The city of San Francisco is very vibrant and thriving.
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When I first moved to the Bay Area from the Northeast 10 years ago, I envisioned myself sipping cocktails on a sun-drenched rooftop, soaking up the warmth of San Francisco's temperate climate. It seemed idyllic. But I soon encountered the city's notorious summer cold and learned why Mark Twain said, “The coldest winter I ever spent was a San Francisco summer.” Seeing locals bundled up in scarves and jackets, even in July, made rooftop bars seem almost laughable.
The city's weather took an unexpected turn on my Bay Area dreams. Instead of the balmy nights I'd imagined, my friends and colleagues shivered under layers of blankets and sipped hot tea to ward off the persistent fog known as “The Curl.” San Francisco's famous microclimates mean that while it may be warm in one neighborhood, a quick trip out could bring a chilly wind. This gave the city a unique character, but also dashed my hopes of experiencing perpetual summer.
But times have changed. Recently, a wave of trendy rooftop bars has transformed the city’s social scene. Perhaps entrepreneurs and bar owners are catering to colder (colder) climate folks like me who moved to the area and don’t feel the “California cold.” Or maybe natives of “the city” are finally getting used to the idea of heat lamps and cozy fireplaces to keep warm on chilly (gasp) 50-degree nights. Either way, now in 2024, there are more than a dozen spots where you can enjoy a drink with a view, even if you have to bring a light sweater. Not only do these bars offer great views of San Francisco’s iconic skyline, they also offer a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for socializing.
From lush greenery and sophisticated décor to inventive cocktail menus, these rooftop bars cater to both locals and tourists looking to soak up the city's unique charm. Here, we've handpicked the best rooftop bars to cool off at this summer, where the ambiance and views more than make up for the occasional chill. Whether you're a resident or just visiting, these spots promise an unforgettable experience under the San Francisco sky.
Charmain's
45 McAllister Street
Views of San Francisco from the fireside at Charmaine's Rooftop Bar
Proper Hotel
Perched 120 feet above Market Street on the top floor of the San Francisco Proper Hotel, Charmaine's is a rooftop bar and lounge that mirrors the landscapes of the living room and the greenery of the terrace into the sky. It combines the energetic chic of a European terrace with the laid-back vibe of California cool and offers spectacular views of the city stretching from the bay to the Salesforce Tower. In addition to light bites and appetizers, cocktails feature vibrant flavors, original combinations and unique bitters and syrups. The ambience of the Penthouse Lounge and Charmaine's evokes a romantic spirit. Designed by Kelly Wearstler with deep colors, textures and whimsical patterns, it is named after a fictional cat.
Located 120 feet above San Francisco's Market Street, Charmaine's takes cocktails to a whole new level.
Proper Hotel
Kaiyo Rooftop
701 3rd Street
Enjoy a cocktail at Kaiyo
Kaiyo Rooftop
Opening in February 2022, KAIYŌ Rooftop is a contemporary Peruvian-Japanese bar and lounge owned and operated by San Francisco restaurateur John Park of Brick x Brick Hospitality Group (KAIYŌ, Whitechapel, Novela). The bar is located on the rooftop of SOMA's Hyatt Place hotel, just steps from Oracle Park. KAIYŌ Rooftop marks the second location for Park's KAIYŌ concept, following the success of the concept's Cow Hollow restaurant, which opened in September 2018.
Sunset skyline view of the bay
Kaiyo Rooftop
Cabaña
100 Channel Street
San Francisco night view from a rooftop
Cabaña
Cavaña is the latest rooftop cocktail bar concept from San Francisco restaurateurs John Park of Brick x Brick Hospitality Group and Anthony Parks of True Hospitality. Located on the top floor of the LUMA Hotel San Francisco, Cavaña celebrates the spirit of Latin America through food, drinks, music and art. The menu features an extensive collection of sugarcane and agave spirits as well as artisanal cocktails, minimal intervention wines and shareable dishes inspired by flavors from across Latin America. Opening in February 2023, Cavaña will be the perfect place to enjoy live music and craft cocktails while taking in stunning views of Oracle Park and the San Francisco Bay.
Change the flavor with melon salvia cocktail
Cabaña
Shelby's Rooftop
250 4th Street
Take in the views from the 12th floor on 4th Avenue in San Francisco
Shelby's Rooftop
Shelby's Rooftop sits gracefully above 4th Avenue in downtown San Francisco, perfectly blending sophistication with casual comfort to create a haven for locals, foodies, and cocktail lovers. The rooftop offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, setting the perfect backdrop for any occasion. From the moment you step onto the rooftop, you'll know this isn't just a night out, it's a special experience. Sip on artisan-crafted cocktails, sample an eclectic menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, and enjoy live music that sets the perfect ambiance. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening, a casual get-together with friends, or a special celebration, Shelby's Rooftop guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Relax with a nightcap
Shelby's Rooftop
Dirty habits
12 4th Avenue
Dirty Habit Bar & Lounge
Hotel Zelos
Located on the fifth floor of Hotel Zelos, Dirty Habit is a stylish and laid-back hideaway serving up a fusion of New American cuisine, innovative craft cocktails, and a sociable atmosphere that's perfect for newcomers. Dirty Habit entices visitors with its modern décor accented with vintage touches, comfortable seating areas, and breathtaking city skyline views. The bar's creative mixtenders are known for using seasonal ingredients and inventive techniques to create uniquely flavored cocktails that will tantalize your taste buds. The menu is a culinary adventure in itself, featuring delicious dishes meticulously prepared by talented chefs. Find out why Dirty Habit is pioneering the rooftop bar revolution and should be at the top of your list for your next night out in San Francisco.
Dirty Habit Summer Cocktails
Hotel Zelos
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