Fourth of July in SF: A Dining and Viewing Guide

Photo: Flickr, ToastyKen

By Meesha Halm

San Francisco's annual July 4th fireworks display will illuminate the skies on the northeast waterfront from Aquatic Park down to Pier 39 beginning at approximately 9:30 PM. If you can’t make it to Aquatic Park, other good viewing locations are all along the waterfront, Coit Tower, Aquatic Park, the Cannery, Ghirardelli Square and, believe it or not, Bernal Hill (where the renegade fireworks shot off in the Mission were equally as awesome to watch).

Wanna know where to eat before the show? Check out our neighborhood recommendations.

Fisherman's Wharf
Side streets are likely to be closed, so we recommend you take Muni and make early reservations at one of the nearby Wharf spots such as McCormick & Kuleto’s. You can always try your luck at walk-in only Bistro Boudin and Scoma’s and failing that, Alioto’s is selling hot dogs at their crab stand and there’s always In-N-Out.


Presidio 
There’s plenty of parking and easy walking access to the waterfront in the Presidio. Newcomer Dixie still has tables, and you can always grab a slice at Pizzeria Avellino. Note: the Presidio Social Club will be closed for the holiday.

Embarcadero 
Slightly farther down the waterfront, diners can still catch a glimpse of the fireworks and enjoy some Pisco and ceviche (not exactly the prototypical American meal) at La Mar Cebicheria Peruana.

Coit Tower/North Beach 
Great views of the fireworks can also be had up at top of Coit Tower. Before hiking up the hill, fuel up at Rose Pistola, Park Tavern, Txoko or Original Joe's. (Do call ahead for tables.) Last-minute Bettys can grab a french fry-stuffed hoagie at Giordano Bros. or a slice at Golden Boy, North Beach Pizza or Tony’s Coal-Fired Pizza & Slice House.

Bernal Heights
Yes, it’s a million miles away from Aquatic Park, but the views from Bernal Hill are impressive and the scene is extremely family-friendly. Arrange reservations ahead of time for Moki’s or Piqueo's or grab a quick bite at 903 Cortland.

Twin Peaks 
If it’s foggy, you won’t even be able to see the end of your nose, but if the sky is clear, this hilltop spot is the place to catch both San Francisco and Marin pyrotechnics. Beforehand, dip into Cole Valley’s Zazie or La Boulange or Noe Valley’s Contigo, Firefly or Fresca for a bite to eat. Or grab a burrito from Little Chichuahua and tote it up the mountaintop with you.