Landmark sky lounge on Nob Hill with panoramic views of the skyline, the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate, known for its cocktail list and live music on select nights.
Top of the Mark is a glass-walled sky lounge on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins hotel at 999 California Street on Nob Hill in San Francisco, California. The lounge has been a landmark since it opened, and its panoramic windows frame the downtown skyline, the Bay Bridge, Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge. It is one of the city's most recognized places for an evening drink with a view and has a long association with special occasions.
The crowd is a mix of hotel guests, couples, visitors celebrating events and locals who treat it as a splurge. Dress is smart, and visitors typically wear smart casual or better; athletic wear and very casual clothes may be turned away. The atmosphere is polished, elegant and relatively quiet, with room for conversation. Live music, often jazz or similar styles, is presented on select nights, with a dance floor on some evenings; the schedule should be checked in advance.
The drinks programme includes classic cocktails, signature creations, an extensive wine list, champagne and spirits, with a small selection of food available. Prices are high, reflecting the location and views, with cocktails commonly in the upper-teens to over twenty US dollars. The lounge has historically offered specialty experiences, so the website should be checked for current menus and any seasonal offerings.
Hours follow an evening pattern, with the lounge opening in the late afternoon and staying open later on Friday and Saturday. Typically there is no cover charge, although a cover or minimum may apply on live music nights. Reservations are recommended, particularly for window tables, sunset and weekend visits, and the venue's reservation system is the best route to a table. Bottle service may be available for groups.
The hotel is a short walk from Grace Cathedral, the Fairmont Hotel and the cable car lines on California Street, so the lounge fits into a Nob Hill evening. Visitors who want the best views usually reserve around sunset on a clear day.
| Price | $$$$ |
|---|---|
| Cover | Typically no cover; reservations recommended; dress smart |
| Hours | Evenings, later Fri-Sat; check site |
| Address | 999 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108 |
Good to know
- Signature
- 19th-floor glass-walled lounge atop the InterContinental Mark Hopkins with city views
Location
999 California St, San Francisco, CA 94108
37.7914, -122.4102 View on map
Highlights
- 19th-floor glass-walled lounge atop the Mark Hopkins hotel
- Panoramic views of the skyline, Bay Bridge and Golden Gate
- Live music on select nights
- Classic cocktails, champagne and wine list
- On the California Street cable car line on Nob Hill
Tips for visiting
- Reserve ahead for window tables, especially around sunset
- Dress smart casual or better
- Check the schedule for live music nights and any cover or minimum
- Arrive on a clear evening for the best skyline views
- Allow for upper-range pricing on drinks
When to visit
Sunset on a clear evening offers the best views. Weeknights are quieter than weekends.
Accessibility
The lounge is reached by hotel elevator, so access to the 19th floor is step-free in general. Visitors should confirm seating options with the hotel.
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Frequently asked questions
Is there a dress code at Top of the Mark?
The lounge expects smart attire, so guests commonly wear smart casual or better. Athletic wear may not be admitted.
Are reservations needed?
They are recommended, particularly for window tables and weekends. Check the website for the booking process.
Is there a cover charge?
There is typically no cover, though live music nights may have one. Confirm before visiting.