"Bar Iris is a cocktail bar that looks like a black box theater had a baby with an aspirational hotel lobby. The spot by the people behind Nisei is dark and romantic, and quiet enough to comprehend what your date is saying about their Invisalign schedule. It also makes for a great starting point for a much louder night out in Russian Hill with someone you like. Go for any of the extra smooth cocktails spiked with things like hojicha or li hing mui." - patrick wong, julia chen 1