With charming Victorian homes spread across the rolling hills of a water-bounded peninsula, San Francisco doesn’t lack for captivating scenery. Add a renowned dining scene—it’s second only to New York for the most MICHELIN-starred restaurants in the country—and it’s obvious why locals and visitors seek out the best San Francisco outdoor dining. Yet, some of the best al fresco dining is hidden from plain view.
If you know where to look, you’ll discover secret garden patios in the Mission and the Castro, waterfront terraces overlooking the boat-filled bay in the Embarcadero and Fisherman’s Wharf, and swanky rooftop lounges set high above downtown’s busy sidewalks in SOMA and the Financial District. Plus, with San Francisco’s temperate climate—and a few strategically placed heaters—you can dine outdoors year-round.
San Francisco’s best outdoor seating fills up quickly, so secure your spot in advance with a reservation on OpenTable.
Discover the 10 best outdoor dining spots in San Francisco today.
For destination-worthy ceviche and waterfront views — head to La Mar Cocina Peruana (Embarcadero)
Once the vibrant ceviches arrive at your table overlooking San Francisco Bay, you’ll see why La Mar Cocina Peruana has been a draw since chef Gastón Acurio brought his refined, Asian-influenced Peruvian dishes to San Francisco. In addition to the leche de tigre-marinated ceviches, you’ll find sashimi-like tiraditos, crab-topped potato causas, and grilled anticucho skewers. The best seating is on the outdoor terrace, where you can watch passing ferry boats while enjoying a pisco sour.
For contemporary California-Mediterranean fare paired with an outdoor movie — settle in to a table at Foreign Cinema (Mission District)
Set within a secluded, light-strung courtyard, Foreign Cinema has been charming diners since 1999 with its Mediterranean-inspired menu and irresistible atmosphere enlivened by classic flicks projected upon an adjoining wall. While the menu changes daily, you’ll find a few mainstays, including a bavette steak and an aromatic, curry-infused fried chicken. Start your feast with a local oyster platter and a glass of the day’s featured wine while enjoying a Technicolor Hitchcock thriller.
For a Middle-Eastern-style oasis hidden amidst downtown skyscrapers — book Barcha (Financial District)
Offering a soothing refuge in downtown, Barcha lures diners with a sheltered patio decked with Persian rugs, tasseled umbrellas, and Moorish-style screens. It’s a fitting setting for Middle Eastern-inspired dishes, including spicy beef dumplings, Turkish spiced lamb & beef sandwiches, and shrimp skewers served atop a barberry-flecked saffron rice. It’s a popular weekday lunch destination, yet come evening, drinks such as a sangria makes it a dreamy happy hour spot, too.
For the best San Francisco outdoor dining, high above the crowds — head to Shelby’s Rooftop (SOMA)
Occupying the 12th floor of The Canopy Hotel, Shelby’s Rooftop delivers everything you crave in a rooftop lounge: expert drinks, crowd-pleasing small plates, and sweeping views of downtown. Expect globe-hopping, made-for-sharing dishes like bluefin tuna tartare, koji fried chicken, and a shellfish-packed paella. Drink options cover all the bases with fruit-infused margaritas, local drafts, and a wide selection of sparkling wines. At sunset, the cushy lounge seating is the most coveted in the city.
For classic Italian seafood near the San Francisco Bay — nab a table at Cioppino’s (Fisherman’s Wharf)
Named for San Francisco’s signature dish and founded by Italian immigrants during the late 19th century, Cioppino’s dishes up Italian seafood near the fishing vessels of Fisherman’s Wharf. Order the namesake stew—a heaping bowl of Dungeness crab legs, fish, and shrimp in a savory tomato broth—or crowd pleasers such as crab cakes, seafood-studded pastas, and clam chowder in a sourdough bowl. Opt for the front patio plunked in the heart of the action of San Francisco’s iconic waterfront neighborhood.
For a buzzworthy burger and creative cocktails — grab a seat at Causwells (Marina)
Ask a local for their favorite burger, and there’s a good chance they’ll claim the double stack at Causwells. Equally popular is the playfully creative drink menu, which recently featured Girl Scout cookie-inspired cocktails. Bistro tables set along the Marina’s boutique-lined Chestnut Street offer prime people-watching and a chance to bring Fido as Causwells is one of the best dog-friendly restaurants in San Francisco.
For the best San Francisco outdoor dining with front-row Bay views — EPIC Steak (Embarcadero)
The vistas don’t get more dramatic than at this upscale steakhouse along San Francisco’s bustling waterfront promenade, the Embarcadero. From a sprawling patio, gaze upon the towering Bay Bridge while sipping a martini followed by a petite romaine Caesar salad and what’s billed as The Best Damn Filet. Prime rib fans take note: the juicy cut is only available in limited quantities on Sunday and Monday.
For pre-theater cocktails amidst downtown’s twinkling skyline — Rise Over Run (Downtown)
Located on top of the stylish Timbri Hotel, Rise Over Run is a garden-like bar complete with cozy booths and blazing fire pits. Get peak views of city landmarks like the ornate Golden Gate Theatre while sipping on creative, Asian-inspired cocktails like the tequila-forward Szechuan of a Kind with plum kernel and Szechuan peppercorn. Pair your drinks with luxe yet playful snacks like everything-spiced kampachi crudo and a Korean take on fried chicken and biscuits.
For a greenery-filled San Francisco outdoor dining experience — seek out Fable (Castro)
Bursting with colorful blooms and a jungle of greenery, it’s little wonder the sheltered garden at Fable is a beloved brunch destination. The homemade chocolate chip banana bread and poached egg-topped quinoa bowls don’t hurt, either. The fetching setting is dotted with heaters, while glowing lanterns add to the ambience in the evening. Plus, your pup can tag along as it’s one of the most pet-friendly restaurants in San Francisco.
For wood-fired pizzas and effortlessly cool vibes — check out Fiorella Sunset (Sunset)
Located on Sunset’s lively 9th Street, Fiorella nails the contemporary-cool pizza joint vibe. Along with stellar Neapolitan pies, you’ll score handmade pastas, including a rigatoncini in a sage and rosemary-tinged bolognese. A fireplace illuminates a cozy dining room, but the bigger draw is the rooftop patio with strung lights, hanging plants, and a clandestine entrance to Fiorella’s compact cocktail den, Bar Nonnina.
Dining al fresco is no longer limited to a simple bistro table plunked on a patio. Today, the best San Francisco outdoor dining spans a scenic brunch in an impossibly verdant setting, special occasion meals with waterfront views to match, and sunset cocktails high atop the city’s skyline.
Book one of the top outdoor dining spots in San Francisco on OpenTable now.
Keep current with the evolving dining scene in San Francisco with these guides to the latest hotspots:
- The 9 best rooftop restaurants in San Francisco
- 12 quintessential date-night restaurants in San Francisco
- 9 San Francisco restaurants that scream cozy
- 10 hottest brunch spots in San Francisco
Garrick Ramirez is a food and travel writer based in San Francisco. His work has appeared in numerous publications including Condé Nast Traveler and Eater, among others. Follow him on Instagram at @thegarrickramirez.
