According to sf.eater.com, San Francisco is famous for its stunning landmarks and breathtaking vistas, from the iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the shimmering bay waters. If you’re looking to enjoy exceptional dining alongside spectacular views, this curated list of the best restaurants and bars around the city will not disappoint.
Seal Rock Inn Restaurant
Nestled near Land’s End, Seal Rock Inn marks the return of celebrated chef Alfred Schilling to San Francisco’s culinary scene. After honing his craft in France and as a chocolatier, Schilling offers a simple yet flavorful menu featuring mushroom tartines and Cuban sandwiches. The real highlight? Sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean crashing through nearby eucalyptus groves. Perfect for a scenic meal any time of day.
Location: 545 Point Lobos Ave (at 48th Ave)
Phone: 415-571-8140
Equator Coffee at Round House
For an unbeatable view of the Golden Gate Bridge paired with world-class coffee and pastries, Equator Coffee’s Round House location is a must-visit. This Art Deco café, established in 1937, offers a perfect blend of history, design, and one of San Francisco’s most iconic vistas. Stop here before or after your Golden Gate walk for a warm, delicious break.
Location: Golden Gate Bridge Plaza
Phone: 415-603-0366
Il Parco
Overlooking the Presidio’s scenic Tunnel Tops Park, Il Parco serves up a relaxed open-air dining experience. Grab a focaccia pizza or other quick bites to enjoy at one of the covered, see-through seating areas while soaking in the expansive park views. Ideal for a casual meal with nature all around.
Location: 215 Lincoln Boulevard
Online Ordering: Available
Greens
A pioneer of California’s farm-to-table movement, Greens has been serving fresh, vegetarian dishes in a beautiful waterfront setting since 1979. Located in Fort Mason, the restaurant’s large windows frame stunning views of the bay, Golden Gate Bridge, and surrounding headlands. The menu features vegetable soups, pastas, pizzas, and more, perfect for health-conscious diners who love a scenic backdrop.
Location: 2 Marina Blvd, Fort Mason Center
Phone: 415-771-6222
Broad Street Oyster Company
Known for its Instagram-famous lobster rolls topped with caviar, this newcomer sits in Ghirardelli Square with jaw-dropping bay views. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers and fans of casual, stylish waterfront dining. Takeout is available if you want to savor your meal elsewhere while admiring the city skyline.
Location: 900 North Point Street
Phone: 415-796-3898
Scoma’s Restaurant
A San Francisco seafood institution since 1965, Scoma’s offers classic dishes made with fresh fish directly from local boats. Located right on the water at Fisherman’s Wharf, the cozy, wood-lined interiors and leather seating provide the perfect atmosphere to watch boats float by while enjoying oysters, cioppino, and other maritime specialties.
Location: 1965 Al Scoma Way
Phone: 415-771-4383
The Cheesecake Factory (Union Square)
This iconic downtown spot combines a vast menu of decadent cheesecakes with rooftop seating overlooking the heart of San Francisco. Located inside Macy’s Union Square, it’s the perfect place for a sweet treat or meal with cityscape views. Don’t miss the Cookie Dough Lover’s Cheesecake if you’re feeling indulgent!
Location: 251 Geary St
Phone: 415-391-4444
Starlite
Offering panoramic 360-degree views of San Francisco, Starlite is a newly revamped hotspot perfect for cocktails and seafood towers. Located on Powell Street, this lively venue blends breathtaking cityscapes with a menu crafted by acclaimed chefs, making it a top choice for a night out.
Location: 450 Powell Street
Empress by Boon
Housed in the historic space of the former Empress of China, this modern Cantonese restaurant offers regal views over Chinatown, North Beach, and the Financial District. It’s a great spot for both authentic cuisine and urban sightseeing.
Location: 838 Grant Ave
Phone: 415-757-0728
Golden Sardine
A cozy wine bar and restaurant in North Beach, Golden Sardine offers classic views of Columbus Avenue’s vibrant street life. Known for its tinned fish selections and an atmosphere beloved by locals, it’s a fantastic place to soak in the city’s artistic and literary spirit.
Location: 362 Columbus Avenue
Mission Rock Resort
This two-level waterfront venue overlooks the Bay, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Specializing in seafood, it boasts an outdoor patio that shines on sunny days. The constantly changing boat traffic makes the view lively and engaging.
Location: 817 Terry A. François Blvd
Phone: 415-701-7625
Cavaña
A Latin American rooftop bar offering views of Oracle Park’s outfield and downtown San Francisco. Its cocktails feature unique ingredients like pisco and cachaça with tropical flavors, accompanied by a menu of aguachiles, Brazilian pastels, and arepas. Perfect for game nights or relaxed evenings.
Location: 100 Channel Street, 17th Floor
Phone: 415-757-1470
Kaiyo Rooftop
Soaring above SoMa, Kaiyo offers striking views of the downtown skyline, Bay Bridge, and distant hills. The Peruvian-Japanese fusion menu and weekend brunch make it a popular destination for both foodies and view seekers.
Location: 701 3rd Street
Phone: 415-800-8141
Red’s Java House
For a casual meal with unbeatable Bay Bridge views, Red’s Java House is a classic choice. This waterfront burger joint serves up cold beers, onion rings, fish and chips, and simple sandwiches — all with an unbeatable backdrop of the water and bridge.
Location: 30 Pier
Phone: 415-777-5626
Mersea
Located on Treasure Island, Mersea offers one of the best views back towards San Francisco across the Bay Bridge. Housed in a shipping container, it serves hearty seafood classics like fish and chips and haddock chowder alongside satisfying burgers.
Location: 699 Avenue of the Palms, Alameda
Phone: 415-999-9836
Atwater Tavern
Overlooking Oracle Park, Atwater Tavern is a lively Spanish seafood tavern popular on game nights. Known for its andouille sausage paella, this neighborhood gem benefits from a growing culinary scene nearby, including bakeries and restaurants from top local chefs.
Location: 295 Terry A. François Blvd
Phone: 415-512-7153
Source: sf.eater.com
