STOP. DROP. EAT. This place is an absolute gem. Food: We started with the clams and mussels, and they were phenomenal. Do yourself a favor and soak every last bit of that broth up with the bread--you won't regret it. Don also surprised us with complimentary scallops, and wow... next-level fresh. Some of the best seafood I've had. Drinks: Hands down the best margaritas I've had in California so far. I also watched Don make a Bloody Mary, and it was like watching someone craft a work of art. Every ingredient was intentional, and you could tell it was made with genuine care. Service: This deserves to be at the top because it's what made the experience unforgettable. Halfway through our meal, I realized my incredible bartender was actually the owner. Don is one of the most humble, genuine, and welcoming people you'll ever meet. His sons and daughter all work in the restaurant, and there's even a photo on the wall of his great-grandfather smoking a cigar while cooking crabs. This isn't just a restaurant--it's generations of family, tradition, and passion served on every plate. You can feel the heart behind this place the moment you walk in. Thank you, Don, for the outstanding hospitality, the amazing conversation, and a meal we'll be talking about for a long time. We'll definitely be back. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Clams and muscles - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

Came here last week on Wednesday, not many people and quiet which was nice. Waiter was also very nice. I've been here many times over the years and the food this visit was not good. I was shocked that it was this poor. I ordered the fried prawns with rice and vegetables. in the past, I recall the rice being different, this time it was some sort of white rice. The vegetables just tasted funny altogether and the fried shrimp was so overcooked. It was like chewing on rubber. My boyfriend had the steak and lobster plate, which was about $70, his steak was extremely fatty. He left most of it on the plate. Also, the lobster was so overcooked it tasted like grill charred rubber. He's a good eater too (meaning he's not picky). We did our best to be polite, we didn't complain, but for as much as our bill was it just did not go well. I really like this place so I hope we just came on a bad day. read more

It's quite historical and traditional place! Nearly 100 years. Looks a bit old but you don't check the hygiene when the place old, iconic and the food good! Bar man was nice. Food was fresh and tasty, we really enjoyed it read more

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I enjoy these old-fashioned stands at the Fisherman's Wharf SF. Reminds me of Baltimore. Always delightful and fun. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

We decided to try this place for an early dinner. We requested to sit outside.Wow!! The food was outstanding!! We ordered crab cakes and calamari. The crab cakes were mostly Dungeness crab. Very little filler. Best we've ever had!! The calamari was so fresh and delicious!! The tartar sauce was homemade and wonderful!! Service was very good but felt bad for him because he was literally the only person taking orders and serving us & everyone else sitting outside. We made sure to show how much we appreciated his hard work. He was friendly & was always smiling. Loved sitting outside but they really could do something about the tables. Not really stable. One party sitting behind us had their table fall on one end. They're like white folding tables. If I'm ever back in San Francisco again I'd definitely go here to eat!! read more

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Friendly service. Gavin and I came Saturday morning. It was still early, so a lot of restaurants were not opened yet. I was glad that this place was open. Gavin wanted fish and chips and clam chowder. I have been sharing my meals when I eat w/ him so it saves us from feeling super full. He ate all that he wanted before I dug in. The fish and chips were crispy, not oily. The clam chowder was good and creamy, but I wish that the sourdough bread bowl was toasted prior. The tartar sauce is served in packets, so it is not made fresh. Tables outside were not the cleanest. Gentleman that took our order did tend to the tables when the rush was over. He had a huge group right before we got there and another large group came as we were eating. Kudos to the energetic guy holding it down. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Fish and Chips + Clam Chowder in a Breadbowl, - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

Service was exceptional, food was amazing but wish there was more clam chowder in the bread bowl read more

Sabella & La Torre - Pan Or Deep Fried Calamari Boston Clam Chowder - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

