Experience the Flavors, Elements and Atmosphere Defining Workshop Kitchen + Bar
Tucked away in downtown San Francisco, Workshop Kitchen + Bar is a vibrant culinary destination bringing people together through its inventive seasonal dishes, craft cocktails, and inviting ambiance. Since opening its doors in 2015, Workshop has earned acclaim for its dedication to sourcing high-quality local ingredients, preparing them with artful finesse, and cultivating a lively yet laidback dining experience.
Step inside Workshop's industrial-chic space, accented by warm lighting and reclaimed wood finishes, and the energy is palpable. Groups of diners chat animatedly over cocktails at the sleek concrete bar while solos scribble notes or tap away on laptops at communal high-top tables. The upbeat, inclusive atmosphere makes Workshop a neighborhood favorite for both intimate gatherings and large celebrations alike.
The Innovative Drinks Menu
Creativity flows not only from Workshop's kitchen, but also from the bar where unique libations are dreamed up using unexpected flavors and techniques. Molecular mixology approaches, including airs, foams, and fusions, make standard spirits sing. Consider the fan-favorite Earl Grey INFUSION with gin, honey, lemon and bergamot, swirled tableside in a teapot and served in dainty teacups. Or for the adventurous, the clever THAI CHILE MARGARITA featuring serrano-infused tequila will set tastebuds ablaze.
Most Popular Signature Cocktails
- Earl Grey Infusion
- Thai Chile Margarita
- Workshop Old Fashioned
- The Last Word
No matter one's preference, Workshop's bar team consistently delights with their appetite for innovation and command of flavor combinations.
The Seasonal, Locally-Sourced Food
Executive Chef April Garcia helms Workshop's kitchen, crafting dishes that allow the region's high-quality organic produce, pasture-raised meats, and sustainably-caught seafood to shine. The menu evolves fluidly based on seasonal availability, providing diners a taste of what's freshest. In spring, peek bright, delicate flavors like aged ham with english peas and baby kale salad. Come winter, heartier dishes like braised beef short ribs with dijon spaetzle soothe and satisfy.
Workshop also showcases lesser-known local vendors and small-production wines and beers. This commitment to local, ethical sourcing creates an experience where diners can truly taste the best of northern California.
Beloved Seasonal Specialties
- Spring - Soft Shell Crab Banh Mi
- Summer - Heirloom Tomato Burrata
- Fall - Seared Duck Breast with Farro Risotto
- Winter - Braised Beef Short Ribs
The welcoming servers gladly offer tasting notes and pairings to supplement Chef April's culinary craft.
Memorable Private Events and Happy Hours
In addition to walk-in dining and reservations, Workshop offers specially-designed menus at discounted prices for private events. The cozy Barrel Room with glass garage doors accommodates 20 seated or 30 standing guests, while the slightly larger Gallery Room hosts events for 45 seated and 80 standing. Consult their events team for pricing and booking.
Pre- or post-event, all are encouraged to stay for Workshop's lively evening happy hours from 9-11pm Tuesday-Sunday. The late-night energy buzzes as DJs spin and the bar slings $5 bites and select cocktails to fuel guests celebrating life's everyday moments.
The Warm, Inclusive Atmosphere
The way Workshop seamlessly brings people together through food and drink also cultivates connections within the broader community. On any given night, tables mingle diverse patrons spanning ages, backgrounds and neighborhoods. Kids giggle over gooey grilled cheese sandwiches while empty nesters swoon over a bottle of Italian red. Groups of tech workers clink glasses with police and fire crews. Solo travelers tap away on laptops alongside couples old and new. The relaxed, come-as-you-are atmosphere makes everyone feel at home.
Workshop also actively gives back to community causes meaningful to its staff and guests. Special prix-fixe menus donate to organizations supporting human rights, climate action, and food access for underserved groups. When dining at Workshop, your support extends beyond merely enjoying an outstanding meal.
As Workshop Kitchen + Bar looks ahead toward its next evolution, Chef April and staff remain committed to their ethos of care towards people, ingredients, and the dining experience. While new initiatives percolate for sourcing hyper-local produce and exploring zero-waste cooking, Workshop's passion for nurturing creativity, community, and conscious hospitality persists. Those searching for a restaurant embodying these values need only step through Workshop's doors to taste, feel, and hear the difference.