A table beneath the open sky, a thoughtfully prepared meal, and a view that makes putting your phone away feel worthwhile. In San Francisco, dining outdoors offers something that an ordinary restaurant experience cannot always capture. The changing light over the Bay, the distinctive skyline, and the conversations filling neighborhood terraces become part of the meal itself.
For visitors hoping to explore these experiences, choosing the right place to stay makes all the difference. Bringing together contemporary California hospitality, thoughtfully curated dining experiences, and the vibrant energy of downtown San Francisco, The Jay, Autograph Collection offers a distinctive setting for a culinary getaway. Just moments from the Embarcadero and the city’s celebrated waterfront dining scene, our hotel invites guests to enjoy seasonal flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and relaxed gatherings on our Third Floor Terrace, where outdoor dining becomes an experience worth savoring.
The Third Floor Terrace: Outdoor Dining with a Distinctly San Francisco Personality
Some of the most memorable dining experiences don’t require leaving the hotel. Our Third Floor Terrace brings the pleasure of open-air dining directly to The Jay, offering a beautifully designed rooftop setting above the activity of downtown San Francisco.
Surrounded by lush landscaping, intimate seating areas, and welcoming fire pits, the terrace creates an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and comfortable. Glass windbreaks provide additional shelter from the city’s famous breezes, making it an appealing destination for enjoying San Francisco’s outdoor atmosphere.
The experience changes throughout the day. An afternoon gathering might begin with a light bite and a refreshing drink, while an evening visit introduces the inviting glow of the fire pits and the energy of guests enjoying cocktails and conversation.
Our culinary offerings reflect Northern California’s appreciation for seasonal ingredients, with menus influenced by local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen. Under the direction of Chef Michael Magallanes, The Third Floor celebrates California-forward cuisine with creative Asian influences, bringing familiar flavors together with thoughtful presentations.
The cocktail program is equally considered, featuring seasonal ingredients, house-made syrups, fresh juices, and an extensive selection of wines and local beers. Whether planning a relaxed date, meeting friends, or enjoying an evening after exploring the city, our terrace provides a memorable destination without requiring another reservation across town.
Brunch Above the City at The Jay
San Francisco has a longstanding appreciation for brunch, and enjoying it in an inviting rooftop setting adds another dimension to the tradition.
At The Third Floor, weekend brunch combines the comfort of a leisurely meal with the culinary creativity that defines our dining experience. Guests can explore a menu shaped by seasonal ingredients and California-inspired flavors before enjoying the surrounding rooftop atmosphere.
The adjoining Third Floor Lounge also provides a welcoming indoor alternative, making it easy to enjoy the same inviting hospitality regardless of the weather. For visitors staying at The Jay, beginning the morning with breakfast or brunch onsite offers valuable flexibility. There is time to enjoy another coffee, discuss plans for exploring San Francisco, or simply appreciate a morning without rushing between destinations.
For those looking to continue the day outdoors, our location provides convenient access to the Embarcadero, Ferry Building Marketplace, and surrounding waterfront attractions.
Waterfront Dining: Experience San Francisco Along the Embarcadero
While rooftops offer beautiful views from above, San Francisco’s waterfront restaurants introduce another perspective, placing diners close to the Bay. The Embarcadero is particularly appealing for visitors interested in combining outdoor dining with sightseeing, offering restaurants, historic piers, and waterfront promenades.
With The Jay located near this vibrant area, guests can incorporate waterfront dining into an afternoon exploring the city’s coastal attractions.
La Mar Cocina Peruana: Peruvian Flavors by the Bay
Located at Pier 1½ along the Embarcadero, La Mar Cocina Peruana offers a memorable combination of waterfront views and authentic Peruvian cuisine.
Its menu celebrates Peru’s diverse culinary traditions, with cebiche, seafood specialties, and dishes influenced by the country’s multicultural food heritage. The restaurant’s waterfront patio provides views toward the Bay Bridge and Treasure Island, creating an inviting backdrop for a leisurely lunch or an evening meal.
For guests staying at our hotel, La Mar is a particularly appealing destination for discovering international flavors while enjoying the atmosphere of San Francisco’s waterfront.
Waterbar: Seafood with a View of the Bay Bridge
For a dining experience centered around fresh seafood and iconic scenery, Waterbar offers another memorable option. Situated along the Embarcadero near the Bay Bridge, the restaurant is known for its sustainably sourced seafood, extensive oyster selection, and striking waterfront views.
