San Francisco Travel Launches First-Ever Martini Trail, Celebrating 23 Iconic Martinis Across the City
A spirited new experience invites travelers and locals to explore the city where the martini found its swagger.
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – October 22, 2025 — The San Francisco Travel Association has unveiled the first-ever San Francisco Martini Trail, a curated journey through 23 of the city’s most exceptional martinis and establishments. Designed to honor San Francisco’s legendary role in cocktail history, the new trail highlights the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage that make the city one of the world’s top destinations for cocktail lovers.
Few drinks are as debated—or as iconic—as the martini. While its true origins are disputed, San Francisco played a defining role in shaping the cocktail’s global fame. From its early beginnings during the Gold Rush to its refinement in the city’s saloons, the martini remains a timeless symbol of sophistication and innovation.
“The Martini Trail is both a toast to San Francisco’s history and a taste of its future,” said Anna Marie Presutti, President and CEO of San Francisco Travel. “This is where the martini found its swagger—and where it continues to evolve. We’re proud to collaborate with local bars and restaurants to showcase the artistry and diversity of the city’s cocktail scene.”
A Toast to Craft and Creativity
Curated by San Francisco–based food, drink, and travel writer Omar Mamoon — whose work appears in Condé Nast Traveler, Esquire, and The San Francisco Chronicle — the Martini Trail celebrates 23 establishments that define San Francisco’s vibrant bar culture.
“The list shines a light on just a fraction of the many bars and restaurants in San Francisco making excellent martinis,” said Mamoon. “It’s a fun way to explore the city and create your own martini adventure.”
The trail spans beloved institutions and trendsetting newcomers across neighborhoods like The Embarcadero, Nob Hill, and The Richmond, offering travelers a true taste of the city’s cocktail diversity.
Featured stops include:
Absinthe, Martuni’s, BIX, True Laurel, Tadich Grill, Bar Iris, Starlite, The Progress, and Zam Zam, among others.
A City That Shaped Cocktail Culture
The Martini Trail also pays homage to the city’s storied mixology heritage. The launch event was held at Le Parc Bistrobar in the Galleria Park Hotel, formerly the Occidental Hotel, where legendary bartender Jerry Thomas is said to have created or popularized the Martinez—the martini’s historic predecessor.
Today, the hotel continues to honor that tradition with a daily “Sipping Hour,” serving complimentary gin martinis in the lobby to guests.
Visitors can access an interactive trail map and more details at sftravel.com/san-francisco-martini-trail.
About San Francisco Travel Association
The San Francisco Travel Association is the official destination marketing organization for the City and County of San Francisco. The city welcomes more than 23 million visitors annually, generating over $9.2 billion in economic impact and supporting nearly 62,000 jobs in tourism and hospitality.
For more information, visit www.sftravel.com or follow:
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About San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is committed to providing travelers with a world-class airport experience, sustainable design, and rich cultural exhibitions. For real-time information on flights, maps, dining, and transportation, visit www.flysfo.com.
United Airlines is the preferred airline of the San Francisco Travel Association.
