In an age where meat-covered Lady GaGas and pop stars with dollar signs in their names populate the world, it’s increasingly hard to stand out and rise above competition. In the cocktail arena, a bartender can don feathered hats and glittered jeggings but if the drinks don’t pack an equal or greater “wow” factor, they’re not making headlines.

To set themselves apart from the nightlife pack, Epic Roasthouse in San Francisco has gotten creative with their cocktails. Putting the power of menu design in the bartenders’ hands, each was challenged to create their own concoction. Judged by fellow bartenders, management and waitstaff, only the best made it to the new Epic Originals bar menu. And man, are they epic.

Among the best: Agave Nino. The combination of tequila, agave syrup, lemon and Albarino made for a crisp, refreshing ‘I’m on a tropical island far, far away’ feel - without the pink umbrella and sugar overdose. Add a splash of spice from the jalapeno pepper garnish and you’ve got yourself one fine beverage.

Eva Peron, a sultry mix of Fernet Branca, ginger liqueur, vermouth, lime and ginger beer is as spicy as it is sweet. This combination softens the harsh blow of Fernet to the faint of heart but not without capturing its herbal and spice-infused essence.

Set on the bay-adjacent Embarcadero, Epic’s upstairs Quiver Bar makes for the perfect environment to enjoy said cocktails among others from the Originals list and the Classics menu. A panoramic view of the bay and bridge attracts tourists and locals alike looking to unwind in oversized leather barstools and chairs. If the drinks don’t make you warm and fuzzy all over, (which they will) the broken-in rustic, yet sophisticated setting will make you feel right at home. So much so, I am getting kind of homesick now. And thirsty. Perhaps another trip to the Golden City is in my near future.