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Swan Oyster Depot

1517 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109-3606
Phone: (415) 673-1101
Swan Oyster Depot
Price:
$$
Cross Street:
California Street
Best of Citysearch:
Lunch Spot 2007, Raw Oysters 2006, Clam Chowder 2004
Hours:
Mon-Sat 8am-5:30pm

Editorial Review for Swan Oyster Depot – by Jane Tunks

The Scene
Once past the perpetual line, diners grab a stool behind the long, narrow marble bar. Even first-time visitors are greeted like long-lost relatives by the affable owner-operators. Decor is decidedly no-frills, with menus decking the walls and a counter cluttered with oyster crackers and fresh-cut lemons. Watch as the expert fishmongers shuck bivalves to order.

The Food
Pure, unadulterated seafood is the be-all and end-all at this historic eatery. Daily, at least four types of oysters shimmer with freshness, like buttery Kumamotos, delicate Beau Soleils and sweet Olympias. Freshly pulled Anchor Steam is the perfect foil. Unlike many chowders, Swan's velvety Boston rendition is thin and unsullied by thickening agents. Lump crabmeat drenched in creamy Louie dressing elevates the throwback salad's shredded iceberg lettuce. Mixed seafood cocktail, jam-packed with prawns, baby shrimp, crabmeat and oysters, is dosed with a barely tangy cocktail sauce. Sweet, tender Dungeness crab is served cracked and plain, and is especially good in season.

Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.

Insider Tips

Know Before You Go

A short list of wines served by the glass and bar seating accommodate solo diners.

Save Time

Make a stop at the ATM before going--no credit cards or debit cards accepted.

When to Go

Swan Oyster Depot doesn't take reservations, and there's nearly always a line stretching onto the sidewalk. Avoid mealtimes to minimize the wait.

User Reviews for Swan Oyster Depot

Citysearch (43), InsiderPages (2 ), MenuPages (2 ), Trip Advisor (11 ), Frommer's (1 ), Judy's Book (3 ), Dine.com (4 ), ChefMoz (1 ), AOL CityGuide (3 ), All (70)

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

04/17/2008 Posted by baggen

It was one of the most incredible seafood experiences I've ever had! Delectable! Fresh, tasty, comfortable, fun! Service was awesome! It's a place I will visit everytime I go into the City for sure! I only wish it was bigger, but I love the intimacy of the place!

Cons: Too small

3 Star Rating: Average

12/20/2007 Posted by raylikesfood

If you've ever walked along Polk St. around lunchtime and seen a long line of people outside of a restaurant, then you've definitely come across Swan's. I've seen this sight quite a few times and decided to give it a try one day with two other friends. After about a 20 minute wait, we were lucky enough to grab 3 stools next to each other. I ordered a seafood salad and a dozen assorted oysters. If there's one thing they do right, its their super-fresh seafood. It was all very tasty. But after satisfying my curiosity about the place, I gotta say that I don't think I'll be coming back here. The dining arrangement is one long, wet counter-top with only a few rickety stools to sit on, hence the long line of people waiting outside the door. At 6' tall, I couldn't get comfortable while eating my meal. Also, while they seem like nice guys, the family running the business can use some customer service training. They were more inclined to hold conversations with each other and regulars stopping by to say hello than they were paying attention to the actual customers who wanted to order. Also, while the seafood is of very good quality, the prices were still pretty steep. Give it a try once and see if you think its worth coming back to.

Pros: Great seafood

Cons: Service, long wait times, uncomfortable seating arrangements

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Editor's Review

Mayberry-style friendliness, impeccable seafood and affordable prices--this family-owned oyster bar has earned its legendary status.  See the full editorial review.

Insider Tips

Know Before You Go

A short list of wines served by the glass and bar seating accommodate solo diners.

More Insider Tips

Restaurant Information

Parking

  • Street

Hours

  • Mon-Sat 8am-5:30pm

Cuisines

  • American (Traditional)
  • Seafood

Payment Types

  • Cash

Meal Price

  • $$

Amenities

  • Dine at the Bar
  • Local Favorites
  • Kid Friendly

Recognition for Swan Oyster Depot

2007 Editorial Winner - Lunch Spot
2006 Audience Winner - Raw Oysters
2004 Audience Winner - Clam Chowder

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