Peek at the Menu for Charmaine’s, Mid-Market’s Quirky New Rooftop Hangout

Charmaine’s, the rooftop bar and lounge atop the newly christened Proper Hotel, is preparing for its debut. It’s the lofty companion to the hotel’s ground floor restaurant, Villon, offering bar-sized food from executive chef Jason Franey, and elevated cocktails from BV Hospitality.

Per usual BV Hospitality (which is the Bon Vivants, by the way) has created a menu of inventive cocktails, which are only just a teeny, tiny bit tamer than at their own establishment, Trick Dog. There’s no Ritz Cracker-infused booze or PB&J garnish here, though one drink does include banana bread, and another is “topped with a negroni.” Large format drinks that serve four headline the menu, followed by categories of drinks like “Tall & Fun” and “Bright & Bubbly.”

Noah Webb/Charmaine’s

Meanwhile, food also skews adventurous: a hot dog is dressed with Bavarian mustard, and fermented lettuce, atop a milk and honey bun, and the smoked sturgeon grilled cheese comes with swiss cheese, creme fraiche, and an optional Osetra caviar supplement for $30.

As one of SF’s precious rooftop vantage points at 120 feet above Market Street, accentuating the view was of high priority. As with Villon downstairs, Charmaine’s was designed by Proper Hotels’ designer of choice, Kelly Wearstler. Both indoor and outdoor seating will be available, with firepits and heaters keeping Karl the Fog at bay.

The restaurant will open to hotel guests this weekend; official opening hours start Thursday, October 26 from 5 p.m.- 2 a.m. daily. Stay tuned for more details on the space, food, and beverages.

• New Mid-Market Hotel’s Rooftop Bar Will Offer ‘Highball Service’ [ESF]
• Villon’s Modern Aesthetic Brings Lively Contrast to an Historic Space in Mid-Market [ESF]