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Waterbar, San Francisco, CA

Waterbar

4.6
4.6
10196 Reviews
$31 to $50
Seafood
Top Tags:
Waterbar is a seafood-centric restaurant located on the waterfront with spectacular panoramic views of the bay and city skyline, exceptional design, and a menu of the freshest sustainable fish and seafood. Featuring stunning outdoor (dog-friendly) dining on the waterfront patio, a relaxed atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling circular aquariums filled with an eye-catching array of fish and marine life from the Pacific Ocean. Waterbar is not to be missed.


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2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 136 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Private dining

Private dining

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Additional information

  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Cuisines
    Seafood
  • Hours of operation
    Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–9:15 pm Lunch Daily 11:30 am–2:30 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Phone number
    (415) 284-9922
  • Website
    http://www.waterbarsf.com/
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Executive chef
    Parke Ulrich
  • Private party facilities
    The best view in San Francisco combined with sustainable seafood makes Waterbar the perfect destination for you to celebrate!
  • Private party contact
    David Hanna: (415) 284-9607
  • Location
    399 The Embarcadero South, San Francisco, CA 94105
  • Neighborhood
    Financial District / Embarcadero
  • Cross street
    Harrison
  • Parking details
    Metered street parking can be found on the surrounding streets of our neighborhood. There is also the Hills Plaza Garage (entrance at Folsom near Embarcadero). Go to: spothero.com for additional help.
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

What 10,196 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.6
4.6 based on recent ratings
  • 4.5Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.2Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

  • San Francisco Bay Area

    Most Booked

  • San Francisco

    Great for scenic views

  • San Francisco

    Seafood

  • San Francisco

    Most Booked

10,196 Reviews

  1. ZazouClaudia

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 1 day ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Such a lovely restaurant. Food is delicious and creative and the oysters are cheap! love it.

    Is this helpful?

  2. NBPB

    New Orleans

    8 reviews

    5.0

    8 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food was amazing. Love the location. A perfect location and meal for a special celebration. Cocktails - great. Lobster bisque and crido starter- wow!!! Our entrees Miso Black Cod and Sole were perfectly seasoned and cooked.

    Is this helpful?

  3. MeghanR

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    2.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall2food1service1ambience3
    Inedible porchetta and bad service. Waterbar is permanently off the list.

    Is this helpful?

  4. AudreyM

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined 2 days ago

    overall3food4service3ambience2
    The second floor is now devoted to private parties. The first floor feels like someone's basement - no charm whatever. The dishes we had were inventive and nicely presented. But the price is outrageous and the service is too fast. Check the menu online to avoid a shock.

    Is this helpful?

  5. OpenTable Diner

    Cincinnati

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Perfect place to celebrate my birthday! Phenomenal food, atmosphere and service!

    Is this helpful?

  6. Tommy

    Denver

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 4 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Lovely ambience; great seafood; attentive service. Interesting and delicious selections.

    Is this helpful?

  7. OpenTable Diner

    Sacramento

    19 reviews

    5.0

    19 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food and impeccable service (thank you Fred S.)

    Is this helpful?

  8. JulioR

    San Francisco

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined 5 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Lobster Bisque is one of my favorite soups ever. Excellent service and a very nice environment. We moved recently to the Bay area, and Water Bar has positioned quickly as one of our favorite restaurants in the town.

    WaterbarResponded 4 days ago

    We love hearing your knid comments, thanks so much Julio! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  9. srbgolf

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Fantastic food, outstanding service and a beautiful view from our table by the window! All the food we ordered was beautifully presented and delicious. Our waiter was fantastic and constantly checked on us to make sure we had everything we needed and to refill our wine glasses. His support staff were also excellent, clearing our of dishes away once we were finished, and kept our water glasses constantly full. The wait staff reminded me of pre-pandemic times when restaurants could build and retain great staff. It was an absolute pleasure being served great food by a wonderful staff. Kudos to everyone at Waterbar, we will be back soon!

    WaterbarResponded 4 days ago

    WOW srbgolf, YOU made Our Day! !! Thanks for those most meaningful and appreciated comments, best, Rich T

    Is this helpful?

  10. JulieS

    Indiana

    2 reviews

    4.0

    2 reviews

    Dined 6 days ago

    overall4food5service4ambience5
    The setting was phenomenal and the food presentation exquisite. It was a bit pricey but worth it.

    WaterbarResponded 5 days ago

    We appreciate it Julie! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  11. EdwardF

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall4food5service4ambience4
    Really delicious food, quite simply prepared to show off the quality of the ingredients, perfectly balanced and well presented. The Petrale Sole was really good. The wine list is extensive, with many small producers featured and a good range of prices. The restaurant has a good vibe, with an open kitchen, which is something I like. The location is excellent with the Oakland Bay Bridge as a backdrop. We had a really fabulous lunch and very much look forward to returning when we are next in San Francisco.

    Is this helpful?

