Spectacular views from Oakland's High 5ive rooftop bar. Photo courtesy of High 5ive.

Bay area natives know that there’s no such thing as reliable outdoor dining weather here—dramatic temperature swings, drizzle and fog only add to the adventure of dining in plein air. And though we might not be looking for adventure when we dine outdoors, we know to expect the unexpected. What is reliable are the views, and we’ve got stellar suggestions that are on par with the food and drink offered at each place.

San Francisco

The bustling scene at SOMA's Kaiyo Rooftop. Photo courtesy of Kaiyo Rooftop.

Kaiyo Rooftop | Montgomery St

Kaiyo recently opened this rooftop dining/drinking location on the 12th floor of the Hyatt Place Hotel in SOMA. The food and bar menu is a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors (Nikkei) and the views are spectacular. There are plenty of raw dishes to please sushi lovers, and lots of other options like chicken karaage and beef empanadas for non-sushi fans. Cocktails lean towards tropical, which pair well with the Southeast Asian decor. Lots of heat lamps do their best to keep you warm. Take BART to Montgomery St and walk 20 minutes to 701 3rd St.

Spectacular views of the San Francisco skyline at Charmaine's in the Proper. Photo courtesy of the Proper Hotel.

Charmaine’s | Civic Center/UN Plaza

Mid-market’s Proper Hotel attempts to transport guests to a modern pied-à-terre. The property’s rooftop bar is a coveted spot, so much so that reservations for parties of three or more are required (with a minimum $65 spend). But, on a glorious night, sitting around one of their fire pits, you'll consider it money well spent. The all-day menu, designed by the restaurant’s head chef, with drinks designed by Trick Dog partners, ensures a fabulous experience, even if you can’t wait for the sun to go down. Take BART to Civic Center/UN Plaza and walk eight minutes to 45 McAllister St.

The expansive outdoor rooftop patio at 620 Jones. Photo courtesy of 620 Jones.

620 Jones | Powell St

Situated in the former Gaylord Hotel, 620 Jones harkens back to an earlier era of San Francisco when the city was rebuilding after the 1906 earthquake. The 8,000 square-foot rooftop bar is a great spot to take in the city’s spirals and remaining historical buildings. The food menu is big and well-rounded enough to please most. Happy Hour (4-6pm) is a great place to start. Take BART to Powell St and walk 11 minutes to 620 Jones St.

Potted plants fill the colorful rooftop bar at Good Good Culture Club. Photo courtesy of Good Good Culture Club.

Good Good Culture Club | 16th St Mission

This well-known space (Dear Inga and Liholiho) in the Mission is now home to chef Ravi Kapur’s latest take on South Asian and Filipino cuisine. The dining room is bright and cheerful, and the rooftop bar area, though not too big, is popular for walk-in guests coming in from nearby Dolores Park. Though the Mission is known for having the best weather, dress for the elements. Take BART to 16th St Mission and walk eight minutes to 3560 18th St.

East Bay

Oeste's bustling rooftop at dusk. Photo courtesy of BARTable.

Oeste | 12th St/Oakland City Center

Oeste’s presence in downtown Oakland has had a positive influence on other businesses in the area. Its rooftop outdoor space continues to draw patrons for its views and vibe. Dishes take a modern approach to southern ingredients and flavors, and popular menu bites include the fried catfish, red beans and rice, and fried Brussel sprouts. The rooftop feels like an extension of the indoor space: classic and comfortable. Take BART to 12th St/Oakland City Center and walk seven minutes to 722 Clay St.

Some of the variety of drinks offered at Study Hall. Photo courtesy of Study Hall Rooftop Lounge.

Study Hall Rooftop Lounge | Downtown Berkeley

Berkeley’s newest hotel bar and eatery inside the Residence Inn Berkeley offers 180-degree views of the Berkeley hills, Oakland and parts of San Francisco. And that’s just inside. Once outside, the views are even more breathtaking. Be prepared to dine and drink in the elements though as it’s 12 floors up. Nosh on burgers, fries, calamari, and a succulent  pork belly bahn mi.  Take BART to Downtown Berkeley and walk three minutes to 2121 Center St.

Some of High 5ive's menu offerings. Photo courtesy of High 5ive.

High 5ive | 19th St/Oakland

High 5ive is the centerpiece for the new Hyatt Kissel hotel in Uptown Oakland. The third-floor restaurant and lounge offers a relaxed outdoor terrace with comfy sofas, fire pits, string lights and heat lamps. Cocktails lean towards the classics and dishes like chopped salad, a charcuterie plate, and carnitas tacos are familiar and accessible. Take BART to 19th St/Oakland and walk 10 minutes to 437 25th St.

Telefèric Barcelona's covered rooftop dining space. Photo courtesy of Telefèric Barcelona.

Telefèric Barcelona | Walnut Creek

Walnut Creek was the first US location for this Barcelona-based restaurant, which specializes in paella and pinchos (small tapas-style plates of food). It’s got a great spot in downtown Walnut Creek with a covered outdoor dining room that takes advantage of the warm East Bay climate and views of the hills beyond. Take BART to Walnut Creek and walk 17 minutes to 1500 Mount Diablo Blvd.

Where do you go for dining and drinking with stellar views?

We want to hear your recommendations! Let us know on social media, @SFBARTable #SFBARTable! Keep up with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to see all of the best BARTable events, places to eat and have fun around the Bay.