Heartwood Bar brings the warmth of California’s redwood forests to the heart of San Francisco’s Financial District. Steps from the iconic TransAmerica Pyramid, the new venue is an inspired addition to the city’s dining scene; combining local history, art, and nature with a distinctly contemporary edge.
Designed by Floriana Petersen of Floriana Interiors, the space draws from the city’s Barbary Coast past and the natural beauty of the nearby redwood wilderness. A mural at the back of the bar celebrates the majesty of towering redwoods and golden poppies, while across the hall, a striking red wall features an art piece created by photographer and maker Steve Werney and muralist Leah Tumerman.
Touches of Chinatown appear through the inclusion of a pagoda structure, a subtle nod to the neighbouring district and its enduring cultural influence. Petersen’s team also weaves in local folklore, the legendary 1850s dogs Bummer and Lazarus appear in a playful wall painting leading from the kitchen, a small but charming reminder of San Francisco’s eccentric spirit.
The bar’s earthy palette and natural materials evoke a sense of calm, while acorn-shaped light fixtures cast a soft glow across the uneven epoxy floor, an artistic detail led once again by Werney. The atmosphere balances polish and playfulness.
Behind Heartwood is a seasoned team with deep roots in the city’s hospitality history, known for shaping beloved spots such as Bacar, Eos, E&O, and Range. Their new venture keeps that tradition alive with easygoing service, generous seating, and one of the city’s most talked-about lunch offers: the one-penny martini. Order an entrée and choose from classic gin or vodka, espresso, or jasmine tea martinis.
A celebration of California’s natural beauty and San Francisco’s identity, Heartwood Bar captures a rare balance of design, culture, and comfort, a welcome retreat in the rush of the Financial District.
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Photography, Albert Law / courtesy Heartwood Bar San Francisco.
