What a cute little place! It was crowded on a Friday evening when we went. We found a spot to sit and both servers were attentive to us immediately. Service was fast but not rushed. We were checked on quietly several times. The bathroom was ok. There was only one and the line was long, but that was to be expected in a crowded place at a busy time of the week. I was surprised to find the sink outside of the bathroom. I guess that's better so that people don't have to wait in line just to wash hands. read more

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Howell's is such a fun spot for a wine bar! I sat upstairs, which had a nice, cozy vibe and felt a little more private than the main area. The service was excellent -- the staff was friendly, attentive, and made the experience really enjoyable. I always enjoy their wine bar menu; they have a great selection of wines that pair perfectly with their small bites. The atmosphere upstairs is relaxed but lively, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out with friends. I'll definitely be coming back to try more from their wine selection! read more

Such a cute and cozy wine bar! Great service and I like their food options too. Cute art. It gets crowded. Quite a few TVs and a cute back patio. read more

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Let's Go! Fabulous wine bar! Nate poured our wine and made sure we were take care of. Kiani is the master of hosting us and keeps us coming back!! read more

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Nice wine bar to sit and chat in for a while. The dessert wine was fantastic and just the right amount of sweet! I forgot the name of it but wish I took a picture before I left. There's a ton of seating inside (two floors) and it wasn't too busy but still very lively on a Thursday night. We stopped here because another bar down the street was way too packed. They have comfy sofa chairs that were fun to sit in. It looked like there was a backyard area too! The decor inside is classy and dim. Ambiance was great. read more

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Met a colleague here for a glass of wine before a nearby networking event. The space is charming and the service was a good blend of friendly but also giving us the space to have a detailed discussion without interruptions. The wine by the glass list was deep and interesting. My colleague had a chilled red from Sonoma (you don't find chilled reds on lists that often), and I had a Spanish Albariño. We were both happy with our choices. If I lived closer to this wine bar, I would definitely want to become a regular--the place has a good vibe and lots of interesting glasses I'd want to try! read more

Date: Saturday, June 17th, 2023 Time: around 1:30pm Party of: 3 I can't recall how we ended up at Howells. My group had just finished up a boozy bottomless brunch and wanted to keep the day going. We walked in and easily grabbed three seats at the end of the bar. We were here for a good 4+ hours. Not sure exactly what we drank the entire time, but I know we all started with different glasses of bubbly. Or maybe one of the glasses was a white wine instead of a sparkling. Some time closer to dinner, one of my friends got hungry, so he ordered the Pigs in a Blanket. He seemed to enjoy them. I recall the bartender being super sweet and friendly. Never made us feel rushed, like he wanted to turn the seats over or anything. Great spot to grab some drinks and snacks. We had a fun time here! REVIEW #3522 read more

Howells - Saturday, June 17th, 2023 - Glasses of wine / bubbly - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Service and ambiance here were AMAZING. Rafael the bartender made us feel like a friend rather than a customer and was joking with my the other customers, my girlfriend, and I. Had some great conversations as well. Very knowledgeable and the drinks were great! read more

Came in at 9:30pm on a Monday (closing time is posted as 12) and the blonde bartender with a trucker hat PROUDLY told us they were closed, despite there being at least 10 people being actively served at the bar. read more

The ambience and food at Howell's is delightful. However, I feel moved to report out on service that I thought was predatory. I was at Howell's for a private event and went to buy a bottle to share with guests at the party. I asked for a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon expecting to get a list of options since the menu was not clear and I thought there may have been an open tab for the party. The bartender never gave me any of options of cab sav and instead rung me up without telling me the price. I only saw the bill after he took my card and the bottle was over $100. I work in a non profit and I definitely don't have the means to drop that much on a bottle. Better communication would have been appreciated here. read more

Such a cool ambiance. Great music, too! This is a perfect place to grab a glass of wine on a first date. There's ample seating at the bar downstairs, and some seating upstairs. About $11 per glass. We had a glass of Sauvignon Blanc & Malbec. The service was prompt. Would go here again! read more

Howells - Downstairs seating - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Fun wine bar with a screen so you can catch the game if you'd like. There's an upstairs seating area too. Dog friendly if you have a well behaved pooch. Super friendly & helpful staff. Pretty good wine selection & Keahi will make a good recommendation if you need. Alfredo, the chef in the kitchen prepares some tasty small bites & their warmed chocolate chip cookie is divine. We shared the arancini & charcuterie with our little group which was the perfect complement to our wine. Love this cozy neighborhood spot! read more

