The Interval at Long Now is the ultimate cocktail bar for those who wouldn’t say no to a splash of existentialism in their cup.
The cafe and bar function simultaneously as a museum and library belonging to the Long Now Foundation in Fort Mason, a nonprofit dedicated to “long-term thinking.” They promote a worldview emphasizing imagination at the “timescale of civilization” – that is, the next and last 10,000 years.
As such, the gorgeous space stocks a floor-to-ceiling collection of books dedicated to long-term thinking and rebuilding civilization, and hosts thought-provoking talks by guest speakers. The space itself is meant to foster community and conversation about these topics.
The organization’s most famous project is the Clock of the Long Now, a mechanical clock designed to keep accurate time for 10,000 years. A prototype for the enormous clock is on display at The Interval, and the real thing is being constructed in Texas.
Another such endeavor is the Rosetta Project, which works to engineer a palm-sized disk that carries over 13,000 pages of information about over 1,500 human languages through microscopic etching.
When it comes to cocktails, the menu works to celebrate the artisans behind the ingredients and the beverage directors behind the recipes.
The “Time Capsule” menu features popular drinks created by former bartenders including the “Decanted Mother-In-Law” with bourbon and curaçao, and the “Escondido” with cinnamon mezcal and chile tincture served hot.
There’s also the “Drinking the Diaspora” menu which works to showcase ingredients and recipes from overseas such as the “Umeshu” made with the Japanese liqueur Shochu, and the “Picon Punch” made with Spanish brandy and Romolo Amer Picon.
The “Bartenders” menu is dedicated to recipes created by current bartenders, including “Black Sand” with blended scotch, raspberry, cinnamon and lime; and “Three Word Title” with vodka, Prosecco, passionfruit, almond and lime.
Bartenders are willing to tweak their recipes or create custom drinks according to customers’ preferences, and there’s a great selection of delicious wines, beers, and creative non-alcoholic cocktails. Coffee and tea are also available throughout the day.
Whether you’re interested in expanding your mind and world perspective, or simply want to indulge in a fun and delicious cocktail selection with gorgeous surroundings, The Interval at Long Now is certainly worth a visit.
Find it at 2 Marina Blvd in Building A at Fort Mason Center. It’s open from 10am-10pm on Mondays, 10am-11pm Tuesday-Friday, 3am-11pm on Saturdays, and 3am-10pm on Sundays.
Featured image: @maddietsang via Instagram