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Skates on the Bay Reviews List
Skates on the Bay
Skates on the Bay is known for their fresh market ingredients, innovative menu, and spectacular views of the bay, Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, and San Francisco.
This beautiful and historic waterfront gathering place for fresh seafood and unmatched views of the San Francisco Bay, recently completed (April, 2012) a major interior design renovation, including the addition of a new raw bar, glass-walled private dining room and innovative menus. Originally opened in 1983 in the Berkeley Marina, the reimagined Skates on the Bay is a stunning restaurant to enjoy cocktails at sunset, late night Happy Hour, weekday lunch, weekend lunch or brunch with the family or dinner with a date any time of year.
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This beautiful and historic waterfront gathering place for fresh seafood and unmatched views of the San Francisco Bay, recently completed (April, 2012) a major interior design renovation, including the addition of a new raw bar, glass-walled private dining room and innovative menus. Originally opened in 1983 in the Berkeley Marina, the reimagined Skates on the Bay is a stunning restaurant to enjoy cocktails at sunset, late night Happy Hour, weekday lunch, weekend lunch or brunch with the family or dinner with a date any time of year.
446 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Rating Breakdown 446 reviews
5 stars
(134)
4 stars
(201)
3 stars
(70)
2 stars
(25)
1 star
(16)
Food
(Very Good)
3.9
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
3.8
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- scenic view(358)
- special occasion(253)
- romantic(180)
- good for groups(143)
- fit for foodies(117)
- great for lunch(110)
Skates on the Bay Reviews List
Review 1 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Good food and service. Wait staff very nice"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 2 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Overpriced
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Crowded and noise level so high that you can't hear yourselves speak. The view of the bay at sunset was perhaps why the food and wine was expensive. Everything is a la carte. The entrees we ordered were very tasty. Bread was stale. I would recommend enjoying this place before or after the dinner hour"
Dined on 5/15/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 3 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place for fun happy hour."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 4 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Travelled a long distance
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The ambience of this restaurant was GREAT, I have wanted to bring my girl there for years. Food was better than last time, which I'll in turn call it delicious with a great portion.
I would recommend this restaurant to anyone wishing to share a special moment with great friends or a loved one.
***Don't forget a jacket, so as o enjoy a great walk on the wharf after dinner!***"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 5 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Over priced Mother's Day Menu
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The menu was over priced for the amount and quality of the food. Service was terrible. Our waiter ignored us most of the night and didn't give the child in our party her dessert. I was very loud and the restaurant was not overly full. One whole room was empty by the time we were seated. I will not be returning."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 6 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Sunset Dinner
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Our out of town guests were so delighted! The view was perfect and the food was delicious! Pear Bread Pudding for dessert was fabulous! It's a new menu since the last time we were here, much better!"
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 7 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Skates is a Winner Again
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The combination of delicious food, great service and a wonderful window seat made for the perfect dining experience. The occasion was for Mother's Day and I'm so glad Skates was our choice. It was a great way to start off my Mother's Day celebration. Our server was Scott and he never wrote down a thing yet our order was perfect even with all of our customized entrees! We will DEFINITELY be back."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 8 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Stunning bay views and food
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was superb, the views were fantastic but the service left a bit to be desired. Cocktails are great- lots of Hendricks Gin. We ordered Oysters Rockerfellers as a communal starter to commemorate a dear old friend but the starters we ordered came first.The main course prices are high but worth it. I had Halibut with kumquats - what a great contrast with the tangy kumquats. The main tuna was also superb. My dinner companions both had the Dungeness Crab Cocktail which turned out to be the bargain of the year at USD 18 compared with a main of a whole crab at USD 40. The crab cocktail was a main in itself.
Apart from the disappointing service this was a superb meal."
Apart from the disappointing service this was a superb meal."
