Last week at a FiDi/SoMa bar: "Hi, can I get Fortaleza Blanco w/ club soda please?" "We only have Still." "That's fine..." "It IS expensive." "Umm, ok...like $20 something?" (I paid $18 several months ago). "No, it's $60 a shot". Oh hell naw...Jose Cuervo it is! Looks like I'm waking up with regret tomorrow. J/k! I love Fortaleza but not that much. Sheesh. Fortaleza is incredibly hard to find because of their small scale operation in Jalisco. With their OG methods, what they produce in one year, industrial tequila distilleries produce in ONE day. And, I know some may say, Fortaleza is overhyped but it's my fav for my personal tastes. With some digging, Deep (new owner) at Royal Liquors came through. Super nice guy. And, they're open 6 am - 2 am. They currently have Fortaleza Blanco and Still Strength. They're getting in Añejo and Reposado this week. Fortaleza Still Strength is ONLY $59.99 (as of 4/19/25). The last time I could get a hold of a bottle of Still Strength was before the pandemic for $80. I rarely drink at home but with the looming tariffs, guess ya gotta start pregaming before going out now (OFC, only if you're not driving). The deal was too good to pass up. I only planned to buy two bottles but he had enough for others so I left with a case. Yanno, in case there's another lockdown. P.S. - Apple Pay is $100 max to prevent fraud so bring your CC for larger purchases. P.P.S. - Make sure to grab some croissants from Juniper across the street afterwards. read more

Royal Liquors - Fortaleza prices as of 4/19/25. - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - San Francisco, California

The benchmark for all liquor stores. Clean, bright and friendly. Very welcoming atmosphere at this small local business. So your drinking on Polk street and the bars are closing. Oh no... what to do? Well, the answer is to buy more alcohol to go. You can never have enough and I don't think any of it expires - I mean I guess I wouldn't know if it did. Its never really around long enough to find out. I suppose beer quality does decrease if it ages. I've never really heard about that but since visiting Russian River I suppose its a thing. Hard liquor and wine - I think that just gets better with age. When you walk in the store its clean and there are some super large bottles on the top shelf - everything looks just great. I remember the people working here cleaning the entrance and the rugs with an upright Oreck XL commercial vacuum. Thats a lightweight but powerful machine and makes a good choice to keep things spotless. read more

Great store and location. Sammy the owner is wonderful. Great selection of beer, bourbon, scotch, japanese whiskey such as nikka, hibiki. They also have other brands and Kavalan. Sammy knows his stuff. Great selection of bourbon, rum, vodka, irish whiskey, wines, and a very amazing collection of mini bottles. Royal liquors even has buffalo trace store picks and four roses store picks. Hopeing royal liquors gets more in the future. Keep up the great work! read more

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I have been coming to this store to buy gifts for years. When I come in, it's never with the intention to buy any particular spirit, whatever catches my eye will be the pick. Today I stopped by and the person working behind the counter asked if I was looking for anything in particular, when I said no he said "Well, you're eyes are scanning the shelf so I'm asking" "Just looking for something that catches my eye" "Well, we've had a lot of sketchy characters coming in and my store recently got burglarized so when I see someone coming in and just looking I get ptsd" Wow! I'm sketchy looking? When you go to a store that has all of their merchandise on the shelf, don't you have to scan with your eyes? I wasn't in one minute before this happened. To think of the money I spent here over the years. This was the worst experience I've ever had in a store. If you don't want to be profiled, don't step in here. read more

Great Service. There is a really big selection of alcohol. Really nice people and great owner.

Great owner. Was In town for work from chicago and wanted to see what bourbons he had in store since it's becoming harder to find certain bourbons in the Midwest. His knowledge of bourbon is great. Spent 20+ minutes talking to him about the brown nectar. Very down to earth guy and all around nice guy. read more

Most convenient and opened the latest liquor store in SF. It is around the TL area but that doesn't affect anything. The only con is that they don't have a huge selection of hard liquor. Friendly service read more

This review is several months late. Hands down the best liquor store ! The owner is very knowledgeable about all things alcohol. Talk story with him and buy several bottles you might be in for a treat. Great prices and even better customer service. read more

Royal liquors is the best liquor store in San Francisco. Sammy is knowledgeable and passionate about his business and what they sell, and is constantly getting in a wide variety of amazing product. I'm a bourbon drinker and he's always selling harder to find bottles at a way more reasonable price (often times MSRP) than other stores that mark it up astronomically. Always a really solid selection and you can rely on Sam and the staff to provide great recommendations. This is the kind of small business that makes San Francisco great, and the kind we should be supporting to keep it great. read more

Assholes. Find somewhere else. I walked in and because of the sun into the store I couldn't see for 1 second. I got kicked out because I was "drunk". Not. Fuck you people. Don't go here. They are rude and disrespectful. read more

