Bourbon & Branch
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The bar is beautiful, private, and romantic, with wonderful music and decor reminiscent of the early 20th century. Even when you arrive you need a password, i loved that! The cocktails were solid and well-balanced; I particularly enjoyed the Pinhook Rye, neat, which was complex and delicious. Furthermore, the service was outstanding. It was truly one of the best bar experiences I have had.
Bourbon and Branch is a classy but casual spot to grab a drink in the Tenderloin. I went around 11pm on a Friday night without reservation, and got to hang out in the library area which was beautiful. I'm not a huge bourbon fan usually, but the bartender was super friendly and knowledgeable and whipped up a smooth delicious cocktail that I really liked. The folks here love what they do, and it shows. You need a reservation to get a spot in the secret room, but I really enjoyed the walk-in library area too. Great for chatting, as it didn't seem rowdy and was on the chill side. Would love to come back again and try more drinks!
Listen y'all. I LOVE visiting a good speak easy. I ESPECIALLY love when there are codes to get in and out. I appreciate it EVEN MORE when the workers DRESS UP (I nearly said cosplay) IN PROHIBITION ERA CLOTHING!! OMG!! The drinks here are strong. The decor is rustic - peep the gorgeous tin roof!! Definitely make reservations and pay attention to the pass codes!! BE PATIENT. BE KIND. BE READY TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY CAUSE THESE DRINKS WILL LEAVE YOU TWISTED!! But hold on, this place was an ACTUAL SPEAKEASY during prohibition!
Decided to stop in for a first time experience.. walked in and the bartender was in full conversation for the entire ten min we were there -- didn't acknowledge us and continued to engage in the conversation even after making eye contact with us. At that point we didn't feel welcomed nor the hospitality so left without being able to order. Also people in the establishment were on their phones despite what the "house rules" said. Ambiance is dark, moody, would have loved to experience this speakeasy but unfortunately maybe I needed a password to get in and another to speak with the bartender.
I reserved this place by mistake but when I figured it out, it was too late to cancel and I'm glad I didn't. We were out for a birthday dinner so we started here first for a pre dinner drink. The location where its located is a little sketchy so be safe. I'm used to be in places like that so we were good. The place has low lighting and wonderful decor inside. You would definitely not know that is place looks so cool inside based on the outside. We just ordered one round of drinks that included an regular old fashion, Black Duck, Blind Fury, a wine, and the mirror to the soul. Everyone in our party enjoyed their drinks and the ambience. It wasn't that busy but our waiter was still good. Drinks are a little expensive but you expect that from a speakeasy.
Nice speakeasy in tenderloin area of sf. No sign outside. But once you walk insides it's a nice dark library like enviro. Deep reds and ambient low light. Has a speakeasy behind a side door for bigger menu and more space. Service was cool. Ice menu of drinks and creative cocktailing. Add this to the list for sure.
This was so fun!! The lights are very dim so it's a little difficult to read the menu but our waitress was fantastic and helped give great recommendations. I brought my mom here and she loved it, will definitely be back!
Ambiance: it's a cool and quiet speakeasy, with two hidden doors on different side of the establishment, reservation is recommended if you want to experience the secret bar room, otherwise the library style lobby is good for walk-ins Service: it depends on which bar tender and server you're ended up with, not all the same, some are nicer, but some are pretentious Drink: limited choices in the library, and full menu book in the secret bar room, which is divided into two sessions by stairs Mirror to the Soul - **** White rum, pineapple, apricot, lime, peach bitters, citrusy and easy to drink, recommend JACK RABBIT - **** Bourbon, Strawberry, Lemon, Angostura Bitters, Black Pepper, Ginger Beer and Absinthe, stronger on spirit, bold flavors, recommend Price: premium quality and affordable prices, each cocktail drink costs about $20
We visited the Wilson & Wilson at Bourbon & Branch to celebrate my husband's birthday. While the cocktails were good quality and the atmosphere was cool, the service unfortunately soured the evening. We had a 1.5-hour reservation starting at 8:00 PM (confirmed for a 9:30 PM end time), but at 8:50 PM, the bartender told us we had to leave by 9:00 PM. We were already finishing up, but i politely mentioned that our confirmation stated a 90-minute slot and tried to show him the email just so they were aware for future guests. Instead of a professional correction, the bartender argued with us, insisted we only had an hour, and told us we had to go. We didn't want to escalate or ruin the birthday mood, so we just paid and left. It was an unnecessarily tense end to what should have been a fun night.
