San Francisco's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

From bustling fish markets to cozy waterfront restaurants, I have personally reviewed 12 exceptional seafood spots in the city that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Get ready to dive into the freshest catches, succulent shellfish, and delectable seafood delicacies that will transport your palate to the enchanting shores of San Francisco.

So, whether you're a curious tourist or a local searching for new culinary adventures, join me on this lighthearted seafood extravaganza as we uncover the hidden gems and mouthwatering treasures that make up the vibrant seafood scene of the city by the bay.

Fog Harbor Fish House

Highlights
Incredible views
Excellent service
Outstanding food
Delicious halibut
Amazing waterfront location

As soon as I stepped into Fog Harbor Fish House, I was greeted by the incredible view of the San Francisco Bay. The restaurant's waterfront location truly sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

The excellent service at Fog Harbor Fish House truly stood out. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about the food they were serving. They were happy to answer any questions I had and provided recommendations that were spot on.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the seafood. Fog Harbor Fish House certainly lives up to its reputation for outstanding food. The menu features an impressive selection of fresh catches and classic seafood dishes. But it was the delicious halibut that truly stole the show. The fish was tender, perfectly seasoned, and melted in my mouth with each bite.

While the food and service were exceptional, it was the combination of all these elements with the amazing waterfront location that made dining at Fog Harbor Fish House a truly memorable experience.

If you're looking for the best seafood in San Francisco, look no further than Fog Harbor Fish House. With its incredible views, excellent service, and outstanding food, this restaurant is a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in San Francisco.

Crab House at Pier 39

Highlights
Amazing seafood
Friendly service
Great recommendations
Phenomenal pasta

Let me start by saying, the seafood at Crab House is absolutely amazing. From the moment I walked in, I could smell the ocean and feel the excitement in the air. The atmosphere was lively and the staff greeted me with a warm smile, providing friendly service throughout my visit.

With so many delightful options on the menu, I sought the waiter's guidance and they offered some great recommendations. I started with the oysters, which were fresh and brimming with flavor. Their famous crab chowder was a creamy delight that warmed my soul on that foggy San Francisco day.

But the true star of the show was the phenomenal pasta they served. The combination of succulent crab meat, perfectly cooked pasta, and a mouthwatering sauce left me wanting seconds.

What impressed me the most about Crab House at Pier 39 was their commitment to delivering the finest and freshest seafood. The flavors were vibrant, the presentation was impeccable, and the attention to detail was evident in every dish.

Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or just looking for a memorable dining experience in San Francisco, Crab House at Pier 39 will not disappoint. So make your way over, bring your appetite, and prepare for a seafood feast that will have you craving more.

You might also want to check out the best seafood boil in San Francisco.

Sotto Mare

Highlights
Busy atmosphere
Great Italian food
Best cioppino
Outstanding seafood
Freshly made dishes

From the moment I stepped into Sotto Mare, I knew I was in for a delightful seafood adventure. The bustling atmosphere immediately let me know this place was the spot to be for seafood lovers in San Francisco.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! Sotto Mare boasts some of the best Italian seafood in town, and boy, did they live up to that reputation. Every dish I tried was a burst of flavors that left me craving more.

But there was one dish that truly stole the show – their famous cioppino. Bursting with an abundance of fresh seafood – tangy clams, succulent crab, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked fish – this cioppino was undoubtedly the best I have ever tasted. The rich tomato-based broth was infused with just the right amount of spices, making every spoonful a heavenly experience.

It's not just the cioppino that stands out: Sotto Mare excels in every aspect of seafood preparation. Their outstanding variety of dishes showcases the freshest catch of the day. From their renowned crab cakes to their mouthwatering scallops, each plate is a testament to their commitment to quality.

What struck me most about Sotto Mare was their dedication to authenticity. Each dish is lovingly prepared with freshly sourced ingredients and presented with care. It's clear that the chefs at Sotto Mare pay attention to every detail, ensuring that guests enjoy a memorable seafood feast.

