The Alembic

This upscale gastropub in the Upper Haight is a favorite for whiskey connoisseurs. Its brief food menu, more of an afterthought to the expertly poured drinks, prudently tours recent trends in high-end comfort food, ticking off each formulaic item designed to make cardiologists grimace. (With bone marrow, pork belly “BLT sliders and whiskey-glazed baby back ribs topped with fried pork rinds, all that’s missing is that familiar bowl of truffle macaroni-and-cheese.) But the presentation is well-above par, the ambiance is relaxed, and patrons are far from complaining. Besides, the real draw of the Alembic is its near Bible-length list of whiskies, brandies, tequilas and liqueurs, not to mention a globe-trotting selection of beers—several of which are over $30 a bottle. One of their menu’s many jaunty idioms, “Take Your Time,” is certainly heeded by the venue’s stylish and relaxed drinkers.