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Single in the season of love? Our writers name the best Singles Scenes (with couples cordially invited) in the world’s coolest cities—think of it as romance with a buzz, on Valentine’s Day or any day.
Best Singles Scenes in....
Best Singles Scenes
San Francisco
The Ambassador 673 Geary St., Tenderloin, 415-563-8192 ambassador415.com
The Draw: This sweeping Tenderloin bar and lounge embodies swank, featuring a marble-topped bar, high ceilings adorned with a cluster of sparkling chandeliers, and lots of exposed brick. With its pitch-black walls and masculine feel, the space simply oozes sex appeal. The Scene: A young, well-dressed crowd gathers here most nights of the week (although Thursdays tend to be the biggest night). The Ambassador has a nice selection of specialty cocktails to get the party going, as well as a short list of nibbles. Most people come here to imbibe, though, as a DJ at the front of the room spins tunes. Most of the action happens downstairs on the main floor, but head to the upstairs level to get a birds-eye view of the scene. Hot Tip: If you’re with a big group, call ahead to reserve one of the high-backed black leather booths for you and your friends. You’ll get a seat in the center of the action—and a phone that connects to the wait staff to fulfill your every whim on call.
Bin 38 3232 Scott St., Marina, 415-567-3838 bin38.com
The Draw: The Marina’s prettiest people flock to Bin 38 for its list of 51 wines by the glass, menu of vino-friendly nibbles—and people watching, of course. With its ample selection of wines and three distinctly different seating areas, Bin 38 has a little bit of something for everyone. The Scene: Singles hang around the bar in front, ordering cheese and charcuterie plates, alongside glasses of Pinot Noir. On weekends, the narrow bar area can get somewhat crowded, but it’s all the better for striking up a connection. In the back room, there’s seating for larger parties, which includes private alcoves sporting cushy banquettes for one-on-one conversations. Hot Tip: Don’t forget to check out the spacious heated outdoor patio, which features a fire pit and picnic tables, as there’s always plenty of mingling going on.
The Draw: Monk’s Kettle is the beer lover’s answer to the wine bar, offering a fine mix of Belgian, German, and Californian craft beers (among others). Ladies looking for a man’s man—with a taste for the finer things in life—need look no further than this Mission hideaway. The Scene: This gastropub is cozy and simply sophisticated without being at all pretentious; there’s a large mahogany bar outfitted with shelves of glassware (each beer is served in its traditional glass), while a few tables and booths line the perimeter. Beer connoisseurs sidle up to the bar to try brews ranging from IPAs to ales to stouts, while larger groups linger in back. Hot Tip: The gigantic pretzel, served with stone-ground mustard and a rich homemade cheddar-ale sauce, is not only addictive, but a good conversation starter as well.
