Hunting for the best seafood in San Francisco isn’t just a pastime—it’s practically a local sport. The city stretches along the Pacific and tucks its dining gems beside foggy piers and lively neighborhoods. You could build a trip around the flavors you’ll find here. After countless plates of oysters, bowls of chowder, and the gentle tug-of-war between fork and fresh crab, I’ve come to one truth: San Francisco knows how to serve the ocean’s bounty without pretense.
Each spot in this list has something special, whether it’s a timeworn counter where locals swap fishing stories or a bay-view table where every sunset steals the show. If you’ve ever wandered through the city, craving the snap of just-caught fish and hoping to dodge tourist traps, you’re in the right place. The search for your next unforgettable seafood meal in San Francisco starts here.
Where to find the best seafood in San Francisco, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best seafood in San Francisco, CA:
- Anchor Oyster Bar
- Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill
- Hog Island Oyster Co.
- Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood
- The Codmother Fish & Chips
- Blue Mermaid Restaurant
- Scoma’s Restaurant
- Fog Harbor Fish House
- Pacific Catch
- Swan Oyster Depot
1. Anchor Oyster Bar
Step into Anchor Oyster Bar and the Castro’s old-school seafood haven draws you in, its compact room buzzing with locals and regulars. I remember the anticipation stirring as I glanced over their daily specials board, knowing every dish starts with sustainably-caught seafood and decades of expertise.
The cioppino—piquant, brimming with just-caught shellfish, and paired with golden-garlic bread—is a must and captures San Francisco’s Italian fishing heritage in a single bowl. The Dungeness crab “burger” comes bursting with delicate, fresh flavor, and the raw oysters need little more than a squeeze of lemon.
Anchor Oyster Bar isn’t flashy; it’s a neighborhood classic where quality and care lead every plate. Ask about what’s freshest, then watch the staff turn simple fish into something unforgettable.
2. Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill
Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill takes you straight to the heart of North Beach, where the scent of fresh herbs and garlic hints at something good on every plate. My first time here, I knew I’d found a comfort spot: the chatter is friendly, and the staff treats you like family.
The signature cioppino bursts with fresh shellfish and a soothing tomato broth, making it hard to leave a drop behind. Sand dabs—a true San Francisco specialty—arrive perfectly crusted and paired with vibrant lemon. The wok crab is a showstopper: bright, messy, and meant for sharing, capturing the laid-back spirit of this spot.
This isn’t a fussy restaurant—it’s a warm, no-frills place where seafood classics and neighborhood charm are always on the menu.
3. Hog Island Oyster Co.
At Hog Island Oyster Co., you get all the energy of San Francisco’s bustling Ferry Building along with some of the purest oysters you’ll ever find. The line outside is part of the experience, but the first bite of their cold, briny oysters makes it all worth it. I still remember the view—Bay waters just beyond the window, oysters glistening on ice in front of me.
Order a platter of Hog Island Sweetwaters and taste why locals and travelers both consider them city icons. If you’re venturing beyond oysters, the Manila clam chowder stands out with its silky broth and fresh herbs. The seafood stew is rustic but comforting, packed with generous mussels and prawns.
It’s the kind of spot where you can come casual but leave seriously impressed by the freshness and flavor.
4. Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood
Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood in North Beach feels like a seafood party where everyone is in on the secret. The room is lively, and it’s clear—people aren’t here for frills, but for true classics made with precision. My earliest visit was defined by elbow-to-elbow counter seating and the kind of anticipation that only comes with watching your meal prepared right in front of you.
The “Best Damn Crab Cioppino” lives up to its confident name: full of sweet crab, clams, mussels, and rich tomato broth. A plate of linguine with fresh clams brings the Italian roots of the neighborhood to your table, bright with parsley and garlic. The raw bar tempts with oysters as cold and briny as Pacific air.
If you like your seafood lively, fresh, and leaning into tradition, this spot never disappoints.
5. The Codmother Fish & Chips
The Codmother Fish & Chips cuts through Fisherman’s Wharf’s hustle with a dose of straight-up British comfort. There’s nothing like biting into the crispy battered fish after a foggy stroll—golden on the outside, impossibly tender inside. My first meal here was pure nostalgia, wrapped in butcher paper and best enjoyed sitting curbside.
Order the classic fish and chips for a snapshot of what they do best: wild-caught fish served hot with thick-cut fries. Chow down on the jumbo shrimp and chips if you’re feeling bold—the shrimp are juicy, lightly breaded, and perfect for dipping.
With its laid-back vibe and focus on authentic techniques, this spot makes British seafood traditions shine right in the heart of San Francisco.
