Come every sunny day in San Francisco, whether it's Saturday or Wednesday, SF shares the collective urge for cocktails outside.
While the pandemic left a lot more outdoor dining options than we started with, these real-deal patios have the privacy, intimacy, and views that just can't be replicated with a parklet.
Here's where eat and drink patio-style in the city
Good Good Culture Club
When Bon Appetit named the Southeast Asian-toned Good Good Culture Club one of 2022's best restaurants they probably weren't thinking about the restaurant's festive roof deck. But in our opinion, the lush, light-strung patio deserves an award all its own. Come for the open air dining, stay for the excellent food and equitable ethos. // 3560 18th St. (Mission), ggccsf.com
Atwater Tavern
We love a good waterfront spot as much as the next person, and for that we can always rely on Atwater Tavern. Pop in for brunch or hit this spot up before a Giant's game for their seafood dishes. With bay views like this, you know we'll always keep coming back. // 295 Terry A. Francois Blvd. (Mission Bay), atwatertavern.com
Mothership
Although many were sad to see the loss of Bernal's Virgil's Sea Room last year, its replacement, Mothership, has settled in well to the block housing El Rio, Knockout, and Royal Cuckoo. Most importantly, the funkified space-age bar still has a large, laidback patio for sipping pitchers of margaritas and catching a drag show. // 3152 Mission St. (Bernal Heights),mothershipbar.com
Rooftop 25
25 Lusk's rooftop bar is anything but dark and lounge-y. Sip on frozen slushy drinks and batch-bottled cocktails while enjoying elegant comfort food like avocado shrimp dip and thin crust 'za. Think of it as a beer garden on a roof. // 25 Lusk St., (SOMA), 25lusk.com/rooftop-25
Lost Resort
Let the worries of the day drift away on the nautical-themed patio at Lost Resort. The Mission bar and restaurant features tasty bites including sea-fare like oysters and surf n' turf mac 'n cheese, and boozy cocktails to keep the yacht rocking all night. // 2736 20th St. (Mission), lostrestortsf.com
Zazie
Zazie ia a brunch favorite so expect a wait. But if you can endure your hunger long enough, expect a patio that is quaint and dog-friendly, surrounded by the perfect amount of greenery. Come here for weekday brunch or dinner to try and avoid the crowds. For breakfast, nosh on lemon ricotta pancakes o dungeness crab benedict. // 941 Cole St. (Cole Valley), zaziesf.com
Anina
Bright, open, and airy, Anina is a lovely space for post-brunch drinks with the squad or a lax afternoon soaking up some long-overdue sunshine. Its patio is bedecked with eight beer garden tables and string lights, and is definitely a sunny departure from SF's stock of darker, moodier bars. —Marie Salcido // 82 Hayes St. (Hayes Valley) aninasf.com
Teeth SF
Teeth SF is everything you'd want from a Mission patio: corn hole, shuffleboard, and bottomless mimosas on the weekends. Expect a two-tiered backyard vibe that's perfect for chilling any day of the week. // 2323 Mission St. (Mission), teethbarsf.com
Kaiyo Rooftop
Kaiyo Rooftop's cocktail lounge in the sky has tropical vibes and Peruvian Japanese sensibilities. Order up a Cuzco seafood platter and one of the restaurant's more than a dozen sake varieties and sit back and watch the show: from Kaiyo's perch near the ball park, you'll see the downtown dressed in its best vistas. // 701 3rd St., Fl. 12 (South Beach), kaiyosf.com
Waterbar
Our favorite excuse to stop by Waterbar? Their oysters. But this two-story restaurant on the Embarcadero offers up more than that. With spellbinding views of the bay, you'll be here for another round, or three. The drink menu goes through multiple changes per day, so you can switch up your cocktails as the sun moves across the sky. // 399 The Embarcadero (Embarcadero), waterbarsf.co
Isa Restaurant
