Nick

What an old school gem of a seafood joint! Tony was right, this is a special place and worth your time. Cash only, long line, but incredible service, phenomenal seafood, great vibes and good company. Go out of your way to stop here. It had been on my list for a decade and I had to travel 3,000 miles to get here. Well worth it.

A B

Very authentic Oyster Bar. They served 3 types of Oysters from very oyster strong taste, to mild and sweet Oysters. Other type of shellfish and fish also available. Great hospitality

Ann X

Lining up at 8:30 am and got seats after half an hour😏 cash only. Totally worth it. My hub said it might be the best seafood restaurant he ever had in America🇺🇸. 11 out of 10. We r coming back!

+3

Fernando M. Wong (Vicious_UNO)

If you find yourself wandering the fog-drenched streets of San Francisco, there’s a little place that, on paper, might seem unassuming—hell, it even looks like it’s stuck in a time warp. Swan Oyster Depot is the kind of place that could easily get lost in the hustle and bustle of the city. But don’t be fooled. It’s a treasure. A shrine to the good stuff, the fresh stuff, the seafood that doesn’t need a fancy chef’s twist to be perfect. It just is. Now, let’s talk about the experience. You walk in, and it feels like you’ve stepped into a fishing village in the 1950s. The counter's cramped, the stools are old-school, and you might share a space with a few strangers who, by the end of your meal, will feel like lifelong friends. There’s no pretension here—just raw, unadulterated love for the ocean's bounty. The oysters? God, the oysters. You’re not just tasting shellfish; you’re tasting the ocean. Every briny, delicate bite is like a postcard from the coast. Whether you go with the oysters from the West Coast or the East, you’re in for a revelation. It's that pure, that clean, that refreshing. No need for cocktail sauce, no gimmicks. Just ice-cold, straight from the water, and a squeeze of lemon. There’s a reason people line up for these. But let’s get into the real magic here, the stuff you’re probably not hearing about in tourist brochures—the off-menu dishes. First, the Sicilian sashimi. Don’t be shy; ask for it. When you get it, what you’re holding in front of you is not your average sashimi. This is simplicity at its finest. The fish is cut with a precision that feels almost like a surgical procedure, and the olive oil, lemon, and herbs just enhance the sweetness of the flesh. A little salt, a little pepper. Nothing overpowers, nothing competes. Just pure, clean fish that tastes like it was pulled straight from the water moments before it hit your plate. Next up: the octopus salad. I mean, who knew octopus could be this tender, this nuanced? It's not rubbery, not tough like you might expect. Instead, it's got this almost buttery quality—like it’s been simmered in the ocean itself. Add a sprinkle of garlic, a handful of parsley, and a little squeeze of lemon, and you’ve got yourself a dish that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about octopus. But wait, there's more. And I’m talking about the Boston clam chowder—and I don’t say that lightly. If you’re expecting the usual thick, creamy stuff that’s more flour than clams, think again. This chowder is lighter, cleaner, but still indulgent. The broth is perfectly seasoned, rich in clam essence without being overpowering. And the clams? Tender. Sweet. It’s comfort in a bowl, like the ocean wrapped in a warm blanket. One spoonful, and you’re transported. In a place like this, it’s clear they don’t need to reinvent the wheel. They don’t need flashy plating or trendy twists. They’ve got the classics down to an art form—and the love they put into each dish is undeniable. You can taste it in the way they serve their seafood, fresh and unapologetically simple. So, do yourself a favor: skip the fancy spots. Skip the “modern” interpretations. Swan Oyster Depot is where the magic happens. It’s unassuming, it’s humble, and it’s absolutely perfect. No hype, no bullshit—just real seafood, done right. This place doesn’t need a Michelin star. It’s already a legend.

+4

Igor Levin

Now, read very carefully- the best seafood place. PEDIOD. BEST !!! Be ready to spend in waiting lane minimum 40 min to 1-1,5 hours. Do not even think get out of the lane !!! Because- it's worth it!!!

+3

Levent Bulusan

Stepping into Swan Oyster Depot is like stepping back in time to a place that has perfected the art of fresh seafood. This is a no-frills, counter-seating-only institution, and its charm is in its authenticity and, of course, its incredible food. The menu is a dream for any seafood lover. We ordered the combination seafood salad (often called the Sicilian Sashimi), and it was a stunning plate of fresh-off-the-boat tuna, salmon, and white fish, perfectly accented with olive oil, capers, and a squeeze of lemon. The smoked salmon was equally amazing—buttery, delicate, and served with fantastic sourdough bread. The guys behind the counter are true professionals, shucking oysters and preparing plates with incredible speed and skill. The atmosphere is loud, busy, and full of happy customers. It's more than a meal; it's a true San Francisco experience. Essential Tips: • CASH ONLY! The sign in the window isn't joking. • Arrive early (even before they open) to get a spot in line. • Be prepared to stand, but know that the reward is one of the best seafood meals you'll ever have.

