Who doesn't love a good rooftop? San Francisco definitely does. Despite the frequent appearance of our beloved Karl the Fog joining in on the fun, he absolutely does not deter the many restaurants here that desire to provide a magnificent rooftop dining experience for their adoring patrons.
San Francisco is filled with the most exquisite rooftop restaurants that excel in not only gifting the most breathtaking panoramic views, but also in their impeccably posh cuisine and lavish atmospheres. Here are all of the city's best rooftop restaurants to impress on your next outing, either for a meal with friends, a luxurious date, or even just a serene solo nightcap.
See also: The Most Unique, Creative, And Inventive Cocktails To Try In San Francisco
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701 3rd St / (415) 800-8141 / Website
KAIYŌ Rooftop, the highly-Instagrammable second location of the Cow Hollow flagship, is the ultimate tropical oasis for complex fruity cocktails, stunning 360-degree views, and inventive Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei cuisine. Conveniently located just beside the Giant's stadium, this lush 3,300 square foot jungle atop the Hyatt Place San Francisco makes for the perfect stop after games, as they guarantee only the highest quality of sushi and crudo to replenish with amid striking views of the Bay Bridge to the Salesforce Tower and Sutro Tower.
The must-tries here are either their Signature House Roll, or their Kame House Roll with luscious hamachi, creamy smoked yam puree, and exclusive leche de tigre sauce. These are best paired with any of their 10 house libations that all pay tribute to traditional Peruvian and Japanese flavors and ingredients, such as their refreshing Space Adventure Cobra with Roku gin and matcha coconut cream. If Karl pays a visit, don't worry as there are several ceiling heat lamps especially provided for the unpredictable weather.
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45 McAllister St / (415) 786-3467 / Website
Need a swanky place to absolutely dazzle around Market Street? Definitely head up to the Proper Hotel's Charmaine's, which is thoughtfully equipped with several fire pits, comfy lounge chairs, complimentary blankets for chilly times, and naturally, a deluxe view of downtown. Charmaine's truly promises a charmingly sophisticated atmosphere with kind servers and cozy amenities, and wait until you hear about their impeccable provisions.
The fluffy Pretzel Rolls with rich Smoked Pimento Cheese Dip is sure to be your instant favorite, along with their signature Huitlacoche Stuffed Potatoes. For drinks that effortlessly match the paradisial ambience, definitely imbibe on their tropical Kissin’ in the California Sun with Créme de Pêche, Orgeat, and more.
See also: Executive Chef Jason Fox Provides A Restaurant Triple Treat At Proper Hotel
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12 4th St / (415) 348-1555 / Website
Dirty Habit is Hotel Zelo's best kept secret, boasting a sleek and sultry lounge and open-air patio peacefully hidden away from the bustle of Market Street. Ascending their elevator reveals a luxuriously intimate hideaway brimming with seasonal craft cocktails, fire pits, and exquisitely fresh bites of Whipped Duck Liver, Sturgeon Caviar, Lobster Lumpia, and more.
We definitely encourage you to inquire on their bartenders' processes and recommendations on their expansive drink menu, as they will expertly guide you to flavors best suited for your taste, such as their smoky A Gentleman’s Dignity, or their zesty Everything Nice with Thai chili bitters. Another pro tip here is to keep an eye out for their many wonderful hosted whiskey festival, movie night, and drag show events.
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2516 Mission St / (415) 550-6970 / Website
El Techo has certainly made it onto several of our lists, and that is because this Mission favorite accomplishes so many aspects! From unobstructed views of the Mission, to its trendy decor and flavorful dishes, this heated and colorful cabana makes it worth the climb up, especially for brunch. Start your day with their brilliant Chilaquiles Rojos or Pan con Chicharron, paired with their Agua Fresca Mimosa or classic Caipiriña- just be sure to make a reservation early.
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620 Jones St / (415) 496-6858 / Website
Located within the Financial District, 620 Jones is the ultimate go-to for a hidden rooftop venue that is as impressively large as its food and drink menu. While their entrance may be elusively unassuming, finding it and stepping in immediately captivates you with their magical string lights, tropical greenery, playful neon lighting, and lively DJ sets, especially when they go above and beyond with their can't-miss Drag Brunch. Also sample their Boba Fetch, which is boba elevated with vodka, green tea syrup, and edible glitter, as well as their many generously topped pizzas.
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25 Lusk St / (415) 495-5875 / Website
As the masterpiece of Executive Chef and partner Matthew Dolan, his food and drink menu atop 25 Lusk exudes careful refinement and ingenious complexity. Rooftop 25 is the ritzy destination just off of the 4th and King Caltrain station that builds a scenic and intimate getaway. Feel reinvigorated with their vodka and coffee liqueur Wake Up Call and fresh Garden Martini, best drank with their ethical and sustainably sourced Gulf Shrimp Kebabs, Dungeness Crab Rolls, and Double Cut Cowboy Ribeye Steak.
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999 California St / (415) 616-6916 / Website
Top of the Mark lavishly perched on the Union Square hotel's 19th floor is a marvelously grand sky lounge that ascends past all expectations. Take a break from luxury shopping and head up for an exclusive panoramic view that you can enjoy with a classic Manhattan or martini with charcuterie, caviar, or Ahi Tuna Tartar. Do not miss out on their many diverse offerings, such as their decadent Hanson Vodka and chocolate pairing, champagne tastings, or group event specials.
No matter where you are in the city, San Francisco is equipped with only the highest-quality of rooftops to capture all of our picturesque views!
See also: The Best San Francisco Bars For Summery Aperol Spritz
Photography by: Alina Tyulyu