For those in the know, Isa is the perfect hidden gem patio in the Marina. Walking through the long narrow dining room, the restaurant opens upon to a gated garden oasis. And even in the winter (or, lets be real, SF summer) months, expect seating that is tented in to keep you cozy. Don't pass-up their truffle risotto, angus flat iron steak, or rich Maine lobster broth soup—perfect for those chilly summer nights. // 3324 Steiner St. (Marina), isarestaurant.com
The Sycamore
If there was a definition of a classic Mission patio, this spot would be it. The Sycamore is a snug square of a patio, nestled in the back of a dive bar—the type you wouldn't expect to have good food, but happily does. Go big on the sliders, bottomless mimosas, and board games before wandering over to Dolores Park to nap it all off. // 2140 Mission St. (Mission), thesycamoresf.com
The Tipsy Pig
You had us at forty craft beers. Even better? There's a well-furnished open patio to savor all that The Tipsy Pig as to offer, including bacon, lots of bacon. Expect it in all their best dishes like cast-iron skillet mac 'n cheese and burgers, best enjoyed alongside many rounds of their signature Marina cocktail, the Strawberry Fields. // 2231 Chestnut St. (Marina), thetipsypigsf.com
4505 Burgers & BBQ
One thing's for sure, you're going to smell 4505 before you see it. This joint is dishing up delicious BBQ on the daily, sending those smokey meaty aromas up and down the Divisadero corridor. Even if you're here for just drinks, the vibes on the patio are perfectly casual. Pro tip: if you just want to order a beverage, snag a spot on the benches and just flag down any of the staff bringing out food to place a drink order—no need to jump in the ordering line queueing for the meats. // 705 Divisadero St., (NoPa), 4505meats.com
Mersea
Technically this spot is in no-man's-land between Oakland and SF, situated on our favorite neighbor, Treasure Island, but it's too good not to include. A restaurant made from repurposed shipping containers, the patio is huge, surrounded by a bocce ball court and a few small putting greens. Make a day of it and bike over to enjoy the sunshine, seasonal Hawaiian-American eats, and views of the city skyline. // 699 Avenue of the Palms, (Treasure Island), mersea.restaurant
Park Chalet
On the western edge of Golden Gate Park, Park Chalet is the perfect spot to stop before or after an afternoon at Ocean Beach. Their in-house brewery churns their own craft beers for consumption in their expansive outdoor beer garden. Stop by for sunny days and, if you're lucky, live music. // 100 Great Highway (Golden Gate Park), parkchalet.com
What's better than an epic sports bar? One that has an attached patio, obviously! Trademark & Copyright has multiple personalities from its sports-centric interior filled with memorabilia and high-tech beer pong tables to its speakeasy-style cocktail lounge and outdoor space fenced in with a giant two-story mural (don't worry, there are more TVs outside so you won't miss any of the game). Plus there's Filipino fusion cuisine: think, nachos, lumpia and teriyaki wings. Oh and did we mention there's boozy milkshakes? // 1123 Folsom St. (SOMA), trademarksfc.com
Stem Kitchen And Garden
This place is every minimalist's dream: squared-off patio chairs, perfectly aligned tables, and a garden that's mindfully put together with trimmed shrubs. Spend the afternoon enjoying their outdoor bocce ball court, or drop in in the evening to take advantage of their cozy fire pits—either way expect a beautiful backdrop of the bay. Another bonus: Stem actually grows some of their ingredients. Order a round of Apple in the Rye cocktails for the whole table! // 499 Illinois St.(Dogpatch), stemkitchensf.com
Sens Restaurant
Everyone knows Sens Restaurant on the Embarcadero for its post-work FiDi happy hour vibes, with energetic lounge music and dreamy views of the bay from it's second-floor perch across the street from the Ferry Building. Once the sun goes down, a romantic ambience takes over the mouthwatering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine—the perfect spot for an excellent date night. // 4 Embarcadero Center (FiDi), sens-sf.com
