Highlights
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
oChef » The View – San Francisco
The View - San Francisco
Photo from The View
The View at a glance
San Francisco Union Square
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $41–$50
mentioned by 116 of the guests
#1739 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#123 Bar & Pub out of 151 in San Francisco
Good
6.9 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
601
Reviews
62.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Panoramic views
- Craft cocktails
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Service inconsistency
The Bar & Pub The View in San Francisco’s vibrant Union Square neighborhood offers an unforgettable experience. You’ll discover a truly impressive selection, including a great wine list perfect for any palate.
This upscale yet cozy spot is ideal for a casual evening out, whether you’re seeking a trendy atmosphere or just a relaxing drink. Enjoy delicious food at the bar alongside your choice of hard liquor, wine, beer, or expertly crafted cocktails.
Overview: Introducting The View
The View offers a compelling experience, largely driven by its stunning views and generally good cocktails. However, guests often find themselves navigating concerns around value, with some feeling the prices don’t always align with the overall offering.
The atmosphere, while often praised, can sometimes feel a bit too bustling. Despite some mixed feedback, many appreciate the generally attentive staff who contribute to a pleasant, if sometimes inconsistent, visit.
It’s a spot that clearly prioritizes its visual appeal, making it a distinct choice for those seeking a memorable backdrop.
Good
6.9
out of 10
601
Reviews
62.7%
Satisfaction
159
negative
65
neutral
377
positive
The View registers a 6.9 overall score, placing it in the average range, with customer satisfaction at a mixed 62.7%. This assessment is drawn from 601 customer observations, including 377 positive and 159 negative remarks.
While not outstanding, it suggests a generally acceptable experience for many patrons. Digging deeper, the Ambience (8.1) stands out as a clear strength, often described as captivating.
Food (7.1) also receives good marks, particularly for its drinks. However, Service (6.3) is more average, and Value (3.8) is a significant area where many feel the experience falls short.
What people like
- Breathtaking panoramic views
- Quality cocktails
- Chic atmosphere
What people don't like
- High prices
- Inconsistent service
- Crowded atmosphere
Ultimately, The View is a destination worth considering if a spectacular backdrop is your priority. Its 7.2 recommendation score suggests many find the experience worthwhile, especially for a special occasion or a memorable drink with a view.
Just be prepared for the cost. However, if you’re seeking exceptional value or consistently flawless service, you might find aspects of The View less appealing.
It’s a place where the visual spectacle often outweighs other considerations, making it a specific choice rather than a universal recommendation.
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Verdict: Our expert take on The View
Food (7.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 76% of the guests
The food and drink scene here generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 7.1 indicating a good experience for many. Customer satisfaction sits at a 65.7% mixed bag, but with 117 positive remarks out of 178, there's plenty to cheer about. Guests frequently praise the fantastic drinks, tuna crudo, exquisite main courses, and impeccable presentation.
However, not everyone leaves completely satisfied, with 33 negative comments pointing to some areas for improvement. Concerns often revolve around quantity/size and portion sizes being too small, with some finding items overpriced. A few also felt the food options lack creativity or that some cocktails were sugary stuff.
Food
178
Reviews
65%
Satisfaction
33
negative
28
neutral
117
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Delicious food and drinks
- Excellent cocktails
- Impeccable presentation
What people don't like
- Small portion sizes
- Overpriced items
- Lack food creativity
Often praised
- drinksThe intimate seating along the windows and the bar seating create a romantic atmosphere, perfect for a date or solitary contemplation. While I didn't try the food, my drinks were exquisite, though be warned, they are over $20 each. You are definitely paying for the atmosphere.
- foodThe drinks here are a bit pricey, but you're paying for the view. They do have food that is great, but I personally wouldn't come here for dinner, but instead to relax and hang out with friends for a couple drinks and overlook the city. The atmosphere is upbeat and the service was pretty good for how busy it can get.
- cocktailsMy experience at this restaurant was defined by its killer views and great cocktails. While the drinks are on the pricier side, the overall experience justifies the cost.
- FoodFood:5
- Old FashionedMost other cocktails Lycheetini, Alcatraz Garden Marg and Old Fashioned are worth trying.
- LycheetiniMost other cocktails Lycheetini, Alcatraz Garden Marg and Old Fashioned are worth trying.
- cheesecakedid have delicious cheesecake
- Alcatraz Garden MargMost other cocktails Lycheetini, Alcatraz Garden Marg and Old Fashioned are worth trying.
- BurrattaThe best one is Burratta with side of toasted bread.
