San Francisco’s AAPI Cocktail Week makes its return this year with a five-day celebration spotlighting the cultural contributions of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community within the hospitality industry. Scheduled from May 25 to 29, the event features a dynamic lineup of happy hours, educational panels, tastings, and pop-ups, including appearances by internationally renowned bartenders from the World’s 50 Best Bars.
Many of the events will also showcase live music and culinary offerings from AAPI-owned restaurants in the Bay Area.
Founded by Kevin Diedrich, owner of Pacific Cocktail Haven, AAPI Cocktail Week was launched two years ago to revive the city’s long-dormant cocktail week tradition. Diedrich, who is of Filipino descent, aimed to support the post-pandemic recovery of San Francisco’s bar scene and to align the celebration with AAPI Heritage Month, honoring the community’s deep-rooted presence in the city.
“We want it to be a destination-worthy cocktail week,” Diedrich told Axios. “We want to grow it so it’s able to highlight more than just my businesses, because it’s about this community and the culture in San Francisco and contributing to making it better.”
Key Events Include:
Opening Party at Pacific Cocktail Haven
Sunday, 7–11 p.m., 550 Sutter St.
Featuring guest bartenders from Singapore’s acclaimed Jigger and Pony, known for their innovative interpretations of classic cocktails.
Sunset Boat Luau
Monday, 5–10 p.m., departing from Jack London Square.
A Hawai’i-inspired bay cruise offering tropical cocktails and scenic views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
Fastest Hands in the West
Wednesday, 3–5 p.m., 550 Sutter St.
A competitive bartending showdown where mixologists race to craft top-tier cocktails under time pressure.
Pandan Party
Wednesday, 9 p.m.–12 a.m., 550 Sutter St. Tickets include unlimited cocktails and food.
A celebration of the Southeast Asian pandan plant, often referred to as “the vanilla of the East,” featuring a curated cocktail menu and pandan-themed dishes.
Night Market at Splash
Thursday, 6–10 p.m., 1725 3rd St.
The week’s finale brings an Asian night market experience to Thrive City, highlighting 25 leading Bay Area bars and restaurants, such as Good Good Culture Club, The Progress, Abacá, and Trick Dog.
Attendees are encouraged to explore the full lineup of events online. Ticket prices and locations vary.
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