The Best Christmas Bars & Restaurants in SF (2025 Guide)

San Francisco’s holiday season is back with a lineup of bars and restaurants that turn the city into a festive playground. For 2025, the usual favorites are returning, and a few new spots are joining the mix. Whether you’re into over-the-top decor, themed cocktails, or a quiet dinner with a seasonal twist, there’s something happening across the city. This guide breaks down the top 10 places to celebrate, with details on what to expect, where to go, and how to plan your visit.

The Best Christmas Bars & Restaurants in San Francisco (2025 Guide)

Winter Wonderland at The Vault Garden

The Vault Garden has turned its patio into a twinkling tented hideaway with hundreds of lights and a big view of the neighboring Christmas tree. The seasonal cocktail menu and heated patio setup make it a solid choice even on cold nights.

• Where: 555 California St, San Francisco, CA 94104
• Dates: Nov. 29 – Dec. 31, 2024
• Website: https://www.instagram.com/thevaultgarden/?hl=en

Jingle Bar

The Jingle Bar lands in San Francisco this year, turning a secret location into a pop-up packed with twinkling lights, tinsel, and holiday games. Expect themed cocktails, a festive party soundtrack, prizes for the best-dressed guests, and some surprise entertainment led by their “Christmas miracle makers.” Food may be available, with menu details released closer to the event. Tickets are limited and sessions fill up fast, so make sure to book early.

• Where: Secret Location, San Francisco
• Dates: Multiple dates and times, December 2025
• Website: events.thejinglebars.com/events/jinglebar/1865032

Thriller Social Club – Grinchville

Arcade bar Thriller Social Club is running their Grinch-themed pop-up, complete with floor-to-ceiling green decor and a signature Christmas Eggnog. These themed floors set the backdrop for a night out with games and plenty of group photo moments.

• Where: 508 4th St, San Francisco, CA 94107
• Dates: Open now
• Website: thrillersocialclub.com

Miracle at Pacific Cocktail Haven

Now in its ninth year, this Union Square pop-up returns with tinsel, vintage decor, and a menu of seasonal cocktails. The 2025 lineup includes new drinks like the Candy Cane Lane and Blitzen Barrel.

• Where: 550 Sutter Street, San Francisco
• Hours: Tues–Sat, 4 p.m. to 2 a.m.
• Website: miraclepopup.com​

Deck the Halls Pop-Up Bar

Back for 2025, this Union Street bar turns into a holiday hub with themed cocktails like the Bah Humbug and a festive shot menu. It’s walk-in only, no cover charge, and open late.

• Where: 1787 Union Street, San Francisco
• Hours: Sun–Wed 4 p.m.–12 a.m., Thu–Sat 4 p.m.–2 a.m.
• Website: deckthehallsbar.com​

Sippin’ Santa at Kona Street Market

This tropical-themed pop-up serves rum-heavy tiki drinks in festive mugs. Open from mid-November to early January, it’s a relaxed spot with a beachy holiday vibe.

• Where: 555 Beach Street, San Francisco
• Hours: 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. (closed Mondays)
• Website: sippinsantapopup.com​

Villon at the San Francisco Proper Hotel

This Market Street restaurant offers a four-course prix fixe menu on Christmas Day with seasonal dishes like roasted duck and truffled risotto. Reservations are required.​

• Where: 1100 Market Street, San Francisco
• Hours: 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Christmas Day
• Website: https://www.properhotel.com/san-francisco/restaurants-bars/villon/​

The Palace Hotel – Garden Court

The historic Garden Court hosts a Christmas Day brunch under its stained glass ceiling. The three-course menu includes holiday classics, and seating is at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m..

• Where: 2 Mason Street, San Francisco
• Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Christmas Day
• Website: https://www.gardencourtsf.com/

Fogo de Chão – Emeryville

This Brazilian steakhouse across the bay serves fire-roasted meats and seasonal sides on Christmas Day. Open from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., it’s ideal for large groups.

• Where: 5400 Valley Plaza Drive, Emeryville
• Hours: 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Christmas Day
• Website: fogo.com​

Hornblower Cruises – Premier Dinner Cruise

For a unique way to celebrate, the Christmas Day Premier Dinner Cruise boards at 3:30 p.m. and sails through the Bay with a three-course meal, live entertainment, and skyline views. It’s a memorable option for couples or small groups who want to combine dinner with a scenic experience. Tickets must be purchased in advance.​

• Where: Pier 3, San Francisco
• Hours: Boarding at 3:30 p.m., cruise from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
• Website: https://www.cityexperiences.com/san-francisco/city-cruises/premier-dinner-cruise/

San Francisco’s 2025 holiday scene is packed with places to celebrate, from pop-up bars with themed cocktails to elegant dinners that make Christmas Day feel special. Whether you’re into the energy of the Mistletoe Bars or the quiet luxury of a hotel brunch, the city offers options that match every mood. The key is to plan ahead — especially for reservations and holiday hours — so you can focus on what really matters: the people, the moments, and the joy of the season

More…

• https://secretsanfrancisco.com/holiday-pop-up-bars-sf/
• https://www.sftravel.com/article/where-to-eat-san-francisco-christmas-day
• https://www.overheresf.com/your-complete-san-francisco-christmas-markets-2025-guide/