Helen S

Popped in here for lunch after needing a caffeine fix after an early start. It seems like this spot is busy at all times, with some people having to share tables, so just keep that in mind if you are looking for a romantic meal. We were seated quickly and I ordered the Irish coffee (my husband just had a beer). Being from the UK originally we are used to Irish coffees but this was a very nice version (albeit small, especially for $16). For food we ordered the lobster roll and the club sandwich, which both arrived very quickly. The lobster roll was great, with a generous portion of lobster. My husbands club sandwich looked good as well, and he said it was very tasty. His food did come with fries, which weren't mentioned on the menu or asked for, which he was ultimately charged for. It wasn't a huge amount (something like $1.50) and I would like to think it was just a mistake, but something to be aware of. We finished our food and our server recommended a Mexican coffee, so I had to give that a try. I actually think I preferred the Mexican coffee to the Irish coffee, so if you are a Kailua fan I recommend giving it a try). In total our bill came to $130 (including tax and tip) so is a little expensive for a lunch spot. The food is good though and I would recommend if you are in the area.

John Cosgrove

My wife and I visited this restaurant during restaurant week. I sat down. I looked around and saw how beautiful this restaurant was and like at many places. I stare at other people's foods and it's coming out well. I wind up getting filet mignon and vegetables and mashed potatoes as my entree. They were simply spectacular. Potato leaf soup was delicious. Creme brulee just a great rest are if you're in Huntington don't pass it up a great continental

Kyler DuVall

This is a great place, full of life and usually busy. Had a BLT and 2 Irish coffees. The Irish coffees are about $15 each but they are really good and the food was amazing too. A great historical place to eat beside the wharf and the views are good too! 5/5, though a little pricey it's worth trying out atleast once.

+18

Kevin Drost

The Irish coffee here totally lives up to the hype. Watching the bartenders line up the glasses and pour everything with perfect timing is half the fun—it’s like its own show. The cream floats perfectly, you get that kick of whiskey, and it’s super smooth and rich. The place has that classic San Francisco bar vibe—old-school wood interior, bar stools, warm lighting. Yeah, it’s a tourist spot, but it’s got real character and history (it’s been around since 1916!). Plus, the location is great—right by Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square—so it’s an easy stop while you’re walking around the area. Definitely worth it for the drink and the atmosphere. Oh and don’t forget to ask for one Togo

Kristen G

Cute spot for great views, excellent service, and delicious food. We all got the clam chowder in the bread bowl and gobbled up the whole thing. I love the whole vibe of the place and it is very reasonably priced for the area. Doesn’t feel too touristy while so many things around the area do. It’s always packed so you know it’s probably pretty good. Will be back when I’m in town again!

Tensai Genius

If you’re looking for a historic San Francisco experience, The Buena Vista is an absolute must-visit. This place is legendary for a reason, they serve the original Irish Coffee, and it's a perfect blend of rich, hot coffee, sweet whiskey, and a decadent cream top. The atmosphere is always buzzing with people from all over the world, and the bartenders are masters of their craft, making a show out of every drink. It’s more than just a drink; it's a tradition, a warm and comforting treat that perfectly captures the city's charm. This place is a true San Francisco institution.

+6

Joseph Abraham

Loved our visit to Buena Vista in San Francisco! We tried the original Irish coffee (first served in the US here) and it was amazing. Sat right by the bar and enjoyed watching the bartender make them with such flair. They use Tullamore D.E.W whiskey — smooth and perfect. Definitely worth the stop!

+1

Michael Guynn

I have been looking forward to trying an Irish Coffee at the Buena Vista for years. It's just coffee, sugar, cream, and whiskey. It really shouldn't be anything special. But I guess after you make 10,000 of them you really do perfect it, because it was a damn fine cup of coffee. The servers were so nice. The bartenders make a spectacle out of making rows of Irish coffees. It's nice to see an establishment be so proud of something - still - and keep tradition alive and not just coast on a name. Stop in for a cup, and check out the gift shop next door. P.S. the non-alcoholic version is $4.75 and is also absolutely delectable...

Jordan Diaz

My supervisor recommended i stop by and try the Irish Coffee and it was amazing. Bold and not overly sweet, it was just right. It was packed, but service was still friendly and fast. The food came out quickly and was delicious. I had the corned beef hash with poached eggs and it was perfect. The sourdough toast was the best. I stop by if you get the chance, it's worth it.

jack wong

Food was great! We got the crab omelette and the clam chowder. Perfect meal for a cold morning. The Irish whiskey makes it a whole lot better! They do pour a decent amount of whiskey in there. We got there about 9:45am on a Sunday and we didn’t have to wait at all.

+1

Known for their Irish coffees. Kind of a tourist trap, due to location right next to Ghirardelli square. But also a SF staple! Space- old school bar. Eat at tables only drink at bars. Lots of staff. Gets busy. Menu- we got the crab omelette and salmon sandwich. Both tasty. Love that you can substitute boudin sourdough. Drinks- full bar offerings. Ppl have no shame drinking at 9am. Myself included.

Come for the Irish Coffee. Stay for the atmosphere bar crowd and authenticity. It’s something that every San Francisco tourist should see at least once.

Shane J

Visited for breakfast with my family and really enjoyed the experience. The café has a cosy, welcoming feel with a menu that offers plenty of great options to choose from. What really stood out was the staff, they seemed like they’d worked there forever, were genuinely proud of the place, and carried a real sense of tradition. The food was delicious with generous portions and definitely didn’t disappoint. A memorable and charming spot for breakfast!

+1

Gloria Lombardi

Charming old bar with classic decor and a cozy atmosphere. It’s famous for its Irish coffee, which is delicious but a bit pricey. Still, it’s worth a visit for the history, the view by the bay, and the overall experience. Our server Gerardo was great! Muchas gracias!

Ivan Zarate

The Irish Coffee is excellent, highly recommended. If you're just here for a drink, you'll easily find a place to sit. However, if you plan to eat, be prepared to wait. The food is good, classic American cuisine, though nothing special. What really stands out is the service: the staff are very friendly and will make sure you're well taken care of.

I feel that we were cheated here. Got burgers and drinks and the waiter asked if we want burgers with a salad on side. We said yes since he didn't say it was extra. If you add something to the check you need to tell the price. And then you pay the price of a burger for three leaves and two cherry tomatoes. And after that two random people joined us at our table, what the? Anyway we didn't want to ruin a good night but that's unacceptable and deserves a refund. I don't recommend to visit this place especially as a tourist. The bill was 100+ for pretty much two burgers and beers Food is good view is nice

Mariana Vera

We visited San Francisco and found this place on google maps closed by where we parked. The food was good but expensive (I could say it's worth it). They don't have kids menu. The waitress took me and my family to sit in a small room behind a wall. The place had a lot of people but there were 2 empty tables in the main room, we felt isolated from the main experience of being in the restaurant. The bathroom was out of order so they told me to use the employee's restroom and it was tiny and felt very pressured because 3 more people were outside the door waiting for me to be done. The vibe we felt as a Latino family was not very welcoming. I can say that the food was indeed good but I didn't like the experience at all. I will not go back.