San Francisco

Holbrook House earned its Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, and the list backs it up with real California and French depth in a room that knows what it is. The markups lean steep and there's no dedicated sommelier to guide you through it, but if you know what you're looking for — or you're using this guide — you'll drink very well here.

San Francisco Wine Society is a FiDi wine bar doing more than its footprint suggests — a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, a smart by-the-glass roster, and a vibe that actually rewards slowing down. If you're in the neighborhood and want something better than the obvious hotel bar options, this is the move.

Tavola Rustica punches well above its neighborhood-spot weight class, with a France-and-Italy-focused list that earns its Wine Spectator nod. Show up Wednesday, order the Barolo, and let Jonathan Park talk you into something you wouldn't have picked yourself.

3rd Cousin is the Wild Card in full effect — a neighborhood restaurant on a quiet San Francisco street that has quietly built a Franco-Californian list serious enough to earn national recognition. Send your wine-curious friends here and watch them figure out this city has more going on than Divisadero.

Osso earns its Wine Spectator badge — the California-forward list is well-curated for what it is, and the bottles are stored and served properly. Just go in knowing this is a steakhouse wine list built for comfort, not discovery, and price accordingly.