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    The Buena Vista

    4.1 (3.5k reviews)
    Open • 9:00 am - 12:00 AM (Next day)
    Updated 1 month ago

    The Buena Vista Photos

    THE BUENA VISTA ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Casual
    Touristy
    Happy hour specials

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    Recommended Reviews - The Buena Vista

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    Jen C.

    Pub Crawl #1 My man and I took advantage of our stay in San Francisco with a memorable date night. Since I had never tried Irish coffee before, we walked to the Buena Vista--famous for its legendary Irish coffee, according to him. Despite the crowd when we arrived, we managed to snag seats at the bar. Woo hoo! Watching the bartenders expertly line up heat-treated goblets, pour steaming Irish coffee, mix in smooth Irish whiskey, and finish with a thick layer of frothy cream was mesmerizing. Our bartender was attentive and friendly, making the quick stop all the more delightful.

    Chicken wings
    Michael J.

    Visited the bar last Sunday evening. Interestingly, they have two separate areas of the bar for those interested in eating in addition to drinking. So, we had to move way over to the eating zone. We enjoyed a couple appetizers, potato skins and chicken wings, with our Bailey's Irish coffees. They top the potato skins with a significant amount of cheese, though skimp considerably on the bacon! What's that about? Service on the food side was warm and welcoming. Ambiance, uniquely San Francisco old school vibe. Please, never change!

    Irish coffee
    Victor C.

    I stopped by for an Irish coffee on a walk around Ghirardelli Square and the Aquatic Park. The drink lives up to the reputation that this cafe has given it. Very strong. Great service. Historic vibes. When I have time for a sit down brunch in the area I'll be coming back here to have it! What a wonderful looking interior and attentive staff 5 stars from me.

    Iconic Irish Coffees and Napkins
    Gina G.

    To go to the Buena Vista is to experience a little slice of San Francisco, no doubt. I absolutely love this spot. On a recent visit, my friends and I actually grabbed a table inside and sat down to truly enjoy our Irish coffees. We also ordered a basket of garlic fries and sat and yapped for a while. The service is always on point, and it's fun to people watch and see tourists, locals, and those that have never experienced the magic of the Irish coffee making watch in wonder and excitement. The Irish coffee is just a must, and they also offer decaf fyi! The menu looks pretty good too for brunch/lunch, and they even have dinner, dessert, and drinks to-go (who knew!) Located in an iconic spot of Fishermen's Wharf, great to walk the area pre/post visit or hop on a cable car to take you throughout another part of the City. Ride-share strongly suggested for this location as it's very congested and busy.

    Irish coffee
    David L.

    Still love this place. Just for drinks and a clam chowder this time but just being there felt special. Historical places are the best.

    Sonali K.

    We've been coming to Buena Vista Cafe for over 20 years whenever we visit San Francisco, and it's still a place we make time for. This trip was especially meaningful because we brought our kids and got to share somewhere that used to be part of our own date nights. Daytime was great. We were seated quickly, service was efficient, and the atmosphere had that classic, lively SF energy. The kids enjoyed their hot chocolate, and it was fun introducing them to such an iconic spot. That said, the nighttime experience felt very different. Service was inconsistent, and when I ordered a simple classic cocktail (a Bees Knees), the bartender refused to make it, saying he didn't have mint--even though the drink doesn't require mint. The interaction came off as dismissive, and he also made a comment along the lines of it "not being a cocktail lounge," which felt unnecessarily rude given the simplicity of the request. The kids' hot chocolate also came out extremely hot, and my daughter ended up burning her tongue, which was frustrating since it was clearly ordered for children. The Irish coffee is still the signature here, though the quality doesn't feel quite as strong as it used to over the years. Even with those issues, it's still a San Francisco institution. It was genuinely special to bring our kids to a place that holds so many memories for us, and that part of the experience really mattered. It's still worth a visit for the history and nostalgia, even if it doesn't quite feel like it did years ago.

    Julio B.

