Above Fifth

Above Fifth sits atop the AC Hotel in downtown San Rafael, offering the city's only rooftop bar experience with panoramic views of Mount Tamalpais and the Marin hills. The venue operates Wednesday through Sunday, drawing crowds for its craft cocktails and seasonal small plates. With a 4.1-star rating from 45 reviews, the bar has established itself as a destination for both hotel guests and local residents seeking an elevated night out in Marin County.

What distinguishes Above Fifth from typical hotel lounges is its intentional embrace of San Rafael's outdoor culture despite the venue's intimate scale. The 54-foot-tall hotel provides just enough elevation for sweeping city and mountain vistas that reviewers consistently praise. The space balances modern upscale aesthetics with relaxed fire-pit seating, creating an atmosphere reviewers describe as fitting for special occasions rather than casual hangouts. The Marriott franchise backing ensures consistent service standards, though some visitors note the price points reflect the hotel setting.

Reviewers frequently call out individual team members who elevate the experience. Brian McCammon specifically praised Jell and Riza for delivering attentive service during his dinner visit, noting the oysters were among the freshest he'd encountered. Elise earned recognition from visitor Laura Angalet for making guests feel at home while serving drinks alongside the venue's cozy fire pits. These personal mentions underscore what multiple reviewers describe as five-star hospitality in a rooftop setting.