Magic Flute Ristorante
This romantic little restaurant tucked off of Sacramento Street in Presidio Heights has a patio made for falling in love. Wrapped in greenery and hung with cafe lights, it's a darling backdrop for digging into Italian classics and just-one-more bottle of wine. // 3673 Sacramento St. (Presidio Heights), magicfluteristorante.com
Charmaine's opened in 2017 in the Proper Hotel just off of Market Street to give you perfect views of the city skyline, reminiscent of classic big city rooftop bars in New York or Chicago. Enjoy the eccentric Kelly Wearstler decor, creative cocktails, and a host of fire pits for the perfect fancy night out on the town. Bites and drinks can be pricey, but are worth it, especially with the panorama of SF. // 1100 Market St. (Downtown), charmainessf.com
Presidio Social Club
Presidio Social Club, or PSC, is a brunch favorite. From their PSC Spritzer (cranberry liqueur, Carpano Bianco & sparkling wine) to their Painkiller (Flora de Cana rum, pineapple, coconut & orange), you'll find something to enjoy while relaxing on the back patio. Be sure to indulge in PSC Gruyere Cheese Toasts, delectable cheesy little sandwiches served with tomato soup fondue for dipping. Walk it all off with a jaunt through the trails of the Presidio to Crissy Field. // 563 Rudger St. (Presidio), presidiosocialclub.com
The Embarcadero has several destination patios and Coqueta is no exception. The Spanish restaurant's simple deck makes for great people-watching and, if you get a table towards the back, views of the bay. Settle in with patatas bravas, croquetas de pollo, and a Spanish gin & tonic and soak up that Karl-free sun. // Pier 5 (Embarcadero), coquetasf.com
Dirty Habit
Though the film-noir-inspired mod dining room at Dirty Habit is far from shabby, the outdoor lounge area, with long couches, a fire pit, and room for 50, is an outdoor oasis that feels worlds apart from the chaos of SoMa five floors below. Catch their 'Second Summer' outdoor movie series through October 20. // 12 4th St. (SoMa), dirtyhabitsf.com
This neighborhood restaurant owned by seafood master Jon Hearnsberger has a drink selection as fresh as their locally grown produce. The secluded back patio is covered in string lights and heat lamps, perfect for sipping reasonably priced wines by the glass while admiring the garden. // 558 Castro St. (Castro), fablesf.com
Colibri Mexican Bistro
Once a Union Square favorite, Colibri's move to the Presidio gave the restaurant something it never had before: a patio. The broad outdoor deck outfitted with umbrellas for sun and heat lamps for fog is worlds away from the chaos of downtown. And the food and cocktails? They're as good as ever. // 50 Moraga Ave. (Presidio), colibrimexicanbistro.com
Palm House
Yearning for a tropical getaway, but can't exactly afford the airfare? Settle for Palm House's coastal vibes, courtesy of their Brazilian, Cuban, Hawaiian, Indonesian, and Caribbean influences and decidedly tropical cocktail menu. Go all in on one of their giant bunch bowls (accompanied by floating rubber duckies) on the outdoor patio. // 2032 Union St. (Cow Hollow), palmhousesf.com
Wild Side West
Around since 1962, Wild Side West is an LGBTQ+ institution which welcomed Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin back in the day. With two lovely back patios open 365 days a year, you'll be making fond memories and sipping cocktails all year round! // 424 Cortland Ave. (Bernal Heights), wildsidewest.com
Surisan
Not every patio in Fisherman's Wharf is overrun by tourists. At Surisan, you'll find tasty eats like bulgogi, fried chicken, and Korean bbq instead. The modern Korean restaurant by chef Nick Yoon serves it all up on their fenced outdoor deck. // 50 Beach St. (Fisherman's Wharf), surisan.com
Catch
