Swan Oyster Depot

Oysters and 'Sicilian sashimi' at a century-old marble counter

⚠ Cash only; closed Sundays

Hours: Mon-Sat lunch only, closes 2:30pm; closed Sun
Budget: About $40-60 per person
Address: 1517 Polk St (near California St)

Half fish market, half seafood bar: a narrow room with one long marble counter and backless stools, where the staff shuck oysters and crack crab right in front of you. Regulars order the off-menu 'Sicilian sashimi', thin-sliced raw fish with olive oil, salt, pepper and capers, no soy needed. Chowder comes with tangy sourdough and butter. No reservations, no website, just a line; one visitor waited an hour and a half at noon on a Monday.