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The 16 Best Cioppino in San Francisco

When visiting San Francisco, one simply cannot miss out on trying the iconic seafood dish known as cioppino. This flavorful and hearty stew is a local favorite, combining a variety of fresh seafood in a rich tomato-based broth. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, cioppino is a must-try dish in the city by the bay.

For those looking to sample the best cioppino that San Francisco has to offer, look no further. This list compiles the top-rated restaurants in the city serving up this delicious dish, allowing you to compare and choose the perfect spot for your cioppino craving.

Whether you're a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor wanting to taste the best of San Francisco, this list of the top cioppino restaurants in the city will guide you to a memorable dining experience.

The 16 Best Cioppino in San Francisco.

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of cioppino in San Francisco, built on each business's public reputation and on how central this service is to what it does.

Some businesses pay for a fuller profile or a featured position. It is only open to those that have already passed our selection, and it is always marked.

Top 3All optionsMapWhat to look for

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Anchor Oyster Bar, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • A loyal patron shared that the wait is worth it, as the food is "stellar" with favorites like caesar salad and clam chowder.

  • Another customer praised the freshness of the oysters and the large bowl of Cioppino shared among friends.

  • A diner described their experience as "unforgettable" with delicious soup, freshly baked baguette, and perfectly paired wine.

  • The cozy, neighborly feel of the restaurant was highlighted alongside simple yet amazing dishes like the Cesar salad and Cioppino.

Anchor Oyster Bar

4.71,112 reviews
579 Castro St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

Anchor Oyster Bar is a beloved seafood restaurant in San Francisco that has garnered rave reviews from customers. With a rating of 4.7 stars, this gem is known for its fast service and delicious offerings.

Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or looking for a cozy dining spot, Anchor Oyster Bar is sure to impress with its high-quality, fresh seafood and welcoming ambiance.

Portofino, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • The cozy yet lively atmosphere with unique decor like fishing lures hanging from the ceiling

  • The delicious seafood dishes, such as gnocchi with shrimp and special crab pasta

  • The friendly service and reasonable prices

  • The standout dishes like oyster po boy, linguini with clams, and sizzling sardines

Portofino

4.7395 reviews
1318 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Portofino is a beloved seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Offering a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, Portofino ensures that customers have a pleasant dining experience. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is popular for lunch and dinner, making it a go-to spot for both locals and tourists.

Customers rave about their experiences at Portofino, giving it a stellar rating of 4.7. Some key points from their reviews include:

Portofino is not just a restaurant but a place where diners can enjoy fresh seafood, warm hospitality, and a true taste of San Francisco.

Sotto Mare, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • Delicious clam chowder and seafood

  • Good atmosphere and service

  • Best Cioppino in town with generous portions

  • Fresh seafood and fantastic flavors

Sotto Mare

4.63,951 reviews
552 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Sotto Mare is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services and features to their customers, including outdoor seating, delivery, dine-in, and takeaway options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Sotto Mare:

Whether you are a local or a tourist, Sotto Mare is highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy amazing seafood and pasta dishes in a lively atmosphere. Visit them for a memorable dining experience!

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • The scalloped potatoes with the halibut special were amazing and highly recommended.

  • The linguine with clams was cooked to perfection and showcased the chef's skill.

  • The Alfredo sauce perfectly balanced thickness with lightness, elevating every bite.

  • The cheesecake served as a sweet finale, leaving a lasting impression on diners.

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill

4.61,019 reviews
318 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill offers a delightful dining experience in San Francisco. Specializing in seafood cuisine, this restaurant provides impeccable dishes and outstanding service that set the bar high for dining excellence. Customers rave about the Alfredo sauce that perfectly balances thickness with lightness, the expertly cooked linguine with clams, and the delectable cheesecake that leaves a lasting impression. The menu features a variety of options such as scalloped potatoes with the halibut special and mouthwatering seafood pasta.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Experience top-notch service, delicious food, and a cozy atmosphere at Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill. Whether you're dining in for lunch, dinner, or solo, this restaurant is a must-visit for an unforgettable culinary experience in San Francisco.

