Back in July, I broke the news about HARLAN RECORDS, a vinyl bar opening in the former Bar Fluxus from Eric Passetti, Will Herrera, and Katya Skye, among others. Well, it’s now open, serving cocktails and playing entire albums from start to finish—the album collection includes nearly 2,000 vinyl records, featuring artists ranging from John Lee Hooker, Albert King, Taj Mahal, and Charlie Parker to Sharon Jones, Lee Fields, and Khruangbin. Here’s the part where you audiophiles can geek out: the in-house Hi-Fi system consists of a Thorens TD124, McIntosh 2210 amplifier, AdCom amplifier, NAD 1020 preamplifier, a set of Sony SA-7300’s, and a pair of JBL L100 monitors to achieve the truest sound.
No noisy shaken cocktails here: the cocktail program highlights drinks that are stirred, like Negronis and Old Fashioneds, as well as other whiskey and gin-focused drinks influenced by the songs, lyrics, and bands in the collection.
The space was designed by Marissa Jade Marsh (Macondray), with mid-century modern décor taking inspiration from recording studios, record shops, and albums. Large groups will want to take over the horseshoe-shaped booth, or the two nooks with tufted teal blue booths that sit under the record storage. Open daily 2pm to late. Hotel des Arts, 18 Harlan Place.
Whiskey lovers, get your ticket for Whisky Advocate’s WhiskyFest, coming to San Francisco on Friday October 28th at the Marriott Marquis. Sample hundreds of whiskies from around the world—including single malt and blended Scotch, Irish, bourbon, rye, Tennessee, Japanese, Canadian, French, Australian, Indian, and craft-distilled whiskies—and learn firsthand from experts during educational seminars. Friday October 28th. VIP ($375): 5:30pm; Grand Tasting ($295): 6:30pm-9:30pm. All tickets include a commemorative Glencairn crystal nosing glass, gift bag, admission to all seminars on a first-come basis, a buffet throughout the evening, and hundreds of whiskies to sample. 780 Mission St. at 4th St.
