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The 16 Best Garlic Crab in San Francisco

For seafood lovers in San Francisco, discovering the best spots for garlic crab is an ongoing quest. This delicious dish, known for its savory flavor and aromatic garlic sauce, can be found at various restaurants across the city.

Whether you're a local resident or just visiting the area, finding the perfect place to indulge in garlic crab is essential. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one.

Explore the list below to discover the 16 best spots in San Francisco for garlic crab and find your new favorite dining destination for this delectable seafood dish.

How we chose and ordered them

To put together this guide to garlic crab in San Francisco, we looked at what each business really focuses on, how its customers rate it over time and what it shows about its work on its own channels. The order is ours and we review it regularly.

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

Quick overview

Our top picks

Choose a business to go straight to its entry.

#1
Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill
4.61,019 reviews
#2
Fog Harbor Fish House
4.57,120 reviews
#3
Seafood Station
4.6169 reviews

All options

Weigh 16 local options side by side

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill, San Francisco#1
What it does well

  • We ate at Betty Lou’s for lunch and had a great meal here. The service and the food were both excellent. The scalloped potatoes with the halibut special were amazing and I would highly recommend.

  • Chiopino wasn't the best compared to other restaurants, but it is enough for owner to be proud of and the crab, pasta, and risotto were really good. The kindness was nice, too.

  • Betty Lou’s sets the bar high for dining excellence with its impeccable dishes and outstanding service. The Alfredo sauce, with its ideal consistency perfectly balancing thickness with lightness elevates every bite without feeling heavy.

  • If you’re looking for seafood in San Francisco, try this place. Just 7 mins drive from fisherman’s wharf and has better food and pricing. This was truly one of the best seafood pasta I’ve tried, I would return just for this dish alone.

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill

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

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. Their reputation for fast service and exquisite dishes makes them a popular choice for both lunch and dinner outings. Customers rave about the impeccable service and delicious food offered at Betty Lou's.

With a rating of 4.6 and numerous glowing reviews, Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill is a must-visit establishment for those seeking a memorable and delicious dining experience in San Francisco.

Fog Harbor Fish House, San Francisco#2
What it does well

  • Great atmosphere right at Pier 39 with friendly and helpful servers

  • Amazing variety of dishes including clam chowder, calamari, fish and chips, and seafood risotto

  • Portions are relatively large, excellent fish and chips, and baked oysters

  • Beautiful setting and views from Pier 39, perfect for enjoying the Fisherman's Wharf area

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. They offer a variety of services and features to ensure an exceptional dining experience. Some of the key features include outdoor seating, a fireplace, and a reputation for serving great desserts.

Customer reviews highlight the amazing atmosphere and friendly service at Fog Harbor Fish House. Here are some key points from recent reviews:

Experience the charm and flavors of Fog Harbor Fish House for yourself and indulge in a memorable dining experience by the bay.

Seafood Station, San Francisco#3
What it does well

  • Nice small cute seafood place, friendly staff, and delicious food.

  • Excellent dishes, kind and attentive service.

  • Wonderful neighborhood gem with delicious, fresh seafood.

  • High quality food, friendly servers, and iconic San Francisco crab.

Seafood Station

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

Seafood Station is a charming seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it convenient for all customers. The restaurant is known for its fast service and is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customers have raved about Seafood Station, highlighting a few key points:

With a rating of 4.6, it is no surprise that Seafood Station has garnered such positive reviews. Customers praise the restaurant for its high-quality seafood, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Seafood Station is definitely worth a visit.

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant, San Francisco#4
What it does well

  • Nice place for relax with delicious sourdough clam chowder bread bowl and great ambiance.

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

  • Excellent seafood dishes, friendly staff, and top-notch bay views.

  • 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 offers a variety of services to cater to every customer's needs. Whether it's outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in, or delivery, this seafood restaurant has it all. With fast service and great dessert options, customers can expect a delightful dining experience.

Customer reviews rave about the food, service, and ambiance at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant. Here are some key points from recent visitors:

Golden Crab House, San Francisco#5
What it does well

  • A great option in the Sunset area, offering a variety of dishes including roasted crab, garlic noodles, and more.

  • Excellent food and service with a relatively quiet space, perfect for conversations.

  • High prices for dungeness crabs but decent food quality and selection of dishes. Some items like the peppercorn prawns are recommended.

  • Delicious food, particularly the curry crab and imperial rolls, with friendly service and an overall recommendation for the dining experience.

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 services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. With fast service and a menu popular for both lunch and dinner, Golden Crab House aims to provide a memorable culinary experience.

Customer reviews rave about the food and service provided by Golden Crab House:

If you are looking for a casual yet trendy spot with fresh seafood and quick service, consider visiting Golden Crab House for your next meal in San Francisco.

