Highlights
- Live music
- Great wine list
- Live performances
oChef » Top of the Mark – San Francisco
Top of the Mark - San Francisco
Photo from Top of the Mark
Top of the Mark at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $41–$50
mentioned by 133 of the guests
#1664 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#118 Bar & Pub out of 151 in San Francisco
Good
7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
773
Reviews
67.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- City views
- Great service
- Good drinks
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Dated decor
- Service issues
The bar and pub Top of the Mark in San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood offers you an unforgettable experience. You’ll discover a sophisticated Bar & Pub atmosphere, renowned for its captivating live performances.
This iconic San Francisco spot invites you to enjoy an evening of elegance, whether you’re seeking a romantic setting or a trendy night out. Prepare to be enchanted by the ambiance and the stunning views.
Overview: Introducting Top of the Mark
Top of the Mark offers a memorable experience, largely due to its breathtaking views and generally attentive service. Guests often praise the quality of the cocktails and select appetizers, making it a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated outing.
However, visitors should be prepared for a higher price point, as the value proposition can be a point of contention. While the atmosphere is often celebrated, some aspects of the decor and maintenance have drawn criticism, suggesting a need for refreshment.
Good
7
out of 10
773
Reviews
67.7%
Satisfaction
204
negative
46
neutral
523
positive
Top of the Mark earns a respectable 7 out of 10 overall, indicating a generally good experience for many patrons. This is supported by a significant number of positive remarks, with 523 positive comments compared to 204 negative ones, out of 773 total customer observations.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 67.7%, suggesting that while many enjoy their visit, a notable portion leaves with reservations. The Ambience (7.6) and Food (7.3) are clear standouts, frequently lauded for their quality and contribution to the experience.
Service (6.3) also performs well, often described as attentive, though it occasionally falls short. The primary area for improvement appears to be Value (4.4), which receives an average score, indicating that the pricing structure doesn’t always align with customer expectations.
What people like
- Breathtaking city views
- Attentive, excellent service
- Delicious cocktails & appetizers
What people don't like
- High prices, poor value
- Dated decor, dirty windows
- Inconsistent service
If you’re seeking a venue with truly spectacular city vistas and a sophisticated atmosphere, Top of the Mark is certainly worth considering. The 7.2 recommendation score reflects its appeal as a destination for special occasions or a memorable evening out, particularly for its well-regarded drinks and small bites.
However, be mindful of the cost, as the experience comes with a premium. While service is often commendable, occasional inconsistencies and the need for some interior updates might temper expectations.
It’s a place to prioritize the view and ambiance over strict value for money.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Top of the Mark
Food (7.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 80% of the guests
When it comes to the food and drink experience, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.3 and customer satisfaction at 72.4%, its clear many guests are leaving happy. Out of 246 total opinions, 178 rave about the delicious offerings.
Patrons particularly love the signature cocktails, shrimp tacos, and short rib sliders, often praising the delicious cocktails and generous appetizers that make for a great meal. However, not every bite is perfect. While the positives outweigh the negatives, 43 opinions point to some areas for improvement.
Some found the limited food options a bit restrictive, and a few mentioned subpar drinks or poorly made drinks, suggesting an uninspired menu' at times. It seems consistency can be an issue for some items.
Food
246
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
43
negative
25
neutral
178
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Amazing cocktails
- Delicious sliders
- Generous appetizers
What people don't like
- Limited food options
- Subpar drinks
- Uninspired menu
Often praised
- foodservice, atmosphere, and food were all rated a perfect 5/5
- drinksFood, drinks, service, atmosphere... all is outstanding
- cocktailsConsider going up for sunset. The cocktails are very good, but the price, especially for the appetizers/tapas, is not cheap. The windows could also use a good cleaning.
- drinkWe spontaneously got two seats on a Sunday evening without a reservation. The prices are indeed high, but if you want to treat yourself to a drink with a breathtaking view, this is a good place to be.
- FoodFood:5
- cocktailThe ambiance is steeped in a bygone era, providing a touch of nostalgia. Although the menu might seem limited, it offers just the right selection for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated cocktail paired with a quick, satisfying bite. It's an ideal spot for both tourists and locals seeking a quintessential San Francisco experience.
- shrimp tacosshrimp tacos and the ahi tuna tartar which were both great
- slidersThe sliders, seafood tacos are real winners!
- Shrimp TacosWhile the menu is limited, everything on it is delicious. I particularly enjoyed the Shrimp Tacos.
- appetizersAll of the appetizers were great
Frequently criticized
- foodWe attempted to order food, but on this Saturday evening it seemed impossible.
