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Restaurants San Francisco with a view bring together everything people love about this vibrant coastal city. Think ocean breezes, panoramic skylines, and sunsets that paint the sky in gold and pink.
Dining here often means more than just great food, it’s about atmosphere, perspective, and those wow-worthy moments. Whether you prefer rooftop cocktails or waterfront seafood, there’s a scenic table waiting for you. Let’s dive into the most beautiful places to eat in San Francisco today.
Best Restaurants San Francisco with a View You Should Try
1. Epic Steak
Overlooking the Bay Bridge, this upscale steakhouse delivers dramatic waterfront scenery through massive glass windows. The outdoor terrace feels especially magical when city lights begin to shimmer after sunset. Prime cuts of beef and fresh seafood dominate the menu, making it a top pick for special evenings. Among the most elegant restaurants San Francisco with a view, it blends refined dining with postcard-worthy surroundings.
Location: 369 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
2. Top of the Mark
Perched high above Nob Hill, this sky lounge offers a sweeping 360-degree panorama of the city and bay. Large windows ensure every seat captures breathtaking scenery, whether it’s fog rolling in or a clear golden sunset. Small plates and classic cocktails pair beautifully with the glamorous ambiance. Few restaurants San Francisco with a view feel this iconic and historic at the same time.
Location: 999 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108
3. Waterbar
Right along the Embarcadero, diners are treated to sparkling bridge views and fresh ocean air. Seafood is the star here, with oysters and sustainably sourced fish drawing loyal guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows create a seamless connection between the dining room and the bay. If you’re hunting for waterfront restaurants San Francisco with a view, this spot rarely disappoints.
Location: 399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
4. Greens Restaurant
Tucked inside Fort Mason, this vegetarian favorite frames the Golden Gate Bridge like a living painting. The dining room feels airy and relaxed, with natural light pouring through wide windows. Seasonal produce shapes every dish, keeping the flavors bright and fresh.
Location: 2 Marina Blvd, Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA 94123
5. Coqueta
Spanish flavors meet breezy waterfront scenery at this lively Embarcadero destination. Colorful tapas and refreshing sangria make it perfect for sharing with friends. From the patio, you can watch ferries glide across the bay while enjoying bold Mediterranean tastes. This is one of those restaurants San Francisco with a view where atmosphere feels effortlessly festive.
Location: Pier 5, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
6. The View Lounge
High above downtown inside the Marriott Marquis, this rooftop bar lives up to its name. Floor-to-ceiling glass panels reveal the skyline in dramatic fashion. Creative cocktails and light bites complement the modern interior design. When people mention restaurants San Francisco with a view for night photography moments, this one often comes up.
Location: 780 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94103
7. La Mar Cocina Peruana
Ceviche tastes even better when enjoyed with sailboats drifting behind you. The spacious patio is especially popular during warm afternoons. Dining here feels vibrant, making it one of the liveliest restaurants San Francisco with a view by the bay.
Location: Pier 1½, The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
8. Cityscape Lounge
Situated on the 46th floor of Hilton Union Square, this venue boasts sky-high city panoramas. Plush seating and dim lighting create a cozy yet elevated mood. Guests often arrive just before sunset to capture the skyline transformation. As far as rooftop restaurants San Francisco with a view go, this one offers a truly cinematic perspective.
Location: 333 O’Farrell St, San Francisco, CA 94102
9. Fog Harbor Fish House
Fisherman’s Wharf becomes even more appealing when enjoyed from a warm, window-side table. Sustainable seafood dishes dominate the menu, from clam chowder to Dungeness crab. The Golden Gate Bridge can sometimes peek through the distance on clear days. Travelers searching for classic restaurants San Francisco with a view often stop here first.
Location: Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133
10. The Ramp
Casual vibes meet marina views at this laid-back waterfront hangout. Live music and outdoor seating give it a relaxed, local feel. Not every restaurants San Francisco with a view needs to be fancy, sometimes easygoing charm wins.
Location: 855 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94158
11. Cliff House (Bistro at Cliff House location area)
Ocean waves crashing against rugged cliffs create a dramatic dining backdrop. Coastal scenery stretches endlessly toward the horizon, especially mesmerizing at sunset. Fresh seafood dishes complement the breezy, seaside setting.
Location: 1090 Point Lobos Ave, San Francisco, CA 94121
12. Mersea
Located on Treasure Island, this spot provides wide-open views of the skyline across the water. The relaxed patio setting feels perfect for sunny afternoons. Comfort food classics are served with a modern twist. Many locals consider it one of the hidden-gem restaurants San Francisco with a view worth the short drive.
Location: 699 Avenue of the Palms, San Francisco, CA 94130
13. Scoma’s
Historic charm fills this Fisherman’s Wharf institution. Boats bobbing in the harbor provide an authentic maritime atmosphere. Signature seafood plates highlight decades of culinary tradition. For visitors wanting timeless restaurants San Francisco with a view, this one delivers nostalgia and flavor.
Location: 1965 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco, CA 94133
14. El Techo
Colorful Latin American bites meet rooftop energy in the Mission District. String lights and open-air seating make evenings especially vibrant. From above, city rooftops stretch into the distance. When listing fun and social restaurants San Francisco with a view, this lively terrace earns its place.
Location: 2516 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110
15. Mission Rock Resort
Upstairs dining offers an even broader panorama of the water and skyline. Seafood-forward dishes highlight local ingredients. It’s easily one of the most photogenic restaurants San Francisco with a view for brunch or dinner.
Location: 817 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94158
16. Pier 23 Cafe
Right along the Embarcadero, this relaxed venue pairs casual bites with refreshing bay breezes. Outdoor picnic tables provide front-row access to passing boats. The atmosphere feels approachable, perfect for laid-back afternoons. Among affordable restaurants San Francisco with a view, it stands out for simplicity and scenery.
Location: 23 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
Tips for Enjoying Restaurants San Francisco with a View
- Reserve a window or patio table in advance, especially on weekends.
- Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset for the best lighting.
- Bring a light jacket; bay breezes can feel chilly even in summer.
- Check whether rooftop spots have weather-related closures.
- Consider weekday evenings for fewer crowds and quieter ambiance.
Conclusion
Dining in San Francisco isn’t just about what’s on the plate, it’s about the scenery that surrounds you. From rooftop lounges towering above downtown to waterfront gems hugging the bay, these restaurants San Francisco with a view offer unforgettable experiences for every mood and budget.
Whether you crave fine dining, relaxed seafood shacks, or vibrant rooftop cocktails, the city delivers spectacular backdrops at every turn. Make a reservation, charge your phone for photos, and get ready to enjoy meals served with breathtaking Bay Area views.
Read more: 14 Best Waterfront Restaurant San Francisco With Stunning Bay Views