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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Francisco

Upscale bars

A high-end bar experience that feels sophisticated without the performative pretension.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated May 2026
01
Prelude image 1
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Restaurant

Southern fine dining unfolds in a sleek, moody space with an open kitchen showcasing chefs at work. Elegant, intimate lighting and soft textures create a calm, composed atmosphere. Signature cocktails and creative dishes like chicken-stuffed wings highlight a refined, upscale experience.

Bar manager leads with calm, gracious, and professional service. Cocktails stand out for being creative and delicious. The entire team delivers world-class service beyond expectations.

Elegant ambiance sets the tone with a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere. The space feels warm and welcoming while maintaining a composed, fine dining vibe.

People are saying

"The Fine Dining here is amazing, with creative and gorgeous dishes."

"The atmosphere here is so elegant and cozy."

"The bar team's warmth and intuitive service made me feel genuinely cared for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 5-7pm daily.

3

The menu changes seasonally based on local farmer's market finds.

02
Left Door image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with cozy rooms and intimate seating offers a sophisticated vibe reminiscent of old-school NYC bars. Live DJs energize the space on weekends, blending trendy decor with a secretive lounge atmosphere. The layout includes multiple rooms above a historic sports bar, creating a unique, swanky setting.

A hidden spot with a secret speakeasy vibe sits above a historic sports bar. The lounge offers sophisticated vibes and an effortlessly cool space with good drinks and bar seating.

A cozy, intimate space with dim lighting and velvet couches creates a stylish, old money vibe. The lounge feels like a small, members-only club with a live DJ enhancing the sophisticated atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, sophisticated setting with dim lighting."

"The cocktails are thoughtfully crafted and perfectly balanced."

"It's a cozy, sophisticated spot with dim lighting and velvet couches."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to their popularity.

2

Walk-in customers may have to wait for a table or hover around.

3

Expect to pay about $20 for two martinis at this establishment.

03
The Post Room image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant inside a beautifully restored vintage hotel with 1920s architecture and a mezzanine lounge. Quiet and relaxing atmosphere with live piano and singer enhancing the elegant vibe. Known for exceptional cocktails and a refined dining experience.

House-made mixers and bitters create unique cocktails at the bar. The Post Room offers a quiet, relaxing lounge atmosphere, while the rooftop Starlight Room serves drinks with a view.

The atmosphere feels lovely and elegant with a beautiful vintage ambience. It stays uncrowded, offering a classy and accessible dining experience.

People are saying

"The drinks at this bar were the best I ever had."

"You can catch live music, from jazz to contemporary tunes, on Saturday nights."

"It's an elegant escape with a lovely vintage ambiance."

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur every Saturday night, featuring local musicians.

2

Fridays and Saturdays feature live piano performances.

3

Expect an extra $8.50 service charge added to your bill.

04
Fermentation Lab Japantown image 1

Space combines high ceilings and elegant decor with varied seating options including lounge and bar-height seats. Atmosphere stays relaxed and lively with music at a level that allows conversation even when crowded. Well-behaved dogs are welcome, adding to the friendly vibe.

A lounge vibe sets the tone with inventive cocktails and elevated bar cuisine like uni pasta. A great bar offers lots of beer and a spacious lounge above for a relaxed drink.

The spot offers an elegant atmosphere that feels quite sophisticated. Dining here delivers an elevated experience with a refined touch.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and delicious."

"The drinks here are outstanding and inventive."

"It felt so sophisticated and elegant here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with a selection of food and drinks.

2

They offer $2 oysters during happy hour, making it a great deal.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly before your visit.

05
Holbrook House image 1
Restaurant

Former bank transformed into an upscale bar and restaurant with an epic central bar and modern public house energy. Atmosphere feels beautiful and lively, suited for after-work drinks and casual lunches. Unique features include martini and champagne carts that add interactive fun to the experience.

An epic bar sits in the middle of the room with some of the coolest bar chairs around. The space features rich jewel tones and a marble and glass enclosed lobby, with attentive and friendly bartenders serving wonderful drinks.

Eclectically elegant decor pairs with refined glassware to create a sophisticated atmosphere. The experience feels elegant but warm and easy, making it a spot to feel pampered and enjoy yourself.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing and complex."

"The bartenders here are outstanding and super-friendly."

"The upscale food and drinks were stunning and amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is popular, but expect large crowds and potential wait times.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, especially during peak hours.

3

The venue is part of a Privately Owned Public Open Space, offering free wifi.

06
Cachรฉ image 1

Small modern bistro with warm wooden decor and multiple intimate dining areas, including a hidden outdoor patio with heaters. Atmosphere feels cozy and romantic, especially during sunset. Guests enjoy a blend of refined French and California cuisine in a quiet, private setting.

