3 Rooftop Bars In San Francisco Actually Worth Going To
Building a rooftop bar in San Francisco is a challenging task. Yes, we have tons of high risers that offer plenty of amazing vantage points for the city scape — unfortunately, those unobstructed views have been long claimed by office buildings and living spaces.
There are many proclaimed rooftop bars in The City. We hate to say it, but some are more like um…terrace bars. The bottom line is that discovering genuine rooftop bars that truly deliver on both the view and libation fronts amidst the vast options can be quite a struggle.
Fortunately, San Francisco has a few rooftop gems, albeit, not perching on top of the 60th floor, we promise you won’t miss a picturesque photo opportunity. You will ooh and ahh over the gorgeous city as a sunset chaser or a night owl. Oh, and the three rooftops we’re about to share also have AMAZING cocktails and small bites!
Rise Over Run
Nestled on top of The Line Hotel at Market and Turk is a sultry and cozy rooftop bar called, Rise Over Run. The bar boasts a stunning and thoughtfully designed ambiance. From the moment you step in, you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting setting that strikes the perfect balance between modern sophistication and relaxed comfort. The indoor bar is a covered solarium with lush greenery everywhere you turn and the city as the backdrop. We know it gets cold in the city, so come early if you want to snag the only fire pit on the roof. And if you don’t snag it, don’t fret — the hosts offer blankets for all outdoor patrons.
Their drink menu is impressive, offering craft exquisite cocktails with precision and creativity for even the most discerning palates. One of our favorites is the Tuk Tuk Julius. Don’t forget to check out their food menu for favorite small plates like basket fries and fresh oysters to compliment your drinks.
Kaiyō
Kaiyō has undeniably the best panoramic views of the city. You’ll be captivated by its awe-inspiring vistas of the iconic skyline, the Bay, and more. The ambiance is a blend of modern elegance and Japanese-inspired aesthetics. The design elements, including traditional lanterns, minimalist decor, and soothing color schemes will bring you to a tranquil haven.
If you’re in the mood for classic libations or innovative creations, each drink at Kaiyō is carefully crafted with premium ingredients. They offer a wide selection of exceptional drinks and foods. Their culinary team put together a menu featuring a fusion of Japanese and Californian cuisine, showcasing a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
What we love most about Kaiyō is how versatile the venue space is for any occasion. It’s the perfect spot to chase the sunset, gather with friends or even work events.
Charmaine’s
Ahh…Charmaine’s has been everyone’s day one and probably one of the real rooftop bars we had for a long time. They’re above the Proper hotel on Market St, well-regarded for its chic ambiance, creative cocktails, and stunning views of the city. The rooftop is stylish and sophisticated with a modern, urban vibe. It features intimate seating areas, verdant foliage, fire pits and trendy decor that creates an inviting and relaxing environment.
Occasionally the bar hosts live music performances, DJ sets, and other entertainment events. Currently, they’re doing bottomless paella on Saturdays! These events add an extra layer of excitement and energy to the already vibrant atmosphere.
Their menu is also updated frequently with new cocktail creations and in-season delectable plates to ensure their guests enjoy the seasonal changes. The highlight of this spot other than their panoramic views has to be the retractable glass walls and fire pits, making it a year-round appeal regardless of the SF weather.
So what do you think? Did we unintentionally overlook a must-visit rooftop bar that deserves a mention? We‘ve sipped our way through countless rooftop bars and took in the best views, ensuring you don’t miss out on the finest experiences. Now, the only decision left is choosing where your next night out will be!
