By Alexis Berry By Alexis Berry | May 6, 2022 | Food & Drink Feature
Here are the best cocktail lounges in Silicon Valley, no matter what type of drink suits your mood.
Looking for a romantic night on the town? Vino Locale Wine Garden & Kitchen is just the place. This Palo Alto staple serves up an ever-changing array of sumptuous wine and appetizing bites, ensuring each visit is an experience of its own. Nosh on lavish charcuterie boards, shareable plates and entrees such as roasted salmon and sirloin shish kabobs in an intimate garden adorned with glowing lights and blooms—capturing the very essence of life in wine country. 431 Kipling St., Palo Alto
Just steps away from the San Jose Museum of Art, Paper Plane buzzes with fast-paced, creative energy. Lounge amid exposed brick, neon signs and industrial styling while sipping from one of the largest bottle collections in the Bay Area. Select cocktails on the menu are created in-house or inspired by other bars from around the world, ensuring an evening of curiosity, discovery and, of course, expertly-made potables. 72 S. First St., San Jose
Nestled in the middle of downtown Campbell, The Vesper is an easy neighborhood favorite. This artisan American lounge specializes in imaginative craft cocktails, brought to life by a decidedly artistic aesthetic with abstract color schemes, chicly mismatched chairs and vibrant works of art. Choose from an array of stylish beverages organized by liquor, including the endlessly satisfying Blue Hawaiian with rum, pineapple juice, creme de coconut and blue curacao. 394 E. Campbell Ave., Campbell
Located in a historic building that once made and bottled its own soda in the early 19th century, Los Gatos Soda Works brings a unique narrative of cocktail culture to the Bay Area. Combining state-of-the-art equipment and techniques with a knowledgeable staff that greets customers by name, this hot spot is both classy and cool. Try the national award-winning A Man And His Mule concocted with Ketel One Citroen, lime cordial, pink peppercorn, green Chartreuse and ginger beer. 21 College Ave., Los Gatos
This stylish subterranean hideout presents a unique 1920s aesthetic that is both classy and industrial, serving up only the highest quality cocktails. Get the most out of your experience at this dapper destination by becoming a member of the Bootleggers Whiskey Syndicate, an in-house club that offers exclusive tastings of rare, coveted whiskeys. 43 W. San Salvador St., San Jose
Decked with plenty of colorful sports memorabilia, this lively sports bar is just the place to grab a refreshing cocktail and enjoy the game. Nosh on classic bar fare and house specialities like teriyaki filet mignon bites served with pineapple, horseradish and rustic bread; or Korean barbecue pork grilled tacos. Need a morning pick-me-up? Opt for a bottomless mimosas in the sun with an order of crispy chicken and waffles or decadent eggs Benedict that’s sure to hit the spot. 521 Ramona St., Palo Alto
With roots in California’s original tiki motif, Dr. Funk specializes in specialty South Pacific elixirs. Countless cocktails range from sweet to strong, each topped with ornate garnishes that are almost too pretty to eat. Our pick? Sip on the cheekily-named Shipwreck, made with two Jamaican rums, cachaca, blackberry, banana, pineapple, pomegranate, Tiki bitters and hints of citrus for the ultimate tropical escape. 29 N. San Pedro St., San Jose
This trendy neighborhood hot spot expertly integrates its buzzing bar scene with high-end Mexican cuisine. Enjoy speciality dishes such as salmon Yucatan with pumpkin seed habanero sauce, fresh crab and shrimp crepes, and decadent caramel banana upside-down cake. No matter the plate, pair your dinner with a selection from an extensive menu of icy margaritas and top-shelf tequila. 263 Hamilton Ave., Palo Alto
Drawing influence from iconic Singaporean and Pan-Asian cuisine, Straits Restaurant entices with a chic, contemporary atmosphere. Doubling as a top-notch eatery and a bustling nightclub, guests experience the best of both worlds. Feast from countless small plates and a lavish raw bar crafted by chef Chris Yeo, with each dish rooted in the fragrant flavors of continental Asian fusion. Opulent additions include Siberian caviar service, bottle service, weekend DJs and dazzling signature cocktails. 333 Santana Row, San Jose
Photography by: M.S. MEEUWESEN/UNSPLASH