This place has been on my list for about six years or so, and I finally got to try it! I made a reservation in advance for 6pm on a Thursday, and it was pretty empty. The entrance was very easy to find, although I didn't think the buzzer was working, because I just heard a staticky noise, and then someone opened the door about a minute later. We presented our IDs at the door as well as the password. Upon entering, it took my eyes a bit to get adjusted since it's quite dark inside. Note that flash photography is not allowed. We walked past the bar, straight through to the back where we sat in a booth that had a handy lamp to let us see our menus better. Speaking of the menu, it's quite large! I appreciated that our server explained everything to us, and I liked that there were pages for boozy versus lighter drinks as well as a page for non-alcoholic drinks. I ordered the Jack Rabbit, since it was one of the recommended ones, but to be honest, I didn't like it (just personal taste) since it wasn't boozy at all and it was kind of sweet. I got to try a couple of my friends' cocktails, and I liked Little Saigon which was like a boozy Manhattan. I also liked Fourth Regiment which had rye and celery/angostura/orange bitters. After paying our check, the hostess led us to the bar in the next room (The Library) which was hidden behind a bookshelf that the hostess opened for us by moving a stack of books. Sadly we had to make it to dinner so we weren't able to stay, but the menu in The Library looked interesting and we would have loved to stay there if we could!
My friend and I were having a girls night and decided to come to this speakeasy. We didn't have a reservation but they were not busy so we were allowed in! The drinks were great and the atmosphere is very dim. We also were able to go into the library which was also a great experience. The staff was friendly and very interactive with the guests at the bar!
Located in the Tenderloin, so the walk over can feel a bit sketchy -- but once you're inside, it's a whole different world. Dim, moody interior with vintage speakeasy vibes. I especially loved the spiky ceiling lamps -- super atmospheric. Cocktails were solid, not mind-blowing, but the setting makes it worth the visit.
Reviews are largely positive. People praise the Prohibition-era ambiance, creative cocktails, and knowledgeable staff. The immersive password experience is also a highlight.
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12 days ago
Have previously gone to the library and loved the ambiance and drinks. Reserved at Bourbon and Branch this time around and was not disappointed. The experience was immaculate from the vibes down to the service and drinks. Staff was very knowledgeable about the menu (it was huge!). Furthermore they were very attentive throughout our time there. My friend didn't enjoy one of their drinks as much and they replaced it free of charge. Definitely will be coming back and will recommend it to others. Side note: the first crush (a drink) was very reminiscent of one's first crush. I loved the attention to detail they had and enjoyed reading through their menu. read more
Services was impressive, from both the hostess & our server. Ambiance is top notch! Music & conversations! Definitely did not check my email for the secret word of the day missed out on that experience. But of course I had a reservation. Drinks were very good! What an extensive cocktail menu! read more
Checked out this speakeasy while in SF last year. It wasn't too hard to find and I think my friend was able to make reservations. There was another room, so it was a bit confusing, but I think that one was for dining. The bartender wasn't too friendly at first, but warmed up after a few minutes. He was able to make some refreshing mocktails! The vibe here is dark and moody. The main decor is just the bookshelves. Worth a try if you're in the area! read more
9 months ago
The bar is beautiful, private, and romantic, with wonderful music and decor reminiscent of the early 20th century. Even when you arrive you need a password, i loved that! The cocktails were solid and well-balanced; I particularly enjoyed the Pinhook Rye, neat, which was complex and delicious. Furthermore, the service was outstanding. It was truly one of the best bar experiences I have had. read more
Bourbon and Branch is a classy but casual spot to grab a drink in the Tenderloin. I went around 11pm on a Friday night without reservation, and got to hang out in the library area which was beautiful. I'm not a huge bourbon fan usually, but the bartender was super friendly and knowledgeable and whipped up a smooth delicious cocktail that I really liked. The folks here love what they do, and it shows. You need a reservation to get a spot in the secret room, but I really enjoyed the walk-in library area too. Great for chatting, as it didn't seem rowdy and was on the chill side. Would love to come back again and try more drinks! read more
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Brian S.
