The Alembic
San Francisco, CA 94117
Phone: (415) 666-0822
- Best of Citysearch:
- Bar Menu 2007, Signature Drinks 2007
- Hours:
- Kitchen: Mon-Fri 4pm-12am, Sat-Sun 12pm-12am, Bar: Mon-Fri 4pm-2am, Sat-Sun 12pm-2am
Editorial Review for The Alembic – by Daniel Liszt
The Scene
This one-room escape feels cozy yet spacious thanks to high ceilings, soft lighting and barren mustard walls. Views of the Upper-Haight hubbub are visible from two tall tables in front, while a dizzying list of liquors, beers, and specialty cocktails is squeezed onto a chalkboard above the stained-wood bar.
The Food
Small plates prepared with local ingredients distinguish Alembic from other Haight Street haunts. House-cured salmon sparkles atop toasted sourdough that's spiked with crispy bacon bits and dressed with sweet orange oil. Mussels bathing in a broth of local Blue Belt Bitter beer are bolstered by diced andouille sausage. Juicy lamb burgers with roasted red peppers are not to be missed, their moist sourdough buns spread with tapenade and harissa aioli. A cup of single-press Blue Bottle java and warm fruit compote brimming with chunky apples and smooth apricots are the perfect way to cap the experience.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoNo reservations are accepted.
ParkingFinding a meter on Haight can be hit-or-miss, but there's also a pay lot at Kezar Stadium (on Stanyan, south of Haight Street).
What to DrinkEnjoy tap beers made down the street at Magnolia or a Rob Roy and other classic cocktails.
User Reviews for The Alembic
03/04/2007 Posted by mmmgood7
Although this is basically an adult venue, my husband and I recently took our daughter and 5 nicely dressed girlfriends there for a 17th birthday treat. We were seated in the L-shaped booth. Our waitress was very informative about the various plates. We all partook of the lamb sliders (excellent), the little quesedillas, salmon toasts, and the wonderful skinny fries. It seems they pride themselves on using as much locally grown and organic ingredients as possible. Even my Cosmopolitan was composed of an organic vodka with a wonderful swirl of orange rind! We enjoyed Chocolate Potde Creme and Date Cake for dessert. Everything was nicely presented. The head chef came out of the kitchen to make sure we were happy! The atmosphere is sophisticated, friendly, but not intrusive. The decor is set in earthy brown tones with simple glass votive candles adding sophistication. Seating is limited. Great place for a date.
Pros: original drinks, great small plates, atmosphere
Cons: parking
01/30/2007 Posted by betsy180
The drinks are outrageously high for what you get. The music is drab and sleepy. Step it up Alembic!
Pros: good neighborhood, location
Cons: way overpriced, stuffy staff/owners
