San Francisco holds a special place in my heart with its charming Victorian architecture, iconic trolley cars, and breathtaking sunsets over the Bay. I’ve spent countless visits uncovering some of the city’s most notable treasures.
Among those treasures is the famous Fisherman’s Wharf—a must-see. With stunning views from every angle and those adorable barking sea lions on Pier 39, the Wharf attracts tourists eager to explore and dine by the San Francisco Bay.
Unfortunately, some of the eateries are tourist traps. But don’t worry, we’ll navigate you beyond the tourist traps to the Wharf’s delicious, authentic options. From the fresh catches at Fog Harbor and Pier Market to the historic charm of the Eagle Cafe and the crab feasts at Crab House 39, discover local favorites near the Wharf, ensuring your San Francisco culinary adventure is as memorable as the iconic sights.
Eagle Cafe
Step into a San Francisco legacy at the welcoming Eagle Cafe on PIER 39 of Fisherman’s Wharf. Here, you’ll find some of the best breakfasts and lunches in the city, served with a side of history. Started in 1928, the Eagle Cafe has always been a favorite hangout for active military, the longshoremen of yesteryear and veterans. The decor showcases historical artifacts and personal gifts from these valued guests.
Eagle Cafe’s menu suits most tastes. Here are some of my favorites:
- Breakfast: Banana Pecan Pancakes when I need something sweet or their Crab Cakes Benedict when I’m looking for something savory
- Lunch or Dinner: the Guacamole Bacon Burger crafted with fresh guacamole, crispy bacon and jack cheese served on a bun. Or another go-to fav: fish tacos made with grilled fresh cod, chipotle aioli, tomatillo avocado salsa and pickled slaw.
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- Family-Friendly: Eagle Cafe is very casual and 100% family-friendly. The kids menu for ages 12 and under features plenty of kid favorites.
- Price Range: $$ (Moderate)
- Hours: Open for breakfast from 8:00 am until 11:30 am. Lunch is served from 11:30 am until 3:00 pm. For more information visit www.eaglecafe.com.
Crab House 39
When I’m craving creamy clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl, look no further than Crab House 39. A casual and fun seafood staple, Crab House 39 sits on the top floor of Pier 39 and boasts eye-catching views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz and the steady stream of watercraft on the San Francisco Bay.
In addition to the delicious clam chowder, Crab House 39 is well known for its roasted Dungeness crab in garlic sauce, appropriately named “Killer Crab.” Dining is an adventure, and messy: use the aprons provided!!
- Family-Friendly: Crab House 39’s casual and lively atmosphere makes it ideal for families, especially those who enjoy a hands-on dining experience.
- Price Range: $$ – $$$ (Moderate to Mid-range)
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm. For more information, visit www.crabhouse39.com.
Fog Harbor Fish House
Ideally located on Pier 39, Fog Harbor Fish House sits in the center of one of San Francisco’s favorite tourist attractions. This family-owned and operated gem is one of the first San Francisco restaurants to serve 100% sustainable seafood. The Simmons family remains committed to fresh, locally sourced ingredients in each of their innovative dishes.
Through the restaurant’s large windows, you’ll enjoy iconic views, including Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39. I love their complimentary sourdough bread, baked in-house: adds a tasty bonus to every seafood meal.
Fog Harbor Fish House is well known for its clam chowder made with locally sourced clams and a rich, creamy broth. Cioppino—a longtime San Francisco staple—is another favorite. Composed of a variety of fresh seafood, cioppino is a hearty flavorful stew. Crab cakes, whole garlic roasted Dungeness crab and the Fog Harbor Fish House shellfish tower are also top sellers. Can’t make up your mind? Go twice – it’s worth it!
- Family-Friendly: Fog Harbor offers a kids’ menu that provides young diner favorites like cheeseburgers and chicken fingers along with grilled salmon, fish and chips and pasta with butter and cheese.
- Price Range: $$-$$$ (Moderate to mid-range)
- Hours: Fog Harbor Fish House is open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm. For more information, visit www.fogharbor.com.
Pier Market
Since 1983, the family-owned and operated Pier Market stands out for its focus on mesquite-grilled seafood—an ancient cooking technique that adds a rich, smoky flavor to freshly sourced seafood. Watching the chefs work on the mesquite grill in the bustling open kitchen adds a touch of entertainment to your dining experience. Teriyaki salmon, blackened Pacific Rock Cod and grilled swordfish are a few examples of the mesquite-grilled seafood options. If you’re in the mood for pasta, consider Pier Market’s unique Jambalaya Pasta composed of house-smoked pork, chicken, shrimp, mussels and clams simmered in a Cajun tomato cream sauce. Yum!
- Family-Friendly: The large menu and casual atmosphere make it a good choice for families. While the kids’ menu includes the usual cheeseburgers and chicken tenders, it also features fish & chips and grilled shrimp.
- Price Range: $$ – $$$ (Moderate to Mid-range)
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am until 9:00 pm. Indoor and outdoor dining is available. For more information, visit www.piermarket.com.
Scoma’s
Scoma’s Restaurant
Founded in 1965 by the Scoma family, Scoma’s seafood has attracted locals, athletes, actors, politicians and tourists seeking a special night out for nearly 60 years. Located on Pier 47 of Fisherman’s Wharf, Scoma’s has its own fish receiving station and deals directly with local fishermen for 100% sustainable seafood used to create the restaurant’s “Pier to Plate” offerings.
The menu features an array of swoon-worthy entrees that add a touch of Sicily to the sustainable seafood. The popular Pasta Puttanesca combines the daily catch: shrimp, mussels, Manila clams, anchovies, Castelvetrano olives, capers and San Marzano tomato sauce served over linguini. If seafood isn’t your thing, consider the Scoma’s Pappardelle Bolognese—made with traditional Italian sauce. For steak lovers, the Wagyu Bistro Filet is the American version of “Kobe” beef center-cut sirloin and is served with wild mushrooms, smoky roast potatoes, garlic-truffle butter and wild arugula. Scoma’s also boasts an award-winning Barrel-to-Table wine program of fresh, high-quality, local California wines.
Susan Stevie, COO of SheBuysTravel, loves Scoma’s “Lazy Man’s Cioppino” – they do the work of removing all the shells so you can just enjoy the dish! They have a second location in Sausalito which is sometimes easier to get reservations in….just a ferry boat ride away. Plus you can visit the Ferry Building, take a Ferry Boat Ride and tool around in Sausalito.
- Family-Friendly: Scoma’s welcomes families, but considering the price point, it seems best suited for families with older children. However, there is a children’s menu for ages 12 and younger with a variety of entrees including burgers, chicken, pasta and macaroni & cheese.
- Price Range: $$$ – $$$$ (Expensive)
- Hours: The restaurant is open from noon until 9:00 pm, Sunday through Thursday, and noon until 9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday. The dress code is smart casual, and reservations are required. Free valet parking is available. For more information, visit www.scomas.com.
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