After a prolonged four-year hiatus, a cherished San Francisco watering hole celebrated for its devotion to the intricate world of herbaceous, bitter liqueurs has reopened its doors.
Bar 821, a haven for aficionados of the amaro genre, marked its return a few weeks ago with limited operations on Fridays and Saturdays. Owner Khaled Dajani shared with the Chronicle that the establishment will expand its service to Thursday through Saturday, commencing on April 26. Nestled at 821 Divisadero St., the venue stands among a select few in the United States solely dedicated to amari, boasting an extensive collection of over 200 selections beyond the familiar realms of Fernet and Campari, prior to its temporary closure amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.
With its revival, Bar 821 remains steadfast in its commitment to the world of amari. Patrons can indulge in an array of offerings, from sipping neat to innovative cocktail concoctions and curated flights. Notably, the establishment introduces a bespoke cocktail program, inviting patrons to engage in tailored consultations with bartenders to craft libations aligned with their individual tastes and preferences. Priced at $20 each, these bespoke cocktails feature a medley of house-made syrups, shrubs, and select ingredients, promising a personalized drinking experience.
For Dajani, reopening proved to be a formidable challenge, surpassing the complexities of launching a new venture from scratch after years of dormancy. He noted shifts in the city’s dynamics and clientele, with staffing changes over time adding to the apprehension about Bar 821’s reception among its loyal following. Originally established in 2002 and transitioning to its amaro-focused identity in 2015, the bar now faces a new chapter with a deliberate embrace of exclusivity. Entry now requires guests to ring a doorbell, with a seating-only policy accommodating a maximum of 30 patrons, eliminating standing room entirely.
While the revitalized Bar 821 may not replicate its former ambiance precisely, Dajani sees this evolution as an opportunity to cultivate a more intimate and refined atmosphere, offering patrons an elevated experience within its hallowed confines.
