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The 16 Best Lobster Rolls in San Francisco

For seafood lovers in San Francisco, finding the perfect lobster roll can be a quest worth embarking on. With so many options scattered throughout the city, it can be overwhelming to choose where to indulge in this classic coastal dish.

Whether you prefer a traditional New England-style lobster roll or a unique twist on this beloved sandwich, there is no shortage of eateries in San Francisco ready to satisfy your craving. From food trucks to upscale restaurants, the city offers a wide variety of options to suit every taste and budget.

Get ready to satisfy your seafood cravings with the list of The 16 Best Lobster Rolls in San Francisco below. Compare and choose the perfect roll to enjoy in the City by the Bay.

How this guide is ordered

Our San Francisco editors picked these businesses citywide, giving priority to a reputation earned over time, details we have verified and strong, consistent work. Lists are revisited regularly, and we act on readers' notes about closures and moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

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#1
Fog Harbor Fish House
4.57,120 reviews
#2
Hog Island Oyster Co.
4.63,076 reviews
#3
Pier Market Seafood Restaurant
4.47,027 reviews

Full list

Compare 16 local options

Fog Harbor Fish House#1
What stands out

  • An awesome atmosphere right at Pier 39 with friendly and helpful servers

  • Large portions and excellent dishes like clam chowder, baked oysters, and fish and chips

  • Beautiful setting and views from Pier 39, with great seafood options like swordfish and crab risotto

  • Spectacular dinner experience with outstanding appetizers and main dishes

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 39 Pier in San Francisco. The restaurant offers a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience. Customers can enjoy outdoor seating with a view of the pier, indulge in fireplace ambiance, and savor great desserts while dining.

The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a versatile choice for any meal. It caters to various crowds, including families, groups, and LGBTQ+ friendly individuals. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and upmarket, appealing to a wide range of diners.

Customer reviews rave about the quality of food and service at Fog Harbor Fish House. Some key points from the reviews include:

With a high rating of 4.5 stars and over 7,000 reviews, Fog Harbor Fish House is a top choice for seafood enthusiasts in San Francisco. Book a reservation today to experience the delicious offerings and welcoming atmosphere at this iconic establishment.

Hog Island Oyster Co.#2
What stands out

  • Fresh and flavorful oysters

  • Creamy and unique clam chowder

  • Friendly and attentive service

  • Beautifully plated and tasty dishes

Hog Island Oyster Co.

4.63,076 reviews
Ferry Building, #11, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

Hog Island Oyster Co. is a renowned Oyster bar restaurant located in the bustling Ferry Building of San Francisco. Guests can enjoy a variety of services, including Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in. The restaurant is popular for its Fast service and a menu filled with delicious offerings like fresh oysters, clam chowder, mussels, and more. Customers have praised the establishment, highlighting:

With a 4.6 rating and over 3000 reviews, it's clear that Hog Island Oyster Co. is a favorite spot in the area for both locals and tourists alike.

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant#3
What stands out

  • Nice place for relax! The sourdough clam chowder bread bowl was delicious. The ambiance and bay views were top-notch.

  • Great food to enjoy in a great atmosphere, and the restaurant has a great location, too. Service is quick. The food was all incredible!

  • The clam chowder sourdough bread bowl and the fish & chip’s were delicious. Seafood was fresh. Staffs are well trained and friendly.

  • Stopped by at 3pm on a Saturday and had a great experience. Excellent menu with gluten-free options. Staff does a great job churning tables.

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 service options including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy highlights such as fast service and great desserts. This seafood restaurant is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Additionally, they provide accessibility features like wheelchair-accessible amenities. The offerings at Pier Market Seafood Restaurant include a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, cocktails, and vegetarian options. Customers can enjoy a casual and cozy atmosphere while dining with family, groups, or tourists.

Tadich Grill#4
What stands out

  • Excellent tasty food, especially the seafood stew and pasta.

  • Enjoyable old-fashioned atmosphere with timely service.

  • Outstanding food and impeccable service, a highlight of the trip to the city.

  • Amazing steaks and seafood with brilliant staff and service.

Tadich Grill

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

Tadich Grill is a historic seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a variety of services, including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy great dessert options and popular dishes for both lunch and dinner.

Customer reviews highlight:

With a rating of 4.5 stars, Tadich Grill is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience a piece of history while enjoying delicious food and excellent service.

Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill#5
What stands out

  • Customers love the scalloped potatoes with the halibut special and highly recommend it.

  • Another highlight is the delightful Alfredo sauce which perfectly balances thickness with lightness.

  • Visitors are impressed by the linguine with clams, cooked to perfection, showcasing the chef's skill and dedication to quality.

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. With a rating of 4.6 and over 1000 reviews, customers rave about the exceptional service and delicious dishes offered here.

This restaurant is known for its fast service and is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Additionally, Betty Lou's offers a variety of service options such as no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The atmosphere is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, catering to a diverse crowd including families, groups, LGBTQ+ friendly individuals, and tourists. Whether you're in the mood for seafood pasta, clam chowder, or vegetarian risotto, Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Crab House at Pier 39#6
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the amazing food and overall experience, despite the slightly higher prices.

  • The beautiful view of the Bay and sea lions outside the window adds to the charm of the restaurant.

  • The friendly wait staff receives praise for their kindness and efficiency.