- drinksdisappointing experience with the drinks
- appetizersa few Lunchables, I mean, appetizers
- food optionsLimited food options
- menuapparently they do not serve dinner on Sundays night only appetizers
- Aperol spritzesa couple of watered down Aperol spritzes
- ChivasUnfortunately, the waiter did not ask for any details and left without listening to my full order, meaning I didn't even get to specify I wanted a double. The resulting drink was a light, soda-mixed whisky that tasted terrible and nothing like Chivas. The drink was poorly made, and the service was inattentive and unprofessional.
- CruditeMicro-portioned for one person... For $22 + tax.
- Diet Cokebrought me a Diet Coke without confirming if that was acceptable
- Margherita pizzaMargherita pizza, but honestly. It felt like a frozen 7/11 heat-and-serve situation.
If youre looking for a place with generally good food and some truly standout cocktails, its definitely worth a visit. Just be mindful that while many dishes shine, some find the menu a bit limited and drink quality can occasionally vary. Go for the highlights, and you'll likely have a great time!
Service (6.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 75% of the guests
When it comes to service, many guests have reported a truly positive experience, with 118 positive pieces of feedback out of 205 total. Patrons frequently praised the friendly staff, excellent service, and attentive team members, often highlighting professional service and personalized attention that made their visits special. However, there's also a noticeable number of concerns, with 81 negative comments.
Some guests encountered slow service, rude host interactions, or inattentive servers, leading to frustration. The overall score for service is an average 6.3, with customer satisfaction sitting at a mixed 57.6%, indicating a significant inconsistency in guest experiences.
Service
205
Reviews
57%
Satisfaction
81
negative
6
neutral
118
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Excellent, professional service
- Personalized attention
What people don't like
- Slow, inattentive service
- Rude staff/host
- Reservation issues
Often praised
- serviceWe were given a prime table in the corner with amazing views, which were worth visiting alone! The service was exceptional; our server was attentive and there the second we needed anything. We were so glad we decided to go, especially after it was recommended by our hotel concierge (Palace Hotel).
- staffThe staff was beyond attentive
- serverserver’s name but he was nice and attentive
- ServiceService was on point
- waiterThe waiter and bartender were both superb
- Brianonly if Brian will still be there! He’s been the most attentive and kindest host
- attention to detailthe attention to detail and excellent service
- excellent servicethe attention to detail and excellent service
- hostthe host was professional and polite
- personalityArmond made it a memorable experience with his personality
Frequently criticized
- serviceHer service sowed so much discontent, perhaps gardening would allow her to grow something positive for a change. We would rather eat cat food than return here after this type of service.
- reservationhad an 8pm reservation, and were seated. After waiting some time
- serverThey offered a couple of glasses of champagne to make up for the inconvenience, which was a start. However, we waited and waited for the server to return so we could order another cocktail. When we finally saw him, he curtly brought the bill at 9: 00pm.
- waiterWe went for the views! Their steak sliders were 🔥 and we had to keep reminding the waiter for water we ordered when we sat down.
- hostthe host flat out dismissed me. He said the reservation didn’t exist and walked away!!! Rude and unnecessary!
- staffstaff was unfriendly and not helpful
- wait timeWe arrived spontaneously around 9: 30 PM on a Tuesday. Despite the place being half empty, the wait time was about 15 minutes. Shortly after being seated, a hurried waiter asked for our order, stating it was the last round, contradicting the reception's information that drinks were served until 11 PM.
- waiting timeWe had an 8pm reservation and were seated. After waiting some time for someone to come take our order, we were told we needed to move as that section would be hosting a private party at 9pm. As it was our anniversary, we intended on staying longer.
- waitressthe lone waitress was doing her best literally sprinting between tables. She was clearly overwhelmed.
- The Squadron Shotno one could tell me how to actually get a shot
Service here can be a mixed bag; when its good, its truly excellent, but be prepared for potential inconsistencies. If you value attentive and friendly staff, it's worth a try, but be aware that some guests have experienced slow or rude interactions.
Ambience (7.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 90% of the guests
The ambience here generally hits the mark, with a 7.6 score indicating a good experience and 75.9% customer satisfaction. Guests frequently rave about the breathtaking panoramic views and the lively live music, often featuring jazz or a swing band. Many of the 224 positive remarks highlight the elegant setting and old school charm, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic evening.
However, not everyone is completely swept away. Among the 63 negative comments, some found the outdated decor and a general lack of maintenance to be a letdown. There are also recurring mentions of dirty windows obscuring the famous views, and a few guests noted the atmosphere could be loud at times, particularly with children or during busy periods.
