A Toast to Tastings: The Haute 5 Wine and Charcuterie Bars in San Francisco

Is there anything more satisfying than a good glass of Rioja at the end of the day?  Maybe a glass of Pinot Noir? Perhaps Prosecco? Or might I tempt you by uncorking a Syrah? Whichever varietal is your pleasure, a glass or three of your favorite, alongside a plentiful platter of fresh charcuterie makes a great end to your day or an even better start to your evening. Let today’s Haute 5 Wine and Charcuterie Bars guide you through this vineyard we call San Francisco.

Uva Enoteca

A rustically clean and inviting space in the lower Haight, Uva Enoteca serves up a delightful date night or a casually cool evening with winsome wines and mouth-watering meats. A simple yet elegant space and an abundant wine list coupled with choice charcuterie like Hot Coppa, Speck or Mortadella combine to create a tasty way to imbibe, relax, enjoy and unwind.

Uvo Enoteca is located at 568 Haight St., 415.829.2024

The Hidden Vine

As close to your living room as you’re going to get, The Hidden Vine is intimate, cozy, and off the beaten path. Built around the philosophy that wine is meant to be sipped and deeply enjoyed while bringing people together, HV is a comfy and jovial space reminiscent of my grandmother’s house (in a good way!). The purveyors here are wine enthusiasts to their core and are happy to discuss it in depth while you sip from their large, diverse, and worldly selection. Charcuterie options like Bernina Bresaola, Fra’ Mani Campagnola Pâté, and Fra’ Mani Salame Gentile are appetizing accompaniments.

The Hidden Vine is located at ½ Cosmo Pl., 415.674.3567

Parea

Though mainly considered a Mediterranean wine bar, Parea boasts wines from more than 11 countries. That combined with a comfortably elegant atmosphere, a delicious Greek inspired menu, and a cool clientele ensures this will become your new favorite mid-week pick-me-up. Stop in for a lesson in varietals served along side some savory, bliss-inducing bites.

Parea is located at 795 Valencia St., 415.255.2102

Amelie

Amelie is a sexy little secret in the heart of Nob Hill. Crimson lit and divinely decorated with red accents, this small but busy wine bar has everything a wine lover could want. A full menu with an array of charcuterie to choose from marries beautifully with a glass or a flight. A gorgeous, and boisterous clientele invade on the weekend; so if you are looking for a side of quiet with your glass of Blanc de Blanc, visit Amelie on a weekday.

Amelie is located at 1754 Polk St., 415.292.6916

RN74

Michael Mina, haute San Francisco restaurateur, brings us RN74; the newest must in SF cuisine culture. Forget the wine, the charcuterie menu alone beckons to foodies everywhere. Options like Serrano ham with strawberry membrillo, marcona almonds and arugula, or house-made mortadella with Belgian endive, pistachios and green apple are must-have morsels. An artfully assorted wine list showcased on an old Parisian train board that changes sporadically seals the deal with nostalgic flourish.

RN74 is located at 301 Mission St., 415.543.7474