Fisherman’s Wharf PLAZA

As part of the Port of San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf Forward initiative, SITELAB urban studio, along with the Port and Arcadis, is leading the transformation of the site where the Alioto's restaurant currently stands.

Continuing our work with the Port to envision an adaptable and resilient San Francisco shoreline, SITELAB’s approach recasts this prominent site as an active destination that opens up views to the waterfront and invites people to connect with the authentic heart of the working waterfront. A single-use building is replaced with an inclusive, open plaza that offers exceptional views of the Inner Lagoon, the historic fishing fleet and the Golden Gate Bridge. 

With a range of seating choices, the plaza creates places for both individuals and groups, and people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the views. Picnic tables, waterfront lounge seats, benches, and a signature maritime-themed sculptural bench create invitations to sit, linger, and socialize. Special paving marks the seawall and creates an entrance into the plaza while a central ‘aisle’ draws people in and keeps views open towards the waterfront. The plaza is intentionally designed to remain flexible for spillover uses from adjacent tenants and support outdoor programming and events. The new plaza will retain the authenticity of the wharf while prioritizing the pedestrian experience, with new lighting, public art and interpretive elements that highlight the fishing community.  The plaza will welcome both locals and visitors alike.  

This is a strategic effort to transform the area, building on our resilience work along the Embarcadero to ensure the historic waterfront remains a vibrant destination. The new plaza will retain the unique character of Fisherman's Wharf, honoring its past while paving the way for a sustainable and economically vital future.