San Francisco is a city of breathtaking views, and what better way to soak in its iconic skyline, glittering Bay, and legendary sunsets than with a cocktail in hand? Whether you’re looking for a sleek lounge, a vibrant Latin-inspired rooftop, or a cozy hotel bar with historic charm, SF has an incredible selection of rooftop spots.
For me, rooftop bars are more than just a place to grab a drink-they’re an experience. There’s something about being high above the city, feeling the cool Bay breeze, and sipping on a perfectly crafted cocktail that makes any evening feel extra special. Whenever I travel, I make it a mission to find the best rooftop bars in every city, and San Francisco’s scene is one of my all-time favorites.
From high-rise hotel lounges to trendy Mission District patios, here are my top seven must-visit rooftop bars in SF and why each one holds a special place in my heart.
1. Cavana – A Hidden Gem with Waterfront Views
Vibe: Chic and contemporary with Latin American influences
Best Drink: Mezcal Margarita
Best Bite: Guacamole
Cavana is one of SF’s newer rooftop bars, tucked away in the Mission Bay neighborhood with panoramic views of the Bay. The Latin-inspired menu and cocktail selection make this spot a true gem.
Why I Love It: The atmosphere is intimate yet lively, making it perfect for a relaxed night out. I adore their Mezcal Margarita-the smoky depth mixed with citrus is just the right amount of bold. Paired with fresh guacamole, it’s my go-to for an effortless, chill evening by the water.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to snag a seat by the edge for the best sunset views. And if you’re a Martini fan like me, the bartenders here are great at customizing drinks to your preference!
2. The Starlight Room – A Glamorous Throwback to Old SF
Vibe: Vintage glamour meets modern mixology
Best Drink: Dirty 90s Martini
Best Bite: Furikake Fries
Perched atop the Sir Francis Drake Hotel, The Starlight Room oozes old-school charm with plush seating, elegant chandeliers, and jaw-dropping views of downtown SF.
Why I Love It: This place makes me feel like I’ve stepped back into a glamorous era of San Francisco. Their Dirty 90s Martini is an absolute classic, served with blue cheese-stuffed olives- perfection. The Furikake Fries add just the right crunch and umami flavor to round out the experience.
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekend for live music or a DJ to enhance the ambiance. And yes, they make an excellent Dirty Martini! You can also make a reservation ahead of time and skip the wait.
3. Top of the Mark – A San Francisco Classic
Vibe: Sophisticated, timeless, and romantic
Best Drink: Espresso Martini
Best Bite: Ahi Tuna Tartare
An SF institution since 1939, Top of the Mark at the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel offers one of the best panoramic views in the city.
Why I Love It: There’s something magical about sipping a cocktail in a place with so much history. The Espresso Martini here is smooth, rich, and perfect for keeping the night going. I always pair it with the Ahi Tuna Tartare for a refined yet satisfying bite.
Pro Tip: Golden hour here is pure magic- don’t miss it!
4. El Techo – The Mission’s Go-To Rooftop Hangout
Vibe: Lively, colorful, and energetic
Best Drink: Margarita
Best Bite: Yuca Fries
For a more casual and vibrant vibe, El Techo is the ultimate go-to rooftop bar in the Mission District.
Why I Love It: This place is all about energy. The open-air setup, strong margaritas, and Latin-inspired bites make it a fantastic spot for a lively night out with friends. Their Yuca Fries? Crispy, perfectly salted, and utterly addictive.
Pro Tip: Expect a wait, especially on weekends. Come early or visit on a weekday for a better chance at a prime seat.
5. Cityscape – A Skyline Lover’s Dream
Vibe: Sleek, modern, and panoramic
Best Drink: Stardust
Best Bite: Charcuter Board
Located on the 46th floor of the Hilton Union Square, Cityscape is one of the highest rooftop bars in SF, offering a jaw-dropping 360-degree view.
Why I Love It: Whether it’s daytime with clear blue skies or nighttime with twinkling city lights, the view here never disappoints. The Stardust cocktail, made with champagne and edible gold dust, is as fancy as it sounds, and the Charcuterie board is a delicious classic.
Pro Tip: Check the fog forecast before heading up- sometimes the city disappears into a cloud! Also, they make a mean Dirty Martini upon request.
6. Charmaine’s – A Stylish Rooftop Retreat
Vibe: Trendy, cozy, and Instagram-worthy
Best Drink: Proper Cup
Best Bite: Roasted Eggplant Dip
Perched atop the Proper Hotel, Charmaine’s is easily one of the most stylish rooftop lounges in SF.
Why I Love It: The fire pits, plush seating, and moody lighting make this spot feel extra special. The proper cup is Charmaines take on the classic Pimms cup. And the roasted eggplant dip? Just the right amount of indulgence.
Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket! Even with heat lamps, SF’s evening breeze can get chilly.
7. The View Lounge – The Ultimate Sunset Spot
Vibe: Upscale, spacious, and stunning
Best Drink: SF Manhattan
Best Bite: Mushroom Flatbread
Perched atop the Marriott Marquis, The View Lounge boasts some of the best sunset views in the city, with its expansive floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown and the Bay.
Why I Love It: The ambiance is unbeatable for a relaxed yet upscale experience. I love coming here just before sunset to watch the sky turn shades of orange and pink while sipping on a perfectly crafted Manhattan. The mushroom flatbread? The ultimate indulgence.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to grab a window seat- it gets crowded fast!
San Francisco’s rooftop bar scene is as diverse as the city itself, offering everything from elegant, historic lounges to vibrant, modern hangouts. Whether you want to sip a classic martini at a timeless landmark, enjoy Latin-inspired cocktails in the Mission, or take in the skyline from a high-rise lounge, these six spots have you covered.
What’s your favorite rooftop bar in SF? Have a hidden gem I should check out? Let me know in the comments!
Leave a Reply