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The 16 Best Dungeness Crab in San Francisco

Known for its sweet and succulent meat, Dungeness crab is a beloved delicacy in San Francisco. Whether you're a local looking for the perfect spot to enjoy this seafood specialty or a visitor wanting to try it for the first time, there are plenty of options to choose from in the city.

San Francisco's proximity to the Pacific Ocean means that you can find fresh and delicious Dungeness crab at many restaurants and seafood markets throughout the city. With so many choices available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go. That's where this list of the 16 Best Dungeness Crab in San Francisco comes in handy.

Whether you prefer it steamed, boiled, or in a crab roll, you're sure to find something that satisfies your craving for delicious Dungeness crab in San Francisco.

How we chose and ordered them

This guide does not try to list everyone. It is our pick of dungeness crab 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

Sotto Mare, San Francisco#1
What it does well
  • Impressive seafood dishes like clam chowder and seafood linguine

  • Cozy and historic atmosphere

  • Fast and friendly service

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. Offering a variety of services, including outdoor seating, kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, this eatery caters to all preferences. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it an ideal spot for solo dining or group gatherings.

Customers rave about the delicious dishes served at Sotto Mare, with many highlighting the mouthwatering clam chowder and seafood linguine with white sauce. The atmosphere is described as cozy and historic, providing a delightful dining experience. Reviews also applaud the fast and friendly service at the restaurant.

Seafood Center, San Francisco#2
What it does well
  • Customers praise the helpful and friendly staff.

  • They offer a wide variety of seafood options.

  • The store is clean, and the prices are reasonable.

  • Customers appreciate the freshness of the seafood.

Seafood Center

4.7144 reviews
831 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Seafood Center offers a wide selection of fresh seafood in San Francisco. They provide a variety of options, including prawns, mussels, scallops, live fish, crabs, lobsters, and more. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the store and the helpfulness of the staff. The prices are reasonable, and the seafood is always fresh.

Swan Oyster Depot, San Francisco#3
What it does well
  • Customers appreciate the warm and welcoming service.

  • Food quality and portion sizes may vary.

  • Expect a cash-only policy and be prepared for a wait.

Swan Oyster Depot

4.61,879 reviews
1517 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Swan Oyster Depot is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers particularly love their fresh seafood and cheerful service. The restaurant is popular for lunch and solo dining experiences.

Fog Harbor Fish House, San Francisco#4
What it does well
  • Exceptional atmosphere at Pier 39

  • Amazing food including clam chowder, seafood risotto, and more

  • Great service and friendly 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. Known for its outdoor seating and dine-in options, this establishment offers a variety of services for its customers. The cozy atmosphere and romantic setting make it a favorite among both locals and tourists. With a focus on providing great dessert and delicious seafood dishes, this restaurant ensures a memorable dining experience.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

Seafood Station, San Francisco#5
What it does well
  • Nice small cute seafood place to eat with friendly staff and delicious scallop salad.

  • Excellent dishes, kind and attentive servers, perfect for satisfying seafood cravings.

  • Wonderful neighborhood gem with fresh seafood, friendly service, and must-try favorites.

  • High quality seafood, friendly and accommodating service, and iconic San Francisco crab available.

Seafood Station

4.6169 reviews
803 Cortland Ave, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Seafood Station is a beloved seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers appreciate the fast service and the fact that it is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The restaurant is wheelchair-accessible and has a casual atmosphere, making it family-friendly and welcoming to tourists.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

California Fish Market Restaurant, San Francisco#6
What it does well
  • Attentive service and delicious food

  • Great ambiance with indoor and outdoor seating options

  • Generous portions and quality seafood offerings

California Fish Market Restaurant

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

California Fish Market Restaurant is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. Known for its fresh and delicious seafood offerings, this establishment offers a variety of services to cater to every customer's needs. From outdoor seating and delivery to takeaway and dine-in options, they ensure a seamless dining experience. The restaurant is revered for its fast service and is a popular choice for both lunch and dinner, whether dining solo or with a group.

Customers have left glowing reviews, with key points including:

One customer mentioned, "My favorite go-to place! Quality food, well-priced, and staff is very friendly." Another satisfied diner shared, "Cioppino was good but not as good as next door, and DOES NOT COME WITH PASTA. Calamari was really good. Decent wine selection…service was ok."

Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or looking to indulge in a memorable dining experience, California Fish Market Restaurant is sure to exceed your expectations. Visit their website for more information and make a reservation to treat yourself to a delightful meal.

Woodhouse Fish Co., San Francisco#7
What it does well
  • The fish and chips are tender, crispy, and light, making them a favorite choice.

  • The lobster rolls are described as meaty, flavorful, and decadent.

  • The Cioppino, lobster rolls, and oysters are fresh and delicious, though some dishes could use a bit more flavor.

  • The fish tacos are fresh with a light and crispy batter, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.

Woodhouse Fish Co.

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

Woodhouse Fish Co. is a renowned seafood restaurant in San Francisco that offers a wide range of services and features to its customers. Some of the highlights of this establishment include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers appreciate the fast service provided by the friendly staff.