In conclusion, if you're a seafood enthusiast, Sotto Mare is a must-visit. Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors and indulge in the best seafood San Francisco has to offer.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Downtown Vancouver.

Scoma's Restaurant

Highlights
Scenic atmosphere
Well-made sauce
Fresh fish
Excellent service

As soon as I stepped into Scoma's, I was immediately captivated by the restaurant's scenic atmosphere. Situated near the waterfront, the view of the shimmering bay paired perfectly with the restaurant's charming nautical decor. It was a delightful setting to enjoy a seafood feast.

Now, let's talk about the most important thing - the food. Scoma's did not disappoint. The fresh fish options were plentiful, and I selected the daily catch, a beautifully grilled sole, with great anticipation. One bite and I was transported to seafood heaven. The fish was tender, moist, and bursting with delicate flavors. It truly melted in my mouth.

What truly elevated my dining experience at Scoma's was their well-made sauce. The tangy and savory flavors of the sauce complemented the fish perfectly, enhancing its natural taste without overpowering it. It was the ideal marriage of flavors.

In addition to the outstanding seafood, the service at Scoma's was top-notch. The staff was knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly. They made me feel welcome and ensured that my dining experience was truly exceptional.

Overall, Scoma's Restaurant is a standout when it comes to the best seafood in San Francisco. Its picturesque location, fresh fish options, delectable sauces, and excellent service make it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts. Give yourself a treat and indulge in the delightful flavors that Scoma's has to offer.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in West Palm Beach.

Franciscan Crab Restaurant

Highlights
Spectacular entrees
Amazing view of Alcatraz
Fresh fish
Excellent service
Beautiful atmosphere

From the moment I walked into Franciscan Crab Restaurant, I was greeted with a warm and friendly smile. The atmosphere was absolutely beautiful, with its elegant decor and stunning view of Alcatraz. As I settled into my seat, I couldn't help but be captivated by the breathtaking scenery.

The menu offered a variety of tempting options, but it was the spectacular entrees that truly stole the show. The dishes were not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. From the tender and juicy crab cakes to the perfectly grilled salmon, every bite was a delight.

What truly set Franciscan Crab Restaurant apart was the freshness of their seafood. Each dish showcased the high quality of ingredients, and it was evident that the chefs took great care in selecting the finest catch of the day.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the service was outstanding. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and made me feel right at home. They happily accommodated my dietary restrictions and provided excellent recommendations.

Overall, my visit to Franciscan Crab Restaurant was an unforgettable experience. The combination of excellent service, spectacular entrees, and the amazing view of Alcatraz made it a standout among San Francisco's seafood scene. Whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking for a remarkable dining experience, I highly recommend paying a visit to Franciscan Crab Restaurant.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Seattle.

Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Fantastic service
Amazing food
Reasonable prices
Perfectly cooked seafood
Excellent fish & chips

Walking into Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant, I was immediately struck by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The fantastic service was evident from the moment I walked through the door, with attentive staff members ready to assist and make recommendations.

Now, let's talk about the amazing food. Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant truly delivers on its promise of serving some of the best seafood in San Francisco. From perfectly cooked fish to succulent shellfish, every bite was a delight. I particularly enjoyed their signature dish, the fish & chips. The crispy batter encased the tender fish, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that left me wanting more.

But what sets Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant apart from its competitors is the reasonable prices. Despite the high quality of the food and service, they manage to keep their prices accessible to all seafood lovers. It's refreshing to find a restaurant where you can indulge in a feast without breaking the bank.

In a city known for its seafood, Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant rises above the rest with their commitment to delivering excellence. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this is the place to be. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience their perfectly cooked seafood and, of course, their excellent fish & chips.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in San Diego.

Tadich Grill

Highlights
Delicious food
Outstanding service
Great atmosphere
No reservations needed
Friendly and entertaining staff

From the moment I stepped into Tadich Grill, I knew I was in for a special seafood treat. The first thing that caught my attention was the delicious aroma emanating from the kitchen. I eagerly made my way to the counter to place my order, and I was greeted by the warm smiles of the staff.