Ambience
295
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
63
negative
8
neutral
224
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Breathtaking panoramic views
- Lively live music
- Elegant, classic atmosphere
What people don't like
- Outdated, tired decor
- Dirty, smudged windows
- Can be loud
Often praised
- view⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ Visiting Top of the Mark in San Francisco had been on my bucket list, and I was glad to finally experience it before our event. We were quickly seated with one of the best views, which was truly stunning. The food and drinks were excellent—delicious and well-prepared.
- viewsFrom what I’m reading, it sounds like Saturday is the night that people come through as there is dancing and a cover charge. My girlfriend and I came to have a drink (or two) and just had girl time overlooking the city; the views are lovely. The place serves good vibes and although you can sit at the bar or the surrounding area with overhead music, we wanted some quiet time, so we chose to sit in a little hidden area.
- atmosphereMy experience at the cocktail bar "Top of the Mark" in the Intercontinental Hotel in San Francisco was an unforgettable sunset experience. The dreamlike view of the Golden Gate Bridge was simply breathtaking, and the atmosphere was indescribably beautiful. It's a perfect place to end the day.
- live musicFrom the moment I stepped inside, the classic decor and sweeping views immediately set the scene, making me feel like I was stepping into a timeless part of the city’s story. The atmosphere was refined yet relaxed, with soft lighting and live music on some nights, creating a perfect blend for both locals and travelers. The views were truly incredible, offering sights of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay, the skyline, and even the Marin Headlands on a clear day.
- beautiful viewMy husband loved his birthday pre-dinner! Highly recommended for special occasions or a casual Friday evening with a beautiful view of the city!
- city viewsbreathtaking city views create a memorable experience
- view of the cityI enjoyed the delicious cocktails and the elegant atmosphere. The service was excellent, and the 360 view of the city provided the perfect setting for a sundowner.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- amazing viewI treated myself to a cocktail and a glass of wine. The host was incredibly nice, and I was seated at a table with an amazing view of the sunset. I highly recommend this place!
- placeThe place itself was fantastic
Frequently criticized
- atmospherethe atmosphere was also a significant letdown
- windowsMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. While the atmosphere showed its age with areas of the ceiling appearing to have water damage and a few broken windows, these issues did not detract from the views. The service was delightful, with our server providing great recommendations.
- decorThe decor is the antithesis of high-end
- furniturethe furniture, that had better days behind.
- 360° viewthe windows were nearly half obscured by dirt
- Wash your windowsWash your windows and put an anti-reflective coating
- atmosphere is lifelessIt's disheartening to witness so much potential go unrealized. I genuinely love Top of the Mark and have celebrated many special occasions there, but as it stands today, the atmosphere is lifeless, and the lack of care is evident. It’s truly a shame to see such a prime location with a stunning view fall so short.
- available table optionsThere were several available table options, for the duration of our 3 hours there
- buffet setupWhile the staff was great, providing excellent service, the overall experience was chaotic from the start. The food was subpar, and the buffet setup made it an awkward chore to get food. The atmosphere was also a significant letdown, contributing to the negative experience.
- carpetsold, tired and frayed 80-style carpets
If you're looking for a spot with truly spectacular views and a vibrant, classic atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just manage your expectations regarding the decor, as some find it a bit dated, and be prepared for potentially smudged windows or a lively crowd.
Value (4.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 17% of the guests
When it comes to value, its a bit of a mixed bag, with an average score of 4.4 and a rather poor customer satisfaction of just 11.1%. However, a few guests (3 out of 27 comments) did find some bright spots. They highlighted that certain drinks were worth it for a special occasion, even if a bit pricey, with some noting a reasonable price per person for their experience.
However, the overwhelming sentiment (17 out of 27 comments) points to significant concerns. Many found the bill to be shockingly high, with expensive cocktails and pricey food being common complaints. The price point often led to disappointment, with guests feeling the price-performance ratio wasnt justified, leading to an expensive disappointment for many.
Value
27
Reviews
11%
Satisfaction
17
negative
7
neutral
3
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth it for drinks
- Worth it for occasion
What people don't like
- Pricey drinks
- High overall bill
- Poor value for money
Often praised
- drinks$22 a drink but worth it
- price per personPrice per person:$1–10
- worth itBut worth it for a night out!
Frequently criticized
- pricethe price and in particular the appetizers/tapas are not cheap
- billOur bill was a whopping $400 for a few Lunchables, I mean, appetizers, a couple of watered down Aperol spritzes, and a couple glasses of wine
- pricesthe prices were just a tiny bit less eye watering
- priceyit's a bit pricey
- PriceFor a $189.00 each ...not sure it was worth it
- cocktailscocktails are pricy
- expensiveexpensive but it was a great little date spot
- expensive cocktailssehr sehr teure Cocktails
- foodsfoods alittle pricey
- overpriced beernicht wegen dem überteuerten Bier
If youre looking for a place where value is a top priority, this might not be your first choice. While a few found some aspects worth it for a splurge, be prepared for potentially expensive cocktails and a pricey overall experience that many felt didnt deliver on its price-performance ratio.
