Nestled on the scenic Embarcadero, Pier 23 is a no-frills seafood spot with casual vibes, cool cocktails, and stunning outdoor views.
"Pier 23 is a family-run bar and restaurant on the Embarcadero with good beer, stiff cocktails, and a menu of things like salads and tacos. We usually skip the food when we’re here (this isn’t a place where you’ll say, “Hey, try this”), and instead use this spot as a ticket to waterfront drinking. Lots of umbrellas, tables, and plastic chairs fill the cozy but sun-lit outdoor area. Enjoy the views with a drink before moving on to the next spot." - lani conway, julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez
"Pier 23 is a family-run bar and restaurant on the Embarcadero with good beer, stiff cocktails, and a menu of things like salads, tacos, and crab cakes. We usually skip the food when we’re here (this isn’t a place where you’ll say, “Hey, try this”), and instead use this spot as a ticket to waterfront drinking. Lots of umbrellas, tables, and plastic chairs fill the cozy but sun-lit outdoor area. Enjoy the views with a drink before moving on to the next spot." - team infatuation
"If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the Ferry Building, head north and Pier 23 Cafe’s lowkey vibes by the water may be the salve you’re seeking. The menu is classic waterside fare, with seafood infiltrating dishes like the shrimp Louie salad and fried fish tacos. Most items are solid here, such as the shrimp melt sandwich or the cheeseburger with two smash patties, and specials are where the menu gets trendy, so it’s worth a listen. Head to the back patio, get one of the classic cocktails or a beer, stare out at the water, and you have the makings of a pretty great San Francisco moment." - Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff
"Pier 23 Cafe Restaurant & Bar, a San Francisco waterfront staple known for its smoked salmon and shrimp Louie salads, has been put up for sale for $1.5 million. The listing includes two outdoor patios, two liquor licenses, live entertainment permits, and decades of goodwill. The restaurant has been in the same family since 1986 and has garnered interest over the years. Anthony Bourdain praised it for offering great views away from the crowds of Fisherman's Wharf." - Paolo Bicchieri
"Pier 23 is a family-run bar and restaurant on the Embarcadero with good beer, stiff cocktails, and a menu of things like salads, tacos, and crab cakes. We usually skip the food when we’re here (this isn’t a place where you’ll say, “Hey, try this”), and instead use this spot as a ticket to waterfront drinking. Lots of umbrellas, tables, and plastic chairs fill the cozy but sun-lit outdoor area. Enjoy the views with a drink before moving on to the next spot." - lani conway