Gus Chavez Jr

This place is legendary. I saw it and came to it because of the late Anthony Bourdain. I totally see why he loved it. Total seafood bliss. Expect a queue to get in and its a cash only place. Its totally worth it.

+3

Jenny Bae

CASH ONLY In this economy, if they are taking cash only, you’re going for the vibes Free bread Napkin bill Wrong math But given the tables + turnover, it’s worth a visit just to say you did. When I want to feel like a tourist again, I’d give it a visit. The staff are so chill that if you forget your cash, they let you go grab it by the nearest ATM. Buttery oysters were from WA Clam chowder is less creamy than you might expect

Mike

People say overrated. Some say underrated. Whatever they say, I don’t care. Everything was amazing, fresh, and worth the wait. I don’t know how Swan Oyster manages to maintain the neighborhood vibe that they do after so many years and so many visitors, but they do so in a way that exceeds your expectations. 2 beers, crab legs and half cracked crab, crab cocktail, and clam chowder: $113 and a 1.5 hour wait to get in. Well worth it.

been there for 3 generations - love the crab and chowder and the salad dressing - wait is worth it -

been there for 3 generations - love the crab and chowder and the salad dressing - wait is worth it -

been there for 3 generations - love the crab and chowder and the salad dressing - wait is worth it -

been there for 3 generations - love the crab and chowder and the salad dressing - wait is worth it -

been there for 3 generations - love the crab and chowder and the salad dressing - wait is worth it -

been there for 3 generations - love the crab and chowder and the salad dressing - wait is worth it -

Best stop in town - I never miss it. Great food, cold beers/white wine and family owned SF institution

Best stop in town - I never miss it. Great food, cold beers/white wine and family owned SF institution

Best stop in town - I never miss it. Great food, cold beers/white wine and family owned SF institution

Anthony Bourdain RIP...I now understand why you said you wanted this place as your last meal. THE best seafood IVE EVER HAD.\n\nEverything was so fresh. The clam chowder was some of the best I'…

One of the best parts of living in SF is Swan oyster Depot! They have the BEST and the most freshest seafood I've ever had. Sashimi plate, crab back, clam chowder are all my favorites. Not to m…

One of the best parts of living in SF is Swan Oyster Depot! They have the BEST and the most freshest seafood I've ever had. Sashimi plate, crab back, clam chowder are all my favorites. Not to menti…

Delicious seafood. We came around 10am and we had to wait 3 hours to be seated. The raw oysters, Sicilian sashimi and cracked crab are worth trying. Service was great!

Delicious seafood. We came around 10am and we had to wait 3 hours to be seated. The raw oysters, Sicilian sashimi and cracked crab are worth trying. Service was great!

Delicious seafood. We came around 10am and we had to wait 3 hours to be seated. The raw oysters, Sicilian sashimi and cracked crab are worth trying. service was great!

This is a must. We don't make it every time we visit the city, but we always want to. There is a line, but it is well worth it and it does move reasonably quickly. The service is fantastic. The foo…

Came here around when they opened on a Saturday. wait time was about 20 minutes. Service was great, food was really good. Price was fair. Would we return? Definitely!

Came here around when they opened on a Saturday. Wait time was about 20 minutes. service was great, food was really good. Price was fair. Would we return? Definitely!

Yes, the line is long and the place small but... it's worth it. Piece of advice: once you get to cross the entrance, if you are still in line, order a beer so you can enjoy it while waiting. Food i…

Always the best seafood in San Francisco! This small counter service only restaurant has been my go to place when I want the best chowder, seafood Louie salad and fresh crab. Get there early as the…

Definite YES!! They had the freshest bay shrimp and crab salad!! And the Boston Clam Chowder was very nice - not the traditional NE type nor the Manhattan version - it was basically clear clam so…

Absolutely one of the best food experiences I've had. It did not disappoint. Well worth the wait in line. Bring lots of cash because the food is so good!

Absolutely one of the best food experiences I've had. It did not disappoint. Well worth the wait in line. Bring lots of cash because the food is so good!

