South of Market district’s stylish Bacar spreads out in one vast loft to combine a contemporary wine bar/lounge and an upscale restaurant under one roof without shortchanging either. The cozy confines of the lower level house the bar, a great spot to sip a pinot noir from a leather armchair before dinner. Then proceed upstairs to a booth in the vast dining room of soaring ceilings and exposed-brick walls. The exhibition kitchen provides a focal point, issuing such wine-friendly food as duck and foie gras sausage, wok-roasted mussels, roast rack of lamb, and honey-cured king salmon. Plenty of appetizers, by-the-glass pours, and wine flights encourage sampling. The convivial setting makes for good group gatherings.

Bacar Restaurant and Wine Salon Information:

• American menu. Lunch, dinner. Closed holidays. Bar. Children's menu. Business casual attire. Reservations recommended. Valet parking.