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 9 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
poor service
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Have had brunch/ lunch several times in a big group without any concerns re: service. Although we were late d/t traffic and we were forewarned that it would be another 20-30 min before we were seated, we didn't order until another 20 minutes. 30 minutes later, our food arrived. I had two small children with me (ages 4 and 6) who were falling asleep at the table waiting for dinner. The kids meal came with dessert, but it never arrived until we finally asked a different server who brought it out in less than a minute (literally). The waiter was no where to be found, water and drinks were never refreshed throughout the meal. Needless to say, I was embarrassed that we had recommended the restaurant and will probably not have dinner there again."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 10 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Beautiful Day/Beautiful View
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Lucky us to have an early dinner Mother's Day with a window seat and clear view of the Golden Gate in the sunset!
Our server was very nice and accommodating. The young lady who seated us was so kind as to get us an window seat.
We have have 4 or 5 nice experiences at Skates, though a little picey by the time you are out the door, well worth it for an occasion.
The food? Very good bisque, main dish was fish with very tasty onions on the plate. My wife had a filet, excellent and cooked just right."
Our server was very nice and accommodating. The young lady who seated us was so kind as to get us an window seat.
We have have 4 or 5 nice experiences at Skates, though a little picey by the time you are out the door, well worth it for an occasion.
The food? Very good bisque, main dish was fish with very tasty onions on the plate. My wife had a filet, excellent and cooked just right."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 11 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Mother's Day Brunch
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food was very good, however I would have liked more entree options"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 12 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great food and fabulous service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I had not been to Skates in years and apparently I had really missed it. My daughter and I were there for Mother's Day and I enjoyed everything about it. We went dutch, had a bar drink and fresh crab Benedict (which neither of us could finish!) for a very reasonable price and the best part was the server! She was a young, African-American woman who was just talkative enough, very cheery and very accommodating. Could not have asked for more. I wish I could remember her name because she was great --- deserves a raise! Funny and smiling all the time."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 13 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Skates on Mother's Day
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Pretty much what I expected on Mother's Day eve. A short wait w/a reservation. Busy and noisy. Beautiful view of the bay. now w/Sushi kitchen. Waited to get apps & dinner. Ate a Rainbow Roll which was over priced $14 but delicious. We had the Salmon Bisque which was very thick, creamy, & rich. It had pieces of salmon, crispy salmon skin, & salmon roe. Delicious but luke warm. About $8. We had the veal shank ($29) which fell off the bone & came w/ 2 ex-large shrimp w/ polenta, a red wine brown sauce & cooked Kale. Very, very good. We split the Pear Bread pudding for dessert. Then we sipped delicious cappucino's as we watched the sun slip past the horizon. This place is even better for Sunday Brunch. Cost for two adults $144 plus tip!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 14 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
OpenTable on Mother's Day
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"My first time using OpenTable to make the reservation. I also called them to request a window seating. When we arrived they didn't have my reservation; they still gave us the window seating . The food was OK. I got the seafood Joe which was recommended by our attendant. Good.
My kids both got the salmon on mint-leaves salad. They both didn't like the dish. My wife got the prime rib, which was the best dish we had on that day. The prime rib was thick and really cooked to her order. My wife also got the mimosa pipe apple drink (recommended by our attendant), which she liked. The view was good . We didn't see the GGB because of the fog. The parking was not easy. Needed to wait for someone to leave. Our attendant was really good and attentive."
