In the heart of SoMa, Wine Down has created a rare kind of gathering place where good wine meets genuine community impact. Founded by Jaime and Sarah, who met while working at a sustainability-focused nonprofit, the bar was built around accessibility, inclusion, and local sourcing.
Their mission is simple but powerful: bring wine down to earth by making it fun, approachable, and reflective of the diverse communities that shape the Bay Area.
Today, Wine Down stands as a women-owned small business redefining what hospitality can look like in San Francisco. Every glass, event, and partnership is rooted in the belief that joy and justice belong together.
A Mission Grounded in Access, Equity, and Local Producers
From the beginning, Jaime and Sarah set out to challenge traditional norms in the wine industry. Wine Down prioritizes small, independent California producers, especially those who are women-owned, BIPOC-owned, LGBTQ+ owned, or historically underrepresented in hospitality.
Their values extend beyond the wine list. The space openly champions social justice, inclusivity, and community pride. Whether someone is new to wine or a long-time enthusiast, everyone is welcomed with warmth and zero pretension.
This approach creates a setting where local makers gain visibility, guests discover new stories, and communities often overlooked in the beverage world find meaningful representation.
A Third Place for Connection, Celebration, and Community Building
Wine Down has become a neighborhood staple, not just a bar but a comfortable third place where people gather after work, meet new friends, and build community. Their events reflect that spirit of connection. Trivia nights, book clubs, and custom group gatherings give people easy opportunities to unwind and engage.
The team also creates fun ways for guests to learn and explore, from Wine Bingo to a wine club that highlights women and BIPOC winemakers. All of this builds an environment where guests feel at home and part of something larger than a night out.
Impact Through Sourcing, Monthly Giving, and Local Partnerships
What truly distinguishes Wine Down is its consistent commitment to giving back. Each month, the bar donates a portion of its revenue to nonprofits that support social justice, women and BIPOC leadership, environmental protection, and local community resilience.
The team also seeks out partnership opportunities that align with their values. This includes collaborating with local organizations and social enterprises and spotlighting small independent producers who share a commitment to equity and sustainability. Wine Down shows that hospitality businesses can be powerful partners in strengthening community networks.
Visit Wine Down
Location: 685 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94107
Website: winedownsf.com
Whether you are meeting friends, gathering with coworkers, or discovering a new favorite California producer, Wine Down offers a warm, values-driven space that reflects the best of San Francisco’s mission-centered business community. Raise a glass to the people and places that make this city stronger.