Howells - Arancini - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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The equivalent of "Cheers" in San Fran. Great ambiance and service. Friendly environment. Great selection of wines. Say hi to Raphael behind the bar. read more

Came on a Friday night after dinner and the place was already pretty crowded or poppin. I ordered the rose which was really refreshing and tasted like strawberries! The overall vibe was also really nice and chill and the owner (I think?) or bartender was super nice and has really good service. Would definitely come back again! Nice neighborhood wine bar with chill vibes read more

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My recent visit to Howell's left me utterly shaken and deeply disturbed. As a woman of color, I was appalled by the blatant racism and lack of safety I encountered at this establishment. Upon entering the bar, I was immediately met with stares and unwelcoming glances from the predominantly white crowd. Ignoring the discomfort, I proceeded to the only ONE restroom they have with 2 of my girl friends where we were confronted by a white woman who continued to bang on the door as soon as we got in and physically assaulted us once we opened the door to see what was going on by immediately pulling on our hair as soon as we walked out simply because she couldn't wait her turn. It's very common for women to use the restroom at a bar at the same time especially if it's only one restroom available, but rest assured we did not take that long. It was a terrifying experience to be attacked in such a manner, and what was even more horrifying was the response of the bartenders. Instead of intervening to protect the victims, the bartenders chose to side with the aggressor, who happened to be a regular at the bar. Raphael and the other bartender (bald dude) said to leave because we were "causing a scene", but never once confronted the aggressor as she remained at the bar continuing to being served. They not only excused her violent behavior but also chased away those who tried to defend themselves and others. It was clear that being a regular customer meant more to them than ensuring the safety and well-being of all patrons. Feeling completely vulnerable and unsafe, I attempted to call the police for assistance. However, I quickly realized that the staff would not have our back in this situation. As an Asian woman, I felt completely isolated and helpless in a space surrounded by all white individuals who failed to recognize my right to safety and dignity. This experience at Howell's in the Marina in San Francisco was nothing short of horrendous. The combination of racism, violence, discrimination, and lack of support from the staff made it clear that this is not a place where anyone, especially women of color, should feel safe or welcome. I urge others to reconsider patronizing this establishment until they address these deeply ingrained issues and prioritize the safety and well-being of all patrons, regardless of race or background. WILL NOT BE RETURNING HERE EVER!! read more

Howells - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Visited this great local spot with coworkers recently. Howells has a warm and inviting ambiance. They have a robust menu of drinks and snacks. The staff here is very friendly and attentive. Really like the impossible burger sliders here, very juicy and flavorful. Would definitely come back again when I'm in the neighborhood! read more

Howells - Delicious impossible burger slider. Juicy and flavorful! - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

I met a friend here on a Friday around 6:30pm and it was very crowded but we ended up being able to snag two seats at the bar. I think it was more crowded than normal since the second floor was booked for a private party. It was a little loud and hard to have a conversation but the wine was good and the service was friendly. read more

A small bar nestled in the busy Chestnut St corridor. The space and ambiance are really it's selling point. Staff was really nice and always checked on our table. Sat near the window and there was a lovely breeze. And even though there were people around me chatting, there wasn't a lot of misc noise (we've all been there--at a random bar and almost yelling trying to hear the other person). Ended up getting the Lagunitas Hop and even though it wasn't alcoholic, it was poured into a wine glass which I thought was really nice. A great casual place to hang out. read more

A long overdue review.. .. Howells is a neighborhood gem and the owner Nate is amazing!! I love Howells!! I've known Nate for several years & always try to bring friends visiting from out of town. The wine list changes often and I usually like to take recommendations from Nate. The bartenders are so much fun and great to chat with! The food is consistently delicious & the ambience is perfect for any occasion!! read more

Disclaimer this review is based just on the wine. Howells is a cozy little spot right on Chestnut Street. The space may seem small when you first look at it, but there is a second level to it! They have a decent amount of wines to choose from and the staff definitely were very knowledgeable. It is also a super quiet and chill place to get a drink compared to most of the other spots around. The food menu was small but most of the items seemed pretty good. Would definitely want to come back for more wine and maybe some nibbles. read more

Pretty decent wine bar with two levels. I believe they also have a private room of some sort. They have a good amount of wine options. I think the atmosphere was a little on the louder side for a wine bar. So a little less intimate but you could definitely still have a conversation. read more

Howells - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

My favorite bar in the city, Raph is unmatched. If you like wine, hell if you don't like wine and just like having a great time, find yourself at Howell's on a Saturday night read more

Nate and team are simply the best. Howells is a great neighborhood spot with a low-key excellent wine list that rotates.

