San Francisco: Top Seafood Restaurants

San Francisco is renowned for its fresh and diverse seafood offerings. With its prime coastal location, the city boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. 

My wife and I explored several top spots to find the best seafood in San Francisco. Here are our top picks.

1. Swan Oyster Depot

Location: 1517 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109
Phone: +1 415-673-1101
Website: swanoysterdepot.us
Hours: 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Mon-Sat)

Swan Oyster Depot is a San Francisco institution. This small, family-run spot has been serving fresh seafood since 1912. The atmosphere is casual, with a long counter where you can watch the oysters being shucked. We loved the clam chowder and the fresh Dungeness crab.

2. Anchor Oyster Bar

Location: 579 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114
Phone: +1 415-431-3990
Website: anchor-oysterbar.com
Hours: 11:30 AM - 9:30 PM (Tue-Sat), 4:30 PM - 9:30 PM (Sun)

Anchor Oyster Bar offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. Their crab cakes and oysters are standout dishes. The clam chowder is a must-try, and we appreciated the friendly service and the relaxed vibe.

3. Fog Harbor Fish House

Location: Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: +1 415-421-2442
Website: fogharbor.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Daily)

Fog Harbor Fish House offers stunning views of the Bay and Alcatraz Island, along with an extensive menu of fresh seafood. The clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is a favorite, and the seafood platters are perfect for sharing. We enjoyed the scenic dining experience and the excellent service.

4. Waterbar

Location: 399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105
Phone: +1 415-284-9922
Website: waterbarsf.com
Hours: 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Daily)

Waterbar is known for its sustainable seafood and breathtaking views of the Bay Bridge. The restaurant's floor-to-ceiling windows provide a stunning backdrop for any meal. We loved the oysters and the whole roasted fish. The ambiance and attentive service made it a memorable dining experience.

5. The Franciscan Crab Restaurant

Location: Pier 43 1/2, Fisherman's Wharf, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: +1 415-362-7733
Website: franciscancrabrestaurant.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Daily)

The Franciscan Crab Restaurant offers a nostalgic dining experience with its vintage decor and spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. The Dungeness crab is the star of the menu, but the seafood cioppino is also a must-try. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the delicious food.

6. Hog Island Oyster Co.

Location: Ferry Building, 1 Ferry Building #11A, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: +1 415-391-7117
Website: hogislandoysters.com
Hours: 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM (Mon-Thu), 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM (Fri-Sat), 11:30 AM - 6:00 PM (Sun)

Hog Island Oyster Co. is a popular spot located in the Ferry Building Marketplace. Known for their fresh, locally sourced oysters, this place is a seafood lover's paradise. We savored the grilled oysters and clam chowder while enjoying the bustling market atmosphere.

7. Scoma's Restaurant

Location: Pier 47, Al Scoma Way, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: +1 415-771-4383
Website: scomas.com
Hours: 11:30 AM - 9:30 PM (Daily)

Scoma's is a classic seafood restaurant located on Fisherman's Wharf. With its own fishing boat, Scoma’s ensures the freshest catch for their dishes. We were particularly impressed by the cioppino and the clam chowder. The waterfront views and traditional ambiance made for a delightful meal.

8. The Codmother Fish & Chips

Location: 2824 Jones St, San Francisco, CA 94133
Phone: +1 415-606-9349
Website: thecodmother.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Wed-Sun)

For a more casual seafood experience, The Codmother Fish & Chips is a fantastic choice. Their fish and chips are crispy, golden, and perfectly cooked. We also tried the shrimp tacos, which were equally delicious. It's a great spot for a quick, tasty meal while exploring Fisherman’s Wharf.

9. Pacific Catch

Location: 2027 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123
Phone: +1 415-440-1950
Website: pacificcatch.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Daily)

Pacific Catch offers a modern twist on classic seafood dishes, with a focus on sustainable sourcing. The poke bowls and fish tacos were fresh and flavorful. We enjoyed the casual, friendly atmosphere and the diverse menu options that catered to all tastes.

10. Tadich Grill

Location: 240 California St, San Francisco, CA 94111
Phone: +1 415-391-1849
Website: tadichgrill.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM (Mon-Fri), 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Sat)

Tadich Grill is the oldest continuously running restaurant in California, offering a historic dining experience with its classic seafood dishes. The cioppino and sand dabs are highly recommended. We appreciated the old-world charm and the impeccable service.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: Seafood restaurants are popular year-round, but evenings and weekends can be particularly busy. Reservations are recommended for dinner.

What to Bring: Bring a healthy appetite and a camera to capture the stunning views at many of these restaurants.

Dress Code: Most seafood restaurants in San Francisco have a smart casual dress code. Check the restaurant's website for specific guidelines.

Overall Impression

Dining in San Francisco's top seafood restaurants was a culinary delight for us. Each restaurant offers its unique atmosphere, fresh seafood, and exceptional service. Whether you're looking for a casual bite or a fine dining experience, San Francisco's seafood scene has something to offer every seafood lover.

Tips for Exploring San Francisco

While you’re in San Francisco, consider visiting these other top attractions:

• Golden Gate Bridge: Walk or bike across this iconic landmark.

• Alcatraz Island: Take a tour of the infamous former prison.

• Fisherman’s Wharf: Explore shops, restaurants, and sea lion sightings.

• Golden Gate Park: Enjoy the gardens, museums, and outdoor activities.

• Chinatown: Discover vibrant culture, shops, and eateries.

San Francisco is full of vibrant culture and endless things to do, making it an exciting destination for every traveler.