Swan Oyster Depot

(415) 673-1101

1517 Polk St
San Francisco, CA 94109 37.790732 -122.420711

Get Map & Directions »

Neighborhoods: Nob Hill, Northeast

Hours:

Mon-Sat 8am-5:30pm

Price:

$$

Last updated 7.07.11

What People Are Saying About Swan Oyster Depot

Featured Review

Contributor

Contributor

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…

Editor's 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.
1 Star Rating: Poor

10/13/11

terrible phone service

by mellove555 at Citysearch

I was calling around trying to find a good place to eat while in san Fran the guy was so rude short cut me off like 5 times....I would never eat there if it was the best place in town. It made me so mad I literally went out of my way to sign up for this and write a review..

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

09/27/11

ohlalala

by TJMiller at Citysearch

I was craving for some shrimp and decided to visit Swan Oyster Depot. Jesus, Mary and Joseph, but the meal is amazing! Highly recommended to all seafood lovers. I'll be coming back because my meal is DIVINE.

5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

01/31/10

Delicious

by suzan Ruthman at Citysearch

My boyfriend took me there, it took us about 45 minutes to get on counter type chairs but it turned out very tasty seafood, try the Crab louie, VERY delicious.

  • Pros: Everything is fresh
  • Cons: Wait could be long
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

06/17/09

Not to be missed

by rangerval at Citysearch

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
5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended

05/06/09

Very Delicious, fresh oysters

by steely1 at Citysearch

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

As Seen In…

Best of Citysearch

San Francisco

Best of Citysearch

San Francisco

Best of Citysearch

San Francisco

Best of Citysearch

San Francisco

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