Reviewed by WhatDrink Editorial Team, Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic10.9% ABV4 ingredientsexcellent recipe
Difficulty
Easy
Why: 4 ingredients, uses syrup
Best for: Caviar, Desserts, Tropical
Ingredients
BaseModifierCitrusSweetener
- 2 clVodkaBase
- 2 clCreme De BananeModifier
- to tasteGrenadineSweetener
- to tasteOrange JuiceCitrus
How to Make It
- Take a tall glass and put in a few ice cubes, fill the vodka over it and fill with juice then the "creme", to end fill in the grenadine but very carefully at the side of the glass so it will lay down in the bottom. garnish with orange and strawberry.TopTopping adds length, bubbles, dilution or sweetness near the end.
Best For
Food Pairings
CaviarDessertsSalty Food
Diet & Lifestyle
Gluten-FreeVegetarian
Make it your way
Adjust this drink
Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the sugarCompare with drinks that use less estimated sugar per serve.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.
Swap notes
Base spiritVodka is the most forgiving swap. A neutral vodka keeps the drink clean. Flavoured vodkas add character but change the balance — cut back on other flavourings if you use one.CitrusLemon is bright and sharp; lime is more floral and slightly sweeter; orange is softer and rounder; grapefruit adds bitter edge. They are not interchangeable — each changes the acidity and aroma of the drink. If you swap, adjust the sweetener to rebalance.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.
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Frequently asked questions
- What is a San Francisco?
- The San Francisco is a cocktail made with 4 ingredients, traditionally served in a Highball Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 10.9%. A standard serving contains approximately 175 calories.
- What does a San Francisco taste like?
- San Francisco has a flavour profile featuring Sweet, Orange, Banana, Tropical. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
- What food goes well with a San Francisco?
- San Francisco pairs well with Caviar, Desserts, Salty Food. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
- How strong is a San Francisco?
- The San Francisco has an ABV of approximately 10.9%. That's approximately 0.70 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 175 calories, 21.4g sugar, 24.6g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
- When is a San Francisco typically served?
- San Francisco is a popular choice for Tropical, Summer. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
- What drinks are similar to a San Francisco?
- If you enjoy San Francisco, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
- Can I make a San Francisco at home?
- Yes. The San Francisco uses 4 ingredients, making it straightforward to prepare at home. You will need a Highball Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
- What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
- Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
- How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
- Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of San Francisco with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.