Came here a while ago while waiting for a different restaurant to be open before getting impatient and deciding to eat here anyway. The service was friendly and relatively quick from what I could recall and the ambiance I experienced was mostly outside, which does give you a nice chance to go people-watching if you're into that. I got the Clam Chowder Bowl with a sourdough bread bowl, which was warm and for the chilly San Francisco weather. It was also surprisingly affordable from what I could recall, which is a bit rare when it comes to both San Francisco and outside food in general. Overall, a nice experience. I did come here on impulse and it's not in an area of the pier that I normally go to, but I wouldn't mind coming back again if I coincidentally ended up in this section of the area again. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Clam Chowder with Sourdough Bowl - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

The fish and chips were not completely cooked and the chicken and fries we ordered were cooked to death! The chowder my husband ordered was quite good! He especially liked the bread bowl! Don't let them trick you into sitting inside because the prices inside are more expensive! After we were encouraged to sit inside, we took one look at the menu and retreated to the tables outside which were covered in dirty dishes and trash! After busing the table myself, we took a seat and wished we would have found a better spot to eat! Lunch was $75 and terrible! read more

We stopped into Sabella & La Torre our first night in San Francisco because we had just gotten into town and needed food quick. Party of five, seated immediately, and the food came out in about 10 minutes ,so no complaints at all about speed or service. Our server was pleasant and checked on us when needed. The place itself had the typical Wharf vibe -- moderately busy, decent lighting, clean-ish but not spotless. Now the food... I ordered the clam chowder expecting that classic Fisherman's Wharf experience and honestly... it was just blah in a bowl. No seasoning, no flavor, nothing memorable at all. That set the tone. We also got the fried seafood platter with scallops, prawns and calamari. Everything tasted overcooked and tough and really needed seasoning. Oddly enough, the vegetables on the plate ended up being the best part. The crab sandwich was actually solid, more like a crab salad style sandwich and I enjoyed it. But I'm a Maryland guy, so I can't help thinking a little Old Bay would've taken it a long way. Pricing itself wasn't the problem. It just didn't match the quality we were hoping for, especially being right on the Wharf where you expect seafood to shine. We left wishing we had just hit In-N-Out instead. Not a terrible experience, just a very forgettable meal in a place that should be memorable. read more

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The clam chowder was hot and delicious with lots of clams. It came with crackers and they also served with freshly baked sour dough bread with butter. The lobster roll was filled with chunks of lobster, dressed lightly with mayo and the bread is soft which I liked. Service was quick and they were all friendly and nice. The place is small and tight. The food however is awesome. read more

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Sabella was the first place I ever had seafood at Fisherman's Wharf. Years later - whether I'm bringing friends from out of town or dining on my own - I still come back. Not out of nostalgia, but because the experience has stayed consistent in the ways that matter. Fisherman's Wharf has no shortage of seafood restaurants. Some prioritize speed or spectacle. Sabella rewards a different approach: order intentionally, wait a little longer, and eat slowly. Dungeness Crab: warm, sweet, and worth the wait I ordered a made-to-order Dungeness crab, which costs more and takes longer - and that's exactly the point. The crab arrived warm, not lukewarm, with a generous size and meat that was moist, sweet, and clean-tasting. There was no dryness or chalky texture - just that unmistakable sweetness you get when Dungeness crab is cooked fresh and handled properly. The aroma was gentle and oceanic, and the meat released cleanly from the shell. This isn't a grab-and-go crab. It's closer to a live seafood experience, where patience is part of the flavor. In San Francisco, that's worth paying for. Pacific Oysters: plump, fresh, and honest The oysters deserve a clear definition: these are Pacific oysters. They were plump and meaty, filling the shell with a creamy yet resilient texture. Each bite delivered clean salinity followed by a subtle sweetness - no muddiness, no metallic aftertaste. These aren't presented as a terroir-focused raw bar with farm names and tasting notes, but the quality is unmistakable. They're satisfying oysters that prioritize freshness and substance. Freshly Grated Horseradish: real credit where it's due One detail deserves special recognition: the freshly grated horseradish. This is not bottled or pre-mixed. You can tell from the texture and aroma - it's freshly ground, sharp and aromatic without being harsh. The heat hits cleanly and fades quickly, lifting the sweetness of the Pacific oysters rather than overpowering them. Fresh horseradish takes extra effort, and many places skip it. Sabella doesn't, and it shows. San Francisco Sourdough: above average, not filler San Francisco sourdough matters, and here it's treated with respect. The bread is above average: a crisp, well-developed crust with a chewy interior that stands up to seafood juices and butter. It's not an afterthought basket - it actually contributes to the meal. Yes, it leaves crumbs, but the staff are attentive and quick to keep the table tidy. Drinks & Service: local and genuinely attentive Sabella carries local San Francisco beer, which pairs far better with oysters and crab than generic bottled options you can find anywhere. If you're eating at the Wharf, this feels like the right choice. Service throughout the meal was friendly, observant, and unpretentious. Crumbs were cleared without being asked, plates were timed well, and there was a sense of genuine care - small details that make a difference in a busy, high-traffic area. How my ordering has evolved In the past, I used to order their chowder and seafood platters. These days, my routine is simpler: a plate of Pacific oysters and one freshly cooked Dungeness crab, taken slowly, paired with a local beer. No rush - just letting the flavors unfold and the moment breathe. That evolution says something. It means the basics are strong enough that I don't need excess. Why five stars? Not because Sabella is chasing trends. Not because it's flashy. But because: For Fisherman's Wharf seafood, Sabella consistently delivers freshness, proper cooking, thoughtful details, and a calm confidence that's increasingly rare. Consistency over time is hard to fake - and that's why I keep coming back. - Dr. C I don't chase hype. I write down what's worth remembering. read more

