Top Rated Nightlife in San Francisco

Located within SF's historic Fairmont Hotel, Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar is a kitschy bamboo lounge that is for anyone who always wanted to visit the set of “Fantasy Island.” During the happy hours, indulge in some fruity umbrella drinks, the simulated tropical storm (yes, it really rains), and the intentionally cheesy soft-rock house band to lull you away to that paradise cruise you never took. Snacks and meals are both pricey, but the food's not the main reason for coming here. The Kalua pork is a highly recommended menu item, but you had best order them with a round of Mai-Tais; they're rumored to be the city's finest.

Angler, gracing the commercial heart of San Francisco is a culinary delight offering the choicest seafood preparations in an elegant setting. From a lovely family lunch to dinner over work, or a pleasant time with your beloved relishing sumptuous platters, this restaurant welcomes all. Offerings range from crafted raw bar delights to signature platters, daily specialties, salads and seasonal servings, enjoy a splendid culinary journey here. Choose from the stellar wine list featuring a blend of regional and global wines to go along with your food.

Eating seafood comes naturally when you see Waterbar's beautiful view of the bay and the Bay Bridge. Tanks display the fish available for eating and there is a large raw bar in the dining room. The seafood is sustainable for clear conscience eating. Try pressed lobster or whole oven-roasted petit local halibut. There is a full bar to complement your meal, and valet parking is also available.

This upscale restaurant is located within the Ferry Building. Aside from the great food, this place is one of the hippest restaurants in the city. The menu describes the cuisine as modern Vietnamese. Items include crispy egg noodles with squid, shrimp and sea bass, and eggplant with green onions in spicy coconut sauce. The wine list is perfect for the Asian cuisine and the restaurant overlooks the bay, offering diners a winning combination of a superb meal with a view. A large dinner crowd gathers on the weekends, so reservations are recommended.

A venture by renowned chef Charles Phan, Hard Water is situated along the scenic Embarcadero. When you consider the kind of water used to make the best whiskey, you will find this watering hole to be rather aptly named. An American whiskey bar, it has 150 not entirely common varieties on offer. Bourbon cocktails like the Dixie and Roffignac are fantastic. The food menu features delicious preparations like fried chicken with pepper jelly and braised rabbit with buttermilk dumplings. A raw bar is also featured.

The Pub at Ghirardelli Square is a trendy bar and barbecue restaurant, located close to the beach. It faces several important attractions such as the Aquatic Cove, Aquatic Park and San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park. Its trendy patio offers views of both the coast and the charming restaurant building, with its red-brick façade, glass-covered archways and rows of flower boxes. There are separate menus for brunch, late-night meals, banquets and catering, in addition to the main menu. Try dishes such as Tommy Tots with blue cheese and spicy sauce, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Pulled Pork Sando and House Made Jalapeño Poppers. Busy professionals can also opt for boxed lunches and other takeaway packages.