1. Slate Bar Opens in the Mission: Housed in the former SOM space at 16th and South Van Ness, Slate (pictured above) is looking to move away from its former occupants' clubby vibe to more of a relaxed lounge feel, including adding seating and a pool table. The space is still dark and romantic, and they've introduced a few signature cocktails, like the Jenny's Juice (black tea-infused vodka, lemon, sugar) and the Working Girl (bourbon, apple cider, ginger liqueur, sage). There's also a daily happy hour from 6-10, with $5 well drinks, $1 off beer, and a $6 shot-and-a-beer combo with Tecate and your choice of Jameson or Bulleit. (Wednesday-Saturday, 6 pm-2 am, 2925 16th St., Mission.)
2. LoCA Uncorked Festival: The vintners of Lodi, California are taking their show on the road to SF for this annual festival, which will be held on Treasure Island-- perfect for getting a view of the Fleet Week jets overhead and the America's Cup festivities in the Bay. Over 200 wines representing 35 wineries will be available for tasting, along with chocolate, cheese, olive oil, and other bites from the region. Pasta Pomodoro will provide Italian fare as well. Tickets are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. (Saturday, October 6, 1-5 pm, at 291 Avenue of the Palms, Treasure Island.)
3. Off the Pier: Another way to catch the Fleet Week and America's Cup action is by heading to a special edition of Off the Grid's big food-truck circle at Fort Mason, which they're extending to Saturday afternoon so folks can enjoy some bites with their views. Bacon Bacon, Five Ten Burger, Little Green Cyclo, and Curry Up Now are just some of the 20 vendors who'll be on site, and they'll also have plenty of Magnolia brews, NorCal wines, and cocktails from the Alembic to slake everyone's thirst. (Saturday, October 6, 11 am-5 pm, at Fort Mason Center, Marina Blvd. and Buchanan St., Marina.)
4. Sake Day: The 7th Annual Sake Day will be quite the party in Japantown. There will be over 100 sakes to taste, great Izakaya-style food (Nombe is one of the presenters nom nom), a live Okinawan band, sake edu-drinking stations, and special sake brewer's tables. Buy tickets online ($75) or at the door ($80), 100% of all proceeds go directly to the JCCCNC. (Saturday October 6, 5 - 8 p.m. @ Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Northern California, 1840 Sutter St, Japantown.)
5. Two Events at Brasserie S&P: The recently opened Brasserie S&P bar in the Mandarin Oriental hotel is hosting two boozy events this weekend, one of which is free. First, they'll have Glenmorangie brand ambassador David Blackmore on hand to discuss single-malt Scotch and lead a complimentary tasting; RSVP here or call (415) 986-2020. Then on Saturday, they'll get into the Fleet Week groove with a party, featuring 40th-floor views, cocktails made Blue Angel vodka, Highflyer wine, and small bites. Admission is $40; RSVP here or call (415) 276-9724. (Glenmorangie: Thursday, October 4, 6-8 pm; Sky High Party: Saturday, October 6, 1-4 pm, at Mandarin Oriental SF, 222 Sansome St., Financial District.)