Outdoor dining areas allow guests to appreciate the surrounding Bay while enjoying a meal inspired by the region’s coastal ingredients. Waterbar is especially suited to celebratory dinners, romantic evenings, and occasions when the setting deserves as much attention as the menu.
After exploring the waterfront, guests can return to The Jay for cocktails at The Third Floor or unwind in the comfort of our rooms and suites.
Rooftop Dining Beyond Downtown: More Views Worth Discovering
San Francisco’s rooftop dining scene extends beyond the Financial District, offering different experiences for travelers interested in exploring the city. Some venues emphasize lively nightlife and creative cocktails, while others pair international cuisine with distinctive architectural views.
KAIYŌ Rooftop: A Tropical Escape Above SoMa
Located at 701 Third Street, KAIYŌ Rooftop brings a colorful, tropical-inspired atmosphere to San Francisco’s South of Market neighborhood.
The rooftop combines lush greenery, skyline views, and creative cocktails with a culinary identity inspired by Nikkei cuisine, which brings together Japanese and Peruvian influences. Its distinctive setting makes it an appealing choice for groups of friends, couples, or visitors looking for a lively outdoor dining experience.
For guests interested in exploring more of San Francisco’s culinary diversity, KAIYŌ introduces an exciting contrast to the relaxed elegance of our Third Floor Terrace.
Charmaine’s: Elevated Cocktails Above Market Street
For a sophisticated rooftop lounge experience, Charmaine’s offers an inviting destination approximately 120 feet above Market Street. Located at San Francisco Proper Hotel, this indoor-outdoor lounge combines contemporary design, comfortable seating, greenery, and fire pits with panoramic city views.
Its cocktail-focused menu and inviting atmosphere make it an appealing destination for an evening gathering or a special occasion. Exploring San Francisco’s different rooftop venues provides an opportunity to discover the city’s varied dining personalities before returning to the welcoming atmosphere of The Jay.
Outdoor Dining for Every Season in San Francisco
San Francisco’s weather adds character to its outdoor dining experiences, although visitors should prepare for conditions that differ from many traditional summer destinations. Cool coastal breezes and fog can arrive during summer, while September and October frequently bring some of the city’s warmer, sunnier afternoons.
For travelers planning rooftop dining, dressing in layers is particularly useful, especially when reservations extend into the evening.
Many outdoor restaurants adapt to changing conditions through covered seating, heaters, or sheltered lounge areas, but availability varies by venue. Our Third Floor Terrace offers a particularly thoughtful outdoor setting, with glass windbreaks and fire pits that help create a comfortable atmosphere during cooler periods.
Whether enjoying brunch in the sunshine or cocktails beneath the evening sky, choosing a venue designed around San Francisco’s climate can make the experience more enjoyable.
Private Gatherings and Celebrations Above the City
Outdoor dining can also provide a beautiful setting for occasions that deserve something beyond a traditional restaurant reservation.
At The Jay, our private dining experiences include opportunities to host celebrations, corporate gatherings, and social events at The Third Floor. Our rooftop terrace offers flexible arrangements for different group sizes, accommodating up to 70 seated guests or 125 for cocktail receptions.
Individual fire pits, comfortable seating, and the surrounding city atmosphere provide an inviting environment for everything from milestone birthdays and engagement celebrations to company gatherings. For smaller events, our hidden lounge behind the 360-degree bar offers an intimate setting with dark leather walls and ambient lighting.
These thoughtfully designed spaces allow guests to enjoy the culinary experience of The Jay while creating an occasion tailored to their needs.
Complete the Experience with a Stay at The Jay
After discovering San Francisco’s rooftop bars and waterfront dining destinations, returning to a comfortable hotel adds another layer of enjoyment to the getaway.
Our rooms and suites bring together refined California design and thoughtful details inspired by San Francisco sculptor Ruth Asawa. Many accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling windows framing the surrounding city, while select rooms offer impressive views of San Francisco Bay.
Luxury linens, plush robes, premium bath amenities, and carefully considered furnishings create a welcoming place to relax after an afternoon exploring the city’s dining scene.
Our location near the Embarcadero also allows guests to discover nearby neighborhoods, waterfront attractions, and local restaurants without making transportation the focus of every outing. For additional inspiration, our neighborhood guide introduces cultural experiences, shops, and local destinations that complement a food-focused San Francisco getaway.