Eat fresh local seafood in this comfortable, relaxed, and covered back patio setting, complete with a fire pit. For drinks, adventure into their menu of dessert cocktails, such as the Warm Blueberry Elixir (amaretto, grand marnier, earl grey tea, cinnamon), to sip by the fire. // 2362 Market St. (Castro), catchsf.com
Sessions
This Presido cafe, whose partnerhip with Marin's Skywalker Ranch supplies its produce, meat, and wine, comes complete with a generous outdoor patio. Stop in for waffles and smoked salmon benedicts during Saturday and Sunday brunch or make it your new happy hour haunt. They've always got at least 10 beers on tap. // 1 Letterman Dr. (Presidio), sessionssf.com
El Rio
Neighborhood staple El Rio has been welcoming guests to its sunny patio for the past four decades. Sit back on the rustic patio chairs and enjoy some slow blues all while nursing a beer or come after dark for one of their legendary dance parties. // 3158 Mission St. (Mission), elriosf.com
Reverie
Imagine wandering into a small secret garden, complete with a small pond, ivy covered walls, and multiple terraces for relaxing. We can vouch for their delicious avocado toast and the huevos rancheros are to die for. With sublime coffee offerings served in the morning and well-slung drink specials in the evening, Reverie is the perfect hangout for any time of day. Plus, their heated and covered patio will keep you toasty until the wee hours. // 848 Cole St. (Cole Valley), reveriesf.com
Cigar Bar and Grill
Cigarette and cigar smokers will find a rare haven at Cigar Bar and Grill, where anyone can light up (no matter how close you are to the building.) The bar hosts a wide range of premium and hand rolled cigars, while the large back patio provides live music lively conversation. // 850 Montgomery St. (FiDi), cigarbarandgrill.com
Cultivar
This wine-centric spot in the Marina has a cozy patio decked out with a warming fireplace and enough greenery to keep prying eyes at bay. A romantic space for brunch and dinner, no matter what you choose from the California-inspired menu, the wine pairings will not lead you astray. // 2379 Chestnut St. (Marina), cultivarsf.com
Americano Restaurant and Bar
What more can you ask for than a waterfront patio and a good glass of wine? Americano offers Italian classics such as pizza salsiccia and pork meatballs with a panoramic view of the Bay Bridge. Heatlamps will keep you here well past your normal work happy hours. // 8 Mission St. (SoMa), jdvhotels.com
Destapas
The intimate, brick-and-wood lined patio at Destapas is one of the city's hidden gems. The private, heated space has all the romance of a Spanish cafe, made even more so with its tapas, conservas, and paellas. On the curated menu of Spanish wines, find everything from albarinos to Riojas. // 2708 24th St. (Potrero Hil), destapas.com
Belden Place
Belden Place in the Financial District draws tourists, European ex-pats, and locals alike to their European vibe and sidewalk seating. While the food at some of the restaurants may not be the best, the charming alley lined with tables and hung with lights make it a enjoyable experience none the less. // 52 Belden Pl. (FiDi), belden-place.com
Biergarten
With a wide selection of niche beers to enjoy outside at this spacious Bavarian style beer garden, Biergarten is a must-do on a blue-sky afternoon. Don't be intimidated at the often full-street-block line wrapping past the gates, it moves quickly enough. Expect delicious food (their pretzel knot sandwiches), communal picnic tables, hanging lights, and heavy blankets for when it gets cold. // 424 Octavia St. (Hayes Valley), biergartensf.com
Pier 23 Cafe
Nothing says a good time like placing a cool, sweating beer mug atop of a pier's railing. And, at Pier 23 Cafe, that's exactly what you'll get—seemingly endless lines of half-full glasses with happy patrons chatting up a storm. Find this gem along the waterfront, with an old retro neon light sign beckoning you to the patio poking out into the blue bay. // Pier 23 (North Beach), pier23cafe.com
Hi Dive
