San Francisco is a beautiful metropolis full of amazing bars and restaurants that cater to every type of cuisine imaginable. It’s a city of diversity, and that is reflected in more ways than one. There are hundreds of bars in the city of all shapes and sizes, but a rooftop bar is the obvious choice — if you’re looking for cozy comfort and trendy cocktails, at a rooftop bar you can have that PLUS the amazing view of the city skyline. If you’re planning a trip to the Golden City, you’re no doubt aware that San Fran is full of rooftop establishments, and it may help to narrow down the selections to just the best of the best. Offering al fresco seating, cocktails aplenty, delicious food, and killer views of the city, here are the 10 best rooftop bars San Francisco has to offer.
KAIYŌ Rooftop
Located on top of the city’s Hyatt Place Hotel, KAIYŌ Rooftop is one of the newest rooftop bars San Francisco has to offer. Featuring panoramic views of the city skyline and San Francisco Bay, KAIYŌ’s vibrant color scheme and palm trees evoke tropical vacation vibes, and it is billed as “an immersive Nikkei experience,” referring to the Japanese culinary influence within Peruvian culture. On their impressive menu of drinks and small shareable plates, you’ll see Nikkei-inspired cocktails plus things like ceviche served with sashimi — just one of many delicious cultural pairings you’ve likely never experienced before. $$
Location: 701 3rd Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
El Techo
Perched above the Lolita Steakhouse, El Techo is a relaxed establishment that is one of the most popular rooftop bars San Francisco has in its impressive lineup. Offering delicious cocktails and a menu of Latin American street food, El Techo also offers a brunch each weekend (reservations required). This prime location boasts 360-degree views of the city, from behind the comfort of clear glass windscreens. They’re ready for anything — in addition to the wind screens, El Techo also has sun-shading umbrellas, high-powered heat lamps, and a retractable roof. No matter the weather, they’ve got you covered. $$
Location: 2516 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
Charmaine’s
San Francisco is chic and sophisticated, and Charmaine’s fits that niche perfectly. Located on top of the Proper Hotel (which is itself a trendy spot), here you’ll find a wraparound rooftop terrace with comfortable lounge-style seating and plenty of warming firepits to cozy up to. It’s quirky and colorful but doesn’t overdo it — the vibes are laid back and the pours are generous. Featuring a custom menu of signature cocktails, bar snacks, and small plates, Charmaine’s is one of the trendist up-and-coming spots in the city, having been deemed “San Francisco’s hottest rooftop” by San Francisco Magazine. $$$
Location: 45 McAllister Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Good Good Culture Club
Although Good Good Culture Club (or GGCC to fans) is known for its lengthy menu of cocktails and spirits, it’s more than just a bar — it’s also one of the coolest rooftop restaurants San Francisco has to offer. Although not as high up as some of its competitors (the building is only two floors), Good Good Culture Club is vibrant and eclectic, and full of colorful artwork and leafy green decor. The cuisine is Asian-inspired with California influences, and the drinks are reminiscent of tropical poolside cocktails with a creative twist. Since its opening in early 2022, GGCC has quickly proved that it is worthy of inclusion on any “best of” list. $$
Location: 3560 18th Street, San Francisco, CA 94110
Rooftop 25
If you’re looking for laid-back vibes with great rooftop views, look no further than Rooftop 25. The spacious, comfortable seating area is shielded by glass windscreens, ensuring guests don’t feel the breeze off the bay. With a cocktail menu of frozen favorites, among other things, and a wood-fire oven producing pizza, burgers, and bratwurst, plus tons of other great options, guests tend to get cozy and stay awhile. If you happen to be there at sunset, make sure you face west because the sun setting over the Golden City is nothing less than spectacular. At Rooftop 25, you won’t have to miss a thing. $$
Location: 25 Lusk Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
Fiorella Sunset
This is another establishment that moonlights as a trendy rooftop bar, but is also one of the most delicious rooftop restaurants San Francisco brings to the table. Featuring a full menu of classic Italian food like wood-fired pizza and rich, hearty pasta, Fiorella Sunset also boasts a ton of amazing cocktails custom-curated by a well-known San Francisco bar director. With all that going for it, it’s hard to find anything to complain about at Fiorella. And make no mistake — the name isn’t Fiorella Sunset for no reason. Stop by and have some pasta and a cocktail and watch the sun setting over the city skyline — you won’t regret it. $$
Location: 1240 9th Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94122
620 Jones
With more than 8,000 square feet of rooftop, 620 Jones is one place you shouldn’t have any trouble getting into — it’s the largest rooftop bar San Francisco has to offer. It’s also well known for its cool vibes — Jones’ wrought-iron gates and metal embellishments are very much old San Francisco reinvented, and its abundance of lush greenery is reminiscent of the enchanting rooftop gardens of old. Featuring three bars, a plethora of seating, lower-level views, and a full menu of signature cocktails, wine, and spirits, 620 Jones is also a well-known hot spot for hummingbirds, so keep your eyes peeled for the little beauties while you’re there. $$
Location: 620 Jones Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
Dirty Habit
On the rooftop of the stylish Hotel Zelos you’ll find Dirty Habit — a chic, upscale establishment with dramatic, noir vibes and a penchant for rare spirits. With gas fireplaces and cushy couches throughout, at Dirty Habit you can enjoy your craft cocktail in style and comfort. Their food menu focuses on gourmet small bites, from oysters and caviar to thick-cut fries and chicken wings. With views of the trendy SoMa neighborhood and a cozy, intimate space, Dirty Habit hits the mark when it comes to the best rooftop bars San Francisco has on display these days. Make sure to sample at least one of the rare spirits on their menu while you’re there. $$
Location: 12 4th Street, San Francisco, CA 94103
Rooftop at VIA
Located on the rooftop of boutique Hotel VIA, Rooftop at VIA is undoubtedly the most exclusive rooftop bar San Francisco has to offer. Available exclusively to hotel guests and private events (an event meaning a reservation for a minimum of six guests), this upscale establishment is one of the absolute best. Located just adjacent to Oracle Park (home of the San Francisco Giants), Rooftop at VIA boasts 360-degree views of the city skyline and a series of private cabanas for small parties and intimate events. It’s a happening place to be when the Giants have a home game, and the cozy fire pits and heat lamps will make sure you stay warm and toasty. $$$$
Location: 138 King Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
Rise Over Run
This brand-new rooftop bar is already making a name for itself as a heavy hitter. Since its much-anticipated grand opening in early October 2022, Rise Over Run has garnered big-time local attention, and it doesn’t disappoint — with a cocktail consultant who is a local legend and a Michelin award-winning chef, this sophisticated establishment knocks it out of the park. And it’s more than just a rooftop bar — it’s also a stunningly-beautiful solarium. Perched atop the LINE Hotel, Rise Over Run boasts panoramic views of the city, a delicious menu of finger foods and canapes, and crazy-good cocktails — a real recipe for success. $$$
Location: 33 Turk Street, San Francisco, CA 94102