Way more quiet than other bars on the street, but they have this amazing rose. We got a bottle of it for $60. The space is nice, and the fact that it wasn't crowded was actually kind of nice. Really good service. Only 1 restroom though. I would stop by again. read more

Howells - This sparkling rose is delicious - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Really great space - fairly narrow with two floors, but it doesn't feel super cramped. The design is modern and sleek which I liked and the service was awesome. We met the owner last night and he was great. Drinks and food came out super quick which is always a plus. read more

Howell's is small, trendy, and smack in the middle of The Marina. Dim lighting. Mainly bar seating. It's a good place to meet a Bumble date for a glass of wine to pretend that you're classy and don't secretly want to down the entire glass in two seconds to get out of the awkward date. The Pinot I ordered was good. Easy to drink. Smooth. Fruity. Hints of strawberry and all that jazz. My only complaint is that I ordered a glass of wine and assumed (my bad) that I was ordering the smallest portion priced at $10 (3oz). They didn't ask me to specify size and poured a 6oz glass priced at $16. I'd gladly pay that at wine tasting. I'd gladly pay that at the Ritz Carlton. I probably would never order a $16 glass of wine at some random bar in the Marina. Small complaint, but I just wish they would have clarified before the pour. Long story short, it's a good date spot. Just make sure to specify the size and price you are choosing so you don't get shocked at the bill. read more

I will not return to Howells and would not recommend to any group of women because it is not a safe place to go unless you are one of the white regulars. When my friends were here we tried this wine bar and left a great tip for the bartender. Things were going fine until we went to the restroom. While they used the bathroom a woman banged the door and yelled. As soon as my friends opened the door to exit that woman forced her way into the bathroom and while doing so she assaulted two of my female friends by pulling their hair as they were trying to leave. Other patrons looked on and did not intervene. The bartender approached us and right then the woman who pulled two of my friends's hair locked herself in the bathroom to avoid the bartender. The bartender told us not to make a scene and that she was a regular so we needed to leave and could not pursue charges. He excused her behavior and refused to listen. The fact that the staff at this bar could turn a blind eye to this encounter because she was a regular is proof that they do not value the business of anyone beside their white regular crowd. I'm disappointed and would not recommend anyone support this business. They really deserve no stars but for the sake of leaving feedback Yelp requires one star read more

Favorite wine bar ...not just saying because we are close friends with the owners but this place has such a nice warm vibe, carefully selected wine/bubbly and delicious impossible burgers. Hubs has been coming to the bar to watch the game on TV screen w the guys. There is a newly built back patio is set up with outdoor mani pedi stations which would be perfect to host an event read more

I was on a trip in sf and planning to go meet up here with some friends, it was going to be my first time. But my friends who were already there started texting me that they were being harassed by another customer there (pictured). They were really upset, and understandably so, the woman pulled my friends hair and shoved them as they were exiting the restroom! I asked if they asked the staff for help. Having worked in a bar in sf before, where we (the staff) would not allow such behavior and take action towards aggressors like this aka she would be asked to leave bc putting your hands on a customer is an immediate 86. Just not okay under any circumstances. I've worked in restaurants and nightlife in sf and thought all of us shared this same mindset. Apparently NOT. When my friends approached the bartender to explain the situation he said he could not do anything bc she was a "regular" and asked THEM to leave instead bc "THEY were the ones causing a situation." I was completely baffled. I don't know what it is about being a "regular" that excuses throwing a fit to the point of getting physical. As staff I would think it is your duty to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone in the vicinity. SO, all that to say, I did not end up going, nor will I try to go again. In saving their one "regular" they lost a group of potential patrons. I hope that the staff eventually learn how handle situations like this. read more

The new gem of Westnut & the Marina! Do not come here unless you're into at least one of the following: A) fantastic wine selection B) awesome service from the friendliest and most experienced staff in the neighborhood C) eating (bad-ass Chef Sarah Galloway--Stone's Throw, Spruce) D) great prices E) really good beer selection (Whaaa?!? Yes way!) F) sweet aesthetics G) an all-around fun, neighborhood vibe I've been several times during their soft launch. No surprise that right now it is the hottest wine bar+ in the 94123! read more

Great spot, Friendly staff, great wines that are pretty reasonably priced. Solid snack menu.