Absolutely one of the best food experiences I've had. It did not disappoint. Well worth the wait in line. Bring lots of cash because the food is so good!

Awesome. Sicilian sashimi Beer and shrimp cocktail Dozen mixed oysters Crab cocktail All were amazing... staff was friendly great teamwork amongst them Will be back

I loved the place so much that I came back a second time, though I was only there for four days. The seafood is exceptionally fresh and delicious. The staff is engaging. It's not fancy and not chea…

I loved the place so much that I came back a second time, though I was only there for four days. The seafood is exceptionally fresh and delicious. The staff is engaging. It's not fancy and not chea…

Absolutely amazing!! Family owned quality establishment with friendly service. Reasonably priced with an exceptional menu. A must try if you are in San Francisco.

Absolutely amazing!! Family owned quality establishment with friendly service. Reasonably priced with an exceptional menu. A must try if you are in San Francisco.

Guys, this place is sooooo worth the wait. The food, the service, the atmosphere…..omg…unreal! Andrew was our server and he made our experience a hoot! So my party of three got to the restaurant…

Guys, this place is sooooo worth the wait. The food, the service, the atmosphere…..omg…unreal! Andrew was our server and he made our experience a hoot! So my party of three got to the restaurant…

We had the combination salad, oysters, and the sashimi. Super fresh and great service. However, they can keep the place a bit more cleaner, they filled the coffee cup and it spilled all over the s…

Excellent fresh seafood at reasonable prices.Few sides. People just eat the seafood . The place seats only about 20 people and offers counter service only, by very attentive servers (all male). Ex…

Saw it on a food blog long before trip, put on the list. Small, basic but great food and service, lovely atmosphere. Can get very busy with queue down the street, best to get there early and have…

Checked off my bucket list to try the wonderful seafood at this place. Got there 9am no queue, got a seat immediately. Dug into a combination seafood cocktail, Dungeness crab tomali with sourdough, half dozen mixed oysters, and a wheat draft beer. What a way to start the morning. Everything was super fresh, tasty and what I imagined it to be. The vibe within the restaurant felt like a tight knit family run business and the kitchen was running like clockwork - everyone knew what to do without talking much. Pricey but the freshness justifies it. Visit when in SF - a hundred years of swan’s seafood history can’t go wrong !

Ali Tassavor

Been wanting to try this place for over a year every time I visit SF and finally had a chance to check it out. We waited in line for around an hour to get seats. The vibe and atmosphere is great and OG! The food is great but nothing too special that would worth an hour wait. I understand this place is historic but I feel like it needs some deep cleaning :)

Ina Alcazar

There’s a reason this spot is Anthony Bourdain’s favorite spot in SF. It’s pretty straightforward good seafood spot that serves fresh catch! It can get a little pricey but the coziness of the place and the attentiveness of the staff makes it worthwhile. I specifically liked the sashimi platter and the oysters they have are flavorful, briney and fresh — we had it for breakfast and didn’t have any tummy issues! Note though they serve Boston style clam chowder so it’s runnier than the typical chowder you find in SF

+3

Taylor G

Came in right when they opened on a weekday. Played it safer with half the smoked salmon and a cup of chowder since I was having it for breakfast. So yummy!! Incredibly kind and chill staff. You’re coming here for great food and even better vibes. Chill at the bar; good music. The place just feels so rich with community and history. Cash only! Would go back and would recommend.

Came with a friend on a random Tuesday. We arrived at the restaurant at 10am and was able to grab a seat immediately, which I know is unheard of for this restaurant. We ordered the mixed oysters, smo…

It is definitely worth trying at least once, even if it just for the experience. I really enjoyed the Sicilian sashimi as you get to try a variety of fishes including scallops. The half cracked cra…

The wait was long but worth it. The smoked trout and salmon are fantastic, oysters seemed a bit pricy compared to other coastal cities. Staff is definitely comfortable in their role with the publi…

The wait was long but worth it. The smoked trout and salmon are fantastic, oysters seemed a bit pricy compared to other coastal cities. Staff is definitely comfortable in their role with the publi…

really ugly service. break a glass of water on my phone with on apology. remove my silverware to wipe the table but never replace them . The hygiene is much concerned. The staff takes cash together…

Very overrated and rude staff. I think they are riding their own hype, their quality and value has gone down a lot over the years. There are many other alternatives without the long lines.

Very overrated and rude staff. I think they are riding their own hype, their quality and value has gone down a lot over the years. There are many other alternatives without the long lines.