If you like bourbon, go to the Alembic, one of the best of all cocktail bars in San Francisco, and belly up to the bar (made from old Kezar stadium seats) and watch the master mixologists whip up both classic and incredibly original cocktails. Be forewarned that these cocktails take time. You’ll be amazed by the mixing and muddling that goes into each creation. The Alembic is one of those rare spots that can brag about local micro-brews (from Magnolia Pub), delicious artisan cocktails, and finger-lickin’ new American fare. Location-next door to the Red Vic movie house-ain’t bad either. Haight-Ashbury hippies and hipsters come to get their drink on in the saloon-inspired bar that can only be called the neighbourhood’s most posh watering hole. The place redefines “full bar”: With a drink list heavy on rare whiskey, bourbon, and rye, not to mention everything else, the Alembic sees a packed house most every night. What’s the catch? No reservations. For the best shot at a table, come early and on a weeknight or risk a very long wait in the very narrow bar.