I've been coming here for a couple of years. The group of guys here are a really nice group. I always enjoy stopping by - they feel like (and are my) neighbors. I rate the customer service and friendliness as top-tier. I recommend this spot if you're looking for a nice regular store in the neighborhood. If you're new, this should be your first stop. The shopping environment is very nice. The store is laid-out well, and they have an excellent selection of craft beers, wine, and liquor. Lots of options. I mainly stick to beer or occasionally wine/sparkling wine. It's a little pricier than some, although not outrageous by any means. They also have Nag Champa as an impulse buy - and it re-triggered my college era enjoyment of the delightful scent. :) Nice assist. read more

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One of the best around. Don't waste your money with corporate business., Support local businesses, with that being said best honest recommendations around and knowledgeable. read more

Only 3 stars? Well, no one reads or believes 5 stars, and prices... could be better. I have been shopping here for almost two decades. It's one of my go to stores in the neighborhood. Prices are still fairly reasonable comparatively. And they have saved me from the horrors of sobriety on many occasions. Everyone is very friendly even on rough nights. They don't suffer the foolishly entitled or serve to the clearly intoxicated. And they shouldn't have to. Leave your attitudes at the bar. This is a good place to get what you need without any hassle. I recommend it. But get there with enough time to make your purchase. They close at the last possible legal sale and not a second after. read more

Great selection of high quality Liquors wines and beers. Very knowledgeable owner and sales staff and very friendly.

I have bought many fine beers here without complaint. Tonight I purchased a bottle of wine (Maggie merlot, 10.99$) and it was tainted. I took the bottle back and was berated by the salesman, literally personally insulted and ridiculed. I only wanted to swap out the bottle. After trying twice, the worker took the bottle from me and charged me for another bottle, which was ALSO TAINTED! I could have left but I needed a drink. Don't go here. There are liquor stores everywhere. Evil. Vile. Now I'm stuck with rotten wine and bad fee Update-The owner personally called me to make it up. I just went back to resolve this issue with the owner, and got flipped off and told me to get the f*** out of his face. Now I won't be going back because I'm 86d. I've never bought wine, returned it without refund, then been called back 2 weeks later to be told I'm a liar. read more

I once heard that this is the best liquor store in the US, which someone immediately corrected to "world" and I wouldn't be surprised if they are right. The selection is better than the majority of large stores and the people are much more knowledgeable. They have it all! read more

I'm only mad that it took me living in the area for so long before I walked into this place. I'd had no luck obtaining a specific beer that I like in this city, even at BevMo, which seems to carry it at every other one of their locations, even in the Bay Area outside SF. When I'd mention this at my local BevMo, which I actually did a few times, it was like talking to a brick wall, each time. When I wondered into Royal Liquors for the first time Sammy, the owner, immediately offered up to special order anything I wanted, without my even asking. He gets my beer in for me regularly now, I pick it up with a bottle of liquor, Sammy (great guy, in my opinion) and I catch up, and I'm set. read more

Fantastic service and amazing people. Always appreciate Sam & co. for the top-notch service and great selections. Covers your liquor and beer and wine needs, with plenty of local brands to choose from! read more

Royal Liquors - Sample selection - Beer, Wine & Spirits Near Me - San Francisco, California

The store was messy when we entered. Less than 15 seconds after entering, the worker yelled at my teen son for standing too close to a stack of boxes in the middle of the floor. He rudely pointed at him, told him he was not allowed to touch anything at all, and then scoffed at me and rolled his eyes in disgust. Before ringing my husband up, the man leaned over the counter to inspect my son, up and down, presuming he was stealing something with me standing right by. My husband missed all the exchange, but this guy was a total jerk and picked who he was nice to (a man) and who he was rude to (a woman and son). Walk a block and choose a more pleasant business to support. read more

Varied selection that changes every once and awhile. You won't find your "standard stuff" here all the time, but that is what makes this a 5 star review. I go here when I want something different to try. The staff will point you towards something tasty. Or just take a shot in the dark and grab something. read more

This place is more concerned with locking their doors at 1:50AM than making a couple last minute sales. If you close at 2AM then lock your door at 2AM chumps read more