My kids both got the salmon on mint-leaves salad. They both didn't like the dish. My wife got the prime rib, which was the best dish we had on that day. The prime rib was thick and really cooked to her order. My wife also got the mimosa pipe apple drink (recommended by our attendant), which she liked. The view was good . We didn't see the GGB because of the fog. The parking was not easy. Needed to wait for someone to leave. Our attendant was really good and attentive."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: scenic view, special occasion
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Review 15 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Stupendous view
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food here is good, but not outstanding. Still, we didn't come so much for the food. We came for the location and the view. The servers were GREAT and the bartender was very kind and lots of fun."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, kid-friendly, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 16 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Service was horrid. Kids food came 30+ minutes before ours. Then I had to flag down our waiter to check on our order. Food was oily and smothered in butter. We've been to Skates many times and everything has always been great. This Mothers Day, Skates really let us down. And we weren't the only ones!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 17 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great food with a spectacular view
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Crab Artichoke dip is a must try dish. Seafood dishes are all excellent, well cooked with just the right amount of sauces and sides. The view anywhere in the restaurant is spectacular, even when it's foggy. Nothing to see after dark, but the food is worth it anyway. Make a reservation as this place can have quite the wait during peak meal times."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 18 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Overpriced mother's day menu
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I've been here several times before and HAD great food and service. Unfortunately this round wasn't great. It was reservation only and we were seated late and crammed into the bar against the wall next to the wait station. I brought my mom here for the view. My fault for not saying something but they were packed, the staff was frantic and we were hungry. Drinks and apps came out fast but our brunch/lunch did not come out until 1 hour after being seated, with no acknowledgement from our waitress during the wait time. I wasn't impressed with the portion for the price at all. The salmon didn't have much flavor, then breakfast was decent and the burger according to my mom was OK. We came for the bay scenery but got stuck with a view of the bar."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 19 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Skates Kitchen Off
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"For many years Skates has been a favorite special occasion restaurant and a reliable spot to take out-of-town guests. Since the renovation, however, the kitchen has been off. We have had two fairly mediocre experiences lately and hope it recovers soon."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 20 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Disappointed
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I have gone to Skates since I was a kid. The food has gone up and down over the years, but was usually pretty darn good. I was very displeased to find the food, save for the potatoes, mediocre at best. The hostess had an attitude, and threw one when we asked to sit closer to the windows (which there were plenty of tables). We were virtually ignored for a good 15 minutes before our waiter approached. He was sweet but obviously very new on a very busy (Mother's Day) weekend. We were forgotten for most of the meal; at the end, our waiter took a good 20 minutes to get us the check. I won't go back there for a very long time, and would not recommend it to my friends."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 21 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A terrific Mother's Day gift
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The service was very good - greeted promptly, a friendly and happy waitress to our cocktail order taken within a couple of minutes, dinner order taken when the drinks arrived a few minutes later. The clam chowder was thick and delicious but not very many clam pieces. The steak was cooked perfectly rare which is unusual except at the top steak-houses. Major points for the chef - you made a woman very happy on Mother's Day!!! Overall it was well worth the cost of $100 in food, $40 in drinks and the $35 tip was well deserved for ending a very special day on a great note!!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 22 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Shortage of servers
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We waited a long time for initial service and were going to leave. Then Blake came to our rescue and provided excellent service throughout our meal. The food was very good, and I really liked the sushi."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 23 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Loved it! It was my first time there and the food was really good!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 24 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Good view
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Had wonderful time with my family celebrating my birthday. They gave us complimentary creme brulee. But unfortunately that was the best part. The quality of the food seemed to have decreased in the last few years. The seafood Louie lacked uniqueness and the salad in it was very ordinary. The pastrami sandwich was a bit salty and the crab fettuccini was plain as well. The view of the bay cannot be missed however and so I would still recommend Skates for that."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Fabulous view
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I love Skates because of its nice view, good food and nice service, the only complain that I have is that it's impossible to get a window table!
I have been there many times, and every time requested a window table by calling them way in advance, but never got the chance to get what I asked for...
But overall it's a very nice restaurant specially if you stay there to watch the sunset :)"
I have been there many times, and every time requested a window table by calling them way in advance, but never got the chance to get what I asked for...