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I was walking by on our way from Boudin and saw this spot and wanted some seafood, and boy, I was not disappointed. This place has the best lobster roll I've had on my trip in SF. They were able to do it Connecticut-style for me, with butter melted. It was so good I came back again and got it twice. I recommend this place 100%. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Lobster roll - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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A locals touristy pick I had the calamari, the salmon plate, and the shrimp sandwich, and everything was delicious. The seafood was fresh and perfectly cooked. The calamari was light and crispy but lacked a little salt & the salmon was tender with great flavor, I really liked the butter sauce they made w it. and the shrimp sandwich was full and satisfying. The atmosphere felt relaxed and welcoming, and the service was friendly and quick. A local's favorite for good reason. I would definitely come back :) read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Imagine coming in here and going to post a review and realizing that you did not post your review from well over five years ago... i'm gonna leave my previous written review underneath... Current review: We arrived at 4:30 PM and sat at the bar. Bartender was really nice, made our drinks for his immediately and then brought us some bread. What we ordered: Watermelon martini My thai Pan fried calamari Deep fried oysters The food arrived for quickly and was awesome as usual. Definitely reminiscing from all our visits from the past. It's been a few years, so everybody was new. We didn't recognize anyone sadly. PREVIOUS UNPUBLISHED REVIEW: Oh my goodness, I am so happy to be here. This is my absolute most favorite restaurant to eat in San Francisco. We've been coming here for years. In the past, when we had Judo tournaments, they used to give my kids some little treats if They got gold medals. With Covid, grappling sports kind of took a dive, so no more gold medals for a while. Our old favorite bartender Ed is not working here anymore, however his brother Irwin is the bartender now and is just as masterful a bartender as his brother was. He mixes a mean drink. Took a minute to get seated, we all decided since there were seven of us to sit at the bar. I was able to start nursing this week mode margarita before we actually all sat. Erwin the bartender was our waiter, and got us a triple portion of fried calamari while we were waiting for our drinks. There's something about the atmosphere, Packed, a restaurant full of people, and yes super friendly people that work to please. What we order: Baybreeze Watermelon martini 3x mussels bordelaise 2x clam bordelaise 3x shrimp salad Everything arrived quickly and looks delicious. Best bordelaise in San Francisco. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Watermelon martini - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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If you're looking for great seafood and genuine San Francisco hospitality, I highly recommend Sabella & La Torre at Fisherman's Wharf. From the moment we walked in, the owner and staff made us feel like family. They were incredibly warm, welcoming, and hospitable. What made our visit especially memorable was hearing the history of the restaurant. The owner shared stories about how the business began with his grandfather and even showed us family photos. It was wonderful to experience the rich family tradition behind this iconic Wharf restaurant, which has been family-owned since 1927. And the food was outstanding! The crab sandwich was fresh and delicious, the calamari was perfectly cooked, and the clam chowder was some of the best we've had. Great food, amazing service, and a true San Francisco experience. We will definitely be back! Highly recommended! read more

