Amazing Craft Cocktails at California Gold in San Rafael

We had a great experience last time at California Gold so we made time for some after-dinner drinks last weekend. The place was busy but not too much so and we got a nice booth right by the front of the bar. Our service was informed and friendly, and very prompt.

The reputation for excellent craft cocktails at California Gold is stellar and our experience this time only reinforced that belief. We tried four cocktails and all were really outstanding. We also noticed they had an extensive spirits collection, including a Caroni rum for only $45 per pour.

Indian Defense – I liked this more than Mrs. Mai Tai. Beefeater, Calvados, Amontillado Sherry, and Saffron Honey. Very spirit forward for those who like that style of stirred cocktails.

Flying Cloud – this was our favorite, so delicate and balanced. Pisco, Dark Rum, Grenadine, Lime, Absinthe.

Coco de Agua – I really dug this wonderful blend of savory flavors and would definitely order again. Cacacha, Coconut-washed Apricot Brandy, Pineapple Gum, Lime, Aromatic Peach Bitters.

Polo Cup – We were asked whether we wanted Gin or Vodka and we made the only correct choice. Super light and refreshing, depth was pretty good for this elevated “Gin Highball.” Gin, Elderflower, Mint, Basil, Cucumber, Lemon, Soda.

California Gold: Cocktails in San Rafael

Finally made it out to California Gold, a beer and cocktail bar in downtown San Rafael. Located in a historic building, there are tons of retro accoutrements and nods to California history.

We arrived at opening on Saturday for a couple rounds and thank goodness since it was quite packed by the time we left. Service was pretty decent and the cocktails were quite good. I loved the grog style Voodoo Western with bourbon, rum, passionfruit, cinnamon, grapefruit, lime, falernum, and voodoo secrets. Mrs. Mai Tai had the Carousel Park Swizzle, a nod the Queen’s Park Swizzle. All great.

This seems like a great place for cocktails in San Rafael’s cute downtown.