But overall it's a very nice restaurant specially if you stay there to watch the sunset :)"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view
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Review 26 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
The view is the thing
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Due to birthdays, I ate both dinner and lunch at Skates with various friends and family during a one-week period. By all accounts, the food ranged from good to excellent and the portions and pours are good. Our service was fine at both meals—perhaps even a little cloying at times. However, the cost of dinner seemed to add up quickly, with only a few of us having wine or beer, and the corkage charge of $20 when we brought our own wine seemed excessive, particularly when it was taxed as well, so we might pick another place for the next set of celebrations. Skates is for those times when you just want to sit by the bay and relax, and there is a price for that."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 27 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great view and seafood
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Stopped in after watching the San Francisco Ballet. We live in Sacramento and it a great, relaxing stop. They have a well balance menu, but I love the seafood. I has a bowl of clam chowder and a couple dozen local muscles. That was a good meal, not to heavy to drive home on. Even my foodie daughter like Skates."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, scenic view
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Review 28 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
jkboats
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The service was great as was the food. background noise made conversation difficult but it was tolerable. I would keep this on my recommended list."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, scenic view, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 29 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
my favorite
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"I live in San Francisco and I always suggest Skates when making an East Bay date. It never fails."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, romantic, scenic view, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 30 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food great - but loud
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Since I was seeing an old friend and we had a lot of catching up to do, having to wait 45 min. to order was slightly annoying. It was a Friday nite and we did get a window seat, watched a fabulous sunset. We had the fried oysters appetizer - delicious! The Romain salad was adequate. Had we impressed upon the waiter that we needed to get our order in we probably would have. It was a lovely evening and I'll return."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, scenic view
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Review 31 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great view
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great place to have lunch; food is well-prepared and served. Lunch portions are about right for those who are not heavy eaters. Apple crisp dessert was delicious."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: good for groups, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 32 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Would expect more
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"For a restaurant that is Marina fine dining with this view, and the prices, I"d expect a better overall experience. Our waiter was good, when he had tie to attend to us, but the bussers/waterboy were a disaster. They kept taking our knives and not replacing them, and the waterboy repeatedly splashed water all over my dining companion while filling up the glasses.
The food was good, the wine list decent and the specials well paired. You can't beat the view."
The food was good, the wine list decent and the specials well paired. You can't beat the view."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 33 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Always Great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Not only is the staff very nice and the food exceptional but the view is world class."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: romantic, scenic view, special occasion
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Review 34 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Only go at sunset
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"There's really no reason to fine here except for the view at sunset. If you don't make it, save your time and money."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 35 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Favorite restaurant by the Bay
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Great restaurant, a favorite for at least 18 years. You can dress up or dress casually. Seating is also available in the bar area, so you can watch a game on TV there if so desired. Prices do seem to be creeping up ($15+ crab and artichoke dip? Didn't order it for the first time the other day). The cherry pork chop was delicious though, as was the bread pudding dessert!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2000
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 36 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
If you are looking for fresh
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"If you are looking for fresh fish,grilled or broiled,there is not much to choose.Most everything is either shellfish,fried fish,combination plates and the like.Good selection of wine and beer.Friendly bar scene amid nice water views.Would recommend for drinks and snacks rather than a serious fish dinner."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, scenic view
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Review 37 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
We got there 20 minutes early
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Poor)
1
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We got there 20 minutes early so we told the hostess we would be at the bar, also to wait for the rest of our party to show up. When we finished our drinks at the bar and the other members of our party showed up, they made us wait 15 minutes and put us up on the second level next to the entrance, away from the main floor with no view!
I was extremely disappointed, clearly while we were at the bar waiting for our company, relaxing with a drink and appraisers , they gave away our table and stuck us up in that ugly corner!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2013
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Review 38 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great view and oysters!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I came here on a reservation hoping to find a good seat saved for me and my girlfriend. It was our 1 1/2 year and we wanted a window seat and we pretty much got one of the best seats in the house, would come back for their oysters!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 39 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We love the food, service
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We love the food, service and especially the view!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 40 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
Lunch for 2 took 3 hours!
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"Lunch for 2 took 3 hours! 20 minutes to be seated in spite of reservations and only a few customers. The ladies at the front didn't seem to know what they were doing. We had to ask a couple of times, though we were standing right there. There weren't that many people in the restaurant, yet they appeared swamped. The food was finally served 1 hour after we entered the restaurant. It took another 1/2 hour after we had finished our sandwiches to put in our order for coffee and another 1/2 hour for the coffee to appear. The food was good, but I will not return any time soon."
