San Francisco is distinctly known for sweeping coastlines, serene waters, and scenic panoramic views. Combine all of that with our illustrious culinary scene, and you get some of the absolute best waterfront restaurants with even more marvelously fresh seafood. From the radiant Embarcadero, to the western end's Ocean Beach, here are all of the most delectable, picturesque, and high-quality venues which adorn our coastline and are guaranteed to impress.
See also: The Ultimate Guide For A Perfect Day At The Seaside Embarcadero
View this post on Instagram
Pier 1 1/2 / (415) 397-8880 / Website
La Mar is a swanky and lavish Peruvian restaurant that couldn't get any closer to the coastline. Enjoy Instagrammable views of Treasure Island and the Bay Bridge while indulging in culturally authentic fresh ceviche, hot empanadas, and classically refreshing pisco sours out on their sunny and colorful patio.
View this post on Instagram
1 Ferry Bldg, Shop 11 / (415) 391-7117 / Website
You simply cannot visit San Francisco without a stop at this Ferry Building institution. With an trendy open back patio that looks out towards the Bay, you can receive the full sensory experience of the sea breeze with your locally-sourced fresh oysters. Other immaculate choices here are their Manila Clams, Oyster Po' Boy, Hog Island Clam Chowder, and Tomales Bay Mussels, all of which pair effortlessly with their craft cocktails. Just be sure to get in line early because they do not take reservations!
View this post on Instagram
399 The Embarcadero / (415) 284-9922 / Website
Waterbar is located beside the unmissable Cupid's Span and delivers on all fronts- the views, the kind service, all offerings of classic cocktails, and of course, the fresh seafood. With a spacious outdoor patio, this is an excellent choice for a romantic sunset date or for a family outing when around the Embarcadero, as they have an inclusive kid's menu. Definitely indulge in their silky Milk Poached Halibut, complex King Salmon Crudo, or divine Siberian Sturgeon.
View this post on Instagram
369 The Embarcadero / (415) 369-9955 / Website
Epic Steak neighbors Waterbar and creates the second half of this seaside duo, though it has a personality and ambience all to its own. With its close proximity to the Bay Bridge, watching the evening lights glimmer on while dining here is truly a magical and intimate experience. Epic Steak also prides themselves on being environmentally conscious, so you can be guilt-free while feasting on their many generous hardwood grilled steak servings, cheesy potato sides, and irresistable Chocolate Tart or Baked Alaska desserts.
View this post on Instagram
Pier 30 / (415) 777-5626 / Website
For a more casual and no-frills option, Red's Java House has been providing the crunchiest onion rings and crispest beer as rustic relief from the seaside sun since 1955. Frequented over the years by different sailors, tourists, and even celebrities for their expansive hot dog, burger, and beer menu, this is a delightfully filling cove that sits just under the towering Bay Bridge in walkable proximity to Oracle Park.
View this post on Instagram
Pier 5 / (415) 704-8866 / Website
Coqueta just past the Ferry Building is an elevated favorite for their ritzy outdoor tent and luxurious Spanish tapas. Meaning "flirtatious" or "coquettish" in English, the sultry aromas of their crispky Patatas Bravas or rich Paella de Tinta with their playful San Sebastian Sling or Catalan Truffle Old Fashioned cocktails will certainly lure you in. One look out into the view they hold will also lock you in for a meal of sampling several inventive tapas.
View this post on Instagram
1965 Al Scoma Way / (415) 771-4383 / Website
Heading north to Fisherman's Wharf, Scoma's is a community anchor that has been providing the most comforting cioppino, clam chowder, oysters, and other Dungeness crab dishes since 1965. Known for being "Pier to Plate," the nourishing portions here are made from the daily catch, making for a pleasant and old-school, homestyle meal that is revitalizing and calming in an otherwise bustling tourist hub.
View this post on Instagram
2 Marina Blvd, Bldg A, Fort Mason / (415) 771-6222 / Website
Heading even further up to Fort Mason, Greens is a no-brainer choice to refuel with after a long day of exploring this historic fort. The menu boasts the most ingenious and elevated vegetarian courses all helmed by a powerful team of talented female chefs. Even the posh interior is thoughtfully sustainable and evokes senses of tranquil zen and connection to the beauty of nature. Their exquisite menu is seasonal to highlight the best produce, and we guarantee everything will impress you, especially for brunch.
View this post on Instagram
Pier 23 / (415) 362-5125 / Website
Pier 23 is another genuine family-owned favorite, with always a steady stream of visitors ready to enjoy their unobstructed Bay view with a freshing cocktail and one (or many) of their small plates and sandwiches. Their patio is casual, sunny, and makes for the perfect setting, especially when they provide live music! We recommend their exclusively novel Shrimp Melt with lemon achovy aioli, or their crunchy Fish and Chips with Jalapeno ranch.
View this post on Instagram
1000 Great Hwy / (415) 386-8439 / Website
Lastly, the coastal views of the Pacific Ocean from Ocean Beach can't be forgotten! The clear choice here is the second-floor Beach Chalet, which welcomes a 360 view of the water, the Dutch Windmills, Land's End and more through their wide glass windows. Snag a coveted seat by these panes for an impressive view with your equally marvelous Pan-Roasted Halibut, Lobster Roll, or Land & Sea Pasta. Neighboring Park Chalet also hosts an outdoor beer garden, so that your pup also receives this lavish treatment and unmissable view.
Your camera roll will be just as stuffed as you after dining at these overwhelmingly picturesque restaurants!
See also: Visit The Sutro Bath Ruins For A Marvelous Glimpse Into San Francisco's Opulent History
Photography by: Nic Y-C/Unsplash Cropped
