The Riddler

The Riddler is permanently closed.

If there is one style of wine that goes with every food out there — or without any food at all — it would probably be Champagne. The Riddler has made Champagne (and all that bubbles) the focus of their charming little corner space in Hayes Valley. An oversized black-and-white photo of Jacqueline Bissette drinking Champagne out of a coupe glass (Veuve Clicquot, if you must know) sets the mood for guests blowing into the vintage French nostalgic bistro space. Patrons tend to be a mix of individuals celebrating life’s hallmark moments with special vintage bottles (or a few rounds out of the “chambong”) and those who are simply toasting the end of a long work day with free popcorn and a glass or two of something fresh.

Anyone looking to turn it up might peek at the “bucket list” section, where one finds the Salon, Vouette & Sorbée, and some mid-century Charles Heidsieck, among others. There are also plenty of magnums here, which enthusiastic sommeliers will gladly slice open for you.

$30, waived with purchase of bottle on the list

Frequent events and winemaker tastings as advertised on website.