San Francisco Guide to Drinking
Name: Cantina
Address: 580 Sutter St.

As the new kid on the block in the Union Square area, Cantina bar and lounge is raising a few eyebrows (in a good way) all over the neighborhood. As the replacement for a slightly less appealing lounge, this new hot spot (which lacks a sign) has really shown what a splash of paint, Latin inspired décor, and a determined set of partners can do! MetroWize had the chance to hang out under Cantina’s canopy-covered couch to get the scoop on the latest addition to Downtown San Francisco.

Cantina, which is Spanish for bar, is so much more than just that. Not only do they serve up some of the most original drinks and have a regular DJ spinning combinations of Funk, Latin Soul, and Salsa among other genres, but also they play host to a number of artists’ work. Proprietors Duggan and Kristina McDonnell, Aaron Prentice, and Christene Larsen have created a cocktail and art lover’s space, although the colorful décor of Cantina is perfect for all types. Whether you prefer to sit on the tree stump stools to chat with mates or at the bar where locals are often found having group conversations from across the bar, there is plenty of room for all.

With the revamped look, extra seating, and knowledgeable mixologists, Cantina has replaced the previous bar with such grace that some might soon forget it hasn’t been there all along. The faint memory of the minimal décor and insufficient seating of Lucid, briefly open just over a year, barely remains as Cantina has quickly taken over and showed that they are not going anywhere.

Now, on to the best part – the drinks! The extensive menu is filled with crazy concoctions, one of the most popular being the “Laughing Buddha”. The “Buddha” is comprised of Hangar One Buddha’s Hand vodka, lime, and ginger brew with crushed ginger and Serrano chilies. Another favorite of the regulars is the Blackberry & Cabernet Caipirinha. Made with Beleza Pura Cachaça, lime and orange juice, Driscoll Farm blackberries, and Rutherford Ranch cabernet, this one is made by the pitcher and will ensure you don’t leave sober. If it’s beer or wine you prefer, they have that too! And instead of the usual bar nuts, Cantina offers small bowls of pumpkin seeds covered in tasty spices. With an array of drinks, music, and art, Cantina sets the bar for any future nightlife additions to Downtown San Francisco (pun intended).

Be sure to check out their website for information on upcoming tasting events.

Cantina
415.398.0195
www.cantinasf.com