  12. BarbaraM

    1 review

    1.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall1food3service1ambience1
    Service was sub standard. Can't recommend it for the price

    WaterbarResponded 6 days ago

    We are very sorry to hear of your impression, we pride ourselves on great service. Thanks you Barbara, Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  13. OpenTable Diner

    Mexico City

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 17, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food. A very beautiful place. Fantastic service. Juan, our waiter, was splendid. We are eager to come back when we visit again San Francisco.

    Is this helpful?

  14. Lawyer

    San Francisco

    24 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    24 reviews

    Dined on September 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Outdoor seating at sunset, with the excellent food and top notch service, is sublime. A perfect San Francisco dining experience.

    WaterbarResponded 4 days ago

    We so THANK you Lawyer! Great to hear, best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  15. CarlB

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience3
    As usual, everything was marvelous. Unfortunately, I had asked for a quiet table by the window and we were seated between two large groups. Things were very noisy. I know you have better quieter tables I. At the window, and not in the back room.

    Is this helpful?

  16. sftraveler

    San Francisco

    38 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    38 reviews

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food, great service, overall 5 star restaurant.

    Is this helpful?

  17. ChristopherH

    San Francisco

    50 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    50 reviews

    Dined on September 15, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    As always our food and service were incredible. We had the Seafood Risotto and OMG just when you thought nothing could taste better here, this did. Thanks to our server Yetem N. She was a lot of fun and gave us great service. We always eat here when we are in the city.

    Is this helpful?

  18. Sara

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Took my husband there for his 40th birthday. Food was great. Had the chefs oysters, sour bread, drinks, ceviche, zucchini and po boy sandwich. Zucchini was a surprisingly tasty appetizer. The sandwich was a big portion that we split it. It was great service and they surprised him at the end with a happy birthday plate with 2 cute cheesecake pieces. Overall I loved the place. We sat inside for lunch and hence was noisy because it’s a busy restaurant but they have patio seating with a spectacular view of the bay bridge. Would be beautiful for dinner.

    Is this helpful?

  19. ThomasK

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    What a great experience - the food, service, ambiance and people made this the most ‘memorable’ and enjoyable experience. Thank you !!

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  20. MelissaK

    Anchorage

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 11, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Service was wonderful. Atmosphere was lovey. Food was great but pricey but delicious.

    WaterbarResponded on September 12, 2023

    We thank you so very much Melissa! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  21. George

    Denver

    10 reviews

    vip
    1.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on September 11, 2023

    overall1food1service1ambience1
    The person at the front desk of the restaurant was a black woman who was unkind. And I wanted to tell you something uncomfortable, but I held it in because it was my birthday and the food was so bad I couldn't eat the shrimp because it was fishy. I ordered a medium steak. But the meat was well-done steak. The soup was so salty that I couldn' It's a low-quality restaurant compared to the price.

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  22. dineandopera

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 11, 2023

    overall3food3service3ambience4
    Everything we all had that was cooked was far too salty. Too bad because it was prepared well but there was no miso flavor to my cod and far too much salt (same with the Branzino and porchetta). Waterbar used to be great and we went regularly but the food has fallen (and service as well). I don't think we'll be back.

    WaterbarResponded on September 12, 2023

    Hello Dineandopera, We are as inspired as ever to deliver great guest experiences. Our guest feedback is higher then it has ever been in our history. If there is something you do not like, we are happy to prepare something that makes you happy in the moment. We appreciate your comments and so wish you would be kind enough to allow us to welcome again. I would be happy to connect and invite you back. Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  23. BethD

    1 review

    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 11, 2023

    overall2food1service3ambience5
    Nearly $200 for overcooked fish and dry what felt like day old steak fries. Highly disappointed in this place ... also random servers always coming up 3 different servers in less than 45 minutes. Do not recommend would not go back. Also was weird that the waiter asked if we would like bread and then was charged for the bread .

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  24. OpenTable Diner

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    John our waiter was fantastic. Weather was perfect and food was great. My favorite San Fran restaurant

    Is this helpful?

  25. grindhil

    San Francisco

    10 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We enjoyed our dinner very much. The food was very good but quite a bit more than in the past. However, I was disappointed in the bathrooms. They were very unclean. There should be a close monitoring of them during the dining hours to be sure they don't need cleaning.

    WaterbarResponded on September 11, 2023

    Thank you Grindhil, we do send in our host staff to check restrooms and sorry to hear they were not in proper order. Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  26. Kristine

    Philadelphia

    48 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    48 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My husband and I had a great experience. The servers were busy but still attentive and provided good recommendations. The food was delicious, especially the crab cocktail, the liver mousse, the cod and the sole. Smallish menu but a great option for fresh seafood!

    WaterbarResponded on September 11, 2023

    We thank you Kristine for the support! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  27. JeffS

    Los Angeles

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Excellent food and service. Worth the price for a special evening out. Outdoor views spectacular.

