Blending Perfection: Haute 5 Mixologists in San Francisco

Reza Esmaili
Reza Esmaili doesn’t consider himself a mixologist. That would be far too limiting. Instead he prefers to refer to himself as a “Bar Man” because a bar man is undoubtedly the coolest guy in the room. With 20 years experience in hospitality, this food and drink dynamo identifies the experience of his patrons as his number one concern, “A well executed bar program is an integral part of the guest experience”. When he is isn’t cultivating the cuisine scene is SF or taking excellent care of his guests at San Francisco hautest new Tiki Bar, Smuggler’s Cove (650 Gough St.), he is serving as President of the US Bartender’s Guild alongside his good friend David Nepove. In fact, when told who else had made this Haute 5 List he responded with, “I consider each one of them a mega-talent and a friend”. How’s that for class-act hospitality? Try a little something sexy Reza has been working on below and never look at Snoop Dog the same way again.
Recipe for Gin and Juice Chanteuse
½ oz. Beefeater 24 Gin
¾ oz. Chartreuse VEP Yellow
½ oz. Honey Syrup (3:1)
½ oz. Lemon Juice
1 ½ oz. Prosecco
Long Orange Twist
Method: Shake all ingredients except Prosecco. Stir in Prosecco and strain into champagne flute. Garnish with long orange twist.
Mixing business with pleasure, hotel bars have always been an intersection between the transient and the native: a place for travelers and locals alike to imbibe in specialties of San Francisco but still have a classic perfect Tom Collins. Whether it’s the first stop, the last stop or the only st...
For a summary of the San Francisco Symphony and San Francisco Opera’s 2011-2012 season events, look no further than this issue of Haute Living San Francisco. You’ll need it—with the San Francisco Symphony is celebrating its 100th season, there are plenty of events you won’t want to miss.
Grand Marnier kicked off the first annual SIPs and SUPs event benefitting Surfrider Foundation and Miami Surf Archive Project on November 6th. The cocktail cult favorite among the nation’s top mixologists premiered this season’s new recipes—the Smash, Grand and French Margarita, and previewed ...
Did you know that Haute Living San Francisco has a highly informative Facebook page?
Join the fun, become Haute Living fan. You’re sitting at work, wondering what the rest of the best are up to, why not “Like” Haute Living San Francisco and stay updated on the hautest happenings around town? ...
President and CEO of the San Francisco 49ers Jed York just got some great news, and he’s eager to share. The NFL has approved a $200 million loan that will go to the funding of the team’s new Santa Clara stadium.
Channel Cupid with a romantic stay at The Fairmont San Francisco this year.
This issue of Haute Living San Francisco showcases the stunning 2012 Porsche Panamera S Hybrid. The ultimate in luxury automobiles, it features aircraft-like controls and cockpit-esque switches. Read more about the amenities of the supercar and the details that make it the latest in haute sports car...
Last season, Giants closer Brian Wilson suffered from severe elbow soreness. Now, Giants trainer Dave Groeschner says he’s ready to hit the mound, and will be throwing again this week.
The San Francisco dinner scene brings out a vibrant crowd. Celebrities, locals, tourists, foodies, and non-foodies are all part of this eclectic scene. Make sure you check out the Haute five list of people-watching dinner spots of San Francisco.
Drew Altizer lets us in to see what a day in his life is like in this issue of Haute Living San Francisco. Here’s a sample from his candid, humorous 24-hour tell-all.