Wine lovers in San Francisco have reason to raise a glass with the announcement that Saison Cellar & Wine Bar, an offshoot of the Michelin-adorned Saison, is gearing up to open its doors in June in the SoMa district. Mark Bright, the co-founder of Saison and a bona fide wine aficionado, is at the forefront of this venture, setting up shop just a block away from the highly-praised restaurant on Townsend Street.
The upcoming establishment at 228 and 234 Townsend Street marks Bright's return to a locale with memories of former wine spots Petit Marlowe and Les Clos. Bright's latest move appears to be a nod to his previous business ventures and sustained love affair with the world of wines. "Some are $20 and some are $2000 — we work with the whole spectrum of wine out there," Bright told SFist.
Yet, Saison Cellar & Wine Bar is more than just a place to sip on an exquisite Pinot Noir or a high-end Chardonnay – it’s also offering a posh, members-only wine storage option. For those willing to shell out $5,000 a year, the membership includes a private, temperature-controlled locker capable of cradling up to 78 bottles and a credit of the same amount to snag bottles throughout the opening year. This membership comes with the perk of dining credits for subsequent years to splurge at the wine bar or any Saison-affiliated restaurant, including Angler, as revealed by SFist.
For lighter wallets, the wine bar intends to be more democratic. Expect to enjoy a variety of vinos by the glass – with prices that teeter between $15 to $24, Bright detailed to SFist. "It's all about affordable luxury," Bright says. The joint isn't just about the drinks. However, there will be a modest but delectable gastronomic offering, with Maison Nico pitching in to provide fresh charcuterie, terrines, pâtés, and even caviar service.
The San Francisco location takes lessons from the 2023 Scotts Valley opening, fine-tuning the concept to suit the urban palate. As Bright gears up for its June opening, wine enthusiasts can anticipate a place where high-quality wine and service coalesce without bleeding their wallets dry. It’s a premier spot for casual drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs to imbibe and indulge—sans the need for a hefty membership, as reported by SF Eater.
