14 Best Bars in San Rafael

“Above Fifth is the rooftop bar of the AC Hotel in San Rafael, CA. The hotel is part of the Marriott hotel franchise. Yes, a franchise hotel is in downtown San Rafael. Times are a changin'.

Anyways, the bar is open 4pm-11pm Wednesday-Sunday, closed on Monday - Tuesday. The hotel is about 54 feet tall so it is not particular tall, but tall enough for some awesome views of downtown, surrounding hills, and Mount Tam. The seating area, like the hotel, has modern upscale aesthetics with relaxed vibes.

The views are gorgeous. The staff are sweethearts, five star service. The drinks and tapas menu price points are of course pricey. But what was up with the stained paper menus. Eww. Anyways, the fam ordered drinks (cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks) and tapas of olives, hummus and pita, and fingerling potatoes. The olives were delicious and it was a good medley of various kinds. The fingerling potatoes were a bit boring tasting, it could use more seasonings for added zing. Not sure how the green hummus tasted, I snoozed on that one.

Overall, the drinks are good, ambiance fantastic, and the food is meh. This is a type of place I would go for special occasions and not on a regular basis, my wallet cannot sustain it.“

“Just to be clear, this is not a “4 star restaurant”, it’s a 4star dive bar! Unassuming outside, friendly and large inside. My bro-in-law and I went there for late dinner after doing some work on his house. The kitchen was still open, with a fairly large menu; lots of burger options, a special chicken dinner and more. We sat at the bar, had some beers (Guinness on tap!) and delicious burgers with tasty sides. If you’re in the area and looking for a drink and a good meal, I say check it out. (Note: not for kids)“

“unbelievable experience, the bartender was more than friendly and I would recommend to all my friends and family“

“Wonderful food and service. Highly recommend!“

“Tasty Mediterranean food. Good amount of vegan options with falafel. The falafel is very good, high quality and nicely fried.
The falafel burger was very tasty, and the crispy falafel added a nice texture. The fries were okay, a bit dry. Also got the sampler platter - liked the falafel, pita, hummus, baba ganoush, and salad that came with it. The dolmas were not my favorite.
Very good service. The bathroom is shared with the other businesses in the building and was fine. They have both indoor and outdoor seating.“

“Delicious food! Very unassuming, we were so happy we stopped in, food and service were top notch 🍝“

“Great services, friendly“

“Best Mexican food I've had in a long time!“

“The pizza, the calamari, the mozzarella sticks, the margaritas, what an exceptional find. The service was top notch and the pizza so good i ate the crusts, it’s that type, i never eat the crusts. We left feeling well taken care of. Sean, the manager, was making us feel welcome in every possible way. I’ve heard the clam chowder and salads are amazing as well, we will be back!! Prime rib?! French dip!?! Yes please!!!!“

“Was here on Christmas Eve, and the food, service, and ambience couldn’t have been better. Had clay pot dishes, both beef and tofu, assorted nigiri, Dragon roll - all wonderfully fresh, edamame, a shrimp tempura roll, and sake. We we all delighted. Thanks for adding to a beautiful Christmas Eve!“

“the food is real!!!!!!!!!“

“Have dined at Le Chalet Basque for more than 20 years. Our recent meal with lamb chops, fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes and split pea soup served with crumbled blue cheese salad couldn't have been better. Fresh ingredients, great wine and excellent service will keep us returning again and again.“

“Went ar Arrivederci at around 3 pm on Sunday. Not that busy. We got seated and got our drinks right away. We ordered Gnocchi and Risotto con brasatto. We also got a complimentary focaccia bread with garlic/herbs olive oil dipping. The Gnocchi was very creamy and has rich flavor. The Risotto was creamy and the 2 piece of beef short ribs were tender and juicy. The portion is a bit on a small side and a bit pricey ($28 each). I gave 4 star because the server was not attentive.“