San Francisco is a city that thrives on its connection to the sea. With the Pacific Ocean at its doorstep, it’s no surprise that the seafood here is some of the freshest and most flavorful you’ll find. Whether you’re craving buttery Dungeness crab, briny oysters, or perfectly fried fish and chips, the city’s diverse seafood scene has something for every palate. As someone who has explored countless seafood spots across the Bay Area, I’ve come to appreciate the unique charm and quality that each restaurant brings to the table.
What makes San Francisco’s seafood stand out isn’t just the quality of the catch but the care and creativity that go into preparing it. From cozy neighborhood gems to iconic waterfront establishments, the city offers a range of dining experiences that cater to both locals and visitors. In this guide, I’ve curated a list of the best halal-friendly seafood spots in San Francisco, ensuring you can enjoy every bite with confidence. Let’s dive into the flavors that make this city a seafood lover’s paradise.
1. Anchor Oyster Bar
Anchor Oyster Bar is a Castro gem that has been serving fresh, sustainably sourced seafood since 1977. Its intimate, retro charm—think chrome stools and a marble bar—makes it a cozy spot for seafood lovers. Owner Roseann Grimm’s passion for quality shines through in every dish, a legacy passed down from her fisherman grandfather.
What sets Anchor Oyster Bar apart is its commitment to simplicity and flavor. The Dungeness crab “burger” is a must-try, offering a light yet satisfying taste of the Pacific. For a heartier option, the cioppino is legendary, brimming with fresh shellfish in a rich tomato broth. Pair it with their buttery garlic bread for the ultimate experience.
Oysters here are a standout, so briny they barely need mignonette. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Anchor Oyster Bar delivers a taste of San Francisco’s maritime heritage with every bite.
2. Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill
Tucked in North Beach, Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill feels like a well-kept secret—a no-frills spot where locals go for honest, satisfying seafood. The vibe is warm and unpretentious, with a menu that feels like a love letter to San Francisco’s culinary roots. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find fishermen and families sharing the same table.
What makes Betty Lou’s special is its balance of tradition and heart. The cioppino is a standout—a generous bowl of fresh crab, clams, and mussels in a rich, garlicky broth. For something uniquely West Coast, try the sand dabs, lightly pan-fried and served with a squeeze of lemon. Even the wok crab, a messy but rewarding dish, reflects the restaurant’s bold, unfussy style.
This is seafood done right: fresh, flavorful, and without pretense. A true San Francisco classic.
3. Hog Island Oyster Co.
Hog Island Oyster Co. is where San Francisco’s seafood lovers congregate for the ultimate oyster experience. Nestled in the historic Ferry Building, this bustling spot offers Tomales Bay’s finest bivalves—so fresh they practically taste of the ocean breeze. The first time I sat at their marble bar, watching shuckers work with practiced ease, I understood why people happily wait in line.
What sets Hog Island apart is their commitment to sustainable aquaculture and sheer oyster mastery. Their Sweetwater oysters, plump and briny, need nothing beyond a quick squeeze of lemon. But don’t stop there—the Manila clam chowder, creamy and packed with tender clams, is a revelation. For something heartier, the seafood stew brims with prawns, mussels, and clams in a fragrant broth.
With Bay views and impeccable quality, Hog Island delivers coastal perfection on every plate.
4. Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood
Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood is a North Beach institution that feels like stepping into a classic San Francisco seafood house. The cozy, nautical-themed space is always buzzing with energy, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. My first visit here felt like discovering a hidden treasure—a place where the seafood is as vibrant as the atmosphere.
What makes Sotto Mare stand out is its dedication to fresh, flavorful dishes served in generous portions. The cioppino is legendary, a hearty stew brimming with Dungeness crab, clams, mussels, and shrimp in a rich tomato broth. It’s a dish that captures the essence of San Francisco’s maritime heritage. For something lighter, the oysters on the half shell are impeccably fresh, served with a tangy mignonette.
With its warm service and unbeatable seafood, Sotto Mare is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic coastal flavors.
5. Blue Mermaid Restaurant
Blue Mermaid Restaurant brings Fisherman’s Wharf’s maritime history to life with its Gold Rush-era charm and steaming cauldrons of chowder. The moment you step inside, the nautical decor and welcoming vibe make you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden cove. I still remember my first bite of their signature clam chowder—creamy, packed with tender clams, and served in a sourdough bread bowl that’s pure San Francisco.
What sets Blue Mermaid apart is its perfect balance of tourist-friendly appeal and genuine local flavor. Their Dungeness crab, served whole and cracked for easy eating, showcases the sweet, delicate meat that makes West Coast seafood special. The cioppino here is another winner, loaded with fresh catch in a robust tomato broth.
With reasonable prices and a fun, family-friendly atmosphere, Blue Mermaid delivers classic Wharf seafood without the usual tourist traps.
