This was probably one of the most basic meals I have ever had. The hog island oysters were tiny. The clam chowder was bland. The sword fish was tough and dry. The papaya was decent, but such a small serving. And the fry’s were most likely the bottom of pan. They were mostly small broken pieces and way over cooked.With those 4 dishes and 4 drinks the tab came out to $175. That’s pricey even for SF
This is one of the first places I visited upon arriving in The Bay Area. Little has changed. We even have some of the same waiters. First and foremost, this is a fish restaurant. Second, prep and presentation are static. Someone says 'boring'; I say 'reliable and comforting'. There are seasonal variations and some great zodiac-driven specials. Soft Shell Crab, Shad Roe. I get their emails and they inform me, not bombard my inbox. Tailored wine selections, classic mixology. Carnivores and Veggies graciously accommodated. Salad Nirvana. Being in the Hayes Valley, they understand that you are either going to a performance, or are just coming from one, and need to get home and let out the cat. Let them know.
October 2022 update: Symphony night and there might have been one or two open tables. Strangely SFS seems to have dropped pre-concert lectures, so the crowd was a bit later and seemed to spend more time. So far, Hayes Street has come roaring back. Try the scallops. They're the best in the city. Update. They have added paella! Order early and often. They frequently sell out.