Top of the Mark: Nob Hill's panoramic lounge since 1939
A 360-degree view of the bay
Perched at the top of Nob Hill, the InterContinental Mark Hopkins opened its doors in 1926. In 1939, the penthouse suite on its 19th floor was turned into a cocktail lounge wrapped in floor-to-ceiling windows. The panorama remains one of the most complete in the city: the grid of streets tumbling down toward the bay, the Transamerica Pyramid, the Bay Bridge, Sutro Tower and, on clear days, the Golden Gate Bridge. During World War II, servicemen shipping out came here to raise one last glass; a “squadron bottle” is still kept at the bar. Fully enclosed in glass, the lounge shrugs off wind and fog, even if the fog sometimes veils the view.
Martinis, oysters and live music
The cocktail menu runs about $20 to $26, from the Caught Red-Handed with tequila and pomegranate to the Mark Old-Fashioned with bourbon. The bar also offers its “100 Martinis” experience, to work through over several visits with a passport. On the food side, Tomales Bay oysters, tuna poke, burrata, caviar and house-made desserts are shared at the table. Every Saturday night, Bay Area bands play live (cover $15, $10 for hotel guests).
Practical information
Open Sunday through Thursday from 4pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday from 3pm to 12:30am; kitchen from 4pm to 9:30pm (last order). Occasionally closed for private events: check the website before you go. Online reservations are recommended; no minors after 10pm. The California Street & Mason Street stop on the California cable car line is less than 100 meters away, and the line crosses the Powell lines one block farther on.
Top of the Mark: frequently asked questions
Top of the Mark: what is the address?
Top of the Mark is located at the following address: 999 California Street 19e étage – InterContinental Mark Hopkins (Nob Hill), CA 94108 San Francisco.
Top of the Mark: how expensive is it?
On our scale, Top of the Mark has a price level of 5 out of 5 ($$$$$).
Top of the Mark: is there an entry fee?
Yes, an entry fee may apply at Top of the Mark.