Linda, thank you for visiting us this weekend. Our crew certainly…
Listen y'all. I LOVE visiting a good speak easy. I ESPECIALLY love when there are codes to get in and out. I appreciate it EVEN MORE when the workers DRESS UP (I nearly said cosplay) IN PROHIBITION ERA CLOTHING!! OMG!! The drinks here are strong. The decor is rustic - peep the gorgeous tin roof!! Definitely make reservations and pay attention to the pass codes!! BE PATIENT. BE KIND. BE READY TO DRINK RESPONSIBLY CAUSE THESE DRINKS WILL LEAVE YOU TWISTED!! But hold on, this place was an ACTUAL SPEAKEASY during prohibition! read more
1 year ago
Decided to stop in for a first time experience.. walked in and the bartender was in full conversation for the entire ten min we were there -- didn't acknowledge us and continued to engage in the conversation even after making eye contact with us. At that point we didn't feel welcomed nor the hospitality so left without being able to order. Also people in the establishment were on their phones despite what the "house rules" said. Ambiance is dark, moody, would have loved to experience this speakeasy but unfortunately maybe I needed a password to get in and another to speak with the bartender. read more
I reserved this place by mistake but when I figured it out, it was too late to cancel and I'm glad I didn't. We were out for a birthday dinner so we started here first for a pre dinner drink. The location where its located is a little sketchy so be safe. I'm used to be in places like that so we were good. The place has low lighting and wonderful decor inside. You would definitely not know that is place looks so cool inside based on the outside. We just ordered one round of drinks that included an regular old fashion, Black Duck, Blind Fury, a wine, and the mirror to the soul. Everyone in our party enjoyed their drinks and the ambience. It wasn't that busy but our waiter was still good. Drinks are a little expensive but you expect that from a speakeasy. read more
Nice speakeasy in tenderloin area of sf. No sign outside. But once you walk insides it's a nice dark library like enviro. Deep reds and ambient low light. Has a speakeasy behind a side door for bigger menu and more space. Service was cool. Ice menu of drinks and creative cocktailing. Add this to the list for sure. read more
This was so fun!! The lights are very dim so it's a little difficult to read the menu but our waitress was fantastic and helped give great recommendations. I brought my mom here and she loved it, will definitely be back! read more
Ambiance: it's a cool and quiet speakeasy, with two hidden doors on different side of the establishment, reservation is recommended if you want to experience the secret bar room, otherwise the library style lobby is good for walk-ins Service: it depends on which bar tender and server you're ended up with, not all the same, some are nicer, but some are pretentious Drink: limited choices in the library, and full menu book in the secret bar room, which is divided into two sessions by stairs Mirror to the Soul - **** White rum, pineapple, apricot, lime, peach bitters, citrusy and easy to drink, recommend JACK RABBIT - **** Bourbon, Strawberry, Lemon, Angostura Bitters, Black Pepper, Ginger Beer and Absinthe, stronger on spirit, bold flavors, recommend Price: premium quality and affordable prices, each cocktail drink costs about $20 read more
10 months ago
We visited the Wilson & Wilson at Bourbon & Branch to celebrate my husband's birthday. While the cocktails were good quality and the atmosphere was cool, the service unfortunately soured the evening. We had a 1.5-hour reservation starting at 8:00 PM (confirmed for a 9:30 PM end time), but at 8:50 PM, the bartender told us we had to leave by 9:00 PM. We were already finishing up, but i politely mentioned that our confirmation stated a 90-minute slot and tried to show him the email just so they were aware for future guests. Instead of a professional correction, the bartender argued with us, insisted we only had an hour, and told us we had to go. We didn't want to escalate or ruin the birthday mood, so we just paid and left. It was an unnecessarily tense end to what should have been a fun night. read more
2 years ago
