SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Nestled in the heart of Russian Hill alongside the newly one MICHELIN-starred Nisei lies the sultry and intimately cozy Bar Iris, a beloved cocktail lounge that properly elevates traditional Japanese flavors and ingredients with modern innovations. In celebration of its third anniversary, the cultural landmark has concocted an entirely new cocktail menu curated by their creatively intrepid Bar Manager Timofei Osipenko.
Under the bold and heartfelt leadership of Osipenko, Bar Iris has triumphantly elevated its reputation as a can’t-miss destination for an atmosphere as equally authentic and bold as its intricately captivating libations. Such attention to details is intrinsic to the bar’s exponential and prestigious growth, as Osipenko is on a tenacious mission to have Bar Iris known as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars.
The journey into the lineup of new cocktails itself all begins with their new physical menu, boasting a playfully tactile reading experience. “We’re excited to launch our first printed menu after the past years of navigating with QR codes and pandemic restrictions,” explains Osipenko. The menu also promotes a deeply-detailed codex personally designed by Osipenko to elucidate each drink’s prominent and other subtle flavor notes. These tastes are distinguished in each specific creation and are categorized as- Shuwa Shuwa (sparkling), Tsuppai (sour and refreshing), Amai (sweet, “but not too sweet,” as Osipenko emphasizes), richly Umami (savory and complex), Nigai (bitter and strong), and Atatakai (warm drinks).
In line with past menus, the new drinks continue to explore unique Japanese ingredients and flavor combinations, spotlighting gins, vodkas, and even whiskeys sourced solely from Japan.
Their artfully presented and crafted Akadama is a strong example, seamlessly blending new and classic as a show-stopping cocktail named for Japan’s first nude ad campaign. This complex, crimson cocktail combines Suntory Hibiki blended whisky, rare vermouths, and aged port from Kopke. Presented on an outstretched ceramic hand, the Akadama makes an unforgettable impression both in flavor and visual impact.
The “Not a Martini,” is also an instant favorite as a deceptive delight that resembles a classic martini but uses a snap pea as its “olive.” This libation also incorporates mezcal, raicilla, sotol, and Japanese sake lees from Oakland’s Den Sake, creating an innovative umami-rich experience that challenges the classic concept of a martini.
Other must-tries include their creamy “Linda Linda” with violettes, hojicha, and yogurt, their zesty “Kosho Sour” infused with kumquat kosho and nikka gin, the “Okinawa” elevating the earthy Okinawa yam, and their “Matcha Doin,’” which energetically blends matcha, shiitaki, and iwai 45.
It is without a doubt that Osipenko’s devotion to the experimental craft of cocktails genuinely shines all throughout his new creations. With daring ingenuity, local adoration, and an expansive menu celebrating Japanese culture, both Bar Iris and Osipenko are poised to join the exclusive ranks of the world’s best bars.
Located at 2310 Polk St., the bar is open Wednesday through Sunday for walk-in guests. Those ready to experience Osipenko’s inventive cocktails can expect an evening full of surprises, flavors, and unforgettable drinks.
