Anchor Oyster Bar

Landlubbers seeking a taste of the sea can be found pulling up a stool at this Castro institution, where waves of waiting diners spill out the doors. This tiny, minimally adorned space filled with old-fashioned charm is better for twosomes than groups.

While the menu may be petite, it’s full of fresh fare like a light and flavorful Dungeness crab “burger” on a sesame bun; Caesar salad combining sweet prawns and tangy anchovy dressing; or a cup of creamy Boston clam chowder loaded with clams and potatoes. As the name portends, raw oysters are a specialty—so briny that the accompanying mignonette may not be necessary. And of course, the cioppino is unmissable, as this signature item turns sublime when paired with delicious and buttery garlic bread.