Fog Harbor Fish House, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • Amazing atmosphere with friendly servers

  • Delicious food, especially clam chowder and fish and chips

  • Breathtaking views of the harbor and iconic landmarks

  • Great service and attention to detail from staff

Fog Harbor Fish House

4.57,120 reviews
39 pier, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Fog Harbor Fish House is a renowned seafood restaurant located at Pier 39 in San Francisco. This establishment offers a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating overlooking the picturesque harbor, as well as dine-in options for a cozy meal. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a favorite spot for solo dining or group gatherings.

The ambiance at Fog Harbor Fish House is highlighted by a welcoming fireplace and decadent desserts that leave a lasting impression on patrons. The restaurant caters to various dietary preferences with a range of offerings, including vegetarian options and healthy choices. Guests can indulge in handcrafted cocktails, wine, and spirits, alongside classic comfort food and small plates.

Customer reviews rave about the exceptional service and delectable dishes at Fog Harbor Fish House.

Scoma's Restaurant, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • Delicious food with a perfect balance of flavors

  • Attentive and friendly service from the staff

  • Reasonable prices for value in a waterfront setting

Scoma's Restaurant

4.55,701 reviews
1965 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Scoma's Restaurant is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a range of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is equipped with desirable highlights such as a fireplace, great cocktails, coffee, and delightful desserts. Customers particularly love the lunch and dinner options offered here, making it a popular choice for solo dining as well.

The atmosphere at Scoma's is described as casual, cozy, historic, romantic, trendy, and upmarket, catering to a diverse crowd including families, groups, and tourists. They provide a range of amenities including a bar on site, gender-neutral toilets, and Wi-Fi. The restaurant is known for its approachable planning options with lunch reservations recommended, dinner reservations recommended, and the acceptance of general reservations.

Customers have shared positive feedback about Scoma's, highlighting key points such as:

Waterbar Restaurant, San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • Great ambience, fantastic food, and incredible view.

  • Scrumptious foods, excellent service, and fresh oysters.

  • Good food, great atmosphere, and impressive views.

  • Delightful dining experience with friendly service and exceptional food.

Waterbar Restaurant

4.53,687 reviews
399 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Waterbar Restaurant is a renowned establishment in San Francisco offering a delightful dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood. The restaurant provides a range of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in.

Visitors can enjoy the highlights of the restaurant such as fast service, great cocktails, excellent coffee, and delectable desserts. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a perfect spot for solo dining as well.

Customer reviews reflect the positive experiences at Waterbar Restaurant:

With a rating of 4.5 and numerous positive reviews, Waterbar Restaurant stands out as a top choice for seafood enthusiasts seeking a memorable culinary journey by the bay.

Tadich Grill, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Seafood stew and seafood pasta are must-try dishes, complemented by heavenly rice pudding.

  • Efficient service and lovely atmosphere ideal for gatherings with friends and family.

  • A highlight of San Francisco, offering excellent food and impeccable service.

  • Iconic establishment with a 1920s vibe and delicious dishes like Caesar salad, clam chowder, and ribeye steak.

Tadich Grill

4.52,649 reviews
240 California St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

Tadich Grill is a renowned seafood restaurant in San Francisco, offering a variety of delightful dishes and services to its customers. The restaurant provides options for delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, ensuring everyone can enjoy their meals as they prefer.

Customers have praised Tadich Grill for its excellent food quality and historical atmosphere. Some key points from recent reviews include:

With a rating of 4.5 stars and glowing reviews, Tadich Grill stands out as a top dining destination in the city. Don't miss the chance to experience the history and flavors this restaurant has to offer!

California Fish Market Restaurant, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • Delicious seafood dishes, such as sea urchin pasta and raw oysters

  • Spectacular service with attention to detail and accommodating staff

  • Great ambiance perfect for both indoor and outdoor dining

  • Generous portions and value for money, especially in dishes like Cioppino

California Fish Market Restaurant

4.5306 reviews
550 Green St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

California Fish Market Restaurant offers a delightful dining experience in the heart of San Francisco. This seafood restaurant prides itself on providing a variety of services and features to enhance every visit. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for any occasion. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, with a focus on solo dining for those looking to savor a meal alone. Accessibility is a priority, with wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilets available.

The fast service at California Fish Market Restaurant has garnered rave reviews from patrons. Some key points from customer feedback include:

Visit California Fish Market Restaurant today and indulge in a culinary experience that celebrates the flavors of the sea!

