somewhere downtown? A pub vibe where you can go after work, watch the football game, drink, laugh and eat authentic Irish food with friends?
- Irish Bank. Where I first fell in love with martinis in December, nestled downtown with a homey vibe, and seated patio in an alley. They make it real filthy upon request. I mean literally pour in olive juice, minimal ice, good vodka. Reasonably priced too.
On a date?
- Pacific Cocktail Haven. Order the Pornstar Martini. Not always on the menu, but available upon request. Served with a side of sparkling wine, this cocktail is made with Elyx Vodka, Passion fruit, Vanilla & citrus. Trust me, this cocktail is all sorts of rights.
VivaLaFox 