Unearth The Voyage
California’s rooftop dining scene offers more than just meals, it delivers unforgettable experiences high above the city streets. From Los Angeles skyscrapers to San Francisco terraces, these elevated spots combine incredible food with views that stretch for miles. Whether you’re planning a romantic date, celebrating with friends, or simply craving sunset cocktails with a side of skyline magic, these twelve rooftops prove that the Golden State knows how to eat and drink in style.
1. Perch (Downtown Los Angeles)
Picture yourself fifteen floors above downtown LA, surrounded by French bistro charm and the glittering city spread out like a blanket of stars. Perch serves up classic dishes like bouillabaisse and steak frites while live music or a DJ sets the mood every single night. The space spans two levels—the fifteenth floor holds the main dining room, while the sixteenth offers a more relaxed bar vibe perfect for after-dinner cocktails.
Timing is everything here. Swing by between four and six for happy hour deals that won’t break the bank. The multi-level layout means you can start with dinner downstairs, then migrate upstairs as the evening evolves into something more energetic. Reservations are a must for the dining room, but the bar welcomes walk-ins ready to soak up that downtown magic.
2. Spire 73 (InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown)
Seventy-three stories straight up sits the tallest open-air bar in the entire Western Hemisphere. Spire 73 wraps around the InterContinental tower, giving you three-hundred-sixty-degree views that make even locals gasp. The menu leans upscale—think elevated small plates paired with craft cocktails designed to match the sophisticated atmosphere.
Weekend nights often come with a cover charge for non-hotel guests, so plan accordingly. Book a later time slot if you want the full nighttime spectacle when the city transforms into a sea of twinkling lights. The elevation creates a sense of floating above everything, making ordinary conversations feel extraordinary. It’s pricey, sure, but some experiences justify the splurge.
3. Élephante (Santa Monica)
Right where the city meets the Pacific, Élephante brings coastal-Italian energy to Santa Monica’s dining scene. Ocean breezes mix with the aroma of whipped eggplant and their famous vodka pasta, creating an atmosphere that feels both upscale and beachy. The restaurant serves guests all day long, transitioning seamlessly from lazy brunches to sunset celebrations.
Expect crowds and high energy—this isn’t the spot for quiet, intimate moments. Instead, it’s where groups gather to share plates, clink glasses, and watch the sun melt into the horizon. The buzzy vibe attracts a stylish crowd that matches the restaurant’s Instagram-worthy aesthetic. Come hungry and ready to embrace the scene, because Élephante delivers California coastal dining at its most vibrant.
4. Harriet’s Rooftop (1 Hotel West Hollywood)
Perched on the Sunset Strip, Harriet’s channels classic cocktail-lounge vibes with a modern West Hollywood twist. The menu encourages sharing—order a few small plates and pass them around while sipping expertly crafted drinks. Sweeping city views provide the backdrop, stretching across Los Angeles in a way that reminds you why people move here.
This rooftop leans dressy, so leave the beach shorts at home. It’s designed for date nights and special occasions when you want to feel polished and grown-up. Check their posted hours before heading over, as times vary seasonally. Reservations fill up quickly, especially on weekends when everyone wants a piece of that Sunset Strip magic. The atmosphere whispers sophistication rather than shouting party energy.
5. Kassi Venice Beach (Hotel Erwin, Venice)
Hotel Erwin’s rooftop got a Greek makeover, and Venice Beach has never tasted better. Kassi serves mezze, skewers, and Eastern-Mediterranean flavors while the Pacific sparkles just beyond the boardwalk. The space stays open from morning through late evening, making it perfect for whenever the rooftop craving strikes.
Weekends bring DJ-backed brunches that feel quintessentially Venice—laid-back but lively, casual but curated. Golden hour here is pure California magic, with the sun painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. The sundrenched setting captures that beachy Venice spirit while elevating it several stories above the street scene. Come for the views, stay for the grilled octopus, and leave planning your next visit before you’ve even finished your meal.
6. The Rooftop Beverly Hills (Waldorf Astoria)
Twelve stories above Rodeo Drive, The Rooftop at the Waldorf Astoria feels like a secret garden suspended in the sky. Lush plants soften the urban setting while seasonal dishes blend Far-East flavors with Western techniques. It’s one of Beverly Hills’ largest rooftop venues, yet somehow maintains an intimate, exclusive atmosphere.
The luxury hotel polish shows in every detail, from the service to the plating to the way they time each course perfectly. Cinematic views of the Hollywood Hills create a backdrop that feels almost too beautiful to be real. This is where power lunches meet romantic dinners, where business deals happen over craft cocktails. The space rewards those who appreciate refined experiences without stuffiness—elegant but never stuffy.