This place has been on my list for about six years or so, and I finally got to try it! I made a reservation in advance for 6pm on a Thursday, and it was pretty empty. The entrance was very easy to find, although I didn't think the buzzer was working, because I just heard a staticky noise, and then someone opened the door about a minute later. We presented our IDs at the door as well as the password. Upon entering, it took my eyes a bit to get adjusted since it's quite dark inside. Note that flash photography is not allowed. We walked past the bar, straight through to the back where we sat in a booth that had a handy lamp to let us see our menus better. Speaking of the menu, it's quite large! I appreciated that our server explained everything to us, and I liked that there were pages for boozy versus lighter drinks as well as a page for non-alcoholic drinks. I ordered the Jack Rabbit, since it was one of the recommended ones, but to be honest, I didn't like it (just personal taste) since it wasn't boozy at all and it was kind of sweet. I got to try a couple of my friends' cocktails, and I liked Little Saigon which was like a boozy Manhattan. I also liked Fourth Regiment which had rye and celery/angostura/orange bitters. After paying our check, the hostess led us to the bar in the next room (The Library) which was hidden behind a bookshelf that the hostess opened for us by moving a stack of books. Sadly we had to make it to dinner so we weren't able to stay, but the menu in The Library looked interesting and we would have loved to stay there if we could! read more
My friend and I were having a girls night and decided to come to this speakeasy. We didn't have a reservation but they were not busy so we were allowed in! The drinks were great and the atmosphere is very dim. We also were able to go into the library which was also a great experience. The staff was friendly and very interactive with the guests at the bar! read more
1 year ago
Located in the Tenderloin, so the walk over can feel a bit sketchy -- but once you're inside, it's a whole different world. Dim, moody interior with vintage speakeasy vibes. I especially loved the spiky ceiling lamps -- super atmospheric. Cocktails were solid, not mind-blowing, but the setting makes it worth the visit. read more
Coming here with a group of friends or with one other person brings a different experience. I had a reservation recently with a large group of friends, and we were seated in a private, dimly lit upstairs area where we could still see the bar area below us. The menu they handed to us was well curated, with dozens of pages organizing the drinks by type of liquor and style. I ordered the Bona Fide Lover and Mancora. The Bona Fide Lover was a weaker cocktail that had hints of lemon and honey and was overall delicious. The Mancora drink had a light pineapple taste and was a good supplemental to the conversations we were having among ourselves. I'd love to visit this location again & try another one of their many drinks. read more
3 months ago
1 year ago
After our somewhat leisurely dinner and with at least 59% charged on my phone, I got us a Waymo and we headed over to the infamous speakeasy, Bourbon & Branch. Yes, it's not lost on me that I combined a "futuristic" present with a "storied" past. I always knew about this speakeasy yet never been until now. You do need a password (sent to you when you book your reservation) to enter. We loved the vibe and the drinks were so good. My friend had alcohol and I picked from the non-alcoholic section. There are other speakeasy within this speakeasy, but we didn't explore as I think we needed another reservation and plus, my friend and I just wanted some drinks and to catch up quietly. One thing to note, no flash photography and to keep with the whole speakeasy vibe, I discreetly shot only our drinks and some parts of the interior. A little bit before our 1.5 reserved hours was up, we were asked if we would like to see the library. This is code for "hey, your time is up". We went to the library where I believe you can get more drinks, but we were both tired, so we headed out into the streets of TL and I got us another Waymo that first dropped my friend off at her hotel, and then delivered me home after. Service was nice, informative, and attentive. read more
1 year ago
Pretty cool spot! Speakeasy vibes from the time you approach the door to going in. Dark and moody. Huge selection of cocktails. Bartender was amazing and made an amazing Old Fashion. Highly recommend checking this place out! read more
1 year ago
This is a beautiful speakeasy with a retro vibe and dim lights. The drinks menu is comprehensive and contains both vintage and modern cocktails. Our server was pleasant and fun and gave us a few history lessons too Reservations are required and you will be provided with a password that you will need to enter this establishment. read more