The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner service, making it an ideal spot for a variety of dining experiences. The comfortable seating arrangements make it perfect for solo dining or group gatherings. Customers have praised the cozy and trendy atmosphere of Woodhouse Fish Co., making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

PPQ Dungeness Island, San Francisco#8
What it does well
  • Customers appreciate the good food and quiet location away from the city center.

  • The seafood dishes, especially the crab and sea bass, are highly recommended.

  • The impeccable service, quality, and freshness of the food leave a lasting impression.

PPQ Dungeness Island

4.41,012 reviews
5821 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94121, United States

PPQ Dungeness Island is a popular Vietnamese restaurant known for its exquisite seafood dishes. Offering services like Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in, this restaurant caters to a variety of dining preferences. Customers rave about the fast service provided at PPQ Dungeness Island.

Golden Crab House, San Francisco#9
What it does well
  • A great casual spot with quick service

  • Delicious crab and other protein options

  • Good variety of dishes beyond seafood

Golden Crab House

4.4222 reviews
1830 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

Golden Crab House is a popular seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of service options including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers rave about the fast service and the delicious crab dishes available here.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Another customer mentioned the excellent food and service and recommended arriving early due to parking challenges. They enjoyed a dinner for six and highlighted the peaceful atmosphere that made conversations easier.

In contrast, a customer found the prices overly inflated for the dungeness crabs and felt that some dishes lacked flavor. Despite this, they appreciated the imperial rolls and the soup dumplings.

Golden Crab House seems to be a great choice for seafood lovers looking for a mix of traditional and innovative dishes in a relaxed setting.

Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands, San Francisco#10
What it does well
  • This was such a great experience! The crab chowder was delicious at Chowder Hut! We had great service, atmosphere, and food.

  • Nice place with a good view, very good service, meal, and drinks. Recommended.

  • Great place for a quick bite on the run. Tasty and fresh food with a beautiful view.

  • A must-visit when in SF. Gets crowded, so plan ahead for a memorable dining experience.

Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands

4.4154 reviews
200 Jefferson St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The establishment offers a variety of service options including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy their meals in a casual atmosphere with the added convenience of fast service.

This eatery is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a great choice for solo diners, groups, and tourists. Their menu includes comforting seafood dishes and quick bites, perfect for those looking for a small plate or a full meal. While the restaurant does not offer delivery, it provides a wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating for those with mobility needs.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands. Key points from their reviews include:

For fresh seafood by the bay with excellent service, Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands is a top choice for locals and visitors alike.

Crab House at Pier 39, San Francisco#11
What it does well
  • Amazing food with a beautiful view of the Bay and Sea Lions

  • Quick and efficient service with a lovely atmosphere

  • Delicious seafood, especially recommended are the crab, mussels, and calamari

  • Exceptional customer service with a fast seating and serving process

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 variety of services such as outdoor seating, dine-in, and a menu full of highlights like fast service and great desserts, this restaurant has become a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Customers have left glowing reviews about their experiences at Crab House at Pier 39. Here are some key points from their feedback:

Overall, customers have raved about the delicious food, excellent service, and charming atmosphere at Crab House at Pier 39. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience top-notch seafood dining in San Francisco.

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant, San Francisco#12
What it does well
  • Nice place for relax with top-notch bay views and delicious food.

  • Great food, quick service, incredible atmosphere, and fantastic location.

  • Delicious seafood with fresh ingredients, excellent staff service, and top-notch views.

  • Outstanding dining experience with delectable cuisine, attentive service, 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 prominent seafood restaurant located at Pier 39 in San Francisco. Known for its fast service and great dessert, this restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner. Customers can enjoy a variety of offerings such as alcohol, cocktails, comfort food, and more in a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere, making it suitable for families, groups, LGBTQ+ friendly, and tourists.

Crab Stand, San Francisco#13
What it does well
  • Clam chowder was just ok, lack of seasoning

  • Crab sandwich was dry and blend, not worth the money

  • Good food, reasonable prices, but staff seemed bored and unfriendly

  • Excellent clam chowder and crab cake

Crab Stand

4.227 reviews
San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Crab Stand is a popular seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options including takeaway and dine-in. Customers rave about the fast service and the restaurant is known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The casual atmosphere attracts both locals and tourists looking for a delicious seafood meal.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're in the area and looking for a quick bite or a relaxing meal, Crab Stand is the place to be!

Cajun House, San Francisco#14
What it does well
  • Great food and service. If you're in the area and have a seafood craving, Cajun House is the spot to try. We will be back!

  • The gumbo was stellar and I would absolutely order it again- so flavorful, I scraped my plate clean! Great value for money.

  • Surprisingly very very good. Their crabs and shrimp boils were incredible. Will be back in crawfish season!

  • Delicious! Everything was flavorful and not overly salty. The chicken wings were the highlight for sure. Will come back with friends next time.

