Pier 23

Pier 23 is a classic San Francisco waterfront hangout perched right on the Embarcadero, a little weathered in all the right ways. Family‑owned since the 1980s, it feels both salty and welcoming—more working‑dock tavern than polished tourist restaurant. Sitting here with a drink or a plate of seafood while the bay breeze comes through feels like getting a front‑row seat to the city’s maritime side.

Pier 23 is best known for its long‑running live music program, which cycles through jazz, blues, salsa, reggae, and everything in between. Daytime sets can feel laid‑back and sun‑drenched, perfect for lingering over lunch, while evenings often build into a lively party with a small but committed dance floor. The crowd is a mix of locals, service‑industry regulars, and visitors who wandered in and decided to stay once they heard the band kick in.

The menu leans into San Francisco‑style seafood comfort, the kind of dishes that make sense when you’re sitting over the water. Dungeness crab sandwiches, fish and chips, oysters, and other bay‑centric plates are the staples, backed up by simple sides and bar classics. It’s less about fancy presentation and more about fresh, satisfying food that matches the setting. The kitchen closes at 6pm but the bar is open later.

Drinks at Pier 23 are straightforward and easygoing—cold beer, classic cocktails, and simple mixed drinks built for long afternoons and unhurried evenings. You’ll see plenty of pints and highballs on the tables, with a few house favorites and seasonal specials sprinkled in. The focus is on keeping glasses full and the vibe loose rather than crafting elaborate showpiece cocktails.

• Expansive bayside patio that sits right over the water, with direct views of the Bay Bridge and passing ships.

• Eclectic nautical decor inside—maritime memorabilia, vintage signs, and old photos that give the room its lived‑in charm.

• Longstanding live music reputation, with styles ranging from jazz and blues to salsa and reggae.

• A genuine old San Francisco feel that stands apart from the more manicured waterfront spots nearby.