San Francisco has recently experienced a surge of renewed energy, showcasing an array of new ideas, businesses, and especially vibrant dining venues.
The Gay Gourmet has been on the move, seeking out the latest establishments for readers eager to explore the best of the City by the Bay.
### Rikki’s Women’s Sports Bar in the Castro
After a long wait, queer women finally have their own gathering spot in San Francisco.
Rikki’s, a stylish women’s sports bar and restaurant, has recently opened its doors in the Castro, designed by owners Danielle Thoe and Sara Yergovich.
Named after Rikki Streicher, a notable figure in the LGBTQ+ community, this establishment is dedicated to women’s sports and is situated at 2223 Market Street, just a short distance from the male-oriented Hi Tops.
Walking into Rikki’s, guests are welcomed by a sophisticated ambiance adorned in deep purples, mirroring the colors of the Golden State Valkyries basketball team.
The left side of the space features a full bar accompanied by high-top tables, while the opposite side boasts seating with a perfect view of over a dozen TV screens, all tuned to women’s sports.
The cocktail menu is diverse, offering a broad selection of spirits, beers on tap, and mocktails, whereas the food menu includes pub-style offerings like smashburgers, fish and chips, and health-conscious salads.
During a recent visit with a friend, we both were thrilled to see such a welcoming space dedicated to women in sports.
Co-owner Danielle emphasized the goal of Rikki’s was more than just a bar; it aims to be a community hub showcasing women’s sports.
As one of the signs at Rikki’s states, everyone is welcome, making it a space for all to enjoy.
### Zingari Italian Steakhouse and Pasta Bar
For those looking for a dining option before catching a show in Union Square, Zingari Italian Steakhouse has re-emerged from renovation, drawing diners with its new and sophisticated atmosphere.
Located in the Donatello Hotel at Mason and Post, Zingari has transformed its interior, featuring an intimate “aperitivo” cocktail bar, live jazz performances on weekends, and a beautifully appointed private room adorned with Italian murals.
Guests attending a theater performance can take advantage of a 10% discount on their meal by simply presenting their ticket.
The cocktail offerings include classic drinks like the well-balanced Negroni, served perfectly chilled with a large ice cube, alongside a delightful Tito’s vodka martini.
As for the food, the cicchetti selection presents delectable options, such as aromatic bruschetta topped with burrata, sweet roasted tomato, and extra virgin olive oil, making for an irresistible starter.
During a recent dining visit, a special carpaccio prepared with tonnato was praised for its outstanding flavor.
For the main course, guests can savor rigatoni con salsiccia pasta, accompanied by flavorful herb sausage, peas, and roasted tomato cream—a truly delightful dish.
To complement the meal, we opted for a dry and earthy Castelvecchi Chianti Classico, which paired perfectly with the main course of grilled, herbed lamb chops drizzled with gorgonzola sauce, and a side of light, homemade gnocchi.
Dessert was passed in favor of espresso martinis, crafted by bartender Tyler, delivering a deliciously creamy indulgence.
For those interested in saving on drinks, Zingari also offers a happy hour with 20% off from noon until 5 pm and again after 9 pm.
### Champagne Billecart-Salmon’s 2012 Vintage of Nicolas François
Recently, a notable event in the world of Champagne took place, showcasing Billecart-Salmon’s new Nicolas François 2012 vintage.
Having visited the winery outside Rheims, France, last fall, I was thrilled at the opportunity to participate in a masterclass led by CEO Mathieu Roland-Billecart.
The masterclass took place at the newly renovated Verjus in Jackson Square, a charming French venue notable for its stunning design.
This new vintage has eagerly garnered attention for its exceptional quality, as it is crafted from top crus of vineyards in Montagne de Reims (pinot noir) and Côte des Blancs (chardonnay).
According to the winery, the 2012 vintage exemplifies a fantastic growing season that resulted in grapes both rich and vibrant in acidity.
Expert tasters agree, with a seamless balance of intensity and depth that defines this wine.
Cheers to hoping European tariffs do not hinder access to what is considered by many to be the finest Champagne available!
### Carlotta’s Cocktail and Wine Bar at the Hotel Julian
The Plush Room at the York Hotel was a beloved venue for cabaret acts, hosting legends such as Rita Moreno and Karen Mason until its closure.
The space has since transformed into Carlotta’s Cocktail and Wine Bar, named after a character from Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film Vertigo.
Located within the Hotel Julian—previously known as the Empire Hotel—Carlotta’s pays homage to the cinematic history surrounding it, including clever nods to the film in its décor, such as a stunning mosaic of Carlotta Valdes.
Opening up to the lobby and an inviting interior courtyard, Carlotta’s has evolved into an expanded lounge and dining area filled with modern flair and vibrant colors.
A new brunch menu launching on June 28 features tempting dishes like corned beef hash, lobster Benedict, and a unique lobster tail Bloody Mary.
An official launch party on June 29 coincides with the Pride Parade, highlighting the excitement around the establishment.
### Erik Piepenburg’s New Book Dining Out
While not a new dining venue, Erik Piepenburg’s book, Dining Out, is an essential read for anyone interested in the culture of LGBTQ+ dining across the country.
Having met Piepenburg when he was researching his book about significant LGBTQ+ restaurants, I found his work to be fascinating.
Dining Out takes readers through a historical journey that celebrates both existing and historically important gay restaurants throughout America.
Piepenburg suggests that a gay restaurant doesn’t necessarily need to be LGBTQ+ owned but rather frequented by the community.
Filled with over 250 engaging pages, the book is a delightful exploration of the impact these establishments have had on queer placemaking and the civil rights movement.
Some San Francisco gems featured in the book include Orphan Andy’s and the original Hamburger Mary’s, alongside an insightful look into the now-closed Compton’s Cafeteria and its significance in LGBTQ history.
Activists are currently advocating for the former Compton’s venue to be transformed into a public space for the LGBTQ+ community.
### Conclusion
David Landis, the writer known as The Gay Gourmet, is a culinary connoisseur, freelance writer, and former public relations expert.
His enthusiasm for this vibrant city’s new dining and social venues is palpable, and he invites readers to explore these wonderful additions to San Francisco’s landscape.
For more insights, you can email David at: [email protected] or visit him online at: https://gaygourmetsf.com/
image source from：sfbaytimes
