I came to Swan Oyster Depot at least six times before I could get one of seventeen stools at the bar. When I finally realized I had to go at an off hour, about thirty minutes before closing, my date and I practically had the place to ourselves. This 2000 James Beard award winner, for “America’s Classics”, is brilliant. For me it felt like a shack on the beach at the Jersey Shore. I’m not sure if it was the hustle of the guys behind the counter, singing classic rock while shucking my oysters, or the neighborhood feel and smell of fresh seafood and ocean, regardless it felt like home to me.
The turn over is ridiculous, as it should be with the limited seating. The menu, as shown above is staring at you in the face, so order quick! On the right of the menu is the daily selection of oysters available. I got a sample of each, but my favorite were the only natives from Washington, Olympia. They were so tiny, but damn, the flavor was BIG. I had a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, which was one of at least six or seven white wines in a bucket of ice. They only had one bottle of red and a few good beers to choose from. In front of every two or three seats there was a giant stack of napkins, big bottle of tabasco sauce, fresh lemon wedges and oyster crackers.
My date had the clam chowder, and loved it. That’s when those oyster crackers came into play. After the oysters and soup, we were still a little hungry so one of the guys told us about the Combination Seafood Salad. It was definitely satisfying with the crisp shrimp and crab meat, crunchy lettuce, and creamy house made dressing. Between the oysters, chowder, salad and sour dough bread (which was devoured immediately) we walked out 100% satisfied. So pleased, I returned a few days later with some new dates and have been making frequent visits ever since.
*Don’t call, they won’t answer. Open Monday-Saturday 8am-5:30pm. Cash Only (WaMu across the street).
Swan Oyster Depot
1517 Polk Street (Cross Street: California)
San Francisco, CA 94109
415-673-1101
