With the weather getting warmer, and the days getting longer, these sky-high hot spots offer the best views in San Diego.
Socialize seaside at Ocean Terrace at George’s at the Cove.
1. Born and Raised
For an elegant evening out on the town, Born and Raised is a modern steakhouse that goes big on glamour. Its gorgeous second-floor rooftop patio presents a garden-inspired dining area with both booth and table seating surrounding a lavish cocktail bar. Indulge in premium cuts of steak, caviar service and plenty of experiential tableside offerings, from flaming dishes to drinks mixed right before your eyes. Little Italy, 619.202.4577, bornandraisedsteak.com
2. Catania Coastal Italian
Enjoy a Lavender Honey Spritz at Catania Coastal Cuisine.
Experience a taste of Italy on the Catania rooftop at La Plaza, which brings the flavors of the Amalfi Coast to La Jolla. Panoramic views of the Pacific set the backdrop as you explore a rotating selection of fresh crudo, handcrafted pizzas from an in-house wood-burning oven, handmade pastas and fresh seafood, topped off with a slew of decadent desserts. Sit back and sip a glass of seasonal wine in true Italian form. La Jolla, 858.551.5105, cataniasd.com
3. Kettner Exchange
Elevate your dining experience at the critically acclaimed Kettner Exchange. The main attraction is the open-air rooftop patio adorned with swinging daybeds, private cabanas, fireplace nooks and tufted sofas. A rotating menu presents guests with a wide array of dishes for brunch and dinner, from churro French toast to tempura Chilean sea bass. Explore its dynamic cocktail program filled with mezcal, scotch and infused tequila offerings. For a group outing, book a cabana to dine privately with exclusive libations. Little Italy, 619.255.2001, kettnerexchange.com
4. Lumi by Akira Back
For a captivating scene and upscale cuisine, Lumi is a must-visit. Akira Back, its Michelin-starred chef, owns 14 restaurants worldwide, spanning the globe from Las Vegas to Dubai. His menu at Lumi incorporates locally sourced ingredients fused with Japanese, Peruvian and Korean influences. Couple appetizers, like the Akira Back Pizza, topped with tuna, with the signature sake, then choose from a selection of specialty sushi rolls (don’t miss the Crispy Cream) or warm shared plates, including A5 Japanese wagyu. Whisky lovers should opt for a tipple from the Toki Japanese highball machine before settling in on the rooftop, complete with a DJ, fire pits, modern Japanese architecture and a dazzling view. Gaslamp Quarter, 619.329.5864, lumirooftop.com
5. Mister A’s
American fare with French influence awaits at Mister A’s.
With flawless service, this French- American restaurant is sure to wow. Set atop a skyscraper in the heart of Bankers Hill, Mister A’s boasts breathtaking views all the way to Coronado. With service spanning brunch, lunch and dinner, chef de cuisine Stephane Voitzwinkler delights with favorites like Saltspring Island mussels Provençale, Siberian caviar, hazelnut-crusted local sea bass and Georges Bank scallops, paired with one of more than 500 wines. Enjoy a nightcap at home by ordering the burnt orange Old Fashioned to go, available in large-format batches for up to four. Bankers Hill, 619.239.1377, asrestaurant.com
The sky-high views at Mister A’s
6. The Nolen
The inviting lounge at The Nolen
Zip up the elevator at the Courtyard Gaslamp to reach The Nolen’s open-air lounge, where stunning views of Petco Park and the Coronado Bridge await. Its newly updated menu includes bar bites like truffle mushroom flatbread, chili-glazed meatballs and short rib tacos. Known for its signature drinks, The Nolen offers small-batch spirits from local San Diego brands, bottles from craft distilleries across the country and a barrel-aged cocktail program. Drink up! Downtown San Diego, 619.796.6536, thenolenrooftop.com
7. Ocean Terrace at George’s at the Cove
Mussels at Ocean Terrace at George’s at the Cove
Claim front-row seats to an unbeatable view at Ocean Terrace. Convene at coveted tables overlooking the Pacific or an elevated bar spot for a serene SoCal lunch or dinner featuring fresh fish tacos, salads, sandwiches, pastas, seafood and more. Stay for the sunset with a craft cocktail in hand. Now that’s the good life. La Jolla, 858.454.4244, georgesatthecove.com
8. The Rooftop by STK
Sip, swim and socialize at the largest rooftop in the Gaslamp Quarter at Andaz San Diego. With more than 4,500 square feet of space, The Rooftop by STK is a go-to spot for dining, mingling and lounging. Day or night, enjoy alfresco meals and drinks with a 360-degree view of the skyline from the seventh floor, accompanied by DJ beats to complete the scene. For a perfect summer day, rent a cabana for up to 10 guests to relax by the rooftop pool. To end the day, sip on specialty cocktails as the rooftop transforms into a bustling bar scene by night. Gaslamp Quarter, 619.814.2002, hyatt.com
9. Topside Terrace Kitchen & Bar
Nestled inside Hotel Republic, this open-air terrace restaurant is known for its weekend alfresco brunch and buzzing cocktail hour. Start your morning with apple cinnamon French toast brulee, a Baja shrimp and rajas omelette, and the popular mimosa kit. Return in the evening for an array of appetizers, like coconut curry hot wings, and a selection of soups, steaks and salmon. Sip signature cocktails or kick back with a glass of wine while enjoying a candlelit dinner and cabana seating. Downtown San Diego, 619.398.3100, hotelrepublicsd.com
10. Upper East Bar
Ride a private elevator up to the 7,500-square-foot rooftop of Upper East Bar at Hotel Solamar, which serves as a tranquil outdoor escape by day and vibrant bar scene by night. A cool crowd of locals and guests gather to drink artisan cocktails with the sounds and scents of the ocean surrounding them. Small plates, like rosemary french fries and housemade charcuterie, are offered to nibble on, as patrons participate in outdoor games, lounge by the fire pits or relax in a private cabana. Downtown San Diego, 877.230.0300, hotelsolamar.com
Photography by: Courtesy of brands; Courtesy of George's At The Cove