Crab House at Pier 39, San Francisco#6
What it does well

  • Amazing food with a beautiful view of the Bay and Sea Lions

  • Delicious seafood, especially the crab and mussels

  • Fast and friendly service, with reasonable prices

  • Hidden gem with outstanding service and fast seating

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 top-rated seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. With a rating of 4.3 and 3788 reviews, it's clear that customers have had exceptional dining experiences. The restaurant offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating and dine-in, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Key points from customer reviews:

Moreover, Crab House at Pier 39 is known for its popular lunch and dinner options, ensuring that guests have a memorable dining experience. The restaurant also offers various amenities like a bar on-site and gender-neutral toilets, catering to a diverse range of customers. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor freshly prepared seafood dishes in a welcoming and cozy atmosphere!

Thanh Long Restaurant, San Francisco#7
What it does well

  • Customers rave about the delicious dishes, especially the garlic noodles, calamari, and lobster.

  • The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide excellent service with detailed explanations of the dishes.

  • Despite some mixed reviews on prices, many find the food to be well worth the cost.

Thanh Long Restaurant

4.51,426 reviews
4101 Judah St, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

Thanh Long Restaurant is a renowned Vietnamese restaurant located in San Francisco. The restaurant offers a variety of service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, with a focus on providing fast service. Known for being popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, Thanh Long Restaurant ensures all customers have a pleasant dining experience.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, Thanh Long Restaurant guarantees a memorable dining experience with its cozy atmosphere and delectable offerings.

Franciscan Crab Restaurant, San Francisco#8
What it does well

  • Impeccable service, delicious drinks, and delightful view of the bay.

  • Attentive staff, flavorful dishes, and warm inviting ambiance.

  • Great seafood platter, fantastic service, and excellent views near the water.

  • Excellent service, Alcatraz Prison views, and fast meal delivery.

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, offering a variety of delectable dishes and services. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, and cozy dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service and great dessert selections, making it a favorite spot for lunch and dinner, whether dining solo or with a group.

Crustacean Restaurant, San Francisco#9
What it does well

  • The whole roast crab is juicy and flavorful

  • Extensive wine and cocktail offerings

  • Efficient service without being overbearing

  • Garlic noodles are a famous delicacy

Crustacean Restaurant

4.41,131 reviews
1475 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

Crustacean Restaurant is a popular Vietnamese restaurant known for its delicious dishes and exceptional service. The restaurant offers various services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options to cater to every guest's needs. With rooftop seating and a cozy yet trendy atmosphere, it's a perfect spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

PPQ Dungeness Island, San Francisco#10
What it does well

  • Delicious food, away from the city center, but accessible

  • Generous portions and good value for set meals

  • Impeccable service, freshness, and quality of food

  • Great selection of seafood options, attentive customer service, and welcoming atmosphere

PPQ Dungeness Island

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

PPQ Dungeness Island is a Vietnamese restaurant that offers a variety of services and features, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The establishment is known for its fast service and is popular for both lunch and dinner. For those with accessibility needs, the restaurant offers wheelchair-accessible amenities.

Customers have left numerous positive reviews for PPQ Dungeness Island. Here are some key points from their feedback:

Mission Street Oyster Bar, San Francisco#11
What it does well

  • Nice little spot with friendly service and fresh seafood. The Summerset oyster shooter was delicious. Only critique is the clam chowder, which lacked flavor and clams.

  • Plenty of menu options to choose from, with a great selection of oysters. The cioppino was flavorful and satisfying. Will definitely return!

  • Consistent quality oysters and delicious menu items have made this place a go-to spot for years. Highly recommend!

  • Delectable oysters and flavorsome seafood make for a wonderful dining experience. The calamari in Peruvian style was unique, although slightly sour for some tastes.

Mission Street Oyster Bar

4.4502 reviews
2282 Mission St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

Mission Street Oyster Bar is a popular seafood restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of services to its customers. Whether you prefer kerbside pickup, delivery, takeaway, or dine-in options, this place has got you covered. Known for its fast service, this restaurant is a go-to spot for many.

According to 502 reviews, the restaurant has an impressive rating of 4.4 stars. Here are a few key points from customer reviews:

So, if you're looking for a place to enjoy a fantastic seafood meal with excellent service, Mission Street Oyster Bar is the place to be!

Crab Stand, San Francisco#12
What it does well

  • Clam Chowder was just ok, lack of seasoning.

  • Crab sandwich was disappointing, with dry bread and blended crab meat.

  • Excellent Clam chowder and crab cake were highlighted for their taste.

  • Great food and quick service were appreciated by customers.

Crab Stand

4.227 reviews
San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Crab Stand is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. They offer a variety of service options including Takeaway and Dine-in. Customers praise the fast service provided at Crab Stand, making it a popular spot for both Lunch and Dinner.

Some key points from customer reviews:

Cioppino's, San Francisco#13
What it does well

  • Customers praise the quick and attentive service provided by the staff.

  • The food quality is highlighted as exceptional, with patrons raving about the flavorful dishes.

  • Many guests appreciate the cozy and inviting atmosphere of the restaurant.

  • Overall, Cioppino's is highly recommended for those looking for a delicious seafood experience in San Francisco.

Cioppino's

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

Cioppino's is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. With a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5, this establishment has received over 5000 reviews from satisfied customers.