I decided to try their famous clam chowder as a starter, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The rich and creamy broth was packed with tender clams and seasoned to perfection. It was like a comforting hug for my taste buds.

Moving on to the main course, I opted for the grilled sea bass, recommended by the friendly and entertaining server. The fish was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist, with a hint of smokiness from the grill. The accompanying lemon butter sauce added a tangy and buttery finish that elevated the dish to another level.

I must commend the outstanding service I received at Tadich Grill. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready with a smile. It truly added to the overall experience.

As I savored each bite of my seafood feast, I couldn't help but appreciate the great atmosphere of Tadich Grill. The historic ambiance, with its elegant wood-panelled interior and classic décor, transported me back in time. It was like dining in a bygone era.

One thing that sets Tadich Grill apart is that no reservations are needed. While this can result in a bit of a wait, it somehow adds to the charm of the place. Chatting with fellow seafood enthusiasts in the bustling waiting area only heightened my anticipation.

In conclusion, Tadich Grill offers an unforgettable seafood experience in the heart of San Francisco. With delicious food, outstanding service, and a great atmosphere, it's no wonder it remains one of the city's top seafood destinations. So, if you're in the mood for a taste of seafood excellence, make sure to check out Tadich Grill - you'll thank me later.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Las Vegas.

Woodhouse Fish Co.

Highlights
Fresh Tuna Tostadas
Delicious Lobster Roll
Crispy Calamari
Great Service
Pleasant Atmosphere

Walking into Woodhouse Fish Co., I was immediately captivated by its pleasant atmosphere - a blend of cozy and lively, with nautical-inspired decor. As I settled into my seat, I couldn't help but notice the tantalizing aroma of freshly prepared seafood wafting from the kitchen.

To start my seafood adventure, I indulged in their Fresh Tuna Tostadas. The bite-sized crispy tortillas were topped with impeccably fresh tuna, accented by zesty lime and luscious avocado. Each bite was a burst of flavors that left me eagerly anticipating the courses to come.

Next up was the star of the show – their highly recommended Delicious Lobster Roll. Served on a buttery, toasted bun, the generous chunks of tender lobster meat were delicately dressed in a creamy, yet not overpowering, sauce. With each satisfying bite, I was transported to the shores of New England, feeling the salty sea breeze against my face.

To round out my meal with a crispy touch, I tried their Crispy Calamari. The perfectly cooked calamari rings were golden and deliciously crispy, offering a great contrast in texture to the tender seafood dishes I had already savored.

Throughout my dining experience, the staff provided great service, attentively ensuring my meal was enjoyable and answering any questions I had about the menu. Their knowledge and enthusiasm for seafood added to the overall ambience of the establishment.

In conclusion, Woodhouse Fish Co. is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood in San Francisco. Their commitment to using fresh, quality ingredients paired with exceptional culinary skills truly sets them apart. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or simply seeking a delectable meal, do yourself a favor and visit Woodhouse Fish Co. for an unforgettable dining experience.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Las Vegas.

The Codmother Fish & Chips

Highlights
Best fried fish
Crispy and flaky
No beer batter
Packed on weekends
Perfectly fried

Walking into The Codmother Fish & Chips, I couldn't help but be drawn in by the intoxicating aroma of perfectly fried fish. As an avid seafood lover, I knew I had stumbled upon something special.

Their claim to have the best fried fish in town is no exaggeration. Each bite of their fish is a harmonious symphony of crispy and flaky goodness. The delicate crunch of the batter gives way to tender, succulent fish, leaving you craving more.

What sets The Codmother apart from other fish and chips joints is their refusal to use the cliché beer batter. Instead, they've mastered a recipe that ensures their fish stays light and flavorful without overwhelming it with a heavy, greasy coating. The result is sheer bliss.

Word has gotten out about this hidden gem, as the place is often packed on weekends. But trust me, the wait is worth it. The friendly staff moves like a well-oiled machine, ensuring that your order arrives promptly and piping hot.

