Some cities are made for rooftop dining, others for candlelit patios — but San Francisco? This city brings the drama: glittering bridges, rolling fog, and waterfront views that make even a weeknight dinner feel like a little escape.

If you’re visiting SF or just in the mood to see your city from a new angle, here are some of my favorite San Francisco restaurants with a view. These spots aren’t just photogenic — they also serve food worth lingering over.

Angler

– The Embarcadero

Tucked along the waterfront on the Embarcadero, Angler is a warm, luxe seafood restaurant where the fire-roasted dishes are as memorable as the view. Huge windows give you front-row seats to the bay, and if you’re there at golden hour, the whole place glows.

Coqueta

– Pier 5

Coqueta brings Spanish flavor to the SF waterfront with bold tapas, Iberian cocktails, and a cozy-yet-buzzing vibe. Sit outside along the Embarcadero, order a conquistador or a glass of rose, and soak in that breezy Bay energy.

EPIC

– South Beach

Epic steakhouse lives up to its name. With its prime location just at the front of the Bay Bridge, it’s the kind of place you go for a perfectly cooked steak and that golden bridge glow once the sun goes down. It’s ideal for celebrations, date nights, or just treating yourself.

Waterbar

– South Beach

Right next door to EPIC, Waterbar is all about oysters, seafood towers, and an unbeatable view of the Bay Bridge. The floor-to-ceiling windows make every seat a good one, and the outdoor patio? Even better.

Bon Délire

– The Embarcadero

Bon Délire is a newer spot that feels like a secret — for now. With French menu, gorgeous plating, and beautiful views from the bay, it’s intimate, cozy and just comfortable.

La Mar Cebichería Peruana

– Pier 1.5

La Mar is bright, bold, and full of life — kind of like the view from its Pier 1.5 location. You’ll find incredible ceviches, pisco cocktails, and a prime look at the Bay Bridge and Ferry Building. Go for lunch and linger — it’s that kind of place.

Alora

– The Embarcadero

One of the newer additions to the waterfront, Alora brings modern Mediterranean dishes, colorful cocktails, and wide-open views of the bay. The outdoor terrace is perfect when the weather’s playing nice.

Honorable Mentions

Because it’s San Francisco — and let’s be real, there’s always another great view around the corner — here are a few more worth knowing:

• Cavaña- Roof top bar and a restaurant in Mission Bay with a 360-degree of San Francisco and primarily Misson Bay.
• Top of the Mark – Iconic cocktails and a 360-degree city panorama from the top of Nob Hill.
• The Cliff House – Once it reopens, this oceanfront landmark is sure to draw the sunset crowd again.

Where to Next?

Whether you’re hunting down oysters, steak, or just a really good martini with a view, San Francisco delivers. Bookmark this list for your next night out — and if you’re planning a city trip, you’ll want to check out my other stylish San Francisco guides here.