Directly from the port to your plate, San Francisco is a waterfront city with must-try seafood menus.
Sourced locally and enjoyed by diners from around the world, the seafood scene in the Bay is a guaranteed delicious meal.
See also: The Best Breakfast Sandwiches To Start Your Day In San Francisco
From upscale dining to an easy fish taco, the San Francisco area has ocean cuisine to match every taste and occasion. Check out our recommendations below for the best seafood dishes in town.
View this post on Instagram
399 The Embarcadero; 415-284-9922 / Website
This unique waterfront restaurant has floor-to-ceiling aquariums with views of the Bay Bridge. Big windows and high ceilings provide gorgeous views of the boats on the Bay with a side of fresh seafood. While the ambiance itself is an experience, guests suggest trying the fresh-caught oyster bar with a vast selection. Check in during happy hour for the one-dollar oyster deal from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Whether overlooking the water from the patio or dining in the elegant aquarium room, Waterbar is a scenic destination for any meal occasion.
252 California St.; 415-417-3969 / Website
Led by Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina, Estiatorio Ornos guarantees a flavorful dining experience. The cuisine features a crossover between Greek and Middle Eastern flavors, with a warm and modern decor that uses classic Greek design to create a bright and lively aesthetic. Guests enjoy and recommend the pita bread and dip selection of tzatziki, melitzanosalata and tirokafteri for a starter, followed by the decadent Mediterranean Sea Bass.
2073 Market St. or 1914 Fillmore St. ; 415-437-2722 / Website
For a laid back vibe and some of the best seafood in the Bay Area, check out one of the two Woodhouse Fish locations. The homey ocean decor does not distract from the famous food regulars adore. The most popular dishes are the clam chowder, lobster roll and crab roll (all generous portions), and the oysters are fished out of ice and shucked fresh to order with cocktail sauce and horseradish. You can make the most of a $1.50 oyster happy hour on Tuesdays. Get there early for a spot.
View this post on Instagram
4542 Irving St. ; 415-569-4984 / Website
Hook Fish focuses on quality seafood with transparent sourcing ethics, providing the San Francisco community with an ocean-to-table dining experience. This tiny food spot features a small menu with staple seafood dishes, including burritos, tacos, sandwiches and salads. Check out the delicious fish burrito with your choice of fish or the grilled fish of the day. No gimmicks or stunts here, just fresh seafood.
655 Divisadero St.; 415-409-0679 / Website
For a funky twist on classic seafood, check out Bar Crudo’s contemporary techniques and presentations. There is a large variety of cooked and raw options with oysters and mussels available by the dozen and half-dozen. Guests rave about the Crudo plate (specifically the artic char), and people flock from all around the Bay for the seafood chowder. For great service and fresh raw offerings, check out Bar Crudo.
View this post on Instagram
Pier 1 ½ The Embarcadero ; 415-397-8880 / Website
La Mar’s signature menu showcases Peruvian-style seafood right on the Embarcadero. The large restaurant has an expansive view of the Bay with high ceilings, bright blue chairs and an outdoor patio. The most popular cuisine is the cebiche, and guests recommend trying the clásico with the catch of the day. This gourmet Peruvian-inspired food blends a unique dining experience on the water with incredible flavor and a Bay view!
1740 O’Farrell St.; 415-796-2710 / Website
Whether you choose the locally sourced anchovies or the imported bites from Spain, Anchovy Bar offers fresh seafood options from all over the world. A reservation to the popular cuisine spot is highly encouraged, but once you get a table, you’ll no doubt enjoy the flavorful array. The anchovy toast is a highlight, but the small appetizer-style dishes will not disappoint. Anchovy Bar rotates the menu daily, so you won’t get tired of coming to this seafood restaurant with creative flair!
View this post on Instagram
Pier 47, Fisherman’s Wharf; 415-771-4383 / Website
Scoma’s, located in the Fisherman's Wharf, has been family owned for three generations and has been serving fresh seafood since 1965. The restaurant is known for its delicious dishes, waterfront views, and its personal receiving station, where the local fishing community drops off the day’s catch directly to the chefs. Guests watch as their meal goes from the water to their plate as chefs provide a taste of San Francisco. Locals rave about this classic seafood restaurant with tasty cocktails and a seafood-focused menu. With almost 60 years of service to the San Francisco community, Scoma’s is a must-visit spot in town.
816 Folsom St.; 415-865-0529 / Website
Named after the deepest depth of the ocean where only 1 percent of sunlight can reach, Aphotic Restaurant is a fine-dining establishment new to San Francisco. This business features a 10-course tasting menu with 10 unique seafood-centric dishes. Professionals guide you through the menu filled with inventive approaches and alcoholic pairings. For a seafood experience that pairs creativity with elegance, make a reservation at Aphotic.
1 Ferry Building; 415-391-7117 / Website
Located in the historic, waterfront Ferry Building Marketplace, Hog Island Oyster Bar has a large selection of shellfish raised on its farm in Tomales Bay, while also sourcing from local growers and artisan producers. With plenty of seafood options and cocktails, this restaurant is known for its refreshing food (try the clam chowder) and great location. Shop around in the Ferry Building and then grab a bite to eat at Hog Island Oyster Bar.
View this post on Instagram
568 Sacramento St.; 209-459-8335 / Website
Located in the financial district, Leo’s Oyster Bar is a fabulous seafood-focused restaurant known for its glamorous decor. Nominated for the James Beard Foundation’s Best Restaurant Design Award, the ambiance itself is worth the trip. Guests describe a Beverly Hills Hotel-style decor perfect for any occasion. Start with some fun cocktails (try the Garden Party) before moving on to the rotating oyster menu and fresh crudo for a tasty and aesthetically pleasing dining meal.
Looking for more fun on the town? Check our list of fun things to do in the Bay Area this weekend for more ways to dive deep into San Francisco!
Photography by: iStock
