ESSI SF Restaurant & Wine Bar

Great place to get some local wine. Wonderful neighborhood and the owner was very friendly and helpful. He listened to my wife's preferences, then picked out a wine for her..Spot on. And she doesn't like a lot of wines. Bravo.

After too many cans of soup and tuna sandwiches, I needed some real food. And I knew a good place to go to get it! So I drove to the Marina from San Bruno to Essi Wine Bar & Restaurant. Went in to order my food and chose Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, and Short Rib with Polenta and Vegetables, and Chocolate Chip Cookies. Hey, if I did all that driving, I'm not settling for one dinner. Had a nice chat with one of the owners (with his wife Nathaly), Ryan. He's a long time SF bartender and host -- he knows his business. Grabbed a reasonably priced bottle of Sauterne (to go with those tuna sandwiches) and headed home by way of Ocean Beach. But first, to eat! Couldn't get to the Beach, but found a space with an ocean view.. Chose the short rib with polenta and vegetables. It was delicious. The meat was tender and tasty, the polenta perfectly cooked and the veges -- carrots, Brussels Sprouts, purple cabbage shreds, onions and English peas were perfectly cooked and crunchy. The gravy was tasty and seasoned exactly right. The Pot Roast with Mashed Potatoes was also fabulous, tender, gravy again perfect. A Chocolate Chip Cookie rounded the meal out and I went home a very happy customer. Can't wait for normal, but until then, give Essi a try. You'll be thrilled. (I also recommend the Prosciutto Flatbread!)

Best wine bar in town hands down. Steve is the best

A secret gem

Incredible "find" last night. Parked on the block, walked by and took a chance. Great food, great atmosphere, great service, and great small batch wines hand picked by the owner.

Nice high and low tables, led lit bar that is cool, TV for background and sporting events, and an owner that is committed to having and promoting a good time, as well as good wines.

Added to my favorites, even joined the small batch wine club with monthly tasting parties with independent wine makers. Sounds like we will be enjoying Essi for some time.