- Charcuterie PlateRecommended dishes:Charcuterie Plate
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was mixed. While the view was good and the service was prompt, the food was not worth the price. Honestly, the sliders and tacos tasted old, and the portions were absolutely small.
- cocktailscocktails were $25 each but contained only a hint of alcohol
- drinksthe drinks aren’t any good
- slidersThe tuna crudo was excellent—fresh and beautifully complemented by a tangy mango sauce. However, the sliders were less impressive; the cheese was overpowering, and the bun was too chewy for a burger. The cheese board was just okay.
- Old Fashionedit was just bourbon on the rocks
- Pinot Grigio and ChardonnayThe Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay were a letdown
- Skyline PunchSkyline Punch was little too juicy and short of alcohol.
- alcoholif there had been any alcohol in it!
- course mealview louge is not serving course meal
- drinks & foodThe drinks & food were small
If youre looking for a spot with generally good food and excellent drinks, especially for a special occasion, its worth a visit. Just be prepared for smaller portions and potentially higher prices, as the experience can be a bit of a mixed bag on value.
Service (6.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 66% of the guests
When it comes to service, it seems like a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 6.3 and customer satisfaction sitting at 57.4%. Many guests rave about the attentive service, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere, often highlighting amazing staff members by name. Based on 70 positive comments out of 122 total, it sounds like there are some real gems on the team who go above and beyond.
However, not everyone has such a smooth experience. There are quite a few mentions of slow service, rude staff, and an unwillingness to help, particularly concerning bad policies or issues with hosts. With 41 negative comments, it suggests that while some staff shine, there are inconsistencies that can lead to frustration and a less-than-ideal visit.
Service
122
Reviews
57%
Satisfaction
41
negative
11
neutral
70
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, friendly staff
- Welcoming hospitality
What people don't like
- Slow, rude service
- Unwillingness to help
- Bad policies
Often praised
- serviceThey do have food that is great, but I personally wouldn't come here for dinner, but instead to relax and hang out with friends for a couple drinks and overlook the city. The atmosphere is upbeat and the service was pretty good for how busy it can get.
- ServiceService:5
- serverOur server was very knowledgeable and friendly.
- staffThe cocktail menu is equally impressive. The service is exceptional; the staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to assist, exuding professionalism and genuine warmth. It's the perfect destination to unwind, celebrate, or simply enjoy a memorable night out, offering an exquisite combination of breathtaking views, captivating ambiance, and exceptional service.
- wait timeWait time:No wait
- BeezaBeeza was Terrific
- Beeza and YordiShoutout to Beeza and Yordi- thank you for making our stay so memorable
- EvaShe was our server and very delightful, and very attentive to us.
- Management and staffManagement and staff treated me and my guests like Queens and Kings
- Meg Benshalomshe gave us a full intro to The View Lounge
Frequently criticized
- serviceHappy now? ” This was incredibly unprofessional. For a place with such a reputation and charging $30 for a cocktail, I expected a much higher level of service and courtesy.
- waiting timewaited pretty long at our table just for someone to come ask for our order
- Global Entry Real IDI am 32 years old and went on a date, but they refused to serve me because I showed a Global Entry Real ID. They should start accepting those IDs because it's common sense, it's a federal ID, and more people will be using them now that Real IDs are required at airports.
- ServiceService:2
- attentionMy experience at this restaurant was terrible due to the service. I don't know who is in charge of the reservations, but it's totally ugly that they don't have the attention to respond to the messages.
- attitudethis unnecessary attitude
- bartenderBartender was a bit rude
- cardrequired a card, then auto ran card upon departure
- charge both cardsMy experience at this restaurant was marred by overpriced drinks. While they normally hold a credit card for an open tab, which is standard practice, they then proceeded to charge both cards when I attempted to pay with a different one at the end. I was double charged.
- closed due to strikeclosed due to strike
If youre looking for a place with potentially great service and dont mind the risk of a few hiccups, it might be worth a try. Just be prepared that the experience can vary, so keep your expectations balanced.
Ambience (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 92% of the guests
The ambience here truly shines, earning a good score of 8.1 and a good customer satisfaction of 80.7%. With 184 positive remarks out of 228 total, guests consistently rave about the breathtaking view, the fantastic atmosphere, and the overall vibe. Many find it a beautiful space with elegant decor, perfect for a relaxed and memorable experience.
However, 34 negative opinions suggest some areas for improvement. While the views are stunning, some found it too crowded and noted issues with noise level and interior lighting reflections. A few mentioned uncomfortable seats, which can detract from an otherwise great experience, especially if you're looking for a quiet spot.
