(415) 673-1101
1517 Polk St
San Francisco,
CA
94109
37.7907
-122.4208
Neighborhoods: Northeast, Nob Hill
What People Are Saying About Swan Oyster Depot
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
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…
Not to be missed
by rangerval
I ate here for the first time in 1987 and I make a point to stop here everytime I return.
The raw oysters are a must as is the clam chowder.
Get the crab louie - more crab - less work.
I'll be having lunch their next week - a 55th birtday present to me from me!
- Pros: The fresh sea food and the guys behind the counter
- Cons: none in my mind
Very Delicious, fresh oysters
by steely1
What a fun, delicious place to get oysters. The freshest in town! Ordered three dozen for a party I was having and they came out beautifully. And the nicest owner's. While you wait for a table. they offer you wine. Very fun, very delicious and if you like seafood it's a must!
- Pros: It's legendary
- Cons: Cash Only
Dirtiest Place EVER!!
by Heineybabe
OMG... I have never been to any food place where the worker's do not wash their hands after handling cash. Licking their hands, (note: no ATTEMPTs to even wash their hands) touching the hand-made crab salad. Grabbing themselves, touching their hair, and much more. GROSS, not only that very rude and mean. GROSS, GROSS, GROSS!!! This place should be shut down for being mishandling people's food.
- Cons: DIRTY, NASTY, GROSS, MEAN
The Details on Swan Oyster Depot
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.















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