Dined on 04/24/2013
2008
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Review 41 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Wonderful place, food is great.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Wonderful place, food is great."
Dined on 04/22/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, scenic view
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Review 42 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Met friends visiting from
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Met friends visiting from Florida to get a different perspective of our glorius Bay. Easy to get too, with plenty of parking. Servers were friendly and responsive. Food was very tasty with some interesting combinations - both fish and meat. Of course it could all be, location, location, location at sunset!"
Dined on 04/20/2013
2004
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, scenic view
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Review 43 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
667 Pinot Noir was excellent.
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"667 Pinot Noir was excellent. Service was decent. I ordered coffee and they charged me for it but never brought it. The waitress never even came back to the table."
Dined on 04/22/2013
2011
Special Features: late-night find, hot spot
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Review 44 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Very nice place with a great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Very nice place with a great view at sunset."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2010
Special Features: special occasion, scenic view
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Review 45 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
My recollection of Skates
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"My recollection of Skates from many years ago was one of a noisy, crowded restaurant serving mediocre food in a very nice view. It is much changed now from memory. It was a great Sunday brunch spot for us to meet and visit for a couple of hours with out-of-town friends on their way to Napa. Food was very nice prepared and served, and ambiance very relaxed and conversationally pleasant. Very good wait service."
Dined on 04/21/2013
2008
Special Features: great for brunch, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 46 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The food was exquisite and
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food was exquisite and full of flavor, as someone who is very particular about my food, i must say everything taste well. I can say That the prime rib could have had a little more work on presentation. It was quite unappealing and when it was first delivered to me my initial Reaction was "that's NOT what I had in mind" after all, we do it with our eyes as well. And when you are paying that much you expect a bit more effort on presentation. Server was informative but not attentive. We had to look around for quite awhile before she finally came to check on us to find that we needed a few things. I certainly reccomend the filet mignon. So beautifully plated.Over all, very very nice place, beautiful view, and Tastes great"
Dined on 04/21/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, scenic view
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Review 47 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
A Lawbreaking Bread Pudding
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We were there for lunch on this occassion and we ordered the Salmon from the lunch menu; it was absolutely delicious. The salmon was cooked to perfection (medium rare)and the pilaf and vegetables were well matched. Shamefully we have to admit that we totally cleaned our plates. The dining area with very large windows at water's edge is breathtaking. The view was gorgeous; we could see all three Bay area bridges and the SF skyline. An excellent and unbeatable value.
As for desert, the bread pudding was so delicious, mouthwatering and so out of this world that we felt it had to be breaking the "law". Word of caution to the Chef: You may have a warrant out for your arrest for creating such an incredibly additictive concoction. :-)"
Dined on 04/15/2013
2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, great for lunch
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Review 48 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
horrible first experience
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Service was horrible. Our food took 30 minutes . The waiter kept forgetting to bring stuff we asked for. It wasn't a good first experience at all."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2013
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 49 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
This is the third time now
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Poor)
1
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This is the third time now where we have come to the restaurant (mind you, I have been going there since the early 1980s when it was still under prior ownership), and requested a window table only to be told that window tables cannot be reserved and will be given away on a first come, first serve basis. However, each time we get there, several window tables are empty - in fact, they were still empty at the time of our seating - and when we ask why we can't sit there, we were told that they were reserved. So, which one is it? They can be reserved, in which case I'd like to know why we can't reserve them. Or, they cannot be reserved, in which case I'd like to know why we can't sit there when we're the only guests waiting. We won't come back."
Dined on 04/20/2013
2003
Special Features: scenic view
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Review 50 for Skates on the Bay
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Views, Views
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The Sushi was bad, food is always mediocre. My friend had prime rib, it was ok. Yet, this is a favorite place to dine and I keep going back only for the VIEWS. Love the water and the walk on the Pier afterwards."
Dined on 04/19/2013
2008
Special Features: scenic view
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