Warm greetings and friendly bartenders create a welcoming vibe at the bar. It suits both relaxed drinks and full meals, with attentive service throughout.

Warm, elegant atmosphere feels authentically French. Food features fresh ingredients, elegant plating, and a well-curated menu.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with staff who are warm and knowledgeable."

"The bartenders here are masters of their craft and make great drinks."

"The upscale food here is beautiful, elegant, and full of fresh flavor."

Good to know

1

Cachรฉ has a seasonal menu that changes regularly.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Expect higher prices for unique dishes, with some items over $20.

07
DACHA Kitchen & Bar image 1
Eastern European restaurant

Eastern European restaurant offers a gorgeous interior with cozy, welcoming atmosphere and unique handcrafted cocktails featuring homemade infusions. Two lounges create a lively bar scene where modern music enhances the exclusive vibe. Authentic dishes and specialty drinks highlight the experience.

Two lounges offer spots to chill with friends over delicious cocktails. A veteran bartender crafts drinks with skill while the sophisticated atmosphere features gold cutlery and stylish decor.

Warm and intimate atmosphere blends with elegant decor to create a cozy yet sophisticated vibe. The setting feels like an eastern European country house, welcoming and comfortable for both relaxing meals and special celebrations.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and feels like authentic Eastern European cuisine."

"The upscale food here is beautifully plated and tastes fresh."

"The Stroganoff at this Bar is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

DACHA Kitchen & Bar hosts monthly bingo night on Thursdays.

2

Mixology classes are available and are a fun experience.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events to ensure a spot.

08
Bourbon Steak Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Elegant steakhouse space combines modern sophistication with warm, inviting decor and breathtaking booths. Atmosphere is loud and crowded, with music often too loud for easy conversation. Menu features perfectly cooked steaks and standout dishes like truffle macaroni and caviar.

Exquisite mood lighting and a striking clock set a unique atmosphere. Brandon at the bar provides attentive service, making it a notable spot for drinks.

Warm, modern, and sophisticated decor creates an inviting atmosphere. The space feels elegant and transformed into a refined steakhouse with great food.

People are saying

"The steak here is perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor."

"The steak here is perfect and incredibly flavorful."

"The upscale service here is attentive and truly exceptional."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

The restaurant has a dress code; business casual attire is required.

09
Alora Coastal Mediterranean image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Restaurant offers stunning bay views with a heated outdoor patio that provides comfort in various weather. Atmosphere feels warm and elegant, creating a calm and refined dining environment. Cocktails and Mediterranean dishes feature multidimensional textures and thoughtful preparation.

Creative cocktails stand out with excellent flavors. The bartender crafts a phenomenal experience even when having full meals at the bar feels awkward.

Warm, elegant ambience sets a relaxed tone. The modern space features a stunning bar, elegant finishes, and a patio with a bay view.

People are saying

"These dinner spots offer flavorful vegetarian dishes and amazing textures."

"The cocktails here are a new adventure."

"The Upscale muhammara dip is fluffy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have restrooms inside; public restrooms are nearby.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

10
Crustacean image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant with sleek modern interiors and an upscale yet approachable vibe. Space feels elegant and detailed without being over the top, creating a quintessential San Francisco dining experience. Bar area features both high and low stools, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Beautiful bar area features high and low stools. Bar service can be slow around early evening.

A stunning and elegant venue with a modern, gorgeous space full of little details that make it feel grand without being over the top.

People are saying

"You have to try the seafood fried rice with the garlic noodles."

"It's a gorgeous, modern, and elegant space."

"The bar has a hopping atmosphere and is beautifully decorated."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

There is a dress code; business casual attire is expected.

3

Expect to pay an additional $10 for crab to be served without the shell.

11
Per Diem - Transit Center image 1

Cozy space blends clean modernism with casual warmth, featuring cushioned seats and wood shutters. Atmosphere shifts from intimate and sophisticated to busy and lively, often accompanied by jazz tunes. Front area offers urban street views and shelter, making it suitable for both casual drop-ins and corporate events.

The bar offers great service and a varied finger food selection. Seating options include the bar itself and a dining room just beyond it.

The atmosphere feels sophisticated and welcoming with an event that flows into an elegant dinner and lively happy hour with music. The food does not match the upscale vibe in terms of sophistication.

People are saying

"The food and drinks here are excellent."

"I loved the bar's finger food and large drink selection."

"The Upscale food and drinks were delicious and just right."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect a 6% service charge added to your bill.

3

Happy hour features live music and runs from 5-7pm.

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