Cajun House

4.4247 reviews
308 5th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Cajun House is a popular Cajun restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers have raved about the great food and service provided by Cajun House. Here are some summarized reviews:

With a rating of 4.4, Cajun House is a must-visit for Cajun food enthusiasts. Visit their website for more information and to place an order.

The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf, San Francisco#15
What it does well
  • Great food, but seasoning needed

  • Reasonable prices and friendly staff

  • Delicious seafood options

  • Local feel in a tourist area

The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf

4.0328 reviews
2801 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf is a popular seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The restaurant offers a variety of services including outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in, and for those exploring the area, it provides fast service.

Customer reviews highlight several key points:

Overall, visitors commend the freshness of the seafood dishes, particularly the lobster roll, and find the prices to be reasonable for the quality of food served. The friendly atmosphere and convenient location make The Crab Station a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike.

Supreme Crab Seafood Buffet, San Francisco#16
What it does well
  • Customers mentioned that the food was okay, with a decent variety available. The Dungeness crab legs received mixed reviews, but the King crab legs were delicious. The chowder was a standout dish.

  • Some visitors found the food selection to be limited and below their expectations. They noted that the smell in the restaurant was off-putting and the cleanliness was questionable.

  • One reviewer highlighted the fresh and delicious seafood boil at a reasonable price, emphasizing the quality and value of the dishes.

  • Positive comments also mentioned the abundant food options available, with standout desserts like the orange cake and mango jelly.

Supreme Crab Seafood Buffet

3.7755 reviews
245 Jefferson St #2fl, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Supreme Crab Seafood Buffet is a popular seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. The restaurant offers a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. Customers rave about the fast service and sporty atmosphere, making it a great spot for solo dining or with family and friends.

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Sotto Mare 4.63,951
#2Seafood Center 4.7144
#3Swan Oyster Depot 4.61,879
#4Fog Harbor Fish House 4.57,120
#5Seafood Station 4.6169
#6California Fish Market Restaurant 4.5306
#7Woodhouse Fish Co. 4.41,190
#8PPQ Dungeness Island 4.41,012
#9Golden Crab House 4.4222
#10Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands 4.4154
#11Crab House at Pier 39 4.33,788
#12Pier Market Seafood Restaurant 4.47,027
#13Crab Stand 4.227
#14Cajun House 4.4247
#15The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf 4.0328
#16Supreme Crab Seafood Buffet 3.7755

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Map of Dungeness Crab in San Francisco

Dungeness crab is a culinary delicacy in San Francisco, known for its sweet and succulent meat. With its distinct flavor, this type of crab is a favorite among seafood enthusiasts. This map showcases all the best spots in San Francisco where you can indulge in fresh and delicious Dungeness crab dishes. Whether you prefer it steamed, grilled, or in a crab cocktail, these locations are a must-visit for any seafood lover.

How to pick Dungeness Crab in San Francisco

  1. Quality of crab.
  2. Preparation methods.
  3. Price.
  4. Atmosphere of the restaurant.
  5. Location.
  6. Customer reviews.

Common questions

What is Dungeness crab and why is it popular in San Francisco?

The Dungeness crab is a species of crab native to the waters of the Pacific Ocean, including the coast of San Francisco. It is known for its sweet, delicate meat and is considered a culinary delicacy in the region. The popularity of Dungeness crab in San Francisco can be attributed to its abundance in the local waters and the long-standing tradition of crabbing in the area. Local restaurants and seafood markets in San Francisco often feature Dungeness crab dishes on their menus, such as crab cakes, crab salads, and whole roasted crab. The annual Dungeness crab season is a highly anticipated event in the city, drawing seafood enthusiasts from near and far.

When is Dungeness crab season in San Francisco?

The Dungeness crab season in San Francisco typically runs from November to June, with the peak season occurring in the winter months. During this time, local fishermen harvest fresh Dungeness crab from the waters off the coast of San Francisco and sell them to seafood markets and restaurants throughout the city. It is advisable to check with local authorities or fisheries to get updated information on the start and end dates of the Dungeness crab season in San Francisco each year. Some years, the season may be delayed or shortened due to ecological factors or regulatory measures.

Where can I buy fresh Dungeness crab in San Francisco?

San Francisco is home to a variety of seafood markets, fishmongers, and restaurants that sell fresh Dungeness crab during the season. Some popular spots to purchase Dungeness crab in San Francisco include Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building Marketplace, and local farmers' markets. Many seafood markets in San Francisco offer live or cooked Dungeness crab, as well as a selection of other fresh seafood. It is recommended to support local businesses and ask for recommendations on the best places to buy Dungeness crab in the city.

How should I cook Dungeness crab from San Francisco?

Cooking Dungeness crab from San Francisco is a simple and delicious task that can be done in a few different ways. One popular method is to steam the crab with a mixture of water, vinegar, and various seasonings until it turns bright red and the meat becomes tender. Another favorite cooking technique is to roast or grill Dungeness crab with butter, garlic, and herbs for a flavorful and aromatic dish. Some people also enjoy eating Dungeness crab cold, either on its own or in salads and sandwiches.

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