Forbes Island Restaurant Question

Old Aug 22nd, 2016, 04:39 PM
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Forbes Island Restaurant Question

Hi!
My sister and I and a friend are headed to San Francisco over Labor Day weekend. We have our itinerary fairly established and are considering going to Forbes Island. The price is a little intimidating, but we are mostly interested in the experience. We are all in our early thirties and aren't really food snobs, but we certainly appreciate a nice meal.

I'm wondering if the price is worth it for the food and the experience eating in an underwater restaurant and the general ambiance? If anyone has had some good or bad experiences to help us in our decision making, it is appreciated!

Thank you!
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Old Aug 23rd, 2016, 11:04 AM
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I've lived in San Francisco or nearby since 1975. I'm a foodie & dine out in The City quite a bit. Forbes Island gets "no mention" in the local press, friends, work associates, or in any restaurant paper or magazine that I read. I could not find any mention of it in the SF Chronicle's restaurant web site. I saw it on "Check Please - Bay Area" (local PBS restaurant TV show) about 10 years ago and it seemed kinda touristy to me, and the reviews were not good. I do not consult Yelp or Trip Advisor to obtain restaurant recommendations (for many reasons).

With all the fabulous restaurants here - you could definitely do much better.

Stu Dudley
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Old Aug 23rd, 2016, 11:59 AM
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Well, I was going to say what Stu said - and I've also lived in the Bay Area since 1973 (the first 13 and last 4 of which have been in the city).
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Old Aug 23rd, 2016, 12:58 PM
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Touristy beyond belief . . . Or maybe an idea for hiring for a private party.
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Old Aug 25th, 2016, 12:27 PM
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We loved it, and went twice with adult children, but it's been a few years. Fond memories.

They work by reservation only, there is a phone by the gate by pier 39, I think, you call, and the boat is there in a minute, to pick you up.

It's not only a meal, you can watch sea lions, climb a lighthouse, be a "captain" of a ship - I hope they still have all that.

Food-wise, don't remember anything negative, both times 4 people with different food and drink preferences. It is a bit shaky, it is a boat! Was a boathouse, I think, and still has an interesting ladies room, make sure to see it even if don't need to use.

Bring a camera for bragging rights later
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Old Aug 25th, 2016, 01:58 PM
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I went with my nephews from Minnesota a couple of years ago--as a SF resident I tried very hard to dissuade them; it is to me an overpriced, tourist trap with mediocre food that does not reflect anything to do with the City. They had heard about it from god knows where and loved it, but then again they love themed restaurants. My sister kept laughing at my attempts to pretend I enjoyed the place. My reward--she took me to Gary Danko's, which incidentally has a tasting menu only a few dollars more than this place's prix fixe and is world's apart in terms of food.

So the upshot, without sounding like a complete snob, if you are looking for an expensive theme park-type restaurant with adequate food that basically caters to tourists this is it. If you are looking for a great SF dining experience, avoid like the plague!!!
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Old Aug 27th, 2016, 08:36 AM
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Thanks for your input!
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