One Word: Creme De Cassis Years ago, when I spent time in the company of a in-house chef and the head butler, they made me dishes that were absolutely to die for, encompassing a wide range of exotic influences and unrestrained creativity. However, one dish that has always remained in my memories, was a simple melding of various textures and required the utilization of Creme De Cassis as an afterthought. I decided to make this simple dessert dish for W. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creme_de_cassis Of course, being pressed for time simply makes for a truly consequential event (horrid traffic, running errands earlier in the city and the week, and the Safeway above my gym lacked the elusive liquer out in Portrero) so we schlepped it here, to Royal Liquors. When my high heels clicked on the asphalt and over the threshold, I knew I had reached the promised kingdom : the walls were stocked with nothing but liquor and wines. Bottles upon bottles, glassy stares beyond recognition. I was dazzled. No distractions. No smalltalk. No foreplay. The young man behind the counter was extremely helpful and nice, which is something I was not expecting, given the somewhat "diverse" groups of people staggering around. A tweaked up woman sidled up next to me. He told her to wait with his hand. "Hi, do you carry Creme de Cassis?" I inquired. "Yes, we do. Follow me," he led me along to a wall, and points out a splendid bottle, all done up. "You know, Chambord is Creme de Cassis?" I was not aware of it. "Did you need a small bottle or a large bottle?" I nodded when he pulled the smaller bottle and carried it to the counter where he rung me up. I'm impressed. I've never had such awesome customer service for a $17 bottle of liquor. For future events and future liquor runs needed for the spur of the moment, I'm marking this establishment as taken! read more

I went here based on the reviews I read here on yelp. So I was expecting to be able to walk in and have a decent conversation with the folks that work there re: Whiskey's, Scotch's, and Bourbons. Have to say that I left with a less than desirable feeling. Here's what happened...As I walked in, I started looking at the selection of Whiskey's and Scotch's. The person working there, assuming it's the owner, asked if he could help me find anything. I stated that I was interested in their selection of Scotch's, Whiskey's, and Bourbons. He pointed me towards the Bourbons. As I walked over, he asked if I was interested in the Buffalo Trace Antique collection. I said yes and then asked why is he asking, because most places were either out of stock or had not yet received their stock. He said (and this is verbatim), "yeah, but it's for my loyal customers only. I gotta be loyal to the regulars. It's all about paying the bills ya know?". Sorry...but I know this was my first time there, but why ask me about a collection that's very limited and then tell me it's only for his loyal customers? Plus, he has no idea how much I spend on Bourbons each month and that when I find a place that has great customer service, I am a very loyal customer. So suffice to say that I probably will not be going back to this place solely on the customer service I received. Oh...and one more thing...he told me he would be getting in the Yamazaki Sherry Cask (I was asking about the Hibiki's that he had). Um...doubtful since those were release only in European countries and only 18,000 bottles were produced. NOt sure why he felt the need to tell me this but it didn't change my decision to leave and never com back. Now for the logistics: Metered street parking is available. There's a public parking lot a couple of blocks away. Shelf stock is decent but there are some very good labels missing. Prices range from $2-$15 higher than I've seen in other Spirits Stores. read more

I am horrified!!! I am a 26 year old, hard working woman, and I go in there, yeah sure, bummin it with my bun and tshirt, waiting in line digging through my purse for my wallet and the clerk, also bummy looking, accused me of stealing!! He said, did you just take a candy or something?!?? Are you kidding me!!! I'm not gonna say my race so you can think what you want but know you may or may not be wrong... I was shocked and teary eyed at first, but now laugh that he thought that about ME!!! Wow. It's kinda funny now thinking, that I was digging for my wallet to give this creep money and instead, i said that was really rude and left, because I'm not one to make a scene of myself for some stupid ignorant cheap fool. that being said.... maybe i'm still mad. So if you go in there, make sure you warn him, you're just getting your wallet. read more

DO NOT SHOP HERE! First of all I'm surprised this liquor store is still open, however looks like about to close. We were attending a party in the lower Polk area, so a group 4 people from the party independently bought items here. We all experienced the same terrible service from both people working there, almost threatening. In addition, the prices are very expensive and the selection is very limited and not of quality. The one positive was that we all laughed at the party how terrible this liquor store was. read more

Amazing selection of imported/ hard to find spirits from around the world. You name it they might just have it. Example: If you are an ubersnob and insist on being a total label whore, they carry Roberto Cavalli's vodka. Pleasant customer service and in a not too dicey area on Polk cement the four star experience. P.S. Rumors are that they carry absinthe from time to time. Hmm...there might have to be an update. read more

Stumbled upon this gem while strolling around Polk street. The owner of royal liquor was so accommodating and patient with us. He recommended everything for us and great local bar places to go. Amazing customer service and a true original liquor store. read more

I love a local liquor shop as a rule, but am also always scared that they won't have anything I'll want. Royal has solved this problem for me, so far as I stay in the neighborhood. The owner, Sammy, really seems to know his booze -- and I say that in the most complimentary of ways. His store's selection of whiskey is impressive, and perhaps even more impressive when you include the Scotch. No one tried to forcibly upsell me -- we talked a bit about likes and dislikes in scotch, new brands coming out, and even the possibility of Scottish Independence. All in all, a short, but wonderful shopping experience. As far as what I bought goes, I doubt I'd find cheaper prices in the West Bay, or for that matter, possibly much of the West Coast. read more

