- The city shines in summer with peak waterfront beauty and vibrant street life, making it a wonderful time to experience outdoor dining in San Francisco.
- From Pier 39 to neighborhood spots, outdoor restaurants in SF serve up great food and drinks.
- For an all-around outstanding summer dining experience, enjoy the meals, hospitality, and ambiance of Pier Market Seafood Restaurant.
In the Bay Area, the months between May and August are typically the driest of the year. So as long as you keep the city’s notorious temperature swings in mind (the key is dressing in layers), summer is the perfect time for a meal outdoors.
In summer, the natural beauty of San Francisco really shines, and people-watching is at its peak. Here, we share our tips for the best outdoor dining in San Francisco so you can make the most of the season.
Pier Market: Unbeatable Outdoor Dining in San Francisco
Of course, the best place to start this list is with our very own Pier Market Seafood Restaurant. With our ideal location right on the waterfront at Pier 39, it’s hard to beat our winning combination of stellar views, delicious seafood, and warm hospitality.
So Much to See
At Pier Market, our outdoor patio sits amidst the hustle and fun of Pier 39. We’re one of the best outdoor restaurants in SF for people watching. Best of all, our large patio is heated, so no worries if there’s a bit of a chill in the air.
Inside, our dining room features giant windows to connect you with the outdoors, even if you prefer to be a bit cozier. Here, you can admire spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island as you enjoy your meal.
Seafood Specialties
You’ll find a range of responsibly sourced seafood and other San Francisco dishes on the Pier Market menu, including:
- New England Clam Chowder: The best on Fisherman’s Wharf!
- Garlic-Roasted Dungeness Crab: A West Coast favorite, prized for its sweet richness.
- Cioppino: This classic seafood stew is a specialty at Pier Market.
These are just some of the favorites that make Pier Market one of the most delicious spots for outdoor dining in San Francisco.
A Warm Welcome
Pier Market has been family-owned and -operated for more than 40 years, and that’s reflected in our restaurant’s welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors and locals alike consider us the perfect outdoor restaurant in SF for a casual, warm vibe. Come for the views, stay for the hospitality.
More Great Pier 39 Restaurants for Outdoor Dining in San Francisco
Along with Pier Market, you’ll find other wonderful outdoor restaurants in the heart of SF’s Fisherman’s Wharf.
Crab House at Pier 39
Above Pier Market, you’ll find Crab House at Pier 39, home to the famous Killer Crab®. This menu specialty is served with a top-secret garlic sauce.
The restaurant’s large windows allow you to take in beautiful bay views at any time. When the weather permits, a garage-style wall opens to create a very unique indoor/outdoor dining experience in San Francisco.
Wipeout Bar & Grill
This fun spot couldn’t be easier to find. Wipeout Bar & Grill features San Francisco outdoor dining right at the entrance to Pier 39.
With its huge menu of casual favorites like burgers, pizzas, tacos, and more, it’s a great place to soak up California vibes. And the patio’s fire pit makes this one of the best outdoor restaurants in SF to take the chill off during cooler summer weather.
Eagle Cafe
Serving San Francisco’s waterfront since 1928, Eagle Cafe is a local icon. Its interior decor is loaded with history and memorabilia, and the menu is loaded with breakfast and lunch favorites.
But it’s the special patio that fans of outdoor dining in San Francisco really delight in due to the gorgeous views!
More of the Top Outdoor Restaurants in SF
Scattered in neighborhoods around the city, you’ll find other fantastic spots for outdoor dining in San Francisco.
Zazie
Open for brunch and dinner, Zazie has been a hit on the Cole Valley outdoor dining scene in San Francisco since 1992. Experience a bit of French flair, as well as covered and streetfront al fresco seating.
Fable
The beautiful garden patio at Fable on Castro is a real standout. Thanks to well-placed heaters and full overhead covering, diners enjoy this restaurant’s fresh, seasonal cuisine year-round. And the patio is dog-friendly, too.
Outdoor Dining in San Francisco: Great Bar Experiences
If you love the idea of indulging in a cocktail or two in the fresh air, then say “Cheers” to these outstanding outdoor restaurants in SF.
Charmaine’s
Situated above Market Street atop the Proper Hotel, you’ll experience sweeping views and bold beverages at Charmaine’s. The setting is both relaxed and refined; it’s the epitome of rooftop outdoor dining in San Francisco.
Santería
San Francisco’s Castro district is well-known for great people watching. From Santería’s outdoor seating, you can enjoy both the passersby and the exceptional central and south Mexican cuisine and creative margaritas.
Lost & Found
At the Lost & Found cocktail bar, you’ll savor classic and modern concoctions indoors or in their outdoor parklet. Here, you’ll also find fun activities and events, like their private karaoke room and regular trivia nights.
Great Outdoor Dining at San Francisco’s Pier Market
With its unbeatable blend of fantastic views, menu items, and hospitality, Pier Market Seafood Restaurant is definitely one of the most unique outdoor restaurants in SF for summer dining. So book your table today or stop by and join our waitlist and discover outdoor dining in San Francisco at its finest.