Ambience
228
Reviews
80%
Satisfaction
34
negative
10
neutral
184
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Stunning panoramic views
- Relaxed, elegant atmosphere
- Great overall vibe
What people don't like
- Can get too crowded
- Reflective interior lighting
- Uncomfortable seating
Often praised
- viewMy experience at this restaurant was defined by its beautiful and glamorous decor and atmosphere, complemented by an amazing view over San Francisco. I would definitely do this again.
- atmospherePerched on the top floor, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unobstructed vista of the cityscape, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable ambiance. The lounge itself is tastefully designed with a modern and chic aesthetic, featuring elegant furnishings and dimmed lighting that create an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends. The seating is well-spaced, ensuring privacy and comfort.
- viewsMy experience at this restaurant was defined by its killer views and great cocktails. While the drinks are on the pricier side, the overall experience justifies the cost.
- ambianceThe highlight, as the name suggests, is undoubtedly the breathtaking panoramic views. Perched on the top floor, the floor-to-ceiling windows offer an unobstructed vista of the cityscape, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable ambiance. The lounge itself is tastefully designed with a modern and chic aesthetic, featuring elegant furnishings and dimmed lighting that create an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- vibeMy experience at this restaurant was quite positive, offering an amazing and relaxing vibe that makes it a go-to spot for unwinding. The drinks were really good, contributing to the overall pleasant atmosphere.
- amazing viewamazing view is a constant highlight
- ambienceliked the ambience of this iconic SF bar
- breathtaking viewthe breathtaking view, which is truly like no other in the city.
- city viewsMy experience at this restaurant was marked by a great atmosphere, featuring dim lighting and amazing city views, which lives up to its name. However, the service was quite slow; we waited about 15-20 minutes at our table before anyone came to take our order.
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereAtmosphere is a bit quite for a bar, could use a little vibe and music
- crowdedMy experience at this place was mixed. While it offers a very good view, it's important to be aware that it's always crowded. If you're looking for a quiet place to enjoy a drink, this isn't the spot.
- viewAside from the food, which was delicious! , we would suggest other places instead if you want a wider view of the city.
- ACthe AC ran at high. The room was so cold
- bustle of the crowdWhile the cocktail list was basic, the drinks themselves turned out to be quite good, with the TEN/89 martini being perfectly balanced. The view is remarkable, though it was hard to truly appreciate amid the bustle of the crowd, especially after dark due to interior lighting reflecting in the windows.
- entranceIngang vinden is wel een puzzeltje
- foggy weatherit was foggy the night I visited
- green seatsthe green seats by the mirrors because they are genuinely uncomfortable
- groupsNot for big groups
- hotel bar entitlementhotel bar entitlement and policy not fit for normal people
If you're seeking a place with unparalleled views and a vibrant atmosphere for a special occasion or drinks with friends, this spot is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for potential crowds and consider going during off-peak times if a quieter experience is your priority.
Value (3.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 45% of the guests
While the overall sentiment on value is a bit of a mixed bag, some guests found pleasant surprises. With a customer satisfaction of 82%, a few patrons appreciated the affordability of the space or found certain drinks to be reasonably priced. For others, the experience was worth every penny when considering the stunning views, making it feel worth it despite potential costs.
However, the general consensus, reflected in a low score of 3.8 and 51 negative comments out of 73 total, points to significant concerns. Many felt the establishment was overpriced, with cocktails and drinks frequently described as expensive or a waste of money. Issues like cover fees and high prices for food and beverages were common complaints, leading to a feeling of poor value overall.
Value
73
Reviews
8%
Satisfaction
51
negative
16
neutral
6
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the view
- Affordable for some
What people don't like
- Overpriced drinks
- Waste of money
- Billing issues
Often praised
- affordabilitySurprisingly affordable space
- better placesI just think there are better places to go for a cocktail that is less costly, with a view.
- pricesAchei que os preços seriam altíssimos, porém não são
- reasonably priced drinksMy experience was that it was seat-yourself, which meant no wait for a host! The lounge offered a relaxed vibe with reasonably priced drinks and an ambient atmosphere. I didn't get the chance to order food as I came for drinks after dinner.
- worth every pennyMy experience at this restaurant was defined by the absolutely GORGEOUS VIEW of San Francisco. While the menu is quite pricey, we found it to be worth every penny for the gorgeous sunset and skyline views. The atmosphere was chill with a very nice aesthetic inside.
- worth itit is it definitely worth it
Frequently criticized
- priceLol for $200 I could have just gone to a michline star restaurant
- drinksMy experience at this restaurant was marred by overpriced drinks. While they normally hold a credit card for an open tab, which is standard practice, they then proceeded to charge both cards when I attempted to pay with a different one at the end.
