Even if you’re new to the Bay Area, you know that there are some amazing views to be had. Whether you’re in San Francisco or Oakland, there are tons of places where you can get a drink and enjoy the skyline. These are some of the best rooftop bars in the Oakland area where you can sip and see skyline views.
El Techo
El Techo is a bar offering rooftop views, street food, and delicious co*cktails. It sits on top of Lolinda, its sister restaurant. Seats go quickly, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to grab a table. Heat lamps and windscreens help make your visit as comfortable as possible in rain or shine. If you want to make a reservation for brunch, you can save a spot online.
Do you want to know what’s on the menu before you go? El Techo offers small plates, such as empanadas and ceviche. The menu also features chicharrones, pollo en adobo, and chocolate cake. Popular co*cktails include the margarita, La Paloma, and Oaxaca old fashioned.
Location:2516 Mission St., San Francisco.
Hours:4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.
High 5ive Rooftop Bar
High 5ive Rooftop Bar offers one of Oakland’s most fascinating views. Of course, it’s not all about the views here. The bartenders here are masters at mixology. They serve drinks, such as the Solar Flare, which includes milagro blanco tequila, chili-infused agave, blood orange, and a habanero tincture. The Tony Bennet features rye whiskey, cherry, vermouth, orange, and smoke. Wine and draft beer are also available.
This upscale rooftop bar also offers a Sunday brunch so that you can get a fantastic view of the city during daylight hours as well. Brunch co*cktails include the Bloody Mary, Kissel, and High 5ive Mimosa, which is served with elderflower liquor. Brunch items include the shrimp and grits, quiche, and croque monsieur. The brunch sandwich includes tomato pesto, spinach, turkey, egg whites, and avocado for a healthier take on breakfast.
Location:437 25th St., Oakland.
Hours:3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 5 p.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday.
Mad Oak Bar ‘n’ Yard
Mad Oak Bar ‘n’ Yard is one of the most eclectic bars in the area. It’s also packed with events, including trivia night and comedy on the rooftop each Wednesday. The bar serves 40 beers on draft as well as spirits and co*cktails. You can enjoy the outside patio or rooftop deck during your visit.
This bar also has a wonderful menu. Food items include beef sliders, loaded fries, chicken tenders, street tacos, wings, brussels sprouts, and garlic fries.
Location:135 12th St., Oakland.
Hours:4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday, 3 p.m. to midnight Wednesday and Thursday, 3 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday, 2 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday.
KAIYO Rooftop
KAIYO Rooftop is situated on the 12th floor of the Hyatt Place Hotel in San Francisco. The rooftop experience is truly unique, offering an immersive tropical vacation from the moment you enter. In addition to stunning views, you’ll enjoy delicious food and refreshing co*cktails, all inspired by Japanese and Peruvian influences.
If you’re not sure what to expect from the menu, you might be surprised at some of the unique offerings. For instance, the bar offers two hot co*cktails. You’ll also notice a couple of spicy options, such as the Super Saiyan. Pisco sours and tropical drinks are available. You’ll also enjoy a vast selection of wine, beers, and sakes.
Location:701 3rd St., San Francisco.
Hours:4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 2 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday.
Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge
There’s a reason so many people love Charmaine’s Rooftop Bar & Lounge. Not only is Charmaine’s one of the best rooftops in San Francisco, but it’s also one of the city’s hottest bars in general. It’s weather-friendly and sits above Market Street on the San Francisco Proper Hotel.
Popular drinks at this bar include the Watermelon Catapult, which includes vodka, Martini & Rossi fiero, dry vermouth, watermelon, and lime salt. Several frozen co*cktails are featured as well. You can also order a hot drink. The menu also boasts an array of red and white wines as well as beer.
Location:1100 Market St., San Francisco.
Hours:4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 4 p.m. to midnight Thursday, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday, 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, and 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday.
25 Lusk
25 Lusk is one of the Bay Area’s best heated rooftop bars. It’s also one of the most casual rooftop options, providing a laidback vibe with fun music. The full bar offers specialty co*cktails, wine, beer, and frozen drinks. You can even order food while taking in the view. Reservations are always recommended. The food menu at 25 Lusk includes pizzas, hot dogs, hamburgers, salads, soups, and light bites.
Location:25 Lusk St., San Francisco.
Hours:4 p.m. until close Tuesday through Thursday and noon to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
620 Jones
At 620 Jones, you can expect to find delicious meals and tasty co*cktails. The portions are large, which makes this a destination many people return to. The bar also offers drag brunches on the weekends. You’ll find that the menu features a selection of classic co*cktails in addition to signature drinks and brunch co*cktails, such as mimosas.
Location:620 Jones St., San Francisco.
Hours:4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday, 4 p.m. to midnight Friday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
At , we know that Oakland is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The Bay Area has many gorgeous views, and finding the right rooftop bar can make all the difference.
Photo Credit: Image by Cedric Letsch is licensed with Unsplash License
