Stephen Curry Expands His Legacy Beyond Basketball with New Bourbon Bar ‘The Eighth Rule’

Stephen Curry Expands His Legacy Beyond Basketball with New Bourbon Bar ‘The Eighth Rule’

Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry has built his reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, but his latest move proves he’s just as comfortable creating experiences off the hardwood as he is sinking three-pointers. In a bold and surprising venture, Curry has partnered with world-renowned celebrity chef Michael Mina to open “The Eighth Rule,” a bourbon-focused cocktail bar nestled in the historic Westin St. Francis Hotel at Union Square in San Francisco.

The intimate, 40-seat space—reservation only—marks Curry’s first foray into a physical hospitality project. For a player whose name is synonymous with excellence, innovation, and cultural influence, the new endeavor is yet another way of leaving his imprint on the Bay Area.

A Collaboration Built on Prestige

The bar is not a standalone project but a carefully crafted addition to Mina’s revival of his celebrated Bourbon Steak restaurant, located just steps away. Known for his artistry in blending luxury dining with accessible comfort food, Mina brings the culinary vision, while Curry provides the cultural clout and brand synergy to make the concept shine.

The “Eighth Rule” doesn’t just serve drinks—it creates an atmosphere of exclusivity and discovery. Designed as a bourbon lover’s paradise, the bar showcases rare pours, inventive cocktails, and a carefully curated menu that reflects both Mina’s culinary pedigree and Curry’s personal style. It is more than a place to drink—it’s an experience that blends craftsmanship, storytelling, and sophistication.

The Meaning Behind “The Eighth Rule”

The name itself carries a layer of intrigue. Traditionally, bourbon-making has seven “rules”—guidelines that define its authenticity, from being made in the U.S. to containing at least 51% corn and aging in new charred oak barrels. By introducing an “eighth rule,” Curry and Mina invite patrons to decide for themselves what the missing rule should be—whether it’s innovation, community, or simply enjoying bourbon with good company.

This symbolic gesture also reflects Curry’s own career. Much like how he redefined the game of basketball with his deep shooting range and quick release, he is now helping redefine the hospitality experience, blending tradition with modern flair.

Gentleman’s Cut Meets The Eighth Rule

Curry’s venture also aligns seamlessly with his already-successful Gentleman’s Cut bourbon brand, which debuted in 2023. The brand has been marketed as both premium and approachable, appealing to casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.

At “The Eighth Rule,” guests will not only find Gentleman’s Cut featured prominently but also discover how it fits into a broader world of rare bourbons and creative mixology. The bar acts as a physical extension of his brand—bringing the story of Gentleman’s Cut from the shelves into an immersive, real-world experience.

A Boost for San Francisco’s Culinary and Cultural Scene

Curry’s project arrives at a crucial moment for Union Square, a district still finding its footing after the economic and cultural shifts brought on by the pandemic. By situating his first hospitality venture in one of San Francisco’s most iconic hotels, Curry signals his commitment to helping revitalize the city’s cultural fabric.

Union Square has long been a gathering place for locals and tourists alike, and the addition of a Curry-backed bourbon bar alongside Mina’s Bourbon Steak creates a new destination for foodies, fans, and travelers. For San Francisco, this isn’t just another bar opening—it’s a statement of renewal and resilience.

From Hardwood to Hospitality

For Curry, “The Eighth Rule” is more than a business investment—it’s a continuation of his narrative as a cultural tastemaker. His impact has always transcended basketball: from fashion to media production, from philanthropy to tech partnerships. This bar reflects the same spirit that has defined his career: innovation, quality, and connection.

Fans who have cheered for him at Chase Center can now raise a glass in his honor at Union Square. It’s an extension of his brand that makes Curry accessible not just as an athlete but as a part of San Francisco’s lifestyle.

The Bigger Picture

Stephen Curry is no stranger to breaking barriers. On the court, he transformed the NBA by normalizing the deep three-point shot and inspiring a generation of players. Off the court, he has built a portfolio that extends across sports, entertainment, and now hospitality.

By opening “The Eighth Rule,” Curry is once again showing his ability to think beyond conventional limits. Just as his shooting range redefined basketball, his bourbon venture redefines what it means for athletes to build lasting legacies.