How are the prices at Top of the Mark?
You’re looking at roughly 50 $ per person – reported by 133 diners. That places it comfortably in the $41–$50 category. For a Bar & Pub, that’s a solid mid-range price point, not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 50$, the spending habits are quite varied! We see a good mix of guests enjoying more budget-friendly options, alongside those who opt for a more premium experience, which helps shape that average.
This chart shows what people usually spend per person, using the 133 most recent reviews.
Heres how this Bar & Pubs value for money stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing feels quite fair for a Bar & Pub in San Francisco. It offers a good balance, catering to both those looking for a casual drink and those wanting a more substantial, premium experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Top of the Mark
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Excellent Stop for Military and Veterans!
This restaurant is a special stop for Military and Veterans. They offer a free adult beverage with Military or Veteran ID. The service, atmosphere, and food were all rated a perfect 5/5.
- free adult beverage10
- Military and Veterans10
- service10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
7
Stunning Views, Great Food, Poor Service
⭐️⭐️⭐️☆☆ Visiting Top of the Mark in San Francisco had been on my bucket list, and I was glad to finally experience it before our event. We were quickly seated with one of the best views, which was truly stunning. The food and drinks were excellent—delicious and well-prepared.
However, the service was disappointing. It took quite a while for our server to arrive, and there was confusion with the check, which got mixed up with my friend’s. The delay made us anxious, as we were close to being late for our event.
Overall, an unforgettable view and great food, but the service needs improvement.
- food9
- drinks9
- view10
- service3
- check4
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Outstanding Drinks, Views, and Tacos!
My experience at the Top of the Mark was exceptional. The drinks and service were outstanding, and I absolutely loved the vibe and the views. To add to this amazing experience, the shrimp tacos appetizer was incredible, with every bite bursting with flavor – truly some of the most amazing flavors we have ever tasted.
A++++ !
- drinks10
- service10
- vibe10
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
3
Mediocre Experience, Lacking Service
My experience at this restaurant was honestly just meh. Although my partner made a reservation in advance, which led to us being seated fairly quickly, that's where the positives ended. It took 15-20 minutes for our server to acknowledge us.
The food was alright and the drinks were ok. We were never asked if we wanted anything else or received any general check-ups, so we ended up asking for the bill and leaving as quickly as possible. The atmosphere felt stale, and the view through the dirty windows was just okay.
- food5
- drinks5
- wait time2
- server attention1
- atmosphere2
Price per Person
- $51–$60
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
3
Disappointing Service, Mediocre Food
My experience at this restaurant was largely disappointing. The atmosphere was very limited, and the interior felt outdated. While the appetizers and cocktails were just okay, the service was virtually non-existent.
We received a cold greeting, were never checked on after our drinks were delivered, and weren't offered any water. We had to flag someone down to request the check. Additionally, as others have noted, the windows were dirty.
- appetizers5
- cocktails5
- atmosphere2
- service1
- windows2
What Top of the Mark offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Dancing
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Seating
Service Options
- Dine-in
Parking
- Paid parking garage
- Paid parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere can you expect at Top of the Mark, and what are its main highlights?
At Top of the Mark, you’ll find an upscale, romantic, and trendy atmosphere perfect for a memorable evening. You can enjoy fantastic live performances and a great wine list, making it an ideal spot for a sophisticated night out in San Francisco’s Union Square.
What are the parking and accessibility options available at Top of the Mark?
Top of the Mark offers several parking solutions, including paid parking garages, paid parking lots, and paid street parking, with usually plenty of options. The venue is also fully wheelchair accessible, featuring an accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom for your convenience.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Top of the Mark?
Top of the Mark holds a good overall score of **7** out of 10. Customers particularly appreciate the **Ambience** (7.6) and **Food** (7.3), with **Service** (6.3) also performing well. However, **Value** (4.4) is an area where opinions are more mixed.
Are the views at Top of the Mark as impressive as people say?
Yes, the views are consistently highlighted as a major draw, with many guests describing them as breathtaking and a key reason to visit. The panoramic city views, including the Golden Gate Bridge, are a significant positive.
Is Top of the Mark considered expensive?
Many customers note that prices are on the higher side, especially for drinks and appetizers, leading to a mixed perception of value. While some find it “worth it” for the experience, others consider it pricey.