How To Celebrate Fleet Week In San Francisco

If you were out in North Beach last night, say having dinner at Tosca Cafe, you might have been surprised to see a large group of young uniformed people walk into the restaurant. . . what’s going on? All of a sudden it hits you: it’s the first week of October and that means two things: the weather will be incredibly favorable and Fleet Week is here! The majority of the festivities happen this weekend, but it’s not too early to plan where you’ll watch the Blue Angels come Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Here’s how to salute the navy during SF’s annual fleet week celebration.

Americano has invited Bulleit whiskey to join them on their patio for happy hour. On Thursday, October 5, from 5 to 8 p.m., the  founder of the beloved whiskey brand, Tom Bulleit, will be at the restaurant. Bulleit cocktail specials and tastes of their new spirit, Bulleit Barrel Strength, will be poured. On Saturday, the festivities will continue at the Hotel Vitale’s happening bar and restaurant, with a party at Americano from 4 to 7 p.m.

For an unparalleled view of the air show, head to the Loews Regency San Francisco’s 40th floor Sky Deck. The outdoor cocktail experience, Spirits in the Sky, will have extended hours during Fleet Week along with cocktails inspired by the navy. Access the bar, which has amazing views of the Bay, on Thursday, October 5, from 4:30 to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday, October 6 and 7, from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, October 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Over in Ghirardelli Square at Bluxome Street Winery, the tasting room is hosting a red, white, and Blue Angels party on Saturday, from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Metal + Match will be serving gourmet bites and Bluxome is pouring their Pinots and other recently released varietals.

Off the Grid is honoring servicemen and women with special Fleet Week programming at Fort Mason on Friday, October 6 and Presidio Picnic on Sunday, October 8. Vendors will be offering discounted themed items for veterans and those in uniform—think red, white, and blue cannoli by A16 and free tator tots or macaroni and cheese with any slider at Jackrabbit. The USF Dons marching band will be performing live music and there will be family-friendly activities.

If you’re simply in the mood for a late lunch or a round of appetizers at an upscale restaurant that has stunning views of the Bay, Waterbar and Epic Steak are ideal locations to book a reservation. Both eateries are located on the Embarcadero waterfront with patios that directly face the Bay—perfect for a clear view of the Blue Angels.