In San Francisco’s early days, there were many waterside shacks along the bustling waterfront. These buildings served the longshoremen who were working the docks and gave them a warm haven to wait it out while ships were late to dock. The Pier 23 Cafe building was one of many “coffee houses” that existed on the bay side of The City. While some food and a warm cup of joe was the standard fare at these type of establishments, it was rumored that all sorts of libation could be found here.