I was here 10 years, all I remember was I got fresh shrimp from here. This time I came here with family at off season, no line and we got great service! Dungeness crab was fat and fresh, Clam Chowder with bread was good, lobster ravioli was good portions . read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Great people, and happy to customize any good. We went for a lobster roll but they didn't have Connecticut style but they said they are happy to do it. Got with side of garlic fries, which was the perfect pairing. Highly recommend this place even though people might think it's a tourist trap. It's really really not. read more

Delicious meal yesterday. Everything was fresh and tasted wonderful. We sat at the bar and enjoyed some drinks. It was nice to see this place is still open and standing. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

I should have trusted my instincts from the start. The first red flag was staff standing outside trying to pull people in off the sidewalk--something I've learned usually doesn't point to high-quality food. Despite that, the restaurant had solid online reviews, so my family and I decided to give it a try. Unfortunately, the experience went downhill quickly. We started with drinks, and the Bloody Marys were honestly some of the worst I've ever had--completely off in both flavor and balance. For appetizers, we ordered the steamed Dungeness crab, which arrived disappointingly lukewarm. For our main course, my husband and I split a fried seafood platter. The quality was extremely underwhelming--comparable to fast-food seafood, not something you'd expect from a sit-down restaurant in such a well-known area. To make matters worse, the service was nearly nonexistent. Our server never checked on us after dropping off the food. The restaurant wasn't even busy, which made the lack of attention more frustrating. It was clear the focus was more on pulling in new customers than taking care of the ones already seated. We even had to wait longer than necessary just to get our check. For a $200 bill, this was one of the most disappointing dining experiences I've had in a long time. I won't be returning, and I'll definitely think twice before dining anywhere that relies on street solicitation to bring people in. read more

As a Bay Area native, I've walked past Sabella & LaTorre countless times in San Francisco but never stopped in. That changed when my family visited from Los Angeles and my nephew ordered a lobster roll from their street-side counter. One look at that buttery beauty and we all decided to sit down and dine. From the moment we were seated, Irwin, our server made the experience exceptional. His warm, welcoming attitude and attentive service truly stood out. Bonus points: this spot doesn't charge the 25% tourism fee that many neighboring restaurants at Fisherman's Wharf tack on. That alone makes it worth a visit. The Wharf is packed with seafood joints, but Sabella & LaTorre held its own among the competition. Everything we ordered was fresh, flavorful, and generously portioned. I went with the crab panini, and I can't recommend it enough. The fresh Dungeness crab, melted cheese, tomato, all pressed between perfectly grilled sourdough. It came with golden fries that impressively stayed hot throughout the meal (a rare feat!). My mom opted for the plain crab sandwich on a brioche bun--simple, yet delicious, especially for those who prefer their crab without cheese or tomato. The lobster roll? Also a hit. We shared the grand appetizer platter, which included fried shrimp, scallops, calamari, grilled veggies, and fries. At $45, it was a solid value but what truly elevated the dish was the tartar sauce. I'm not exaggerating when I say it was legendary. I ended up dipping everything in it, including my fries. I'd return just for that sauce. Another standout: the sourdough bread served with rich, creamy butter. They kept it coming, and we kept devouring it. So simple, yet so satisfying. Other perks worth noting: Free soda refills (always a win) Two hours of complimentary parking across the street - huge savings in an area where parking can run $45/hour Clean, functional restrooms (though they could use a refresh - just a heads-up for fellow detail-oriented diners) All in all, Sabella & LaTorre delivered a memorable experience with top-notch seafood, stellar service, and thoughtful touches that make dining here a pleasure. Next time you're at Fisherman's Wharf, skip the tourist traps and give this gem a try. You won't be disappointed! read more

