Above Fifth

Expect to wait in the Lobby for a good while if there is a line. The Hostess was only taking 2 tables up at a time. Also be aware that most of the roof top faces west and as such will be directly in the sun during sun set. However once the sun has set its is stunning up on the roof. The beer that we had were good however the beer list was woefully out of date and they didn't have a wine list for use to look at. It also appears that we were sat at a servers table that was on a break so no one really knew who was supposed to be waiting on us. Which meant we were waiting for a bit before someone came to take our order. Probably won't be back for a good while, at least until they can iron the kinks out of their system and provide some additional training for their employees.

We enjoyed the cocktails and appetizers. I thought the food selection could have been broader, and the melon was not particularly ripe. Inconsistent service attention but not an issue at the time as it was fairly not busy. Wheelchair accessibility: Elevator

Came here on opening night and had an amazing experience at the rooftop bar, despite the understaffing. The view was absolutely breathtaking, and the drinks were top-notch. The staff, though overwhelmed, did their best to make us feel welcome. I can only imagine how incredible this place will be once they're fully staffed. A hidden gem with so much potential! Parking: I usually don’t have an issue finding street parking, but it depends on what time you go. The street parking is free after 6pm and all day on Sundays. They do offer paid parking in their garage.

Awesome to have this new rooftop bar in downtown San Rafael. Feels like a taste of the city, with a hip vibe, out in the ‘burbs. It’s located in the AC Hotel, they escort you up to the 6th floor onto the rooftop patio, which is nice and sunny in the afternoons or at sunset. You can make a reservation ahead via Google / Resy.

We had high hopes for The Ave Fifth roof top bar. Unfortunately, this is major fail. We arrived on a Friday at 4pm to a line waiting to go up the elevator. There was a host taking groups up one at a time. Many people were turned away and had wait times of 2 hours even when meeting someone staying at the hotel. After a 30 minute wait to go to the roof top we couldn't find any seating in the area that was designated for service. It is a beautiful setting but the roof top is blazing hot with very little shaded areas. Those areas that have service for drinks and food either were taken or had a reservation sign (no one sat in the reserved area the whole time we were there). There is no bar walk up service and no serve yourself water stands. Therefore if you don't sit down at a table in the designated area you will not get served. There were three wait staff, three bartenders and a manager...all very confused and stressed out. The food was very good. The drinks are overpriced ($17 dollars for a vodka and water) and there is not a happy hour. Unfortunately, we won't go back.

Hooray for a new date spot! The location, views of Mount Tam, and food are exceptional. The business is staffing up, and without a reservation, you will likely wait in the lobby for 5-15 minutes. That small inconvenience helps space things out for the staff so that you will be served promptly and they won't be slammed. As you can imagine, this is a spot getting attention. Ali, who oversees the operation, is friendly, thoughtful, and professional. Expect exciting menu changes, and visit a few times before passing judgment. A reservation isn't required, but it will get you a spot in the shade. We had carrot hummus, sea bass, and mocktails (non-alcoholic items aren't on the menu, but I hope to see them included soon). The food was delicious! Kindness costs nothing and new businesses benefit from a bit of grace. We’re lucky to have life returning to the hospitality industry after years of pandemic lows. (Go, Ali and team, Go!)