This place is a lovely bar and a great atmosphere. I had the pleasure of going here via recommendation and I am so glad I did. The interior is cozy and beautiful with brushed metal fixtures, low warm light, and stylized wood. You have multiple options for where you'd like to sit for the night. They have a great bar near the front and a more intimate sitting area up the stairs into an open loft type space. Their selection is expansive with a bit of something for everyone. Plus, they have a great food menu and snacks for when the kitchen closes. You can tell that the owners care about their customers and enjoy their time when they're at work. Friendly, aesthetic, and delicious. I would definitely recommend making this your go to place. It for sure will be mine every time I come to the city. read more

Hand down, best wine bar in the SF. Owner Nate has done an amazing job at creating a bar that locals want to come back to week after week. The servers all know their wines and can quickly and knowledgeably recommend you a wine that you will love. The bar bites they offer are on point weather you want a cheese plate or to get cozy with some fondue you won't be disappointed. The space is super inviting with lots of natural light but its cozy at the same time with its railroad style layout. Lastly, one of my favorite quirks of the bar is the little "champagne bombs" they pass out periodically throughout the night. Nothing bonds me to a place like a shot of champagne. Howell's thanks for becoming a Marina staple! read more

We wanted to come here to check it out since it's a relatively newer place on Chestnut. Pros: The bartender was super friendly and accomodating and the interior is a pretty nice bar with a cool upstairs area. Cons: While I was excited about the backyard, it looks like they kinda threw a bunch of chairs back there to make it a hangout. If they had more a better setup back there, it would have been really nice. Also, the prices on the wine list show a default price for a 3 oz pour so be sure you're looking at the right price. read more

Quaint, great selection, exceptional service. Howells is such a great wine bar! I love the ambiance and somewhat exclusive and intimate vibe. Howells is on the smaller side, which I personally love. This sweet little wine bar feels refined and sophisticated, full-bodied and well-rounded, yet not too large or overpowering... just how great wine should be! The owner (Nate) is a total gem and took great care of us. There were ~15 of us there for a birthday and it was the perfect space and everyone had a great time. A few ordered the mezze platter and sliders--loved everything. Great wine, food and service! Highly recommend! read more

Laid back and well laid-out ambiance with decent wine selection and wonderful service. Food is ok but nothing special. Will come back for solid location, attentive service, and comfortable layout. Provides a nice chill ambiance in an otherwise pretty hype neighborhood. read more

I absolutely love this bar. I take a lot of clients out for drinks/happy hour and this is the perfect spot for not only that but also for just casual drinks with the boyfriend and/or friends. The service is always impeccable, the food is super tasty and they have such a great selection of wines. I am partial to a dry white and their Sancerre is amazing. Nate really knows his stuff and is so welcome to all the patrons of the bar. Definitely my new favorite spot! read more

For those of in search of a great new wine bar in the marina, look no further than Howells. Established by a wine industry vet, Nate is pouring some fun glasses of vino at this recently opened establishment. For those of you who love people watching, there's a great table set in the front windowsill where you can consume wines from all over the globe and feel like you're doing it outside. There's also a great mezzanine area if you want to host a larger group of people. They are still working on a more developed menu (having opened a couple weeks ago) but, I'd expect the bites to be legit given the already solid charcuterie boards. Pro tip: Howell's is permitted till 2am. This makes it one of the latest closing wine bars in the area. Fantastic staff, great wine list and great music flowing from the speakers. Howell's, welcome to the neighborhood. read more

Howells - Henry Fessy Chardonnay - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

My friends and I were visiting from Texas and stopped in to have a drink. The ambiance is amazing! There is a nice variety of small plates to choose and share with your table and we loved the fondue. The owner and his staff were so welcoming and made sure we were having a good time. The neighborhood seems safe with lots of surrounding things to do. This is a great spot to stop for a drink and socialize. read more

Howells - Wine Bars Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cutest little wine bar in the marina! The bartender was so nice and chatted with my friends and I while we sat at the bar. I'd love to come again for happy hour and have a little snack and sit upstairs. I'll be back! read more