CAV Wine Bar & Kitchen

(Upper Market)
1666 Market St.  
415-437-1770 Map it
www.cavwinebar.com

$$-$$$
California
bar scene, dine at the bar, good for groups, notable wine list

SCENE: Former Hayes & Vine owner Pamela Busch has brought her philosophy of “drinking outside the box” to Upper Market. Just steps from Zuni Cafe, this urbane wine bar is decked out in crimson and steel and filled with wine enthusiasts sipping to their hearts’ content. If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of Busch’s weekly flights devoted to lesser-known regions.

EATS: Eclectic plates are offered in both small and large portions. Start with a charcuterie assortment or a salad of delicate greens and truffled mushrooms with the satisfying crunch of sea salt, then move on to orange-scented pork tagine with plump raisins and toasted almonds. It would be silly to pass over the vast cheese selection from around the globe—you are at a wine bar, after all.