Whether you're in the mood for a quick takeaway meal or a relaxed dine-in experience, Cioppino's offers a variety of service options to cater to your needs. From outdoor seating to kerbside pickup, this restaurant ensures that customers can enjoy their favorite seafood dishes in a way that suits them best. Experience the best of Italian-inspired seafood cuisine at Cioppino's!

The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House, San Francisco#14
What it does well

  • Excellent food at great prices, perfect for escaping the tourist crowds

  • Delicious seafood dishes and garlic fries with a picturesque view of Alcatraz Island

  • Friendly staff, fresh seafood, and perfect fish and chips

  • Hidden gem with fresh and perfectly cooked seafood, highly recommended

The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House

4.3726 reviews
Pier 43 1/2 The Embarcadero First Floor, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House is a popular seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. The business offers a variety of services and features such as outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers can enjoy fast service in a casual and trendy atmosphere while indulging in delicious seafood dishes.

With a total of 726 reviews and an impressive rating of 4.3, here are some key points summarized from customer reviews:

Customers have praised the freshness of the seafood and the quality of the dishes, recommending the fish and chips and clam chowder. Whether you are a local or a tourist in the area, The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House promises a delightful dining experience with delicious options for lunch and dinner.

The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf, San Francisco#15
What it does well

  • Delicious seafood dishes

  • Reasonable prices for the quality and quantity of food

  • Friendly and engaging staff members

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 renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA, that offers a variety of services and features. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in experiences, making it a versatile dining destination. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, catering to solo diners as well.

The atmosphere at The Crab Station is described as casual, perfect for tourists looking to savor delicious seafood dishes. The menu includes alcohol, beer, cocktails, comfort food, and quick bites, ensuring there's something for every taste.

Customer reviews praise the freshness of the seafood and the generous portions offered at reasonable prices. Some highlights from the reviews include:

Overall, The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf is a fantastic choice for seafood lovers looking for a satisfying meal in a welcoming setting.

Supreme Crab Seafood Buffet, San Francisco#16
What it does well

  • Varied food options with reasonable prices

  • Delicious King crab legs and chowder

  • Positive ambiance and quick service

  • Unique experience with online ordering and minimal server interactions

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. Known for its fast service and sports-themed atmosphere, it offers a variety of options for customers, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in services. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner, this restaurant caters to both solo diners and groups. The menu includes a selection of alcohol, beer, comfort food, small plates, and wine, providing a diverse culinary experience for all patrons.

With a rating of 3.7 based on 755 reviews, customers have shared their thoughts on their experiences. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Quick summary

A quick comparison of the options

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill 4.61,019
#2Fog Harbor Fish House 4.57,120
#3Seafood Station 4.6169
#4Pier Market Seafood Restaurant 4.47,027
#5Golden Crab House 4.4222
#6Crab House at Pier 39 4.33,788
#7Thanh Long Restaurant 4.51,426
#8Franciscan Crab Restaurant 4.24,920
#9Crustacean Restaurant 4.41,131
#10PPQ Dungeness Island 4.41,012
#11Mission Street Oyster Bar 4.4502
#12Crab Stand 4.227
#13Cioppino's 4.35,170
#14The Stinking Rose A Garlic Fish House 4.3726
#15The Crab Station at Fisherman Wharf 4.0328
#16Supreme Crab Seafood Buffet 3.7755

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On the map

Map of Garlic Crab in San Francisco

San Francisco is famous for its delectable garlic crab dishes, each offering a unique twist on this popular seafood delicacy. From upscale restaurants to local seafood shacks, there are countless options to choose from. Use this map to discover the best spots in the city to indulge in garlicky crab goodness.

How to pick Garlic Crab in San Francisco

  1. Proximity to your location.
  2. Price range.
  3. Quality of ingredients.
  4. Customer reviews.
  5. Atmosphere and ambiance.
  6. Specialty dishes offered.

Common questions

What are some popular restaurants in San Francisco that serve garlic crab?

One of the most popular restaurants in San Francisco known for their delicious garlic crab dishes is The Crab House. Their garlic roasted Dungeness crab is a must-try for seafood lovers. Another highly recommended spot is Crustacean, where they serve a unique garlic noodle dish with crab. For a more casual dining experience, check out Thanh Long for their famous garlic crab.

What is the best way to cook garlic crab at home?

For those looking to recreate the flavors of San Francisco's garlic crab at home, start by sautéing minced garlic, butter, and herbs in a pan. Add cleaned crab pieces and cook until the meat is no longer translucent. Finish off with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Is garlic crab considered a traditional dish in San Francisco?

Garlic crab has become a popular dish in San Francisco over the years, although it may not be considered a traditional dish in the strictest sense. The flavors of garlic, butter, and crab meld together to create a delicious and indulgent seafood dish that has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

What is the history behind garlic crab in San Francisco?

While there may not be a definitive origin story for garlic crab in San Francisco, it is believed that the dish was inspired by the city's love for seafood and Asian flavors. The combination of fresh crab meat with garlic, butter, and spices reflects the diverse culinary influences found in the city's vibrant food scene.

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