Pier 23 Cafe
San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: (415) 362-5125
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 11:30am-2am, Sat 10am-2am, Sun 10am-10pm
Editorial Review for Pier 23 Cafe – by Amanda Scotese
In Short
The atmosphere changes quicker than the tide. One might uncover a peaceful lunch-meeting place or a lively drinking dive on the outside deck. Inside might host a soulful reggae shakedown or a rowdy group watching the Giants game. Suits looking for an after-work drink, casual locals, bikers and the occasional tourist fill the bar stools and tables. The margaritas complement the fresh fish dishes while peel-and-eat shrimp, lightly seasoned, go great with a Corona.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Look GoodAsk the bartenders to tell you the wonders of a shot of Fernet, their favorite drink.
User Reviews for Pier 23 Cafe
01/09/2008 Posted by babybird74
I know that season/weather, company, ambience etc affects one's dining experience but, personally, I write restaurant reviews based on one thing: the food. The food at Pier 23 is, in my opinion, a mixed bag. This was by first ever visit to San Francisco and, as a self-confessed foodie, I was desperate to try the famous clam chowder. Oh my gad, was their chowder amazing: thick, creamy, loaded with clammy goodness; it couldn't have been any better. I ordered their Fisherman's Platter as my entree, and I was miserably disappointed. Everything was so heavily breaded and greasy; there were no distinct flavors; the fries were embarrassingly McDonaldsy; the highlight was the mediocre coleslaw. Big Bird's fish and chips were decent enough but, come on, where's the cod?? I'd go back again for the chowder, and I'm sure it would be a wonderful spot to partay during the summer, but I'd give the food a miss.
Pros: Wonderful spot, great views, awesome chowder
Cons: Our particular meals that visit weren't great
10/30/2007 Posted by lool
I used to eat/drink at Pier 23 when I lived in the city, so being able to take a friend on Saturday afternoon to soak up some sun and good food was a treat. The service was friendly, but not pretentious (as always) and the light breeze complimented the views of sailboats on the bay. Fairly inexpensive. I hade the crab & shrimp sandwich on Sourdough w/ fries ($14) and I think that was the most expensive item on the menu! (Nice respite from some of the overpriced restaurants in the city.) There's no parking, but its only about a 10min walk from the Ferry Building. They also have live music in the evening and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.
Pros: affordable, friendly service, outdoor dining
Cons: no parking
Users Like You Also Viewed
The Ramp
855 China Basin St
San Francisco, CA 94107
Chaya Brasserie
132 The Embarcadero
San Francisco, CA 94105
