For better restaurant suggestions, allow location access to see nearby places first.
What to order
-
🥇
Irish Coffee
By far the most frequently recommended item. Reviewers consistently call it famous, iconic, and expertly made, praising its balance of coffee, whiskey, sugar, and cream, plus the fun experience of watching it prepared.
-
🥈
Bread Pudding
Mentioned as 'simply divine,' making it a standout dessert recommendation from the reviews.
-
🥉
Corned Beef Hash
Recommended as flavorful, very filling, and especially good when paired with poached eggs and sourdough toast.
-
4
BLT
Called 'the best ever' by one reviewer and described as solid and amazing by another, making it a repeated food recommendation.
-
5
Pastrami Sandwich
Specifically mentioned as delicious in one review, contributing to the positive feedback on the lunch menu.
-
6
Vista Burger
Included among the dishes described as delicious, with reviewers saying they ate it all and enjoyed it.
-
7
Clam Chowder
Mentioned positively as part of an enjoyable meal, with the reviewer saying all the food items ordered were delicious.
-
8
Lobster Roll
Praised for being great and having a generous portion of lobster, making it one of the more specifically recommended lunch items.
-
9
Club Sandwich
Described as looking good and tasting very tasty, earning a positive mention among the lunch options.
-
10
Mexican Coffee
Recommended by a server and then preferred by one reviewer over the Irish Coffee, suggesting it is a worthwhile alternative drink.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
| Wednesday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
| Thursday | 9 AM to 11 PM |
| Friday | 9 AM to 12 AM |
| Saturday | 8 AM to 12 AM |
| Sunday | 8 AM to 11 PM |
About The Buena Vista
Opened in 1916, this corner spot serves its signature Irish coffee alongside American staples.
Amenities
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
Popular for
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Food
- Food at bar
- Happy hour drinks
- Hard liquor
- Wine
Dining options
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Frequently asked
What is The Buena Vista known for?
It is best known for Irish coffee, which reviewers call the signature drink and say is made with a precise, almost show-like preparation at the bar. People also mention the crab cakes and the historic setting as part of the appeal.
What dishes are most recommended at The Buena Vista?
Reviewers repeatedly recommend the crab cakes, sourdough toast, bread pudding, and corned beef hash. Other frequently praised items include the lobster roll, club sandwich, pastrami sandwich, Vista burger, and clam chowder.
What is the atmosphere like at The Buena Vista?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and lively, with old-school wood interiors, warm lighting, and a busy room that often feels packed. It suits solo diners, groups, and tourists, but it is not the best choice if you want a quiet romantic meal because shared tables and steady noise are common.
Is The Buena Vista good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, though the Irish coffee is often mentioned at about $15 to $16 each, so it can feel a little pricey. Reviewers still say the food and the historic experience are worth it, especially if you are there for the drink and the waterfront location.
When is the best time to visit The Buena Vista?
Come early if you want to avoid a wait, because reviewers say it is usually busy and often has a line, especially during weekends and holidays. One reviewer arrived about an hour after opening and still waited around 10 minutes, while others noted that seating at the bar or communal tables can fill quickly.
Is parking available at The Buena Vista?
Yes. Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
