San francisco | birthday drinks at executive order bar & lounge

For my birthday this year, I was really not in the mood to celebrate. I am very grateful for another year of life with my family and friends, and all the blessings that are given to me each day.

However, a couple of trying things happening a couple of weeks before my birthday put a damper on things. Quite unusual for me who is into finding simple joys and any reason to celebrate. When my parents called me, I was even baffled. I wondered why they were calling me on a random weekday as I was on my way to meet my friends for a drink. We usually talk on Sunday afternoons. Then, it occurred to me, “Oh, it is my birthday in the Philippines already!” My parents never fail to call me and wish me Happy Birthday every single year of my life since I moved to the US as a young adult if they are not here to celebrate my birthday.

My loyal and fun girlfriends changed everything for the better. I met up with them on my Birthday Eve at Executive Order Bar & Lounge in downtown San Francisco. Executive Bar is a Presidential-themed bar located right behind Bloomingdale’s in Downtown San Francisco. The bar is very cool and hip yet did not feel stuffy because it was spacious. The approach is also pretty casual. You order your drinks and food at the bar. The food will be delivered to your table. The bar looked like one big living room with couches and coffee tables.

I met up with my girlfriends for after work drinks but I did not know that it was to celebrate my birthday. And what a sweet celebration it was! We ordered a couple of appetizers and desserts, and truly enjoyed everything.

For my drink, I had The League of Nations (aka Aviation) — Aviation Gin, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur, Fresh Lemon Juice, Crème de Violette. Up. The Creme de Violette was what attracted me to it. And sure enough, I got a pretty looking lavender drink that was also very tasty. I will definitely order it again.

We noshed on Tater Tots and Harissa Fries followed by Mini Beignets with and Bourbon Caramel Sauce, and Mini Churros with Cinnamon Sugar and Mezcal Chocolate Sauce for dipping. Heavenly!

Well, aside from the drinks and eats being fabulous, being celebrated by my friends, and being surrounded by their love really lifted up my spirits. It jump started my birthday celebration and I actually enjoyed my actual birthday the next day. I am so blessed to have these beautiful, strong, intelligent and highly independent women in my life that I call sisters. And celebrated yet another special day with them as we have celebrated in many years of our friendship.

I really enjoyed everything about Executive Order from the ambiance, drinks, food and those heavenly DESSERTS! I have been dreaming of going back again and I will!