Hi Dive is tucked right next to the Bay Bridge, offering gorgeous views of the Port of Oakland. We love coming here after the Saturday Ferry Building Farmers Market, before a Giants game, or just because. // Pier 28 1/2, (Embracadero), hidivesf.com
Thorough Bread and Pastry
You'd be hard-pressed not to find a pastry (or bread) you don't like at Thorough. Once you've swiped your card, step outside on the spacious, tree-filled back patio to enjoy your treat. // 248 Church St. (Mission), thoroughbreadandpastry.com
The Ramp
Best for brunch, you can't go wrong with their benedicts and bloody marys. When it's clear, you can see all the way to Oakland. // 855 Terry A Francois Blvd. (Dogpatch), theramprestaurant.com
Mission Rock Resort
Neighbor to the Ramp, Mission Rock Resort is another Dogpatch gem. Whether it's happy hour oysters or brunch under their bright yellow patio umbrellas, you'll be sitting happy on this bayside patio. // 817 Terry Francois Blvd. (Dogpatch), missionrockresort.com
Jones
Jones is a go-to for signature cocktails at happy hour and early-afternoon Sunday bottomless mimosa brunches. The enormous rooftop dining room is perfect for casual drinks overlooking the Tenderloin. // 620 Jones St. (Tenderloin), 620-jones.com
Zeitgeist
You've heard of this place, right? I mean, it's packed 24/7. A no-frills dive bar with a lively crowd, they have over forty beers on tap, but be sure to hunt down your patio seats first! // 199 Valencia St. (Mission), zeitgeistsf.com
Le Colonial
We've always been a sucker for a good alleyway bar. Open most of the year, Le Colonial's front patio looks kind of like a conservatory, with a glass roof and tons of hanging greenery. // 20 Cosmo Pl. (Tenderloin), lecolonialsf.com
MoMo's
MoMo's is an established pre and post game spot for a Giant's game. This American bistro serving-up simple yet refined dishes on their umbrella patio is the perfect neighbor to AT&T Park. // 760 2nd St. (South Park), sfmomos.com
Arlequin Cafe & Food-To-Go
This neighborhood cafe is known for its quick to grab foods including artisanal sandwiches, salads, beverages, and desserts. Right next door is Arlequin Wine Merchant—a wine store with an exhaustive list of premium wines from all around the world. //384 Hayes St. (Hayes Valley), arlequincafe.com
El Techo
Located in the heart of the Mission district, El Techo serves Latin American street food and has a killer rooftop view of the city.Don't miss out on your chance to enjoy a comforting meal accompanied by a gorgeous view. // 2516 Mission St. (Mission), eltechosf.com
Chambers Eat & Drink
With its iconic "Be Amazing" sign located behind its bar, Chambers Eat & Drink also has an outdoor patio and pool, making it a popular destination for relaxing outdoors dining and drinking. // 601 Eddy St. (Tenderloin), chambers-sf.com
Starbelly
Walk into this friendly neighborhood restaurant and expect an easy-going environment complete with a cozy, year-round patio. Make sure to dine here during brunch, which is served seven days a week, to try some local California comfort food. // 3583 16th St. (Castro), starbellysf.com
Cafe La Flore
This small coffee shop features artwork from local artists displayed on its walls and takes pride in fostering a welcoming atmosphere and providing friendly customer service. Tables are set up outside the cafe, forming a little outdoor patio for customers to catch a little sun. // 1032 Clement St. (Inner Richmond), cafelaflore.com
Mission Bowling Club
This boutique bowling alley in the Mission district is also a popular brunch spot on the weekends with an outdoor dog-friendly patio that's open until 10 p.m. This venue can be a celebration for all kinds of events with its six lanes for bowling, a nice bar, and seasonally prepared brunch and dinner menus. // 3176 17th St. (Mission), missionbowlingclub.com
Foreign Cinema
This venue offers a unique dining experience with its seasonal and fresh California-Mediterranean menu, nightly foreign film screenings, giant fireplace and beautiful outdoor patio. // 2534 Mission St. (Mission), foreigncinema.com
