Swan Oyster Depot
There’s never not a line at this no-frills raw bar in Nob Hill. But it’s worth the hang time to get super-fresh seafood in this authentic, untouched lunch counter where the décor consists of sports memorabilia, seafood posters, and a hand-painted menu tacked to the wall. The window case is filled with lobsters, crab claws, shrimp of all sizes, clams, squid, smoked salmon, and more, to be served as cocktails, salads, or straight up. Have an Anchor Steam while you wait (it’s okay), then order Dungeness crab, Drake’s Bay oysters, house-smoked salmon, raw scallops with olive oil, lemon, and salt, and, if you’re with (patient) friends, the shrimp or crab Louie. The prices do not reflect the simple surroundings, so plan on burritos for dinner. #WorthIt
PRO TIP: It’s easiest to get one of the 18 seats if you go alone. Or hit it when they open at 10:30.
THE DETAILS: Cash only. Open 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Closed Sunday.
