Wow I came here randomly and this place way exceeds my expectation! To begin with, they give you a drink while you wait to be seated (though too bad I can't tolerate much alcohol and thought it was a soft drink at first). Then the food was also way beyond my expectation - the scampi prawn was the best I had so far, so I finished it even after I stuffed myself with the sourdough bread and side soup and felt that I was already kind of full! Finally the price is really reasonable compared to many other places in SF. I really enjoyed my visit and will come back again if I get the chance! read more

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Excellent fish dishes. Long wait for a small cozy place so arrive early. Not too kid friendly but they accommodated us well

The food is amazing and always a wonderful meal. The service is good and the atmosphere is inviting. They always have a good crowd, but if you have to wait for a table, they kindly provide a complimentary glass of wine. I highly recommend this neighborhood gem. read more

This is a legacy business here in SF. They give a complimentary glass of wine, and the portions are enormous. There are many solid reasons why this place is celebrating 50 years. Definitely worth a try. Paula was a wonderful waitress! read more

Always loved this place but... last night the food was off. More expensive for one, the prawns on the combo plate looked like shrimp. Place was not busy. Makes me wonder read more

We love this place. Was our return after more than a decade. Used to be a go to spot when we lived in the city. The fish is always outstanding and super fresh. The service is friendly and timely and the vibe is great with the free wine while you wait for a table. Having grown up in New England always excited to find a place that does simple fish right. Plenty of places to get inventive fish but this is one of the best if you just want simple. read more

We had a great time here. They make it a point to be gracious even though everybody working is busy running around. We arrived 20 minutes after they opened and there was already a restaurant full of people dining and 12 names ahead of us on the waiting list. Shrimp cocktail: mini shrimp, be aware. Clam chowder: not creamy, small bits of clam and tender celery, warmed us up after waiting an hour outside. Calamari steak: the highlight. I don't think I've had more tender calamari. My husband said the flavor reminded him of pancakes lol I don't know about that but it was delicious. Broccoli side comes as whole crown steamed. Parmesan halibut: great crust, simple, good. Blackened snapper: the Cajun flavor overpowered the fish but still good. The rice is like big pilaf, perfect side. Random: bathroom is clean, bigger than expected, updated it seems. read more

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Sometimes there is a wait, but you don't have to worry because Frank has you covered with a nice big pour of red or white while you enjoy the crisp SF evening weather. The food is always consistently good. Fried oysters, grilled salmon, grilled scallops with the veg of the day, for instance the nonna approved broccolini, all delicious. They put a yummy giant hunk of sour dough on the table with gobs of butter! The feel of the restaurant is very family friendly. Staff is very welcoming and accommodating. Frank is a gem. Go get some Pacific Cafe! read more

Thank you Frank for the unexpected sweet treat on the way home :) Appreciate your generosity stopping us on our walk - We'll be back for dinner soon. read more

Pacific Cafe - Thank you Frank for the sweet treat on our way home!! Appreciate your neighborly generosity:) - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Have you been there? No? Really? They have a line way out on Geary even on cool foggy nights because they're great. Warm & friendly, fish that is always great - fresh & well prepared. Their standard menu is always good, but the specials are the thing. With the included salad, it's nice to have limited but really really good choices. It's excellent comfort food served by genuinely nice people that are so competent at helping you pick your meal that folks are just happy and relaxed. Some hectic Wednesday you're going to need a glass of free jug white wine to drink while chatting with friendly strangers, followed by some Boudin and a salad (I'm a sucker for their bay shrimp Louis dressing) before your perfectly prepared sand dabs. And if you don't know you need that, you might need it today, even if it's not Wednesday. read more

Absolutely one of my favorite places in the city! Started our visit with complimentary wine while waiting on our table. An amazing tradition and touch. The food is outstanding. we shared crab cakes, and as always, they are the absolute best! We then had the parmesan crusted halibut. Excellent! we ended with coffee, chocolate cake, and ice cream. I highly recommend Pacific Cafe! read more

We went for the first seating at 5pm Wednesday. Surprised to see that no one was waiting outside unlike before when both the small waiting area inside and outside were packed; perhaps, it's mid-week? The clam chowder did not have the taste of clams, although there were bits of clam meat; more potatoes (and potato powder?), very spicy. The French salad dressing with tiny shrimp was skimpy, I could count the shrimp - used to have more shrimp. The crab cakes were so soft though meaty, tasted like there was dough mixed in it. Service was good, but somewhat disappointed with our food quality. Ambiance was ok, though we like this place for we've gone here for years. All this with increased prices. The pandemic must have lessened the foot traffic and the seafood sourcing must have been affected too. read more

