The Lush

When it comes to wine, there’s always more to learn. Pick up some more wine knowledge with these fun ‘n’ educational wine events. CELLAR360 at Ghirardelli Square and Courtney Cochran—author and certified sommelier—are hosting HIP TASTES: Blind Tasting Bootcamp on Thursday January 19th from 6pm-8pm. You’ll…

Good news for TWO SISTERS BAR AND BOOKS (and their customers!): starting this Friday January 13th, the Hayes Valley boîte is launching a full cocktail program designed by bartender Michael Cecconi. The list will include four takes on the classic Manhattan, sign me up! Please note they are cash only.…

I was very sorry to hear the GOLD DUST LOUNGE in Union Square is facing eviction. Scoop reports the owner, Tasios Bovis, has been told his lease is cancelled and he is supposed to vacate in the next three months so a Chicago-based clothing company can move in. Um, hello,…

I received word that MURIO’S TROPHY ROOM reopened with its brand-new look and partnership (owner Roger Howell has brought on a new business partner, Edward Sargent). As mentioned in an earlier piece, the new look from Haleh Cunningham and Bernadette Holmes of Thornbird Styling features tufted caramel-colored banquettes, sexy…

Oakland is bizzzeee with the bar openings (and in this case, refreshers)! I just got word about another one to add to the list, THE NEW EASY, which used to be Easy Lounge in the Grand Lake district. The owners decided to change things up after five years, and have…

~COI~ has hired a new sommelier to replace Andrew Mosblech, who left last year. His name is Roland Micu, and he is currently the wine director for La Toque in Napa. He is going to start on January 31st, after COI’s January break the week of January 23rd, when…

The ZINFANDEL ADVOCATES & PRODUCERS FESTIVAL, aka ZAP, is back for the 21st time with a new venue for two events, The Concourse at 8th and Brannan Streets. Thursday January 26th is Epicuria at The Concourse (food and zinfandel pairing), Friday January 27th is the Winemakers’ Dinner at The Westin…

Ready, set, go! SPEED RACK SAN FRANCISCO is looking for the fastest female bartender in the city on Sunday January 8th—be there to see who takes home the title of Miss Speed Rack San Francisco. A national cocktail competition with stops in 10 cities, Speed Rack promotes women in…

Due to open tonight (maybe?) in Emeryville is HONOR BAR, GRILL & COCKTAILS, with bar manager Alex Smith (Gitane) and chef Jordan Grosser (Stag Dining Group). The press release mentions cocktails like the Guy Fawkes (gin, PX sherry, Amaro Montenegro, maraschino, acid phosphate, and absinthe), Porfiriato (tequila, guajillo-infused mezcal, Cocchi…

Two new Oakland projects to watch: opening in the former Sweet Jimmie’s on Broadway is THE NIGHT LIGHT, from owners Douglas Kinsey and John Nackley (they both worked at Radio and Ruby Room, and have known each other for more than 20 years). The lounge is going to have…