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • Nice place for relax with delicious menu options. The bay views are top-notch.

  • Great food, quick service, and incredible atmosphere with views of sea lions.

  • Delicious seafood dishes, friendly staff, and enjoyable views of the sea lions while dining.

  • Outstanding dining experience with delectable cuisine, refreshing beverages, and breathtaking views.

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant

4.47,027 reviews
39 Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA with a rating of 4.4 based on 7027 reviews. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features including outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in, fast service, great dessert, wheelchair accessibility, alcohol, cocktails, vegetarian options, and more.

Customer reviews highlight several key points:

Woodhouse Fish Co., San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • Amazing fish and chips with crispy and light batter

  • Mouth-watering lobster rolls with fresh and sweet lobster

  • Delightful seafood feast with creamy clam chowder and succulent oysters

  • Great fish tacos that are fresh and crispy

Woodhouse Fish Co.

4.41,190 reviews
1914 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

Woodhouse Fish Co. is a beloved seafood restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services and features to its customers. With options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, this restaurant caters to different dining preferences.

One of the highlights of Woodhouse Fish Co. is its fast service, making it a great choice for those looking for a quick bite. Customers have praised the restaurant for its comfort food offerings, including lobster rolls, fish and chips, and clam chowder.

Customer reviews rave about the delicious dishes served at Woodhouse Fish Co.. Some key points from the reviews include:

Overall, Woodhouse Fish Co. has received glowing reviews for its fantastic seafood offerings, cozy atmosphere, and friendly service. If you're looking for a seafood dining experience in San Francisco, this restaurant is a must-visit!

Cioppino's, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • Great service and quick response from staff

  • Delicious food with ample portions

  • Cozy and neighborhood feel with clean facilities

  • Highly recommended for Italian food lovers

Cioppino's

4.35,170 reviews
400 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Cioppino's is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. The establishment offers various service options such as kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy the highlights of fast service, great coffee, and great dessert in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

Known for being popular for lunch and dinner, Cioppino's is a great spot for solo dining or dining with groups and family. The restaurant offers a variety of offerings like cocktails, beer, wine, spirits, and comfort food. Vegetarian options are also available for those with dietary preferences.

Customer reviews praise Cioppino's for its delicious food, excellent service, and welcoming atmosphere. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Experience the best of seafood and Italian cuisine at Cioppino's!

Crab House at Pier 39, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Customers rave about the amazing food quality and full experience provided by Crab House at Pier 39.

  • The beautiful view of the Bay and Sea Lions outside the window adds to the dining experience.

  • Guests appreciate the attentive and friendly wait staff, making every visit enjoyable.

Crab House at Pier 39

4.33,788 reviews
203 C, Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Crab House at Pier 39 is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, offering a wide range of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, dine-in, and even get a taste of fast service, a cozy fireplace, and delightful desserts. This restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it perfect for solo dining or indulging in a meal with family and friends alike.

Franciscan Crab Restaurant, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • Impeccable service and delicious food

  • Excellent views of the bay

  • Warm and inviting atmosphere

Franciscan Crab Restaurant

4.24,920 reviews
Pier 43 1/2, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Franciscan Crab Restaurant is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. With a rating of 4.2 stars out of 5 and a whopping 4920 reviews, it's evident that this place is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features that cater to every customer's needs. From outdoor seating to fast service and great desserts, Franciscan Crab Restaurant has it all.

Customers have nothing but rave reviews for Franciscan Crab Restaurant. One diner mentioned that it was the best meal of their trip and praised the impeccable service and delightful bay view. Another guest expressed how amazing their experience was, from the outstanding service to the delicious food. Lastly, a customer marveled at the culinary delight they experienced, from the perfectly prepared Sea Bass to the warm ambiance of the restaurant. With such glowing reviews, Franciscan Crab Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.

Capurro's Restaurant, San Francisco#15
What it does well
  • Old establishment maintaining relevance with fantastic food and drinks

  • Calamari and clam chowder bread bowl standout dishes

  • Varied menu with customizable cocktails and overall pleasant dining experience

Capurro's Restaurant

4.21,467 reviews
498 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Capurro's Restaurant is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Known for its fast service and delicious food, it offers a variety of dining options such as lunch, dinner, and dessert in a casual and trendy atmosphere, perfect for families, groups, and tourists alike.