This is one of those classic neighborhood gems that I hope will be around forever!!!! It's already been around since 1974 which is pretty impressive already. I had eaten here maybe 8 years ago, and revisited this past week. I recently saw the illustrated map of SF created by the maker of "Last Black Man in San Francisco" that marked this as one of the landmarks to check out, and felt I should pay another visit, as I live in the neighborhood and felt I was long overdue. It was quite crowded for a Wednesday night, to the point where we waited maybe 20-30 mins! I'm glad it's busy. For the food, they have so many different options for fish. You can get a wide variety of grilled fish, baked, sautéed-pan fried, deep fried, or salad form. I ended up getting the grilled spicy snapper, which I loved!!!! It was delicious, but also very inexpensive. They give you free wine while you wait for your table, free sourdough bread (which I never thought I would rave about, but nowadays restaurants charge for Tartine bread, etc), your choice of soup or salad with your entree. The salad can be a a damn good one too - I got a mini version of the shrimp Louie salad, which was actually medium sized, and SO GOOD! I think I might even order that for my entree next time. Great, genuine service here. Clientele is the older local 60s crowd that looks like they grew up in SF back and graduated high school in the 1970s. Love it! I also love the booth tables they have. They're so fun to sit in when you have a table for 2. read more

This place is so cute and I can't wait to come go back. I ate here last night with 2 friends. I walked in around 7:30 to put my name down on their waiting list. There was only 1 party in front of us and I was immediately asked if I wanted a glass of complementary wine while I walked for the table - so cool! The glass was a good pour as well, almost to the top. We were seated maybe 10 minutes later. I was advised by my friends that the Halibut Parmesan was one of their signature dishes so that's what I got. It was delicious. It came with a choice of a side: broccoli, rice, or fries. Also comes with a soup (they had clam chowder or salmon bisque) or salad. I got the clam chowder and it was really nice with the free fresh sourdough bread and large amount (!) of butter at the table. The clam chowder was more on the light side (not that white creamy Boudin-style) but it was still very tasty and felt homemade. I liked it! The wait staff was very attentive and I had a lovely evening with my friends. We sat in one of their cozy booths. Reasonable prices for what you get. Great neighborhood restaurant and I can't wait to go back and try some of their other dishes. read more

Pacific Cafe - Halibut Parmesan with a broccoli side - Yummy! Next time I will get it with rice :) - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

Dinner was delicious! The service was great! I've lived in the neighborhood over 20 years, always walked by this restaurant but never stopped in. This gem has a unique atmosphere and love the hand written order! I have found my go to restaurant for dinner with friends and family. Thank you for being in the Richmond! See you again soon! read more

Very considerate staff / management. Food is Costco-quality. Both in their frozen-sourcing, and if Costco was to make these dishes (don't take my word, look at the diner-provided pictures). Which is to say: edible, but at $30-45 per main, offensive. Absolutely not trying to take this place down. If you want to support a neighborhood spot that feels like the owner is doing their best to recreate Betty Crocker at Michelin Star prices, great. But Julia Child taught us that we *can* be better. Please, Pacific Cafe -- be better. read more

TLDR: long wait on weekends, decent food, great service, and free wine. -- I came here with a group of friends (6 in party) and had to wait about an hour to be seated. The nice thing about this restaurant is they serve you white wine FOR FREE while you wait. The restaurant itself isn't too big, and it is more suited to accommodate smaller tables/groups. The servers were extremely friendly and attentive. However, I think the food was simply okay and a bit bland here and there. Everything I had could have used a bit more seasoning and flavor, but it wasn't bad. Overall, I wouldn't mind coming back here if my friends wanted to go, but I personally would prefer to choose a different restaurant to dine at. read more

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Excellent seafood in a charming old-school setting. Scallops and all the fish are great !! Eat here when you are in town!! San Francisco sour dough -no comparable sour dough in any other state. A little noisy when full Food 4/5 Location 4/5. Some street parking available Service 5/5 Joe and Polly were very efficient and pleasant Price -comparablen to area restaurants read more

The best seafood fresh and the red wine isn't that bad either. Close by and great wait staff.