    A classic spot for Irish coffee loved by tourists and locals alike. I usually go with friends in the morning and grab a drink at the bar. Even if the restaurant is full, if you're getting drinks only you can usually find a spot quickly. I did go once for food, although I don't remember what I had, but the Irish coffee is unforgettable. The vibes inside feel historic and cozy, a great spot worth visiting

    The drink menu
    Jessica F.

    We heard about this place while riding the cable car back to our hotel. So glad that we stopped in for a quick drink and appetizer before heading to dinner. The shrimp cocktail was so delicious and a recommendation from our server and the Guinness was perfectly poured and cold. Loved the atmosphere where everyone was welcomed and greeted with a smile. Lots of things to look at and of course the San Francisco Giants game was being televised. Watching the bartenders make their famous Irish coffee was entertaining also.

    Elisa L.

    You might notice that this is the only restaurant in this touristy area that is crowded. That's because it's an institution. Their Irish coffee is really good. I even had the decaf one since I needed to wind down for the evening, so I bet the regular tastes better. Had it with a clam chowder. Then had some French toast because I was craving it. The staff were friendly and attentive despite the place being completely packed. It's a great vibe too, I love the energy despite it being a chilly day when I went here. Lots of history on the walls to look at. I came here solo on business so it was easy to get a spot at the bar.

    The potatoes at banging!
    Cynthia W.

    Buena Vista ended up being our go-to restaurant while staying in SF. Absolutely love the guys working the bar. We ate in a back room but the short time we spent in the bar area was pure entertainment. Great guys and I hear they've been there forever. The real reason we kept going back was the food and cocktails though. I highly recommend the Irish Coffee for which they are famous for. Breakfast was solid and a good value for the money. We truly enjoyed chatting with our waiter who was open to making suggestion for places to visit that only the locals would know about.

    Ethel R.

    Such a pretty day, had to stop in. The Buena Vista Cafe Bartender - Marty, was great and made us yummy Irish Coffee. The deco has old fashion look with great photos the share the history of this place. You must drop and and have one.

    04.05.26 Wine and Coffee list
    May A.

    A San Francisco institution [San Francisco CA] Came here with a group of friends for the experience and, of course, to try their "original Irish coffee." I was told that coffee lovers should not miss visiting this coffeehouse while visiting San Francisco but they also serve food here including soups, salads, apps, sandwiches and entrées so open invite for all guests even if you don't drink coffee. Immediately as we walked through the open doors the aroma of coffee can't be denied. The atmosphere was lively and bustling. It was very busy but we were finally able to find a round table that fit all of us LoL! The building it sits in is also historic. My friends tried different flavors and I'm not sure which one I had a taste but it was very good. I believe it was the Chocolate Coffee. But the Skrewball Coffee seemed to be a popular one within our group. Great customer service! You might have to do some walking or have a keen eye in finding parking. They are located in the heart of touristy Fisherman's Wharf and Ghirardelli Square, next to the Hyde Street Cable Car. TRIVIA: The Buena Vista serves up to 2,000 Irish Coffees a day. Instagram: @thebuenavistasf Review #4013

    Irish Coffee
    Tim Y.

    Even at 9:30 on a Saturday night, this place was packed. We got lucky and grabbed a table right as someone was leaving. The staff was quick to clear and clean it right away and wave us over. It was perfect timing for our group of five. We'd just finished dinner nearby and came specifically for the legendary Irish Coffee. This was my first time here but my friends have been raving about it. The employees were great. As soon as we sat down, they brought menus and waters for the table. We ordered 5 Irish coffees and they showed up at our table within minutes. That cold, heavy cream on top is perfect, and while you can definitely taste the whiskey, it's not overpowering. We couldn't stop at just one. It's loud and crowded here but the staff were so efficient, they were clearing empty glasses the second you're done. Parking around Ghirardelli is a nightmare as usual, so just head straight for the square's garage or take an Uber over. I'll definitely be back the next time I'm in the area!

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    Page 1 of 89

    The Buena Vista Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Buena Vista

    Can you order the Irish Coffee with decaf or is that frowned upon?

    Ofcourse you can!!!

    Is the Buena Vista wheelchair accessible?

    They can provide a slight ramp into the restaurant. But the restrooms have stairs for both the men and women. Impossible to get to in a wheelchair.

