San Francisco’s fog-kissed patios and waterfront decks offer some of the Bay Area’s most memorable dining experiences. From the Marina’s seafood spots to the cozy parklets along the Embarcadero, outdoor dining spaces blend the city’s culinary excellence with its iconic views.
Whether catching bay breezes at Waterbar, savoring pasta al fresco at A16, or watching sunset at Beach Chalet, SF’s outdoor dining scene captures the essence of NorCal living. The city’s year-round mild climate makes patio dining possible even when Karl the Fog rolls in.
Discover the best Bay Area outdoor dining spots!
Featured Outdoor Dining Spots in San Francisco
- Waterbar
- Arbor
- Half Moon Bay Brewing Company (Half Moon Bay)
- The Beach Chalet
- A16 San Francisco
- Barbara's Fish Trap (Half Moon Bay)
- Fable
- Goemon Japanese Restaurant
- The Moss Beach Distillery (Moss Beach)
Fine Dining Outdoors in San Francisco
A16 San Francisco
What to Expect
Campanian cuisine with wood-fired pizzas
Description
A16 San Francisco offers a chic outdoor seating space, ideal for daytime and evening dining. The restaurant specializes in Campanian cuisine, featuring wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes. Its intimate setting in the Marina District includes an open kitchen and patio seating.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: A16 San Francisco
Garden or Park Restaurants in San Francisco
Arbor
What to Expect
Lush garden setting
Description
Arbor offers a serene outdoor dining experience in Hayes Valley, featuring a lush garden setting. The menu includes American comfort food with vegan options, such as burgers and macaroni and cheese. The restaurant provides ample seating options, including parklets and indoor spaces, complemented by wines on tap.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: Arbor
Fable
What to Expect
Heated garden patio with multiple decks
Description
Fable offers a unique outdoor dining experience in San Francisco's Castro neighborhood. Its all-weather, heated garden patio features three decks, providing a variety of dining atmospheres amidst lush greenery. The restaurant serves seasonal California cuisine, emphasizing fresh ingredients and creative dishes. Fable is particularly noted for its exceptional brunch and outdoor seating, making it a standout for those seeking a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: Fable
Goemon Japanese Restaurant
What to Expect
Koi garden dining
Description
Goemon Japanese Restaurant offers a serene outdoor dining experience in its koi garden, where guests can enjoy sushi and other Japanese dishes in a tranquil setting. The stylish interior complements the garden, providing a unique ambiance. The restaurant features barbecued scallops and offers a cozy atmosphere for dining.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: Goemon Japanese Restaurant
Waterfront Dining in San Francisco
Barbara's Fish Trap (Half Moon Bay)
What to Expect
Waterfront seafood dining
Description
Barbara's Fish Trap offers a casual dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood, overlooking Half Moon Bay. The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating, including heated and covered outdoor areas, providing picturesque views of the harbor. Popular dishes include fish and chips, clam chowder, and fried calamari, all prepared with a focus on natural flavors. The rustic, nautical-themed decor adds to its charm, making it a staple for both locals and tourists.
Where: Half Moon Bay | More Info: Barbara's Fish Trap
Half Moon Bay Brewing Company (Half Moon Bay)
What to Expect
Waterfront patio with fire pits
Description
Half Moon Bay Brewing Company offers a casual, waterfront dining experience with expansive ocean views. The restaurant features a family-friendly atmosphere, a dog-friendly patio with fire pits, and a variety of fresh seafood and home-brewed beers. It is particularly well-suited for outdoor dining with its large patio area and scenic views of Pillar Point Harbor. The Mavericks Beer Garden is available for private events and offers a unique setting for gatherings.
Where: Half Moon Bay | More Info: Half Moon Bay Brewing Company
The Beach Chalet
What to Expect
Oceanfront dining in Golden Gate Park
Description
The Beach Chalet offers stunning ocean views from its location in Golden Gate Park. It serves American cuisine with seafood options and features a full bar with craft beers. The restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere suitable for both casual dining and special occasions, with outdoor seating available to enjoy the coastal scenery.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: The Beach Chalet
The Moss Beach Distillery (Moss Beach)
What to Expect
Historic cliffside location
Description
The Moss Beach Distillery offers a romantic setting with ocean views from every table, featuring fresh California coastal cuisine. It includes a dog-friendly patio where guests can enjoy meals while watching whales and seals. This restaurant is particularly noted for its scenic views and historical significance as a former Prohibition-era speakeasy.
Where: Moss Beach | More Info: The Moss Beach Distillery
Waterbar
What to Expect
Panoramic Bay Bridge views
Description
Waterbar offers stunning waterfront dining with panoramic views of the Bay Bridge and San Francisco skyline. It features a daily menu of fresh-caught, sustainably sourced seafood and an extensive selection of oysters. The restaurant provides elegant private dining spaces, including terraces and patios, ideal for special events. Its commitment to sustainability and exceptional service makes it a standout dining experience.
Where: San Francisco | More Info: Waterbar