7. Topside Roof Deck (Lido House, Newport Beach)
Newport Beach’s signature rooftop experience comes courtesy of Lido House, where harbor and beach views compete for your attention. Champagne flows freely here—it’s kind of their thing—while a dress code keeps the atmosphere polished. The all-day social scene attracts everyone from yacht owners to visitors discovering Orange County’s coastal elegance.
Reservations aren’t just recommended; they’re practically required, especially when sunset approaches. The staff takes the booking system seriously because they know everyone wants that golden-hour magic. The vibe balances relaxed coastal energy with upscale hospitality, creating a space that feels special without being pretentious. It’s where Newport shows off its best side, proving that beach towns can do sophisticated just as well as laid-back.
8. ALTITUDE Sky Lounge (San Diego – Gaslamp Quarter)
Twenty-two floors above the Gaslamp Quarter, ALTITUDE puts you at eye level with the action at Petco Park. Glass railings ensure unobstructed views while fire pits add warmth when the coastal breeze kicks in. Game days transform the space into an electric pre- and post-game hangout where baseball fans celebrate or commiserate together.
The food menu accompanies a strong cocktail program, so you can actually eat dinner here rather than just snacking. Grab a spot along the balcony for the best sightlines—you’ll catch both ballpark and bay in one sweeping panorama. Even on non-game days, the energy stays lively thanks to the Gaslamp location. It’s San Diego’s urban side on full display, proving the city offers more than just beaches and tacos.
9. The Nolen (San Diego – Gaslamp/East Village)
For those who prefer their rooftops with a side of craft-cocktail artistry, The Nolen delivers. The skyline views frame downtown San Diego beautifully, but the real stars are the drinks—creative, balanced, and made by bartenders who take their work seriously. Bar bites keep you fueled nightly, with the kitchen staying open later on Fridays and Saturdays.
What makes The Nolen special is its intimate scale. While other rooftops pack in crowds, this space maintains a more personal feel where conversations don’t require shouting. It’s lively without being overwhelming, busy without feeling chaotic. The modern design keeps things sleek and current, appealing to locals who’ve seen every rooftop trend come and go. Consider it San Diego’s answer to those who want quality over quantity.
10. Charmaine’s (San Francisco Proper Hotel)
Named among the country’s top rooftop bars, Charmaine’s sits one hundred twenty feet above Market Street with indoor-outdoor flexibility. The menu keeps things approachable—snacks, pizzas, and a cocktail list deep enough to explore over multiple visits. San Francisco’s skyline provides the entertainment, stretching toward the bay and beyond.
Here’s the reality check: Charmaine’s popularity means booking ahead isn’t optional. Walk-ins might snag a spot during off-hours, but prime times fill up fast. The Proper Hotel’s design sensibility carries through to the rooftop, creating a space that feels curated and intentional. It’s where San Francisco does rooftop culture with that characteristic blend of casual sophistication—fancy enough to feel special, relaxed enough to actually enjoy yourself without overthinking your outfit.
11. KAIYŌ Rooftop (San Francisco – SoMa)
Nikkei cuisine—that fascinating Japanese-Peruvian fusion—gets the rooftop treatment at KAIYŌ. Twelve floors up near Oracle Park, the terrace serves flavors that surprise and delight with every bite. Reservations are strongly recommended because locals have already discovered this gem, and they’re not sharing without a fight.
San Francisco nights turn chilly faster than you expect, even in summer. The restaurant provides heaters, but bringing layers shows you know the city. The fusion concept extends beyond the food to the atmosphere itself—a blend of Japanese precision and Peruvian warmth that somehow works perfectly. It’s not your typical rooftop experience, which makes it all the more worth seeking out. SoMa’s urban energy buzzes below while you’re up here discovering flavor combinations you never knew you needed.
12. Sky & Vine (Archer Hotel, Napa)
Six stories above downtown Napa, Sky & Vine proves that wine country does rooftops too. Fire pits warm the space while the by-the-glass wine list showcases local vintages you won’t find elsewhere. The menu offers wine-country bites designed to complement your drinking rather than compete with it—think cheese boards, charcuterie, and seasonal small plates.
This rooftop works perfectly before or after a day of tastings, offering a relaxed alternative to formal winery visits. The vibe stays casual and welcoming, reflecting Napa’s shift toward approachability alongside its traditional luxury. Views stretch across downtown toward the surrounding hills, reminding you that you’re in one of California’s most beautiful regions. It’s where wine lovers gather to extend the tasting-room experience into the evening hours.
