Swan Oyster Depot

Swan Oyster Depot, located at 1517 Polk St, San Francisco, stands as a celebrated institution in the seafood scene. With a reputation that exceeds expectations, patrons consistently rave about the freshness and quality of the offerings. Reviewers like Laura Mohammed emphasize the delightful experience of sampling multiple dishes in a relaxed atmosphere, noting the friendly staff and the absence of overwhelming lines—an unexpected bonus for such a renowned eatery. A standout among the reviews is the glowing praise for the oysters, which are heralded as the star of the menu, alongside equally impressive crab preparations. Alexandra Beramendi encapsulates the essence of the experience: seafood served in its purest form, complemented by freshly baked sourdough. Prices are as attractive as the food, defying the common notion that quality comes at a premium. Moreover, the cozy environment fosters a communal spirit, where even tourists feel welcomed, as noted by Chun Shukyee. Each dish—whether clam chowder or sashimi—offers a burst of flavor that leaves diners clamoring for more. Regulars like Mark Steele echo the sentiment of nostalgia and consistent quality, ensuring a magnetic pull back to this beloved establishment. In sum, Swan Oyster Depot is a gem that demands to be experienced, where each visit encapsulates the pinnacle of seafood dining.

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
- No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
- Offers delivery
- On-site services available
- Offers takeaway
- Serves dine-in
Highlights
- Has fast service
Popular for
- Popular for breakfast
- Popular for lunch
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves alcohol
- Serves beer
- Serves comfort food
- Serves healthy options
- Serves small plates
- Serves wine
Dining options
- Serves breakfast
- Serves brunch
- Serves lunch
- Has catering
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Popular with tourists
Planning
- Usually has a wait
- Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
- Cash only
- Accepts cheques
Children
- High chairs available
Parking
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed

Laura Mohammed

May 6,2025

This spot is a must visit in SF! We walked over around 10am and were pleasantly surprised that there wasn’t a line up based on the reviews. We enjoyed multiple dishes and absolutely loved every bite. The staff are so so nice, and atmosphere is so chill and the food is incredible. They didn’t have any crab but we honestly didn’t mind since there are so many other options!

Alexandra Beramendi

May 4,2025

Like Swan Oyster Depot needs another glowing review... BUT- Love this no BS place. Everything is fresh and exceptional quality. You are served seafood how it ought to be every time- In its purest, most delectable form- I would recommend coming toward the end (2:30) of the day to minimize wait time. Oysters are obviously the shining star here, but please also do not go home without an order of crab in any of its glorious forms. Bread is as real as the shellfish. No frills, just good grub. Also, the prices are unbeatable. Like you pay the same amount at any other establishment for half (or less) the quality. Honestly, surprised the waits are longer- no complaints tho...

Chun Shukyee

Apr 6,2025

It’s great finding a popular seafood place that lives up to the internet hype! It’s a small cosy place serving affordably priced, high quality and excellent seafood! We ordered clam chowder, crab back, sashimi and crab cocktail! Everything was soooo fresh, perfectly seasoned and flavourful! We loved every bite!! Also loved the service there, staff working/preparing the food seem like they enjoying their work! They were also very friendly to all the tourists who visited and made it a very pleasant dining experience for all of us! We will definitely visit again shall we come to SF!

Shelley Hook

Mar 12,2025

Worth the wait in line- food is a spiritual experience! Must must order everything, especially their chowder with a gorgeous hunk of their unbelievable sourdough. Flew from Chi and this was a top destination for our trip, if I lived in SF I’d eat here every day

Mark Steele

Mar 2,2025

Best place ever!!!! Unless you don't eat seafood, there is zero veto to be here. Friendly, efficient, nostalgic... I've been coming here for 25 years, every visit as good as the last. Clams, oysters, crab, sourdough, steam beer, not veto. Cash only though.

Nigel Oh

Feb 8,2025

Oysters, clams, crab... everything seafood is superb. Especially the raw scallops - probably our favourite item. Long queues though! First time we managed to get seats without waiting (8:30am on Friday). On the next day (Saturday 10:00am) it was a 90 minute wait! So decided to get a takeaway (20 mins wait!). It was still delicious, but not as nice as eating in!

Aleksander Amer

Jan 27,2025

This place is it. I waited for little bit in line and chatted with my new friend Donn about vintage cinema and seafood. What a cool guy. We sat together and enjoyed the best seafood I’ve ever had. That’s not an exaggeration, it was an incredible experience and fresh as can be. We had a couple Crab Louie salads and oysters. Highly recommend this place and the staff were the absolute best! Great energy and so knowledgeable paired with a love for what they do. You’ll love it and make sure to bring cash!

Connie Kwok

Jan 23,2025

CASH ONLY (Chase bank across the street) Highly recommended, locals, and for tourists alike. I indulged in chowder, crab 'cocktail' (which I took literally, it's a portion of crab meat) and a half dozen of oysters. Kevin, along with the rest of the staff, were attentive, kind, and friendly, and there is a variety of sauces (the cocktail sauce was too ketchupy for me) to enjoy a simple menu for any seafood lover at this frills free place. On a rainy weekday at 11a, I snagged a solo spot at the bar. I'll be back, enjoy!! PS there is no official website, you'll figure it out when you arrive!