In a city known for its diverse culinary scene, The Codmother Fish & Chips has cemented its place as a must-visit establishment for seafood enthusiasts. So, if you find yourself in San Francisco and want to experience a seafood delight, make sure to swing by The Codmother Fish & Chips. It's an experience you won't soon forget.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Los Angeles.

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Excellent service
Fast food delivery
Exquisite crab cake
Perfect linguine
Best fried calamari

Upon arrival, I was immediately drawn to the bustling atmosphere and charming waterfront views. The restaurant exuded a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe, setting the stage for a memorable culinary journey.

The service at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant was nothing short of excellent. The waitstaff was attentive and knowledgeable, offering helpful suggestions and answering all our inquiries with a smile. It's rare to find such professionalism combined with genuine warmth.

Now, let's talk about the food. The crab cake was a true standout. Bursting with flavor and delightfully crispy on the outside, it was the epitome of indulgence. I couldn't help but marvel at the perfect balance of spices and the generous chunks of delectable crab meat within.

Another highlight was the linguine. The pasta was cooked to perfection, coated in a savory sauce that danced harmoniously with the assorted seafood delicacies strewn throughout. Each bite was like a symphony of flavors, leaving my taste buds yearning for more.

For those craving a satisfying appetizer, the fried calamari at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant is second to none. The calamari rings were tantalizingly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, paired with a zesty dipping sauce that added an additional layer of zest.

In conclusion, Pier Market Seafood Restaurant truly stands out as a top contender in the quest for the best seafood in San Francisco. With its excellent service, fast food delivery, and a menu featuring the most exquisite crab cakes, perfect linguine, and the best fried calamari, this establishment is a must-visit for seafood aficionados.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Portland.

The Hook

Highlights
Good service
Fast service
Affordable prices
Very good fish and chips
Quick bite option

The Hook is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco. As soon as I walked through the doors, I was immediately greeted by the friendly and attentive staff. The good service truly set the tone for my dining experience.

One thing that stood out to me was the fast service. Despite the steady stream of customers, my order arrived promptly, allowing me to satisfy my seafood cravings in no time. I appreciate a restaurant that respects my time!

In terms of value, The Hook is a winner. The affordable prices were a pleasant surprise, given the quality of the food. As a seafood enthusiast, I couldn't resist trying the fish and chips. Let me tell you, it was very good. The fish was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and the accompanying fries were a delightful addition.

If you're looking for a quick bite option without compromising on taste, The Hook is the answer. The staff ensures that you never feel rushed, but also respects your need for efficiency. It's a win-win!

Overall, my experience at The Hook was a delightful discovery. From the good service to the fast service, everything exceeded my expectations. Not to mention the affordable prices and very good fish and chips that will keep me coming back. Join me in uncovering this hidden gem and indulge in some of the best seafood San Francisco has to offer.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Vegas.

T's Fish & Chips

Highlights
Delicious fish n chips
Fresh crab cakes
Fast service
Good quality clam chowder

Let me start off by saying that T's Fish & Chips is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood in San Francisco. As soon as I walked in, I could smell the mouthwatering aroma of freshly fried fish n chips. It was impossible to resist!

I decided to start my seafood journey with their fish n chips, and boy was I impressed. The fish was crispy on the outside, yet tender and flaky on the inside. It was perfectly seasoned and the batter had a delightful crunch, leaving me wanting more with every bite. Delicious would be an understatement.

Next up, I tried their crab cakes. Let me tell you, these crab cakes were a game-changer. They were made with fresh, succulent crab meat and had just the right amount of seasoning. Each bite was a burst of flavor that left me wanting to savor the experience for as long as possible.

What also impressed me was the fast service. The staff at T's Fish & Chips were friendly and efficient, ensuring that I didn't have to wait long to satisfy my seafood cravings.

Lastly, I couldn't resist trying their clam chowder. It was creamy, high-quality, and filled with perfectly cooked clams. Every spoonful reminded me of the ocean and left me feeling warm and satisfied.

If you're looking for a seafood spot that offers delicious fish n chips, fresh crab cakes, and an overall exceptional experience, T's Fish & Chips is the place to be. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Santa Monica.