These 10 Restaurants In San Francisco Have The Best Seafood EVER

Seafood is best when it’s fresh, vibrant, and accented with the natural flavors of the sea. Given its coastal location, San Francisco takes its seafood seriously. There are numerous places in the city claiming to have the freshest, tastiest fish, lobster, shrimp, crab, and scallops on the West Coast. Here are 10 seafood restaurants in San Francisco we think live up to the hype.

1. Hog Island Oyster Company

This is the place to go for fresh oysters and clam chowder, all in a stunning setting. Choose from a wide variety of oysters from Hog Island's own Tomales Bay farm. Enjoy them in the indoor-outdoor Ferry Building seating area, while taking in a view of the Bay Bridge.

2. Sotto Mare Oysteria & Seafood

This charming, nautical-themed San Francisco institution serves up big portions of Italian-style seafood & pasta. Try the bacon chowder and go for the $1.50 oyster specials on Mondays and Saturdays. Worth the wait!

3. Farallon

Enjoy fresh fish, oysters, and even caviar underneath jellyfish chandeliers in the underwater world of this Union Square favorite. Chef Mark Franz serves coastal cuisine with a French influence, and the menu changes daily, meaning you'll always get the freshest seafood.

4. Pacific Catch

Pacific Catch is a cool, contemporary fish house that combines fine-dining dishes with a casual, California ambiance. Fun fact: this location was highlighted on the very first iPhone commercial, titled "Craving Calamari," back in 2007.

5. Waterbar

Boasting beautiful decor and views, this upscale Embarcadero bar and restaurant is a local seafood favorite for a reason. Take in a bay view while enjoying oysters, squid, and other fresh catch.

6. Swan's Oyster Depot

If you're willing to wait for some of the best seafood in Fog City, then come on down to Polk Street. Don't expect a fancy dining experience at the tiny Swan's Oyster Depot—you go here for their longstanding and revered seafood reputation and quality.

7. Tadich Grill

Tadich Grill has been serving seafood in San Francisco since 1849. The restaurant is a little old-fashioned, with its private wooden booths and sharply dressed waiters, many of whom are long-time fixtures. Menu favorites includes the hearty cioppino and juicy grilled swordfish steak.

8. Scoma's at Fisherman's Wharf

This iconic seafood restaurant in San Francisco's tourist center serves seafood fresh off the boats—literally. You'll see local fishermen right at work on the pier as you enjoy the fruits of their labor.

9. Pluof Seafood Restaurant

This stylish French seafood bistro is located on the animated Belden Alley in the Financial District. Plouf specializes in mussels, salads, and numerous seafood dishes. An added bonus is the European-style outdoor seating.

10. Bar Crudo

Located near Alamo Square, Bar Crudo is a hip modern raw bar serving fresh oysters and showcasing unique ways of presenting raw fish dishes. Don’t forgot to enjoy the extensive beer list, too!

Where's your favorite seafood restaurant in San Francisco?