6. Blue Mermaid Restaurant
Blue Mermaid Restaurant sets a playful tone at Fisherman’s Wharf, blending San Francisco spirit with Gold Rush nostalgia. My last visit was all about warming up with their legendary chowder, best enjoyed near their bay windows with a view of the waterfront bustle.
The homemade chowder trio is a highlight: choose between classic clam, smokey corn, or crab and pair them in a warm sourdough bowl for true Bay Area comfort. If you want something hearty, the whole Dungeness crab impresses—steamed to tender perfection. And for seafood purists, fresh oysters on the half shell deliver perfect brine in every slurp.
This spot strikes a friendly note, mixing local flavors with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe.
7. Scoma’s Restaurant
Scoma’s Restaurant sits tucked beside the wharf, pulling in the day’s catch straight from the Bay—quite literally. Watching the boats unload their haul right into Scoma’s kitchen, you know you’re about to taste something that hasn’t traveled far. On my last visit, the sunset over the water was nearly as satisfying as the first bite.
The standout here is the “Pier to Plate” seafood, but the Dungeness crab Louis salad shows off sweet crab and crisp greens with old-school style. The fresh catch of the day is always handled with care, grilled or broiled to perfection. And if you love shellfish, their seafood platter brims with variety and sparkle.
Scoma’s feels timeless—a slice of San Francisco’s maritime history, served up one perfect dish at a time.
8. Fog Harbor Fish House
Fog Harbor Fish House sits at the end of Pier 39, serving seafood with a side of postcard-worthy views. The sweep of the Golden Gate and Alcatraz makes every bite linger, but what really made an impression was learning their entire menu is 100% sustainable.
Start with their famous Dungeness crab cakes, which deliver pure San Francisco flavor—crisp on the outside, all sweet crab inside. The seafood linguine is packed with the day’s fresh catch, tossed in a bright, lemony sauce. And if you’re an oyster fan, a half-dozen on ice never disappoints here.
It’s a spot where local quality shines, and every plate feels like an ode to the Bay’s best offerings.
9. Pacific Catch
Pacific Catch feels fresh and laid-back, with a menu that skips across the Pacific for inspiration. I remember digging into a poke bowl here—every bite punchy with citrus and impeccably clean fish. It’s the kind of place where sharing plates is encouraged, and the lively energy matches the flavors.
Their poke bowls are a standout, with customizable toppings and rice or salad bases. The Korean BBQ salmon bowl brings heat and depth, perfectly balanced by pickled veggies and crisp greens. Don’t miss the crispy rice appetizers, light yet bold.
Pacific Catch’s commitment to sustainable seafood runs as deep as its menu. It’s the spot to try something new, knowing the ingredients are thoughtfully chosen and always ocean-friendly.
10. Swan Oyster Depot
Swan Oyster Depot is as old-school San Francisco as it gets—no reservations, just a marble counter, scribbled menu, and the hum of anticipation. My visit began with a wait, but it flew by thanks to the cheerful staff chatting up regulars and newcomers alike.
The star here is the raw bar: briny oysters, sweet crab, and cold shrimp served faster than you can decide what to try next. Their clam chowder, light and creamy, sets the perfect tone for a seafood feast. The crab salad comes piled high, chilled and delicate—just a squeeze of lemon is all it needs.
There’s no fuss at Swan, just some of the freshest seafood in town and a slice of city tradition that never disappoints.
More Things to Try in San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What seafood is San Francisco famous for?
San Francisco is well known for its Dungeness crab, clam chowder in sourdough bowls, and the Italian-inspired cioppino seafood stew. Oysters and local fish are also city classics.
Where can I find the freshest seafood in San Francisco?
Look for places that source directly from the Bay, like Swan Oyster Depot, Scoma’s Restaurant, and Hog Island Oyster Co.. Fisherman’s Wharf and the Ferry Building are also prime spots for top-notch seafood.
Is San Francisco seafood sustainable?
Many restaurants, including Fog Harbor Fish House and Pacific Catch, focus on serving sustainable seafood. Check menus or ask staff if you’re curious—San Francisco prides itself on ocean-friendly practices.
What should I order if I want a true San Francisco seafood experience?
Try the cioppino, Dungeness crab, and a platter of fresh oysters. Chowder in a sourdough bowl is a staple and rounds out the local experience.
Do San Francisco seafood restaurants offer gluten-free or vegetarian options?
Yes, most well-known seafood restaurants offer gluten-free and vegetarian choices. It’s a good idea to mention any dietary preferences to your server so you get the best fit.