399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA | Directions 94105
37.790456 -122.388966 View Website
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Happy hour is the time to go for $1 oysters and cocktail and drink specials. On a sunny day, sit on the outdoor patio with waterfront views of the Bay Bridge.

Waterbar is one of my favorite restaurants in SF: some of the best bay views in the city, a classy and lively atmosphere, solid service, and creative, seasonal, delicious food. Pricey, yes (inevitable due to location), but portions are generous and the kitchen puts a lot of heart and imagination into their dishes. Great spot for business, pleasure, and everything in between.
paying for the views.
As others have said, the views here are spectacular, but the food just doesn't keep up. We had a table of six and shared several things, so we got to try many of their appetizers and entres. None of it "wowed" us. There were a couple that were okay and several that were just plain unimpressive. As for atmosphere, there was a perpetual revolving of people. We saw people being sat at tables and, at least twice, get up to move to another table before they even ordered. When you factor in the price, it's just not worth it.
If you want the views, go to the sister restaurant Epic right next door. The food is still tiny, but at least it's excellent in flavor and presentation.
Pat Kuleto has a great restaurant reputation for a reason. I totally disagree with the other user reviews of Waterbar. I had lunch there a month ago and thought it was amazing. Food, service, atmosphere - all terrific. No, it's not cheap, but what do you expect for a high-end restaurant with killer views? I love just about any seafood, and really enjoyed the scallop ceviche and fish entree I had. Both melted in my mouth. We had an excellent half bottle of white wine. The server was knowledgeable and professional. I can't wait to go back.
WATER BAR.
PRO's: GORGEOUS Views: H20 & bridge combo is amazing! Raw Bar is Beautiful, Water Columns are impressive!
CON's: Down trodden, un enthusiastic wait staff .
my cocktail was SOUR ... sour as in: ( wolfing down 3-4 raw lemons, sour) waiter was unapologetic ... reminded me of Eor w/o the tail. Once the cocktail incident had been rectified, we enjoyed the view and the drink ...
Horrible Maitre d service and Unfresh Seafood. I got really sick after eating here. I don't know if it's the raw halibut or the other seafood we ordered, but ended up very sick all night after dinner. The food did not taste fresh and was on the salty side. The maitre d's (there were 3 of them) were very unhospitable. Personally, I would never recommend this restaurant and would never go back again.
Can only seat a party of 6?.
I was just informed that the restaurant can only seat parties of 6 or less in the main didning room. Pretty stupid considering the number of Financial Disctrict lunch parties they must turm away.
Dissapointed.
Pay for the View.
Amazing view. Great Ambience. Wonderful wine list, friendly service, unfortunately the food is overpriced and it was unimpressive. If you're in the mood for plain crab and lobster for $50 a la carte then go for it. I ordered their version of fish and chips ($29) and had a stomach ache all night.
Unfotunately, the sides don't make up for the lacking food. For those prices I expect more from a dish.
The presentation is unique and I do give them credit for their intent.
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