Super Food, Excellent Service even though it was packed with educated people noise level was low...

WOW, WOW, WOW...We LOVE this restaurant!!! We wall in and get a complimentary glass of delicious wine and the wait staff is sooooo friendly and Fabulous!!! The food is soooooo delicious, I would recommend Pacidic Cafe to everyone!!! read more

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Pacific Cafe has remained my favorite restaurant since spring 1975. In a world where everything seems to be constantly changing, it is comforting to return to a welcoming restaurant with consistency in food and service. Here are a few reasons I continue to patronize Pacific Cafe after 48yrs: 1. Enjoy sipping complementary wine and talking with other patrons, while waiting on a table. 2. Friendly, efficient servers and staff working together as a team! 3. Consistently delicious, well prepared, fresh seafood dishes with ample portions. 4. Same warm, inviting interior since the opening in 1974. Rich dark wood booths, burnt orange paint, vintage seascapes & amber-orange lights. read more

I've been here a couple of times. Once when it was busy and once when it was slow. When it was slow, I had a nice time since the service was attentive. We got a free glass of wine when we sat down! I ordered the steak and my girlfriend ordered the crab cakes. Both were really good. When it was busy it was kind of a mad house. There's not a lot of room to wait with you're waiting for a table so everyone is squished in the front or outside. I got a glass of wine while I was waiting which is always nice. This time, the food was lackluster. Maybe cuz it was busy, but the steak was very plain and didn't have any flavor. The crab cakes were still good as always so that was the highlight of the evening. If I averaged out my 2 experiences, I have to give them 3 stars, Pacific Cafe is very close to my house so I will definitely be back when I'm craving those amazing crab cakes! read more

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Pacific Cafe is an absolute neighborhood classic. Yes, they ply you with cheap wine while you wait - perhaps this is why no one seems to mind. The crowd is convivial and talkative - not at all impatient, even when they are out in the cold. Sumptuous seafood dishes abound. My favorite entree is the Filet of Sole Newburg - $23.27. It's rich, creamy and an absolute silky delight. It comes with soup or salad - both of which are served up in generous sizes. The atmosphere is warm and cozy, and the staff makes you feel like a regular from the first visit. read more

Pacific Cafe - Delish salad that comes with your entree! For free!!! - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I don't have much to add to reviews already posted here. yes, they still bring you a glass of wine while you wait in line. The seafood is fresh and excellent. i have had the crab cakes, clam chowder, Petrale Sole Newburg, Salmon & Scallops, Calamari Vinaigrette, Fried Oysters. read more

I've been to this place numerous times over 20 years and I have never had any issues with food or service. I recommend them highly. They are always excellent. read more

This restaurant is located on the west side of SF on Geary. There is street parking only and can be difficult to find as this is a residential neighborhood too. When I walked in the restaurant for dinner, I was immediately welcomed and seated. It was about 6:30 pm on a weekday evening. Immediately, I was brought a glass of white wine that is complimentary (first glass only) which is a very nice touch. I ordered the Fillet of Petrale Sole Newburg for about $24. A basket of sourdough bread arrived along with butter which was very good (4). The food arrived about 15-20 minutes later (see pic). The Newburg sauce with crabmeat was very good over the Sole. I thought the food was creamy and tasty and enjoyed it and rated the entree as a 3.5. My table service was a 3. The interior of this place is of a nautical nature and gives the vibe of a cozy and comfortable neighborhood restaurant. Most of the menu items were in the $20's and low $30's. Considering the free glass of wine this restaurant is a pleasant place to visit and I would be happy to return. I give my overall experience here a 3.5 but will round up for Yelp purposes to a 4. read more

Pacific Cafe - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I have been a patron at this restaurant, on and off, for approximately 40 years. Excellent service and portions. The food is consistently delicious. The Sole Petrale will never disappoint you. The fried prawns are tops! Best fries! I miss the Zanze's cheesecake! read more

Been here many times food and service are great. Easy to reach walk west one block after taking MUNI Bus 38.

Best crab cakes I have ever had. Great atmosphere and waitstaff were attentive. Don't mind the line when they offer you free wine!

