Hospitality Meets Bourbon: Steph Curry Serves Up “The Eighth Rule” in San Francisco

Hospitality Meets Bourbon: Steph Curry Serves Up “The Eighth Rule” in San Francisco

Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry has long been celebrated as the NBA’s most electrifying shooter, but now he’s extending his legacy far beyond the hardwood. In a bold new venture that blends luxury, lifestyle, and personal passion, Curry has unveiled The Eighth Rule, a bourbon-focused bar and lounge inside San Francisco’s iconic Westin St. Francis Hotel. Partnering with celebrity chef Michael Mina, Curry is stepping into the hospitality industry with the same fearlessness and vision that has defined his basketball career.

A Bourbon Dream Realized

At its core, The Eighth Rule is a tribute to craftsmanship—both in bourbon-making and in the art of hospitality. The concept draws inspiration from Curry’s own premium bourbon label, Gentleman’s Cut, which debuted in 2022 and has since carved out a niche in the competitive spirits market. With the bar, Curry and Mina are aiming to offer an experience that goes beyond just sipping bourbon.

The name itself is steeped in symbolism. Traditional bourbon-making is governed by seven foundational rules: from being made in the United States, to aging in new charred oak barrels, to containing at least 51% corn in its mash bill. Curry’s venue boldly adds an eighth rule—one that isn’t written in law books but instead defined by the guests themselves. It’s a personal touch that reflects Curry’s own journey: breaking boundaries, rewriting expectations, and encouraging others to shape their own experiences.

A Collaboration of Icons

Curry’s partner in this venture, Chef Michael Mina, is no stranger to the hospitality spotlight. A Michelin-starred chef with restaurants spanning the globe, Mina brings an unmatched culinary pedigree to the project. Together, the duo is merging fine dining with curated spirits, crafting a menu that elevates bourbon while also celebrating California’s diverse culinary scene.

“Steph has redefined the way people see basketball,” Mina said at the launch. “With The Eighth Rule, we want to redefine how people see bourbon culture—making it accessible, refined, and fun at the same time.”

The menu will feature signature cocktails infused with Gentleman’s Cut, as well as a rotating selection of rare bourbons. Guests can expect elevated small plates designed to complement the spirit, ranging from smoked short ribs to bourbon-glazed oysters.

Redefining Union Square

The Westin St. Francis, perched in the heart of Union Square, provides a fitting stage for Curry’s latest play. Long considered one of San Francisco’s cultural anchors, the hotel blends history with modern luxury—making it an ideal match for The Eighth Rule’s ethos. The space itself is designed to be immersive: warm wood finishes, sleek glass displays of rare bottles, and intimate seating that fosters conversation.

According to Curry, this is more than just a business venture—it’s a chance to give something back to the city that has embraced him since his rookie days in 2009. “San Francisco has been my home for my entire professional career,” Curry said. “I wanted to create a space that reflects not just my love for bourbon, but also my love for community, storytelling, and shared experiences.”

A Brand Beyond Basketball

The Eighth Rule is the latest move in Curry’s expanding off-court empire. From launching SC30 Inc., his multimedia and brand management company, to ventures in tech, fashion, and philanthropy, Curry has become as much an entrepreneur as an athlete. His Gentleman’s Cut bourbon has already earned critical acclaim, praised for its smooth finish and bold flavor profile. By bringing it into a dedicated hospitality setting, Curry is positioning the brand for even broader cultural resonance.

Sports marketing experts see this move as a natural evolution. “Curry isn’t just selling bourbon,” said David Carter, a sports business consultant. “He’s selling lifestyle, sophistication, and authenticity. The Eighth Rule gives fans and consumers a physical space to interact with his brand—and that’s powerful.”

The Cultural Crossover

Curry’s decision to dive into the bourbon world reflects a larger trend of athletes investing in spirits and hospitality. From LeBron James’ involvement in Lobos tequila to Michael Jordan’s Cincoro tequila brand, the crossover between sports icons and premium beverages has become a booming market. What sets Curry apart, however, is the experiential angle—he’s not just attaching his name to a bottle but curating an entire environment.

“The Eighth Rule is about participation,” Curry emphasized. “We want people to come in, share their stories, and decide what their own rule is. That’s what makes this special.”

Looking Ahead

With the NBA season on the horizon, Curry will once again carry the hopes of the Golden State Warriors on the court. But now, when he isn’t sinking three-pointers from half-court, he’ll be serving as a cultural ambassador for bourbon in the Bay Area.

Whether it becomes a hotspot for fans, tourists, or locals looking for a refined night out, The Eighth Rule already feels destined to make waves. It represents the intersection of sport, spirit, and sophistication—an embodiment of Curry’s own evolution from a once-overlooked draft pick to a global icon.

And just like his signature shot, this new venture has all the makings of another Curry masterpiece—smooth, surprising, and destined to leave a lasting impression.