- pricesAdditionally, the green seats by the mirrors were genuinely uncomfortable, offering little legroom, and the spotlights were too bright. Overall, I would not consider The View Lounge a first choice for a cocktail bar, as many other good places offer better prices, service, and atmosphere.
- priceywe found it quite pricey for the portion sizes
- overpricedextremely overpriced and it's disgusting
- $28 price tagok if it was not for the $28 price tag
- Price per personEven though they were expensive
- bank card chargehizo el cargo a mi tarjeta en dos montos
- billcharged 170 for 4 drinks. 70 was charged after I left
- billing experiencedisappointed with the billing experience
If youre heading out for an experience where the view is paramount and youre prepared for a potentially pricey bill, you might find it worth it. However, if affordability and getting good value for your money are top priorities, you might want to explore other options.
How are the prices at The View?
You’re looking at roughly 46 per person – reported by 116 diners. That puts it in the $41–$50 category. For a Bar & Pub, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average is 46, it’s worth noting that many guests actually spend less, often in the $21–$30 range. This suggests a nice mix, where you can enjoy a budget-friendly visit or splurge a bit more.
This chart shows what people usually spend per person, using the 116 most recent reviews.
A look at how this Bar & Pub compares to similar places in San Francisco regarding value for money.
Given it’s a Bar & Pub in San Francisco, and considering the range of spending options available, we think the pricing feels pretty fair. You can definitely tailor your visit to your budget, which is always a plus!
Customer Reviews: what people think about The View
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
8
Great Views, Good Food, Rude Bartender
My experience at this restaurant was largely positive, highlighted by the excellent views of San Francisco and a great atmosphere. The food was excellent, and the majority of the staff were very pleasant. However, the bartender was a bit rude, which was a contrast to the otherwise very pleasant staff.
Despite this, I would definitely go back.
- views10
- atmosphere10
- food9
- bartender3
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
6
Billing Error at The View Lounge
My experience at The View Lounge in the San Francisco Marriott Marquis was disappointing due to a billing issue. I ordered only one mocktail, but my bank statement later showed I was charged twice with different amounts. This kind of mistake is frustrating, especially at a place of this caliber, as I did not order anything else.
While the atmosphere and view are pleasant, I strongly recommend that visitors double-check their receipt or bank statement after their visit.
- mocktail6
- atmosphere7
- view7
- billing experience2
- charged twice2
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Stunning Views, Especially at Night
My experience at this restaurant was defined by its stunning view. Most tables offer a great vantage point. I would recommend visiting at night to witness the city lit up.
- view9
- city lit up9
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Romantic Date
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
9
Affordable Views and Great Experience
My experience at this restaurant was surprisingly positive, especially considering the affordability. The view of San Francisco was the nicest I've seen, and I'd recommend visiting right before sunset. It's an ideal spot for a 5th date.
- affordability9
- view of San Francisco10
- 5th date spot8
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
Great View, Drinks, and Creme Brulee!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The view was absolutely great, complemented by delicious drinks and an amazing creme brulee. The waiter was not only nice but also shared some excellent stories, making the service truly memorable.
The atmosphere and food were rated a perfect 5, and the service also received a 5-star rating.
- view10
- drinks9
- creme brulee10
What The View offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Seating
Service Options
- Dine-in
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
Is The View accessible and what are the parking options?
Yes, The View is wheelchair accessible, featuring an accessible entrance, parking lot, and restroom. When planning your visit, you should know that parking can be somewhat difficult to find, though paid parking lots and paid street parking are available nearby.
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at The View?
You’ll find an upscale, cozy, and trendy atmosphere at The View, perfect for a relaxed evening. They offer a wide range of beverages, including hard liquor, wine, beer, and cocktails, alongside food available at the bar. You can also enjoy free Wi-Fi during your visit.
What is the overall verdict for The View?
The View holds a 6.9 score, indicating an average experience, with 62.7% customer satisfaction. While Ambience (8.1) and Food (7.1) are generally well-regarded, Service (6.3) is average, and Value (3.8) is a notable concern.
What makes The View a popular spot?
Customers frequently praise The View for its breathtaking panoramic views and the chic, intimate atmosphere. Many also appreciate the well-crafted cocktails and the generally attentive staff.
What are the common criticisms of The View?
The primary concerns at The View revolve around its high prices, particularly for drinks, and instances of inconsistent service. Some guests also find the venue can get quite crowded, impacting the overall experience.