Wine bars are no longer just about the pour—they’re elevating the experience with inventive small plates that hold their own. In cities like New York, San Francisco, and Chicago, fire-kissed tapas and wood-fired creations are redefining the standard for what a wine night should taste like. Here’s where to find wine bars that strike the perfect balance between rustic flavor and refined ambiance.
NYC: Ruffian Wine Bar & Chef’s Table
Located in the East Village, Ruffian pairs its extensive natural wine list with a rotating menu of Eastern European-inspired plates. Their wood-fired eggplant with tahini and harissa stands out, alongside charred flatbreads that are perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.
Reservations can be booked through Resy, and if you’re a cashback-minded diner, consider using Rakuten or Ibotta when booking your night out.
San Francisco: Verjus
Part wine bar, part market, Verjus offers a French-leaning menu with wood-fired octopus, roasted cauliflower, and flame-charred lamb ribs. The wine list leans natural and low-intervention, served in a space that feels more Parisian cave à manger than traditional restaurant.
You can often find Verjus reservations via OpenTable, where you may be able to use apps like Rakuten or Ibotta for additional cashback when booking.
Chicago: Rootstock Wine & Beer Bar
Tucked into the Humboldt Park neighborhood, Rootstock brings seasonal, wood-fired plates to its cozy, candle-lit interior. Standout options include smoked trout toast and pork loin roasted over embers. Their thoughtfully curated wine list includes off-the-beaten-path bottles from around the world.
Booking through a cashback-compatible dining platform and linking it with Rakuten or Ibotta can help you stretch your dining budget while still indulging.
Using Cashback Apps for Dining Reservations
When making reservations through platforms like OpenTable or Resy, use a browser extension or link from Rakuten or Ibotta to earn cashback automatically. These apps often feature seasonal bonuses or boosted rates, especially for dining categories. While Fluz focuses more on gift cards, using a Fluz virtual card via Apple Pay or Google Pay could also help you earn cashback if the restaurant accepts those payment methods.
Conclusion
Whether you’re savoring wine and fire-roasted plates in Manhattan, sipping French reds in San Francisco, or cozying up to a rustic Chicago bistro, pairing your reservation with a cashback app adds another layer of satisfaction. A great glass of wine, a perfectly charred small plate, and a bit of money back? That’s a trio worth toasting.