First of all this place is a legit speakeasy! The drinks were great but strong. The service was pretty nice; when you knock on the door you are greeted by a host dressed in 20's era attire which was a great touch. I do really appreiciate the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into these drinks; some were difficult to make but i love that! Make reservations if you can; I was fortunate to get in as I was alone. Parking again I am from out of town so you locals know about your parking situations. Great place will definitely return! read more
I was excited to try this place as I enjoy a secret location with a speakeasy vibe and craft cocktails. I also thought all the house rules ("speak easy" and such) would eliminate the riff raff. I was wrong. This place is LOUD. The music is turned up too high, the bartenders are constantly SLAMMING their shakers and dropping their tools behind the counter, and the groups are hooting and hollering. But it's not a party vibe, again because of the house rules, so it comes off just as inconsistent. My drink was excellent (the Spice Trader with gin) and maybe this would be a fun group excursion but there are a lot of hoops to jump through (making a res, getting a password) when there are plenty of fun places that don't come off as uppity without actually delivering. Also the barstools are incredibly uncomfortable despite looking cool with their metal steampunk vibes. read more
2 years ago
Very nice and intimate bar! We had a reservation and getting in wasn't too difficult. There was a line outside for people that also had a reservation and we waited 10 minutes to get in. Overall will definitely come back! All the seats are booths I believe which is nice :) read more
1 year ago
If you are serious about cocktails, this is an experience that is well worth the visit. Highly recommended for the ambiance and true speakeasy vibe. Anastasia is a true mixologist with a deep knowledge of her craft. Ian is a wonderful maître d' , security and waiter. Do take the exit through the bookcase to the library and have a cocktail expertly crafted by Ben. Only thing I would want to see is couches in the library. Please note that quite rightly this venue does not serve food. read more
After going to Mensho for the best bowl of Ramen I have ever had(see review) we decided to go to a bourbon speakeasy that was close by. I LOVE bourbon and became obsessed during the pandemic. It is uniquely American like baseball. Bourbon & Branch has 3 rooms and there are passwords to get into specific rooms. You have to provide the password at the door like a speakeasy which is fun. We found one for the library bar on their website which has a really cool entrance and ambiance. I think you need to make reservations for the other two which I would highly recommend because they looked COOL. They have all the bourbon so if you are willing to pay you can try some rare stuff. The Library was empty(we were the only ones there on a Sunday around 7) and had some fun bottles. If you want the top shelf stuff you need to go to one of the other rooms. They have drinks specific to that bar and the mixologist we had was not pleased that I ordered an old fashioned and that my wife ordered a NA cocktail called Clean Sneak. Anastacia definitely had an attitude and didn't seem that friendly which was a stark contrast to the guy who was working the door who was super chatty and knowledgeable. No small talk and all business. I think she scared away some out of country tourists. I love to watch the artistry of making the drinks and Anastacia is very talented. Had the old fashioned with Weller Special Reserve which was DELICIOUS and came in at $27 and the Clean Sneak was $16. With sales tax and an employer surcharge came out to $48.58 and that doesn't include tip. You are paying for the ambiance and show so enjoy a fancy night out! read more
3 years ago
We made a stop here on New Year's Eve and had a great experience. This "secret" speakeasy requires a password to enter a dimly lit environment with decor and music of a bygone era, taking you back in time. The service and quality of drinks were outstanding. We got their drink special, basically a fancy pisco punch currently without an official name. It was delish! We also had death in the afternoon (or hemingway champagne) which was delightful. By request, the worker even offered to make a special personalized cocktail, and the bartender delivered... it was exceptional, made to our liking, and strong! The hidden library in the back, with a secret entrance inside the venue, was a nice touch. It had minimal tables and seating and a small bar, as well as a wall full of worn and dusty looking books aligned with the theme of this speakeasy. The bartender shouted at one of the guests "no flash", some idiot clearly violating their no photography policy. They didn't seem that strict about that policy in the library though, moreso concerned about the flash. read more
