Hog Island Oyster Company
San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: (415) 391-7117
- Price:
- $
- Best of Citysearch:
- Mood-Enhancing Date Spot 2008, Raw Oysters 2007, Raw Oysters 2007
- Hours:
- Mon-Fri 11:30am-8pm , Sat-Sun 11am-6pm
Editorial Review for Hog Island Oyster Company – by Kimi Walker
The Scene
Oyster fanatics snag a seat at the U-shaped bar, where they watch in awe as staff expertly shuck glistening bivalves over mounds of crushed ice. Commuters and tourists sit at one of the handful of tables overlooking the bay, while convivial T-shirt-clad servers suggest menu choices along with wine pairings.
The Food
The short menu showcases the local oyster farms' pristine bivalves and manila clams in mostly classic preparations. Fresh oysters shimmer with freshness, tasting like they've just been plucked from the sea moments before. A mixed dozen features Hog Island's signature plump Sweetwaters, briny Atlantics and sweet kumamotos, giving purists the chance to compare the flavor profiles of several raw varieties. The Hog Wash, a classic mignonette updated with fresh cilantro and rice vinegar, is a match made in heaven with freshly shucked oysters. Cooked dishes include Sweetwaters baked in creamy beurre blanc and the traditional oysters casino, studded with smoky bacon.
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Insider Tips
When to GoTake advantage of Monday and Thursday night happy hour from 5pm to 7pm, which offers $1 oysters and $3.50 pints.
What to DrinkTry one of the many locally brewed beers on tap, such as Red Seal Ale and Blue Star, or sample an oyster-friendly Muscadet, perfectly matched for the menu.
The ExtrasThe friendly staff is happy to reserve the restaurant for a private party after-hours.
User Reviews for Hog Island Oyster Company
06/13/2008 Posted by greenfairy
This was the first time I've ever been to an "oyster restaurant". Oysters were delicious! If you don't want to spend that much money and you're hungry, you should eat the grilled cheese sandwich to get you a little full and then have some raw oysters! What's crazy is I normally don't eat raw oysters, but these were very very good! The oysters are small, yes- but I was told by a friend that the smaller they are, the more flavorful it will be. And yes, that was sooo true. We tried making it to happy hour on Thursday, but there was such a long wait and we didn't get to experience it. So, I suggest you get there super early. While we waited we got a few beers next door and enjoyed the view of the water. You should be prepared to spend a bit more money than usual, but trust me- it's worth it.
Pros: Delicious oysters and beautiful view
Cons: Long wait- can't make reservations
02/18/2008 Posted by jbum
I've been to the Swam Oyster Depot and loved their oysters. I saw a review on Hog Island on Citysearch and found mostly positive remarks so I decided to take a chance this past weekend. The setting is great as it is set in the Ferry Terminal next to the Bay. It's a very casual spot but a great joint on a sunny day. However, I was so surprised to see the smallest oysters I have seen "ever". Hog Island was rated on the best (maybe top 2) spots for oysters. What were the editors thinking? Swan Depot was a bit more expensive but you actually got more... so in essence I don't think they were any more expensive... maybe less per weight. I also ordered the clam chowder here. It was basically a soup with lots of clams. Although the clams (in their shells) was a nice touch, the chowder itself was watery and nothing like the chowder I'm used to or expect. It was overpriced for what it was.
Pros: view
Cons: small oysters, price