Lobster roll: Buttery, good amount of lobster, but one callout is the meat is shredded pretty small. I prefer larger chunks of lobster than a bunch of tiny pieces Crab roll: this one did not hit the mark for me. Weird fishy taste, overall taste is not too pleasant. They do give you a lot of the crab mix though Clam chowder: this was good, not the best I've had read more

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This joint is just classic Fisherman's Wharf. It's been here for so long ~ and the place shows it, but that's part of its charm. We go here strictly for the Dungeness crab cocktail. And the seriously kick ass cocktail sauce. If you dig horseradish, you're gonna LOVE this sauce. Best ever crab cocktail. If you know of a better one, I wanna know where I can find it! Dine in, even though you can purchase less expensive crab cocktails from the stall out front. They're smaller and you just don't get the feel for the place. Or the yummy (and complimentary!) sourdough bread, butter, water and general frivolity of this bustling restaurant. Service can be hit or miss. I'd always pick a spot at the bar if one is available. Sometimes you just gotta take what you can get...or wait. They seem to turn tables/barstools pretty quickly. If you have a vehicle, park in the lot directly across Taylor and they'll validate your parking. Free parking in San Francisco is a thing when you know where to find it ~ right there in tourist central! read more

Sabella & La Torre - Get the Dungeness crab cocktail. Trust me. Best EVER!!! - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

Ordered fish and chips. The fish tasted like cardboard and the chips were at least 2 days old.

Located right by Pier 39, Sabella & La Torre really introduces you the seafood palette of San Francisco. We ordered half a dozen oysters, lobster roll, and deep fried calamari. The calamari came with cocktail and tar tar sauce. The squid itself was very crispy and the batter was flavorful. Not greasy nor fatty, it genuinely tasted like I had fresh made calamari. The Oysters took the ball out of the park for me though. It had a less potent ocean taste and it wasn't slimy compared to other oysters you may get. It came with cocktail sauce, a bit of horseradish, and Tabasco already on the side. We had to get another round. The lobster roll was huge in portion. It was served on a crispy, perfectly buttered brioche roll and PACKED with lobster, celery, and mayo filling. The lobster was extremely fresh and melted in your mouth. The fries were thin, crispy, and elevated a tasteful balance to the dish. Definitely worth the price. Everyone working there including the owners were extremely polite and always attentive of your needs. Didn't need to ask for a refill of water whatsoever, they were already ahead of it. The ambience itself is clean and really makes you feel like you're getting the best experience of dining by the wharf. If you're looking to get fresh seafood by the SF wharf, Sabella & La Torre will cater your needs. PS: I also ordered their Long Island iced tea, their mixed drinks are also very good.. might have to try their espresso martini. Definitely going to be my go to spot when I'm by the wharf. read more

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Review for the Clam Chowder Bread Bowl! Thick, rich, and creamy clam chowder dripping over the side of a bread bowl?? Yes please! Sabella & La Torre is our favorite spot in Fisherman's Wharf for a nice bowl of clam chowder. It is everything I said earlier in a soft, fresh bread bowl. They have a few folding tables in the front to chow down on while enjoying the hustle and bustle of the Fisherman's Wharf. Definitely a stop when we are in SF! read more

Sabella & La Torre - Clam Chowder Bread Bowl - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

I'm a local here in SF. First time at this establishment. Service... not the greatest: They sit you and try to get you out asap. The place had a very strong odor of Fabulosa, cleaning product., Too strong. Ordered the clam chowder. I had to add salt for flavor, which I never do. The shrimp cocktail was not cleaned. And the shrimps were small in size. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Tasteless clam chowder - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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One of the best lobster rolls I've had. They do a lobster salad style. Very good. Not too salty. Fried Calamari was ON POINT. Pretty fresh. Just no frills and good food. I'm glad I picked this out of the other grotto stalls. I will return every time I visit SF read more

