There’s nothing better than sipping on a refreshing cocktail on a nice sunny day especially when you have a picturesque view. San Francisco is home to some of the most vibrant and trendy rooftop bars you’ll ever experience. Whether you’re looking to take a break from touring the city, an elegant place for date night, or looking for a hot spot to enjoy a few drinks with friends check out our top list of the best rooftop bars in San Francisco that will not disappoint.
Everdene
Everdene may be one of the hottest rooftop bars in San Francisco so don’t be surprised when you have to wait in a line just to get in. That said, this rooftop bar is well worth the wait. The bar is located on the 12th floor of the Virgin Hotel and boasts 4,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space. Everdene features a 25-foot wraparound bar, a lounge area, and has a lush outdoor garden. The bar also features a few private lounges — perfect for celebrating birthdays or any other occasion!
The DJ plays music throughout the afternoon and into the evening so you can party all night long. This is perfect for anyone looking to have a good time but is not the place you want to go if you’re looking for a quiet, intimate date night! On the menu, you will find delicious culinary creations as well as creative cocktails (including large format options for groups). Not sure what to order? Previous guests have raved about the Love, Honor, and Betrayal cocktail which includes gin, apricot, lemon juice, lavender, and sparkling wine. From the bustling nightlife to the vibrant atmosphere and creative menu offerings it’s easy to see why Everdene is one of the best rooftop bars in San Francisco.
Charmaine’s
Don’t miss your chance to visit Proper Hotel’s rooftop bar and lounge that is located 120 feet above Market Street. Every seat is guaranteed to be a good one and will give you an exceptional view of the city. At Charmaine’s the decor is alluring and chic, the atmosphere is laid back, and the drinks are a work of art. Charmaine’s features both indoor and outdoor space that has a European charm. You’ll also enjoy that the outdoor patio is surrounded by a glass windscreen that protects you from San Francisco’s constant winds without sacrificing the stunning view. If you do find the outdoors to be too breezy you can transition to the indoor patio which features floor to ceiling windows.
Grab a seat by one of the fire pits and enjoy the hand-crafted cocktails created by Josh Harris and Morgan Schtick, the guys behind Bon Vivants and Trick Dog. The cocktail menu is inspired by San Francisco’s size (7 miles by 7 miles) and the drinks are divided up into 7 categories with 7 cocktails each. If you get hungry you can enjoy some of the delicious bar snacks that are crafted by James Beard nominee Jason Franey, who is the chef at Villon (the restaurant below Charmaine’s).
El Techo
If you love sunshine and you love margaritas you need to check out El Techno. The rooftop bar is conveniently located in the heart of the Mission District and above its sister restaurant, Lolinda. At El Techo, the sun is always shining, but even when it’s not, the rooftop bar keeps its guests warm and cozy with heat lamps and windscreens. Better yet, the patio is equipped with a retractable roof to ensure they can serve their guest’s rain or shine!
Seats at El Techo are coveted, so make sure you head here early to score a spot, especially if you’re going for dinner. Guests rave about El Techo’s delicious cocktails and their crave-worthy Latin American street food which by the way, is perfect for sharing! If you’re looking for a good deal, the bar runs a happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm which includes beer, margaritas, and bar bites at a great price!
Dirty Habit
Dirty Habit is the intimate hideaway you’ve been searching for. It’s located on the fifth floor at Hotel Zelos in the SoMA neighborhood. While the rooftop bar may not be famously known for the best views of the city (since it’s nestled between taller buildings), it is renowned for its perfect cocktail menu, delicious bites, and moody atmosphere. The upscale rooftop bar is furnished with gas fireplaces and cozy leather sofas.
The cocktail list offers plenty of inventive options including punch bowls for sharing. Previous patrons have raved about the Formal Agreement cocktail which includes Gentleman Jack, cognac, porcini mushroom, and oolong tea. You’ll also spot a few fancy non-alcoholic drinks that are worth trying. When you’re ready to eat you can browse their seasonal food menu that features gourmet bites crafted by Chef Thomas Weibull.
Jones
Jones is located in the heart of San Francisco and just a few blocks from Union Square. Unlike other rooftop bars on this list, Jones is located on the second floor but that doesn’t mean you can’t take in the sunshine. The bar features a whopping 8,000 square feet of spacious seating! This also makes it a great venue for corporate or private events.
Step inside the wrought iron gates and ascend the stairs to reach the trendy terrace. The rooftop bar is equipped with string lights and lush plants providing you a serene atmosphere. You can enjoy everything from legendary cocktails to delicious dinner offerings and even their must-try Sunday brunch. From 5 pm to 7 pm the bar hosts a happy hour that features $5 wine and cocktails as well as $3 beers.
Rooftop 25
Rooftop 25 is one of San Francisco’s newer rooftop bars but it has quickly become a hot spot in the city! The bar features a laid back vibe and upbeat music constantly plays in the background making this a perfect place for friends and family. Better yet, the spacious rooftop bar is located 50 feet above street level providing you with an unparalleled view of the city.
The bar features a delicious drink menu from frozen and specialty cocktails to wine, and ice-cold local beers. Don’t miss your chance to try their food menu too which features delicious offerings that come from their oakwood fired ovens. Try their renowned hand-crafted pizzas, burgers, and famous hot dog served in a pretzel bun with beer and cheese onions.