I love this little cafe. It is often full with a line out the door, but the food is worth the wait. Sometimes they even serve you wine as you stand in line. It is all seafood that is really yummy. I've never had a bad meal or experience at this restaurant. read more

Wow this place is amazing!!!!! The food is so delicious that I come here just about every day!!!! (However, I didn't like the mushroom/fish item as much as everything else) The free wine makes it easier to get through the Covid times !!!!!! Thanks everyone there for making life more bearable!!!!! read more

The food here is amazing. The best crab cakes & Parmesan halibut ever! We have been coming here for years & they never disappoint. Everything here is great, the staff, the atmosphere & the free glass of wine is a plus. We love this place!!! read more

Five Star Service here at Pacific Cafe !!! The staff are friendly and accommodating with a gratis glass of white wine while you wait for a table, and can even bring that glass once seated and finish it off for free too. The food here is excellent, 'tho because it is fresh seafood, the menu I think varies and changes as well as not having the most robust of selection to choose from, but adequate enough to find something most people (who enjoy seafood, whether fish or shell fish) can find appetizing. I had a SOLE and it was under $20 and was deliciously prepared, coming with some sourdough bread as well as fresh fries (and options for other sides) and a salad (I had a shrimp louis). The portions are satisfying as well, and prices are reasonably fair. Parking in the area, the outer Richmond district can be tough at times, but if you have luck, karma and perfect timing on your side, you may be blessed with a front space, but if not, and you're willing to talk, a free non-metered space can be had fairly easily. read more

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A great experience from start to finish! As many posters have mentioned, you're greeted with a glass of complimentary wine. That definitely set the bar for service the entire night, as the staff is very sweet and attentive. We decided to have the full experience. The appetizer we chose was the crab cakes and they're the best I've had on the west coast. Goes without mentioning that they also start you off with a couple of slices of fresh sourdough bread. Loved the shrimp Louie salad. My entrée was the star. I had the salmon and baked prawns combo with fries. All so tasty. Finished with the apple tart ala mode! All in all, a 5-star experience for reasonably priced, fresh seafood. Definitely coming back! read more

I love love love the Pacific Café in San Francisco. I hate to sound dated, but I have been coming here for over 40 years. The staff is amazing!!! The food is amazing. My special here is the Louisiana Shrimp...YUM...no shame in eating with my fingers. Love their salads & soups. And don't forget the crabs during crab season. Or the spicy snapper. The complimentary wine is a very nice way to welcome the guests! This helps with the long wait line, but it is a neighborhood gem for decades. I really feel like family here. I always feel free to pass the word around. Lila read more

From out of town but my first time here was back in 1980. Try to go at least twice a year. Clam chowder is a must. And forget about butter with your bread...ask for tartar sauce. You'll thank me for it. read more

We came around 530 like old people and it was just what we needed, honestly. White wine and a nice hostess greets you upon arrival. Baskets of sourdough and pads of soft butter, maroon tablecloths and spacious booths. Only serving wine and fake plants hanging from the ceiling. The Caesar salad and clam chowder were run of the mill. For mains we got fried oysters and parmesean halibut - again - fine enough and just what we needed. Nothing crazy amazing about this place, but sometimes you just need a good meal. read more

Came up from San Jose to walk around GG park on a Sat. afternoon. There was already 12 people in line at 4:35pm. Found the restaurant on Yelp. Never been here before ready for an adventure. If you are interested in generous fresh seafood portions for classic dishes then go for it! The atmosphere has a cozy family feel. There were many SF locals that frequent this place. We had a 45 min wait. The restaurant manager served those waiting in the outside line white table wine which was very nice. We struck up a conversation with a regular customer who has been attending for 36 years. She recommended the garlic shrimp with pan fried salmon. It was excellent! My wife had the Parmesan Encrusted Halibut steak. Perfect! The rice pilaf, whole carrots, fresh bread, garden salad and clam chowder were all good. We recommend this place if you don't mind a small selection menu that is well done. My salmon was moist and tender on inside and nice crisp on outside. The halibut crusting and moist interior was perfect. We finished with a refreshing strawberry sorbet split. read more

Pacific Cafe - Halibut Parmesan - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Pacific Cafe never disappoints. Complimentary glass of wine while waiting for a table is such a nice treat. The shrimp Louie salad is extremely generous. Dinner is always delicious. Service is outstanding, so polite and very attentive. We have been here over 10 times and look forward to many more. read more