Everything about this little gem is happy. The people waiting in line are happy to chat. The owner and his crew behind the counter are happy to educate you on the seafood (and refill your glass). And finally, you’re happy when your belly is full of delicious & fresh oysters and fish! It’s a warm and inviting counter that you should not miss when in SF!
Delicious! The smoked salmon was amazing. The staff is friendly and funny. We got there early, but the line formed quickly for a San Francisco must have. Oyster were amazing with a great variety.
Classic San Francisco joint, delightful fresh seafood in an iconic setting. You can't go wrong with a dozen mixed oysters. I was skeptical of the concept of oysters for breakfast at 8am but I'm now convinced it's the best way to start your day. Wine by the bottle is barely marked up, excellent selection and better prices. Also, they only serve seafood, so don't take a vegetarian or someone who's allergic to fish here, there are not alternative options.
Unassuming place with lots of history behind it. No fancy interiors nor intricate cooking just fresh seafood as nature intended it to be. Went on a weekday at 8am so there was no wait and immediately went for the oysters. Whoever said don't eat oysters on an empty stomach must've probably eaten some bad oysters before ? owners were nice to have a group photo with my daughters. Amazing food and amazing people. Swan oyster are one of SF's gems!
Mind-blowing and a must-go for anyone visiting San Francisco. You'd have to wait 1-2 hours if you come after 11am but don't let that deter you.We ordered the assorted salad, oysters, sashimi fish, more oysters, more sashimi... You get the idea. Just a word of caution, be prepared to fork out extra cuz you'd inadvertently want to order more!Fresh seafood prepared excellently without over- embellishing with sauces/spice.The meal was almost perfect if not for clam chowder which was a little too water and clammy for us. (I suppose everyone has a version they like).
Went there early to avoid the crowds, I hate crowds. The abundant staff was still setting up, but I was very well greated and served.Had the cold-smoked salmon and the scallop sashimi sicilian style.Both where insanely good.The shrimp salad next to the salmon is not my favorite as I don’t like mayo-based sauces in salad much.Overall though the experience was great, and the service was excellent and made the whole thing memorable. A highpoint in this otherwise drab San Franciscan visit.
Service was prompt and nice. Food was fresh and good but expensive. BUT we waited about 2 hours for a seat. In our opinion not worth it. You can only pay cash which was quite a problem for us so we had to limit what we order. There are only a few dishes on the menu (which is not a problem but just as information). All in all a good place to eat when you dont‘t have to wait that long. If there is a long queue we would not wait again for so long.
Takeaway and still able to enjoy their delicious fresh seafood!We got here close to the store closing time so the only option was to do takeaway. So glad we did!The server was very helpful with our order - showed us how food was packed and told us the best way to eat them back at home.Having a warm tasty clam chowder on a cold day - the best thing to do for your tummy. The oysters are very fresh and tasty. The Sicilian sashimi (with lemon and olive oil) was fantastic. Our favorite and most recommended dish is the smoked salmon!!! (on bread)❤️ - it’s so smokey and light.If you come close to the closing hours and do takeaway, it’s probably the most efficient way to eat here. Some dishes might run out, but you can get the remaining fantastic dishes with little/ no wait.Highly Recommended
They do not take reservations. There is always a long line and takes time to be seated but it is totally worth it!One you are sitting in the bar inside or outside service is good and fast. Family environment just like old times.If you like raw fish you shouldn’t miss the sashimi tasting. The smoked salmon is amazing and the trout not so good. The mix combo salad is a must!Will keep coming. Thanks
Based on reviews and constantly seeing the queues over the years decided to take the plunge. Opens about 1000/1030 so I would suggest to start queuing at 0930. I queued at 1025 and got in about 11:15 so take awhile and as they close at 15:00 approximately there is no point getting there past twelve. Staff were lovely and friendly and they don’t rush you and made a couple of suggestions. I waited until I got a seat at the counter which is great as you can see everything going on. Great atmosphere and the chowder and sourdough was delicious.