6 months ago
We were out to dinner when a friend recommended we move the party here. While parking in this area can be difficult, do whatever you can to come out here because it was very very worth it. The service is awesome and makes you really feel like you're back in time when a cocktail was more than just a fun drink. Its an experience and the staff make sure you're along for the ride. All of the recommendations were great and the best was just relying on the staff to find you something. Trust me, they knocked it out of the park several times across 4 different types of drinkers. Finally, the library room is great afterwards. I can't wait to go back! read more
2 years ago
3 years ago
Omg this speakeasy was phenomenal!!! When we travel... we tend to try speakeasy bars and this for us was a 10/10 experience. I will start by reaching about Javi who waited on us and went above and beyond to take care of us. He gave excellent recommendations, great overview of the menu, and even remade me a new cocktail because he wanted me to love my cocktail. Tips: Make a reservation and be sure to check your email for the pass code to enter. I had turned my notifications off because I was on vacation. Follow the house rules. Be sure to check out the library when your time is up. You can take photos in here. read more
I was recommended this place by my nephew who lives in the city. The location is HORRIBLE! No easy place to park plus you don't want to park on the street. Definitely tweakers hitting the glass bowl. Yes they were smoking meth right in front of me. No biggie right? I ended up parking in a parking garage and taking a waymo. Such a cool experience. Autonomous car. We arrived and gave the lady our password. Time to come in. Such a cool atmosphere inside. The drinks were plentiful and full of string spirits. I went with their old fashion and a Chester Copperpot. Who is Chester Copperpot you might ask? Anyone who watches the classic movie Goonies would know. Two drink here definitely doesn't disappoint. I was feeling great. My wife was loving the drinks. As for our server who had the Latin accent, she was super cool and very helpful. Thank you. I can't wait to come back. We have a great chill time. Exactly what the wife and I needed. Thank You! read more
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More info about Bourbon & Branch
501 Jones St
San Francisco, CA 94102
Tenderloin
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(415) 346-1735
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http://www.bourbonandbranch.com
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Ask the Community - Bourbon & Branch
Recommendations on where to eat before?
We ate at this quaint Vietnamese restaurant Le Colonial which is a walking distance from B&B but there are plenty of other reasonably priced restaurant around it.
Do we have to show proof of vaccination?
We didn't have to in early May.. I'd assume it's still the same!
Is this a good place to go if you're by yourself?
Depends on what you're looking for. Not really to socialize too much, except a bit at the small bar, but definitely if you're looking for quiet and secluded relaxation
Is smoking cigars or cigarettes acceptable here?
No. They have a backdoor and allow you in and out to smoke on the street.
What happens if you take a picture?
They REALLY don't like that, but they're reasonable. You'll get a warning first if they catch you but they have the right to ask you to leave because its in the house rules.
Is there a dress code? (I was under the assumption that flapper or prohibition era garb was expected but I can't find any info on this)
Dressing up is not an expectation
I made a reservation on yelp for tonight, but have not received a confirmation. Do they wait until right before your reservation to confirm, or did I miss something?
They usually send the confirmation email shortly after the reservation is confirmed. I would give them a call to make sure it went through
How do you get the password?
It's either on their website or they give you the password when you make the reservation.
Does anyone know if reservations are mandatory or can we walk in?
The Library is used for walk-ins; it is usually jammed & the drink menu is abbreviated. You can make a reservation on the spot, but it is doubtful there will be any last-minute vacancies - if there are, it would probably be in the Wilson & Wilson…
Do they have any food?
Sorry, Donna, they don't serve any food - not even a little snack - it's drinks only. Come with a little food on your stomach.
Review Highlights - Bourbon & Branch
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