San Francisco’s Iconic Eatery — So Good I Waited 2 Hours Willingly

I rarely wait over an hour for a restaurant while traveling, but I stood in line for a full two hours for this 113-year-old legendary seafood spot — from 11:30 AM down the block until 1:30 PM at the door — and I did it gladly. 🌊 Around the world, San Francisco stands out as one of the richest food cities, and Swan Oyster Depot is one of those rare "city icon" restaurants that truly captures the timeless charm of this Pacific port city. 📍 1517 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109 As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by old folk and rock tunes — the staff hum along while they work. It’s clear they’re not just playing some random Spotify playlist; these are songs they genuinely love, just like this is work they truly enjoy. 🎶 Every dish bursts with freshness, from the Sicilian-style sashimi platter to the crab leg salad. All the sauces and dressings are house-made, and you can mix and match to create unique flavors. They pair perfectly with San Francisco sourdough and clam chowder. A note: the Crab Back is on the salty side — skip it if you’re not into bold flavors. Be sure to ask about the seasonal specialties — I’m already looking forward to trying the Dungeness crab next time. 🦀 As a 49ers fan, seeing signed jerseys from legends like Y.A. Tittle, John Brodie, Jerry Rice, Joe Montana, and Steve Young gave me a real sense of belonging. I asked why there was also a signed Packers jersey from legend Paul Hornung — turns out he was a regular here too. Rumor has it “Joe Cool” (Montana) still stops by a few times a month, low-key like any other diner — just let him enjoy his meal without asking for autographs or photos. 🏈 A few tips: Bring enough cash — they don’t accept cards. Come hungry — you’ll want to try everything. Arrive before 10:30 AM if you want to avoid the longest lines. Travel light — space is very limited. They close at 2:30 PM, and items start selling out from 1 PM. The counters and walls are filled with stories — all you have to do is ask. 💬 Anthony Bourdain’s status in the food world needs no introduction. Every time Tony came to San Francisco to film, he’d feast here. He once said: “If I read that I died at this counter, I’d think I had a pretty good life.” Here’s a cold one 🍻, Tony. Thank you for connecting your world to ours — through food, through a timeless INSTITUTION that truly is the FINEST this city can offer. #FuTalks#SanFrancisco#SFfood#SFSeafood#NFL