San Francisco - December 04, 2009

Rum Runners

Smuggler's Cove Bar Opens

You’ve never been much of a smuggler (save for the bottle of vino that makes its way into your bag at the movies).

Not to worry: Even law-abiding citizens can get covert at the much-anticipated Smuggler’s Cove, opening on Tuesday in Hayes Valley.

Owner Martin Cate has transformed what used to be Jade Bar into a three-level tribute to tiki that manages to balance kitsch with cool. Nautical and bamboo accents represent, sure, but so do plenty of dark wood and local memorabilia from places like Trader Vic’s.

Naturally, rum is the house specialty, with more than 200 premium bottles on hand. A ginormous 80-drink cocktail list celebrates the 350-year history of the spirit with house favorites like the ’30s-era Three Dots and a Dash (with lots of fresh-squeezed citrus and spice).

Our hearts? Consider them stolen.

Smuggler’s Cove, 650 Gough Street, at McAllister Street (415-869-1900 or smugglerscovesf.com).