The World's Top Oyster Bars

Swan Oyster Depot

Open since 1912, Swan is San Francisco’s best—and unquestionably the friendliest—oyster bar. Sal Sancimino bought the place in 1946; it’s still run by his six jovial sons. Join the line—there’s always a line—for one of the 19 stools at the old marble counter, and order a portion of just-picked Dungeness crab (when in season), topped with Swan’s piquant cocktail sauce; a bowl of rich, not-too-thick New England–style clam chowder (the best on the West Coast); and a dozen impeccably shucked, plump and briny Miyagi oysters. Chase them down with a hoppy pint of Anchor Steam, then order a dozen more. (Open for breakfast and lunch only.)