Sabella & La Torre - Lobster roll - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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This place brings back a lot of old memories. I remember this place pre covid when the fish market used to be packed with people. But I've got to say the food still stays to same. My partner and I cam for a business trip and decided to come by and have a lobster roll and I've got to say lots of lobster and fries were crispy. The staff was really helpful and friend the only down side was outside is pretty cold. Over all it was a great dining experience that brought back a lot of old and familiar memories the one caveat was the prices were what I remember but definitely a try. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

This place is phenomenal! When you walk in you can smell the aroma of the fresh seafood. The french bread here is great and my entrée was absolutely delicious and amazing. I highly recommend this restaurant and I definitely will be back soon. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

The food here was excellent everything we ordered tasted really good and was clearly made with care. The flavors were on point, and the clam chowder in particular was solid and well worth it at $12. That said, charging $8 for a can of Coca-Cola is pretty ridiculous, especially when it's almost the same price as a full bowl of chowder. I don't mind paying for quality food, but beverage pricing like that feels way out of proportion. Overall, great food, but the drink prices definitely took away from the experience a bit. read more

I always enjoy getting seafood from Fisherman'a Wharf in the area. Looking for a place to eat for dinner, we stopped at Sabella & La Torre. The restaurant is small but has tables and a full bar. We were seated quickly. However, the service was prolonged. After ordering our meals, we had a very long wait as the waitress forgot to place our order. We ordered the following- Lobster Mac and Cheese- lobster was great, but the mac and cheese was watery. Lobster roll- I would have liked it if the lobster meat was made with just butter and seasoning. There was a little too much mayonnaise and the lobster itself lacked flavor. Happy to visit the wharf but I don't think ill return to this restaurant on my next visit to the area. read more

Sabella & La Torre - Lobster mac and cheese - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

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everyone there was so nice to us during our meal and the food was great!! loved the setting near the ocean too:)

Always a win when you're visiting San Francisco great food good atmosphere highly recommend

Been curious to give this restaurant a try due to its history and location. Today was finally the day for me to give it a shot. My friend and I ordered Crab Cake, Fish and Chips, and Calamari and Chips. These are my thoughts: Crab cake - It's pretty decent, pure crab, fresh and wasn't oily. Fish and Chips - Reasonable quality and quantity Calamari and Chips - It's okay, quantity didn't meet my expectation tho. Overall, staff were friendly. Food was decent. Location is great (of course). read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

What a cool place for a meal Every dish looked Delicious and our waiter was SUPER HELPFUL IN RECOMMENDING lots of different plates If u come here...ask for KAI...BEST SERVER ON THE WHARF TY S/LA TORRE Dona and joe read more

Delicious lunch! First time in SF and of course we had to check out Fisherman's Wharf. Just stumbled across Sabella and there were plenty of people sat outside on a Monday afternoon so we took it as a good sign. They did not disappoint! Our server was incredible and so speedy with all our requests. To start we ordered the Calamari and it came out piping hot. It was noticeably fresh and the flavor was really nice. For mains I got the Clam Chowder in the bread bowl and thoroughly enjoyed it. It was warm and flavorful, it felt like a nice hug. :) My partner ordered the crab sandwich. It came with fries which were crispy and fresh. The crab itself was lacking a bit of flavor though. Overall we had a great time and would return! read more

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This was an amazing opportunity, we found when the crew were setting up! The gentleman employee was the best, set up my friend and I with a roll and coffee before they were even open! Delicious read more

Sabella & La Torre - Crab Roll - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California

I use to work around the area and I started taking my girlfriend here and we always order the calamari and lobster rolls. The ambiance here is a like walking into a cruise ship but I always keep coming here because of the customer service and how friendly the staff is. The food here is amazing as well very good food and it's not also seafood and they also have daily deals which will be on the board. They also make really good drinks where the bar is and the drinks are delicious. read more

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This spot is always a must-visit when it comes to visiting San Francisco for me! I always order their crab sandwich and it always hits the spot. They give you SO much crab and I love the crunchiness of the bread. It is a bit pricey, but being San Francisco and the amount of crab salad they give you, I would say it's worth it. The people there are always very nice as well and they serve you very quickly. Highly recommend!! read more

Sabella & La Torre - Seafood Near Me - San Francisco, California