6. The Codmother Fish & Chips
At The Codmother Fish & Chips, a bright blue food truck parked in Fisherman’s Wharf, you’ll find Britain meets California in the crispiest way possible. My first bite of their golden-battered cod transported me straight to a London chippy—except with San Francisco’s signature sourdough tang in the air. The crunch gives way to flaky, moist fish that’s never greasy, a testament to their perfect fry technique.
What makes The Codmother special is its no-nonsense approach to an iconic dish. The fish (always fresh, never frozen) pairs with thick-cut fries and house-made tartar sauce for a satisfying meal. For a local twist, try the “NorCal Burrito”—fish and chips wrapped in a tortilla with mushy peas and curry sauce. It shouldn’t work, but it does.
This women-owned spot proves great seafood doesn’t need frills—just quality ingredients and a love for tradition.
7. Scoma’s Restaurant
Scoma’s Restaurant is a Fisherman’s Wharf institution, a place where the sea feels close enough to touch. Perched on Pier 47, this family-owned gem has been serving pier-to-plate seafood since 1965. My first visit here felt like stepping into a piece of San Francisco history, with its warm, old-school charm and panoramic bay views.
What sets Scoma’s apart is its direct connection to local fishers, ensuring every dish is sustainably sourced and impeccably fresh. The Dungeness crab cocktail is a must—sweet, tender crab served chilled with a zesty sauce. For a hearty classic, try the cioppino, a rich stew brimming with crab, clams, and shrimp in a robust tomato broth.
With its timeless hospitality and commitment to quality, Scoma’s remains a cornerstone of San Francisco’s seafood scene.
8. Fog Harbor Fish House
Fog Harbor Fish House is where San Francisco’s waterfront dining reaches its peak. Perched on Pier 39, this restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz, making every meal feel like a special occasion. My first visit here was unforgettable—the combination of fresh seafood and stunning scenery left me in awe.
What makes Fog Harbor stand out is its commitment to sustainability. As the first 100% sustainable seafood restaurant in Fisherman’s Wharf, it ensures every dish is both ethical and delicious. The Dungeness crab cakes are a highlight, perfectly crispy outside and tender inside. For a classic taste, the cioppino is a must—a rich, tomato-based stew packed with fresh shellfish.
With its family-owned charm and dedication to quality, Fog Harbor delivers a quintessential San Francisco experience.
9. Swan Oyster Depot
Swan Oyster Depot is a San Francisco institution that feels frozen in time—in the best way possible. This no-frills, 18-stool counter has been serving pristine seafood since 1912, and the line out the door proves its enduring appeal. My first visit felt like uncovering a secret, with the friendly banter of shuckers and the briny scent of fresh oysters creating an irresistible atmosphere.
What sets Swan apart is its unwavering focus on quality and simplicity. Their oysters—especially the Kumamotos—are so fresh they taste like the Pacific itself. The crab back (Dungeness crab served in its shell) is another must, showcasing sweet, delicate meat with minimal fuss. Pair it with their legendary Louie dressing for the full experience.
This is seafood at its purest, served with decades of expertise and zero pretension.
10. Pacific Catch
Pacific Catch brings the flavors of the Pacific to San Francisco with a commitment to sustainability and creativity. My first meal here felt like a coastal journey, with dishes inspired by the vibrant culinary traditions of Hawaii, Mexico, and Japan. The laid-back, modern vibe makes it perfect for casual lunches or relaxed dinners.
What sets Pacific Catch apart is its dedication to responsible sourcing. Partnering with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch, they ensure every dish is both ethical and delicious. The poke bowls are a standout, featuring fresh, marinated fish layered with vibrant toppings. For something heartier, the grilled wild salmon, paired with seasonal sides, highlights the restaurant’s focus on wholesome ingredients.
With its innovative menu and commitment to the ocean, Pacific Catch offers a seafood experience that’s as thoughtful as it is flavorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best seafood restaurants in San Francisco?
Some of the top seafood spots include Scoma’s Restaurant, Fog Harbor Fish House, and Swan Oyster Depot. Each offers a unique experience, from classic dishes to sustainable seafood options.
2. Is seafood in San Francisco fresh?
Yes! San Francisco’s seafood is known for its freshness, as many restaurants source directly from local fishermen. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean ensures a variety of fresh catches daily.
3. Are there halal seafood options in San Francisco?
Absolutely! Many seafood restaurants in San Francisco offer halal options. It’s best to check with the restaurant beforehand to ensure their seafood is prepared according to halal guidelines.
4. What seafood dishes should I try in San Francisco?
Don’t miss the Dungeness crab, clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl, and cioppino, a hearty seafood stew. These dishes reflect the local culinary heritage and are must-tries!
5. Can I find vegetarian or vegan seafood alternatives in San Francisco?
Yes! Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan seafood alternatives, such as plant-based fish and seafood-inspired dishes, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