    Does their clam chowder contain bacon?

    I am not aware they have clam chowder? I've been doing tastings for years never seen that. If this is for a special event, you'll have to call the winery for what their ingredients.

    Is pet friendly?

    They have a heated outdoor enclosure and your pets are welcome.

    Does your establishment have dedicated menus for people who are celiac or have food allergies?

    They definitely do not have menu like that. This is a old school menu and my vegan daughter can't be accommodated either.

    Are they open thanksgiving day?

    Do they have a vegan option for Irish Coffee?

    No, they cannot provide a vegan substitute heavy cream.

    How much are the Irish coffees now?

    $25.97 for two (2) Irish Coffees.

    I know my chances are slim but do they happen to have an option for Irish coffee to-go?

    Yes they do!! Just don't open the Tullamore bottles inside - you have to add them yourself outside the shop (learned my lesson the hard way lol)

    What are Friday and weekend business hours? Yelp and Buena Vista's website show conflicting times.

    I don't know the actual answer but I'd trust the BV site.

    First come first serve?

    Yes, the line goes up the side street

    Is there parking near by? If not, where do we park?

    You have to park along the street. Sometimes it can be a challenge to find a spot.

    What time do they start serving lunch? Menus don't say.

    We got there at 11:00 and lunch was being served. Breakfast is served all day.

    Same prices for take out?

    Yes

    Is it good for breakfast?

    Yes, but almost always super busy. Best Irish Coffees anywhere!

    How late is the kitchen open?

    9:30 🕤 pm

    Hello Yelpers just wanted to know if The Buena Vista has the Guinness Blonde Beer?

    Yes they have the Blonde Guinness!

    Can you make reservations?

    Nope

    So I hear a lot of good reviews on their coffee. What about the food!?

    Food is great! We had breakfast there and it was good. Omelettes were great! I ordered the Denver unlettered and it was very tasty 😋!

    Is there a non alcoholic version of the Irish coffee?

    Yes. They offered that to a customer sitting by us.

    View All 21 Questions

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    STOP. DROP. EAT…read more 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.

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    The pasta I ordered wasn't fully cooked, and no one came to check on it--I was very disappointed…read more The service was merely average, but considering that most of the staff were older, I didn't mind the occasional oversight and ended up leaving a generous tip. The atmosphere is great, and there are many historical photos on the walls.

    San Francisco is known for many foods. One type of food which is well renowned in the city is their…read moreseafood. There are many places you can grab seafood around San Francisco. One place where people from around the world enjoy the taste of San Francisco seafood is Fisherman's Wharf. There is a San Francisco institution which been serving seafood for over 60 years. It's located a stones throw from the salty water in SF and it's called Scoma's. On the last full week of the Summer stroll on Al Scoma Way I landed again at Scoma's. I first tried the oysters without the lemon squeeze along with the shrimp. I then had the clam chowder with pepper which wasn't salty like some in SF. I then had their Fried combo which wild gulf shrimp, scallops and wild cod with fries which weren't salty like some in SF. Then I had their whole Dungeness crab with garlic. I then washed it down with glasses of Pinot Noir from a French owner vineyard in Oregon. Scoma's is a San Francisco institution worth revisiting. Come to a place which brings the old San Francisco and makes me "nostalgic" a place by Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco natives mostly "all pick " a few blocks from a Park called "Aquatic" you must try their Dungeness Crab seasoned in "garlic" You can find Seafood from the Sunset Strip of San Francisco all the way to "SOMA" you can smell the seafood "aroma"and enjoy some wine like the Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley of Oregon to "Sonoma" you will find it by the salty waters in SF at "Scoma"

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    Showed up at 11:45am on a Friday during the World Cup. They were closed. No lights, doors locked…read more Walked across the street to La Rocca's. They were open and a big crowd started forming around noon for World Cup games. Then a bunch of ladies on a scavenger hunt ran in, did tequila shots then ran out. Will be back to La Rocca's again soon. Fun bar. International lost out. Plus La Rocca's takes credit cards.

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    The Buena Vista - bars - Updated September 2026

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