    WaterbarResponded on September 11, 2023

    We thank you Jeff, for the comments and support, best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  28. boccioni

    San Francisco

    70 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    70 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    As always, very good food and great service. The birthday card was a very nice touch!

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  29. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Chris our server was amazing. Food was amazing, everything went perfect

    WaterbarResponded on September 9, 2023

    Many thanks!

    Is this helpful?

  30. Harkersgirl123

    San Francisco

    41 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    41 reviews

    Dined on September 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Always a favorite for us . Always consistent . Always the best views … if it’s not Waterbar Definitely Epic .

    WaterbarResponded on September 11, 2023

    We, both EPIC and Waterbar, love hearing that Harkersgirl123! Thanks! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  31. OpenTable Diner

    London

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Quality food and service all in a great venue looking out on the Oakland bridge

    WaterbarResponded on September 11, 2023

    Thanks so very much!

    Is this helpful?

  32. Dave

    San Francisco

    13 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    13 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We sat outside with a great view of the SF Bay and the East Bay Bridge. The service was exceptional and the food was especially delicious. This is a authentic San Francisco experience. The sourdough bread was outstanding. We will be back.

    WaterbarResponded on September 11, 2023

    We love hearing of great nights Waterbar - thanks Dave! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  33. Zsazsarocks

    San Francisco

    10 reviews

    5.0

    10 reviews

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Juan and Rojas provided amazing service and the food was incredible! We had oysters, lobster bisque, seafood risotto for two, and the peach cheesecake mousse - everything we ate was exceptional. It was my partner's birthday and they brought out a special dessert player with his name written in chocolate. I highly suggest Water Bar!

    WaterbarResponded on September 9, 2023

    That makes us happy! Thank you Zsazarocks! best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  34. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great view of the bay bridge, and our server Monty was the best! Great experience.

    WaterbarResponded on September 9, 2023

    Thanks so much and happy to share with Monte!

    Is this helpful?

  35. OpenTable Diner

    Fayetteville

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 8, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Perfect dinner! I loved that it was an upscale restaurant with chill vibes.

    WaterbarResponded on September 8, 2023

    We love your description! THANKS!

    Is this helpful?

  36. KathleenE

    San Francisco

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    1st time dinner was a birthday celebration. The service was good. The food was delicious. The views and venue was beautiful. I'd recommend this place.

    WaterbarResponded on September 8, 2023

    We so appreciate teh support Kathleen! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  37. ThomasK

    San Diego

    28 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    28 reviews

    Dined on September 7, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    A beautiful view of the bay from our table and a wonderful seafood dinner was had by all four of us. The ingredients were top notch fresh and flavorful as well as unusual combinations.

    WaterbarResponded on September 8, 2023

    Thanks so very much ThomasK! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  38. CarlC

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on September 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great afternoon with sunny skies . Service was on point Food was tasty

    WaterbarResponded on September 8, 2023

    With appreciation Carl! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  39. CookieMonster

    San Francisco

    55 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    55 reviews

    Dined on September 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Amazing, as usual. Ordered the branzino and side of box squash, all perfectly prepared and beautiful presentation. I just forgot to take a photo before we devoured it.

    WaterbarResponded on September 6, 2023

    Amazing as usuall! Thanks so very much Missmarymack! Best, Rich T.

    Is this helpful?

  40. OpenTable Diner

    London

    1 review

    vip
    2.0

    1 review

    Dined on September 5, 2023

    overall2food1service2ambience2
    Seafood was over cooked and value was bad. Cookie was the best part the staff were nice but took some chasing to get served. Felt overpriced and cremating fish at a fish restaurant is unacceptable

    Is this helpful?

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
    • Contactless payment available

  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace
    • Staff is vaccinated

FAQs

Waterbar offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (415) 284-9922.

Waterbar is rated 4.6 stars by 10196 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people
7:00 PM
Booked 136 times today

Order delivery or takeout

Google Map for Waterbar

399 The Embarcadero South, San Francisco, CA 94105

Additional information

  • Cross street
    Harrison
  • Neighborhood
    Financial District / Embarcadero
  • Hours of operation
    Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–9:15 pm Lunch Daily 11:30 am–2:30 pm Dinner Mon–Thu, Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm
  • Cuisines
    Seafood
  • Dining style
    Casual Elegant
  • Dress code
    Casual Dress
  • Parking details
    Metered street parking can be found on the surrounding streets of our neighborhood. There is also the Hills Plaza Garage (entrance at Folsom near Embarcadero). Go to: spothero.com for additional help.
  • Payment options
    AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
  • Executive chef
    Parke Ulrich
  • Additional
    Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, BYO Wine, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Delivery, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Vegan, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine
  • Website
    http://www.waterbarsf.com/
  • Phone number
    (415) 284-9922
  • Private party facilities
    The best view in San Francisco combined with sustainable seafood makes Waterbar the perfect destination for you to celebrate!
  • Private party contact
    David Hanna: (415) 284-9607
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