Sabella & La Torre - Reviews

My first stop in San Francisco was a success! I enjoyed the great fish and chips and an excellent local pilsner on tap. The bartender was super friendly. I have no regrets about coming here!

Greetings from Germany! We had a great experience at this restaurant. The bartending was great, and the owner was fantastic. We appreciate you! Sorry for your loss. Cheers from Germany!

My experience at this historic gem in Fisherman's Wharf was absolutely exceptional. The entire meal was outstanding, starting with our Espresso Martinis and the tasty Clam Chowder. For main courses, I indulged in the phenomenal Lobster Ravioli and the creamy Lobster Mac & Cheese. What truly elevated the experience was the service, which was genuinely amazing and personally delivered by the owner himself. The wonderful historic atmosphere tied the whole experience together. I highly recommend visiting this landmark!

My first visit to this restaurant was in the late 70s with my bestie, and we were warmly greeted by the original owner. The food, service, and his kindness were truly amazing. We enjoyed our meal so much that he wouldn't let us pay that evening. My family and I have been coming to SF many times over the past 50+ years and have always chosen to eat here. We have never been disappointed!

My experience at the restaurant was terrible. Upon arrival, the restaurant was empty, and I received no welcome or bread, unlike other customers. I ordered food worth $90 and waited 40 minutes. During this time, no one checked on me to see if I needed anything or inquired about the food, despite attending to other tables. This felt disrespectful, and I believe politeness is more important than the food itself. I will not be returning.

My experience at the restaurant was absolutely fantastic, especially the clam chowder served in a bread bowl. It was so delicious that I wished I had two stomachs to eat more! The food quality was rated a perfect 5, and the service and atmosphere also received top marks of 5. The noise level was moderate, which was pleasant.

There are experiences that can’t be found in Michelin stars, but rather in the simplicity of a neighborhood restaurant that breathes tradition. After seven years of living in San Francisco and walking past Sabella & LaTorre countless times, I finally decided to step in. And what a gift it was. From the very beginning, the service won me over: genuine, attentive, unhurried. The kind of gesture that already tells you so much about the soul of a place. I felt welcomed, as if I had been invited to a family’s table. I ordered the clams & mussels with fries, paired with a glass of sparkling wine. The dish arrived steaming, releasing the intoxicating aroma of garlic and sautéed leeks, mingling with white wine to create a broth that was rich and comforting. The seafood was clearly fresh—tender, succulent, carrying the unmistakable taste of the ocean. The fries came out perfectly crisp, lightly seasoned, ideal for soaking up that broth. And with a final squeeze of fresh lemon, everything came alive—the bright acidity balanced and elevated every bite. But more than the food, it was the experience that struck me. Between sips, I realized I was breaking an old prejudice. For years, I judged this place from the outside, never giving it a chance. Today, I left with the certainty that richness lies in the details, in simplicity, and in human warmth. Sabella & LaTorre is not just a restaurant—it’s a reminder that living in the present, opening yourself to the unexpected, and savoring each moment can transform even a casual lunch into a memorable experience.

This is a good spot for a quick lunch if you're in a rush. We tried the clam chowder in sourdough bread, but unfortunately, it wasn't as good as others I've had. The bread tasted plain, and the clam chowder lacked flavor. There was also very little clam meat inside. On the positive side, the servers were very proactive in getting customers seated.

This is my go-to place for crab and seafood. The clam chowder is also good, and I can't forget that. My experience was very positive, with excellent food quality and a great atmosphere.

If you understand that you're on the wharf and things will be busy, this is a wonderful restaurant. Do not expect Applebee's-esque service because you won't get corporate service from a home-grown, passionate restaurant. The clam chowder and chef's special plate were absolutely amazing. There was a whole bay leaf in my clam chowder – need I say more? The drinks are a bit expensive, but they definitely make it worth it. 5 stars, hands down. This is a locals' spot; while we were here, people were extremely friendly, and the servers were sublimely kind. Yes, it's busy, but that's a great thing here. Keep this place busy.