I wish ZERO was an option... I've never had worse treatment in a liquor store. You need to learn how to ID people before assuming they are minors. United Liquors around the corner was more than kind/cheaper and checked my ID and checked the ID of the person I had with me under black light and I was able to purchase with no hassle. That's how a business is ran. If you don't know how to treat people maybe customer service isn't your thing. read more

Sammy is one of the last remaining local.small business owners who makes you feel like you have a neighbor, not just a source of elixir. A gem among lessening gems, a rarity that should not only be patronized but cherished. Salute Sammy, see ya soon read more

Great family run store that I will always support. They have a truly extensive collection of liquors from all over the world and one that could even trump Bevmo with rare selections. They can and will order anything you want or need upon request. Great to pickup some beer or wine here when eating at Shalimar or Tajine. Support the local stores! read more

Sammy and Royal Liquors have been a staple of the SF/Polk Gulch area long before it was even known as the "Gulch." The knowledge shared across various wines and whiskies on my frequent stop-ins during my 11 years in SF was always appreciated, and it's why I always make an effort to stop by while in town again. Sure, prices won't always be the lowest, but operating costs for a local businesses (particularly in SF) are insane. They're an endangered species, so support local while you still can. Cheers. read more

This is one of the last family owed liquor stores in San Francisco and is a great store depending on what you're looking for. The proprietor is highly knowledgeable and has curated a unique collection of beers, wines, and spirits. If you're going in thinking that this is just another corner store, you're going to be disappointed. They don't sell cigarettes and they don't sell dirt cheap booze... rather, the owner has some really interesting Japanese whiskies, small production wines, artisanal gins and vodkas, and an amazing selection of bourbon & scotches. In fact, Royal Liquor's Four Rose's single barrel bourbon was exceptional! I would note, however, that there's been some staff turnover and some of the new staff are not as knowledgeable about all the products in the store... but give it time - I'm sure that it will continue to be a great store! read more

Friendly service. Kind. Takes care of customers. Gotta love a corner store that can take care of all of your needs. Sammie took care of us. Definitely a great spot to get any of your convenience needs. read more

Great local spot with super nice staff! The owner Sammy is the best and really cares about locals who visit. Have a big selection of booze and wine (at all price points too). Recommend supporting this place if you're in the neighborhood! read more

Who would have guessed that treasure could be found at a liquor store on this part of Polk Street? And it gets better, the guy at the counter last night (Friday the 13th of Aug 2010) was a peach and was really fun to yak with about Indian food and restaurants in the area. I needed a bottle of something bubbly to take back across the street to Shalimar, and I was shocked by what I found in the fridge . . . I knew that no matter how the food would fare at Shalimar that I'd be one happy girl with a good bottle of bubbles to aid my digestion. Love this shop, it's destination, that's for sure. read more

Royal Liquors is exactly what a neighborhood needs. Fast, friendly, knowledgeable and reasonably priced. The owner, Sam, is one of the nicest guys in SF. This is a family owned business and a great neighborhood staple. read more

Open 'til 2am and has a solid selection of your most necessary alcoholic fare. I'm keen on this place because I was able to pick up a favorite bottle that changed my mind about tequila, Don Alejo. I was also pleasantly surprised by the service I received. read more

Attention to all, I would NOT use your card here, cash only and here's why. VERY WEIRD BEHAVIOR. So I decided to use my card to purchase a bottle. I swipe my card and shortly after I type in my pin, I was surprised by the cashier promptly hitting a button on his end. As he does this he proceeds to tell me my card got denied. Meanwhile, there's no receipt, no transaction cancellation sign, nothing. Keep in mind, as this is happening, he's writing something down very discreetly on a brown paper bag. On top of this, as soon as I made eye contact with him, he urgently tried to hide the bag under the counter as if I caught him doing something wrong. He then repeated there's an issue with the card reader and told me to run my card again...as I imagine he will do this every time. I used cash and changed my pin after leaving. This is too risky of a situation. If there's money in your account, the card reader should work. Tell me sir, what did you write down on that paper bag? While you were hunched over, head low, using your arm to cover yourself? To me, it looks like you wrote down my pin while you stored my card information on your machine, potentially rerouting it to some another country, and being untraceable from there. I'm merely stating my encounter with this business. But those are the facts. Maybe don't hide a brown paper bag full of chicken scratch notes under the counter while you twiddle with a razor blade eyeing me down while type in my pin. I think we could ALL learn a thing or two from this story. read more

Fabulous store. The owner, Sammy, could not have been nicer. His suggestions were right on the money. The selection of wines were all inclusive as he carries inexpensive bottles as well as the more select and pricey wines. You rock Royal! read more