Customers rave about their experience at Capurro's with some key points:

With a rating of 4.2 and over 1467 reviews, it's clear that Capurro's Restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're craving seafood or looking for a relaxing dining experience, Capurro's is the place to be.

Sabella & La Torre, San Francisco#16
What it does well
  • The food is good with standout dishes like calamari and lobster roll.

  • The staff is friendly and the place is clean.

  • Portions are generous and the service is efficient.

  • Some dishes like crab cakes and clam chowder are recommended.

Sabella & La Torre

4.12,016 reviews
2809 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Sabella & La Torre is a well-known seafood restaurant located in the vibrant city of San Francisco. The restaurant offers a variety of service options such as takeaway and dine-in, making it convenient for all types of diners. One of its highlights is fast service, ensuring that customers are promptly attended to.

This establishment is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, providing a versatile dining experience for patrons. The accessibility features of wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating contribute to an inclusive environment for all guests.

At Sabella & La Torre, customers can expect an array of offerings including alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, late-night food, quick bite, small plates, spirits, and wine, catering to diverse preferences. The dining options include brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert, ensuring there is something for every craving.

With a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere, this restaurant appeals to a wide range of visitors, including groups and tourists. For those planning a visit, the restaurant accepts reservations to accommodate varying schedules.

According to customer reviews, here are some key points to note:

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Anchor Oyster Bar 4.71,112
#2Portofino 4.7395
#3Sotto Mare 4.63,951
#4Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill 4.61,019
#5Fog Harbor Fish House 4.57,120
#6Scoma's Restaurant 4.55,701
#7Waterbar Restaurant 4.53,687
#8Tadich Grill 4.52,649
#9California Fish Market Restaurant 4.5306
#10Pier Market Seafood Restaurant 4.47,027
#11Woodhouse Fish Co. 4.41,190
#12Cioppino's 4.35,170
#13Crab House at Pier 39 4.33,788
#14Franciscan Crab Restaurant 4.24,920
#15Capurro's Restaurant 4.21,467
#16Sabella & La Torre 4.12,016

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Map of Cioppino in San Francisco

San Francisco is known for its iconic seafood dish, cioppino. This flavorful and hearty stew is a culinary treasure of the city's Italian heritage and waterfront culture. If you're a seafood lover visiting the city by the bay, don't miss out on trying the best cioppino spots with this map of all the top locations in San Francisco.

How to pick Cioppino in San Francisco

  1. Quality of seafood.
  2. Authenticity of the dish.
  3. Flavor and seasoning.
  4. Price point.
  5. Atmosphere and dining experience.

Common questions

What is Cioppino?

Cioppino is a traditional seafood stew that originated in San Francisco. It typically includes a variety of fresh seafood such as fish, shrimp, crab, and shellfish, cooked in a savory tomato-based broth with herbs and spices. The dish is thought to have been created by Italian fishermen in the late 1800s who would make the stew using whatever seafood they had on hand. Today, Cioppino is a popular dish in San Francisco and can be found on the menus of many seafood restaurants in the city.

Where can I find the best Cioppino in San Francisco?

If you're looking for the best Cioppino in San Francisco, there are several restaurants known for their excellent versions of the dish. Some popular spots to try Cioppino in the city include Anchor Oyster Bar, Tadich Grill, and San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf. These restaurants are known for their fresh seafood and delicious flavorful broths that make for a memorable Cioppino experience.

Is Cioppino a popular dish in San Francisco?

Cioppino is a beloved dish in San Francisco and is considered a local favorite among residents and visitors alike. Due to its rich history in the city and the availability of fresh seafood from the nearby waters, Cioppino has become a staple on many restaurant menus in San Francisco. Its popularity has also led to the creation of an annual Cioppino Festival in the city, where local chefs showcase their own unique takes on the classic dish.

What makes San Francisco Cioppino unique?

One of the things that makes San Francisco Cioppino unique is the variety of seafood that goes into the stew. With access to fresh fish and shellfish from the nearby waters of the Pacific Ocean, Cioppino in San Francisco is made with the highest quality ingredients. Additionally, the tomato-based broth in San Francisco Cioppino is known for its robust flavor and aromatic herbs and spices that make each bowl a truly special culinary experience.

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