Hotel bars can be pretty depressing—full of lonely travelers unwinding in uncomfortable furniture with a pricey standard issue cocktail, couples getting cozy with a night cap and players looking for a late night hookup. Many San Francisco hotels buck the trend with fantastic views, creative drink menus and classic decor that attracts visitors and locals looking for a change a of pace outside of their neighborhood haunts. We don’t often drink in hotel bars, but when we do, these are at the top of our list.

Tonga Room at Fairmont Hotel

VIBE: KITSCHY COOL

Created with an unused swimming pool in the basement of the Fairmont Hotel in 1967, the Tonga Room takes tiki kitsch to another level with live music from a boat floating in the middle of the room, tropical rainstorms, bamboo tabletops and a variety of refreshing umbrella-laced drinks. It’s hard to imagine this classic San Francisco bar has changed much since it opened, and that’s just fine.

Infusion Lounge at Hotel Fusion

VIBE: HOT AND SEXY

The stairs adjacent to Hotel Fusion lead to one of downtown San Francisco’s top night spots, where club-goers dress to impress and party all night with visiting DJs and a crew of local go-go dancers. But before all of that happens, Infusion Lounge also offers happy hour specials from 6pm to 9pm, Tues-Sat, and a dinner menu every night of the week. The party here will go as far as you want to take it.

Top of the Mark at Mark Hopkins

VIBE: CLASSIC SAN FRANCISCO

The Top of the Mark offers one of the best aerial views of San Francisco without taking flight. It’s 19th-floor location atop Nob Hill offers a 360-degree view of San Francisco and beyond. The cocktail menu features an extensive martini list along with other standards, and there’s live entertainment on weekends (expect a short wait and a $10 cover). During summer, the bar hosts a free movie night on Tuesdays.

Americano at Hotel Vitale

VIBE: HAPPY HOUR BUZZ

Popular with the after-work crowd downtown, the Americano overlooks the waterfront and offers a large patio on the Embarcadero that is usually packed on warm evenings. Chef Kory Stewart heads the cocktail program, with a small menu of fun, seasonal drinks. (Keith Mizuguchi)

The View at Marriott Marquis

VIBE: BREATHTAKING AND ROMANTIC

Often called the “juke box” in reference the glass arches that stand out in San Francisco’s skyline. The View lives up to its name with spectacular 360-degree views of San Francisco and the surrounding bay from the 39th story of the San Francisco Marriott Marquis. Tables circling the perimeter windows are perfect for small groups and it’s a great place to dazzle visitors or a first date.

Redwood Room at Clift Hotel

VIBE: SEXY, COOL

A hotel bar that caters to a more refined audience, the Redwood Room is equally popular with local and visitors. The dark wood-paneled interior sets the tone while DJs drop the beat on weekend nights, while comfortable furnishings provide a cool downtown escape on other nights of the week. Keep an eye out for celebrities, who often stay at the Clift when they are in San Francisco.

Starlight Room at Sir Francis Drake Hotel

VIBE: CLASSIC SAN FRANCISCO

Perched atop Union Square on the 21st floor of the Sir Francis Drake hotel, the Starlight Room offers a quite place for an afternoon or evening drink before the party picks up with DJs and dancing several nights a week. Plush booths and furnishings make for a comfortable stop away from the crowds below and the view overlooking Union Square, SoMA and Potrero Hill is fantastic.

Fifth Floor at Hotel Palomar

VIBE: CLASSIC SAN FRANCISCO

The cocktail program at Fifth Floor is one of the best in the city. Led by Brian Means, drinks are equally creative and delicious, with plenty for those who love classics and the new craft cocktails. There is a classic lounge feel and vibe to the space as well. (KM)

Upstairs and Living Room Bar at W Hotel

VIBE: CHIC

The W actually has two bar areas, each with its own unique look and ambiance. Located above the hotel’s Trace Restaurant, the appropriately named Upstairs bar lights up like the night sky. With cool bungalows and craft cocktails, the space offers a lively atmosphere, often with visiting DJs. Downstairs is the more cozy Living Room Bar. (KM)

Burritt Room at Mystic Hotel

VIBE: OLD SCHOOL

Always a fun spot just off the main hub of Union Square, the Burritt Room has a fun cocktail program, mixing classic drinks with interesting “House Creations.” The Burritt Room is definitely a social gathering place, as there’s usually a music act playing in the lounge. (KM)

Parallel 37 at Ritz Carlton

VIBE: MODERN

The updated menu and decor at Parallel 37 is a stark change from the previous incarnation of the restaurant and bar at the Ritz – for the better. Chef Michael Rotondo is doing great things in the kitchen and Camber Lay heads the mixology-driven cocktail program. They even grow some ingredients on the property. (KM)

MKT at Four Seasons

VIBE: FUN, BOISTEROUS

The brand new renovated restaurant and bar at the Four Seasons has a completely different feel; it went from a bit stuffy to open and vibrant. Food by chef Mark Richardson spans the globe, and General Manager Oliver Lee continues to provide fun and interesting drinks options. (KM)

Jasper’s Corner at Serrano Hotel

VIBE: FESTIVE

Not only is there a really fun vibe at Jasper’s, the cocktails are some of the best in the city. Kevin Diedrich mixes strong drinks (try the cocktails on tap) with innovative libations. (KM)