Every January, California Restaurant Month celebrates the state’s diverse culinary landscape, inviting food enthusiasts to taste unique and delectable experiences at restaurants across California throughout the month. With thousands of restaurants to choose from, explore the culinary scene against a backdrop of romantic waterfront vistas, towering bridges, and the city’s iconic fog. Discover amazing meals with breathtaking views of the bay, the ocean, and landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge.
Panoramic Views
InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco
In 1939, George D. Smith, a hotelier and proprietor, underwent a remarkable transformation of the 19th-floor penthouse suite at the Mark Hopkins Hotel, turning it into a cocktail lounge encased in glass. The establishment boasts an impressive menu featuring precisely 100 martinis and three-course prix-fixe dinner with an amuse-bouche, a choice of starter and entrée, and a delectable dessert. Revel in awe-inspiring 360-degree vistas of San Francisco from this elevated perch, situated on one of the city’s highest points.
San Francisco Marriott Marquis
At the San Francisco Marriott Marquis, guests can indulge in cocktails, light snacks, and a sweeping panoramic city view. Take in the splendid sights of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the Contemporary Jewish Museum, Yerba Buena Gardens, and other treasures nestled in the heart of SoMa.
Bayside Views
Bistro Boudin
San Francisco’s distinctive sourdough bread, synonymous with its picturesque terrain, finds a fitting showcase at the flagship location. The restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf provides unparalleled “only in San Francisco” views, featuring iconic landmarks like the wharf, Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Angel Island, and more, complementing the city’s unique charm.
Fog Harbor Fish House
Each table at Fog Harbor presents breathtaking views of San Francisco Bay. As the pioneer restaurant on Fisherman’s Wharf committed to serving 100% sustainable seafood, Fog Harbor takes pride in its dedication to environmental responsibility. Enjoy the stunning Bay vistas and the presence of sea lions around the Pier.
McCormick & Kuleto’s
At McCormick & Kuleto’s, a classic seafood eatery, patrons can relish an expansive menu with views of San Francisco Bay, encompassing Alcatraz, Angel Island, Aquatic Park, and the historic Balclutha sailing ship at Hyde Street Pier. The menu caters to all tastes, featuring sirloin steak and pasta options for those inclined towards turf rather than surf.
The Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
The Pier Market’s popularity stems from its stunning Bay views, award-winning clam chowder, and mesquite-grilled fresh seafood and meats. Situated conveniently at PIER 39, it offers an ideal starting point for post-dinner activities, such as the 7D Experience or a visit to the Aquarium of the Bay.
Bay Bridge Views
The Slanted Door
The Slanted Door, a James Beard Award-winning modern Vietnamese restaurant at the Ferry Building, boasts panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay. With a Riesling-driven wine list, a premium bar, and rare Chinese teas, the menu ecologically farmed meat, game, and poultry sourced from farms around the San Francisco Bay Area.
The Waterfront Restaurant & Cafe
In 1969, Al Falchi transformed a former San Francisco longshoremen’s bar into The Waterfront Restaurant, a mile from Fisherman’s Wharf. Boasting views of the bay and the iconic Bay Bridge, it has become a favoured spot for local politicians and business figures.
Perry’s on the Embarcadero
Perry’s, renowned for its classic American fare and laid-back ambience, provides a welcoming experience. Offering brunch, lunch, and dinner options, patrons can enjoy views of the Bay Bridge day or night.
Pacific Ocean Views
The Beach Chalet Brewery & Restaurant
Situated where Golden Gate Park meets the Pacific Ocean, The Beach Chalet offers a picturesque setting facing Ocean Beach. Renowned for its craft brews, including the Seal Rock Bock—a full-bodied, dark, malty German-style beer—and the Ocean Beach Oktoberfest, patrons can indulge in a variety of distinctive hops and barley creations.
Bay Cruises
City Experiences
City Experiences’ opulent yachts serve as floating restaurants, hosting dinner-dance and weekend champagne brunch cruises. They also cater to private custom charters on the San Francisco Bay, providing a unique perspective to behold iconic landmarks while enjoying a memorable experience on the water.
Views of San Francisco
Scoma’s of Sausalito
Located in the heart of Sausalito, Scoma’s of Sausalito stands out as one of the premier dining establishments with captivating views of the City and the Bay. This historic waterfront landmark specializes in serving fresh seafood and pasta.
Salito’s Crab House & Prime Rib
Salito’s, a short ferry ride across the Bay, presents signature dishes like house-made crispy kettle bread, crab chowder, and seafood specialities. Enjoy the large outdoor deck, providing a guest experience with scenic views of the water and passing boats.
