Pier 23 Cafe

01/09/2008 Posted by babybird74

I know that season/weather, company, ambience etc affects one's dining experience but, personally, I write restaurant reviews based on one thing: the food. The food at Pier 23 is, in my opinion, a mixed bag. This was by first ever visit to San Francisco and, as a self-confessed foodie, I was desperate to try the famous clam chowder. Oh my gad, was their chowder amazing: thick, creamy, loaded with clammy goodness; it couldn't have been any better. I ordered their Fisherman's Platter as my entree, and I was miserably disappointed. Everything was so heavily breaded and greasy; there were no distinct flavors; the fries were embarrassingly McDonaldsy; the highlight was the mediocre coleslaw. Big Bird's fish and chips were decent enough but, come on, where's the cod?? I'd go back again for the chowder, and I'm sure it would be a wonderful spot to partay during the summer, but I'd give the food a miss.

Pros: Wonderful spot, great views, awesome chowder

Cons: Our particular meals that visit weren't great

10/30/2007 Posted by lool

I used to eat/drink at Pier 23 when I lived in the city, so being able to take a friend on Saturday afternoon to soak up some sun and good food was a treat. The service was friendly, but not pretentious (as always) and the light breeze complimented the views of sailboats on the bay. Fairly inexpensive. I hade the crab & shrimp sandwich on Sourdough w/ fries ($14) and I think that was the most expensive item on the menu! (Nice respite from some of the overpriced restaurants in the city.) There's no parking, but its only about a 10min walk from the Ferry Building. They also have live music in the evening and a fun, laid-back atmosphere.

Pros: affordable, friendly service, outdoor dining

Cons: no parking

09/07/2007 Posted by trojanstace

We went during the day and got a great table outside with an awesome view of the water. The food was good, great atmosphere and flowing drinks. Loved it!

08/30/2007 Posted by zantashelper

Wow... just found this site! I sooo much loved Pier 23 many years ago (about 10 in number) ;-) i wonder if it is still the same! Great athmosphere, nice music and very nice people working there! i wonder if anyone of them is still there... Denis, Frank, Santos, Thorsten.... Hope to be there one day again! ;-) Greetings from Austria! Birgit

11/16/2006 Posted by lkcoops

If you enjoy a no nonsense bar with an outside deck that serves reasonably priced drinks and has music then this is the place for you. It's always a good time on the Pier. The crowd is friendly and interesting. Come with friends or come to make friends - it's all good.

Pros: Outside seating, fun crowd

Cons: Gets crowded

07/30/2006 Posted by redsurf

We stopped in on a Thursday afternoon after a recommendation from a local. A lot of locals packing the windy, chilly outdoor patio on the Pier. The view was great at sunset. Service was OK, and the seafood we ordered was above average and priced about right. I would go back to Pier 23, but probably only for lunch or a drink.

12/08/2005 Posted by jjj1195

EXTREME POOR MANAGEMENT***we made reservations at Pier 23 for a 40 person office party before Thanksgiving. Just 2 days before the event, Pier 23 called us and rudely informed us that they were canceling our party in order to accommodate another bigger party. The management was not at all apologetic. Service and behavior of this manner is both inexcusable and unprofessional.

11/14/2005 Posted by pennypie

Great place for parties! They really lay out a nice buffet, good BBQ, terrific music.

Pros: Great view, Easy parking, Intimate

Cons: Food pricey

08/03/2005 Posted by melahi7

I don't why people like the margaritas so much. They have one flavor and don't blend it, only on the rocks and their tiny. The ONLY good thing about the place was the outdoor seating.

07/16/2005 Posted by benderdundat

pier 23 is the best place to be, kick it after work, on the weekends or just to hang out!!! service tries to be the best, but sometimes its just too crowded....but luv the atmosphere...all types of people just enjoying what ur enjoying, food,music,drinks,& the view outside.....hey try the owners other bar in the city 2!!! sweeties!!!!

Pros: people, music, drinks

Cons: parking