Waterbar: A Seafood Dining Experience with a View
Location and Ambiance
Waterbar is ideally situated along the Embarcadero, providing diners with a picturesque view of the Bay Bridge. The restaurant features a spacious patio, perfectly positioned for enjoying the gentle sounds of the waves and uninterrupted views across the bay.
The interior boasts a welcoming decor highlighted by a large fish tank, creating a lively atmosphere. However, the most sought-after seating is undoubtedly on the covered and heated patio, where the potential for high tide can sometimes necessitate rolling up pant legs to avoid splashes.
Culinary Offerings
Waterbar offers a diverse menu primarily focused on seafood. Customers can indulge in an assortment of small plates and entrees, with an emphasis on freshness and seasonal ingredients.
Food Highlights
Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup provides a pleasant sweetness and is served at a steaming temperature, making it ideal for outdoor dining on cooler days.
Salmon Gravlax
The gravlax presents a harmonious saltiness, best enjoyed piled high on a rye crostini alongside celeriac mousse and braised cabbage for a delightful bite.
Heirloom Beet Salad
A standout starter, the beet salad combines bright flavors of tangerine and dill mascarpone, providing a refreshing and beloved combination.
Fries
While not groundbreaking, the fries are plentiful and flavorful, making them a perfect shareable side for groups.
Baby Bok Choy
Available during lunch only, this side dish is exceptional, featuring flavorful fish sauce paired with crispy fried shallots that complement the tender bok choy nicely.
Lobster Roll
This small yet satisfying lunch option showcases a generous portion of lobster, appealing to those seeking a lighter meal.
Stuffed Magret Duck Breast
While this dish has robust flavor, cooking inconsistency raises concerns regarding the texture of the duck and its accompanying potato mille-feuille, which may be undercooked.
Northern Halibut
This entree features flaky, moist fish but is accompanied by vegetables and a blood orange vinaigrette that lacks sufficient flavor, diluting the overall dining experience.