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 delectable dishes. The establishment provides a range of service options, including outdoor seating and dine-in experiences. Customers can enjoy highlights such as fast service, a cozy fireplace, and great desserts. Known for being popular for both lunch and dinner, as well as solo dining, this restaurant caters to a diverse range of preferences.

Pacific Catch#7
What stands out

  • Customers rave about the amazing seafood dishes and flavors available at Pacific Catch, making it a must-visit for anyone craving delicious seafood.

  • The friendly atmosphere is highlighted by many, especially for those who prefer outdoor seating while enjoying their meals.

  • The extensive menu offers a variety of options such as tacos, poke bowls, fish and chips, and even sushi rolls, ensuring there is something for everyone.

  • Customers also appreciate the great service provided by the staff, making the overall dining experience at Pacific Catch a delightful one.

Pacific Catch

4.5983 reviews
2027 Chestnut St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

Pacific Catch is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco, CA. With a rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from a total of 983 reviews, it is clear that customers absolutely love this place.

Woodhouse Fish Co.#8
What stands out

  • A customer mentioned that the fish and chips were tender and crispy, with delicious tartar sauce.

  • Another customer praised the lobster rolls for being meaty and flavorful, and loved the squid ink linguine.

  • One reviewer enjoyed the Cioppino and lobster rolls, mentioning that the chilled lobster roll had a great tang.

  • Someone else highlighted the Dungeness crab roll, clam chowder, salmon tacos, and delicious fries.

Woodhouse Fish Co.

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

Woodhouse Fish Co. is a renowned seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. They offer a range of services including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Customers appreciate their fast service and popular dishes like lobster rolls, fish and chips, and clam chowder.

With a rating of 4.4 and over 1190 reviews, Woodhouse Fish Co. is a favorite among seafood lovers in San Francisco. Customers appreciate the fresh seafood, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere.

The Old Clam House#9
What stands out

  • We weren’t sure what to expect because we heard some mixed reviews but knew it had changed ownership fairly recently. It was amazing!

  • Great food! Great service from our waiter (Moez). It's the oldest restaurant in San Fran, but truly one of the best.

  • Very pleasantly surprised by this restaurant. Vintage ambiance, friendly service, and delicious food.

  • A beautifully renovated, historic landmark —in operation since the 1880s, perfect for hosting out-of-towners or a company occasion.

The Old Clam House

4.41,160 reviews
299 Bayshore Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94124, United States

The Old Clam House is a historic seafood restaurant located in San Francisco. Customers can enjoy a variety of services including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. The restaurant is known for its fast service, great coffee, and delicious desserts. It is popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a great spot for solo dining as well.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

With a rating of 4.4, customers have praised the quality of the food, the warm and cozy atmosphere, and the friendly service. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or a historic dining experience, The Old Clam House is a must-visit spot in the industrial quarter of San Francisco.

Leo's Oyster Bar#10
What stands out

  • Visitors rave about the outstanding quality of oysters and the exceptional service.

  • The interior decor creates a great vibe, making it an ideal spot for dates and hangouts.

  • The diverse menu with options like lobster rolls, fish and chips, and refreshing cocktails impresses guests.

Leo's Oyster Bar

4.5525 reviews
568 Sacramento St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

Leo's Oyster Bar exudes elegance and charm, offering a delightful dining experience in the heart of San Francisco. This upscale Oyster bar restaurant is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and trendy atmosphere to enjoy fresh seafood and exquisite cocktails. With a rating of 4.5 and 525 reviews, it's clear that Leo's Oyster Bar has won the hearts of many satisfied customers.

Whether you're looking for a classy spot for a romantic evening or a trendy place to enjoy happy-hour drinks, Leo's Oyster Bar offers it all. Indulge in a memorable dining experience where every detail is carefully curated to ensure your satisfaction.

California Fish Market Restaurant#11
What stands out

  • Delicious sea urchin pasta and great ambiance.

  • Spectacular service and tasty seafood items like raw oysters and lobster roll.

  • Perfect Cioppino and Pinot Grigio, great portions, and amazing dining experience.

  • Quality food, friendly staff, and great seafood options like fried seafood and scallops.

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 San Francisco. Known for their fast service, this establishment offers a variety of options for your dining experience. Whether you prefer dine-in, delivery, takeaway, or outdoor seating, they have got you covered. They are popular for both lunch and dinner, making it a great spot for solo dining.

Customer reviews rave about their delicious food and friendly service. Here are some key points from their reviews:

Visit California Fish Market Restaurant for a memorable seafood dining experience in San Francisco!

Luke's Lobster SoMa#12
What stands out

  • Lobster rolls are filled with generous portions of lobster meat

  • Crab rolls are flavorful and satisfying

  • Customers appreciate the fast service and casual atmosphere

  • The menu offers a variety of seafood options, chowders, and salads

Luke's Lobster SoMa

4.3726 reviews
92 2nd St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

Luke's Lobster SoMa is a renowned seafood restaurant in San Francisco that offers a taste of Maine's famous lobster. Customers have praised the generous portions of tender lobster meat in their rolls, the flavorful crab rolls, and the filling shrimp rolls. The menu also includes delicious chowders, salads, and bisques, with gluten-free options available. The fast service and casual atmosphere make dining at Luke's Lobster a delightful experience.

Sabella & La Torre#13
What stands out

  • Great seafood selection with delicious calamari and lobster roll

  • Warm and friendly staff providing excellent service

  • Authentic and filling food served efficiently

Sabella & La Torre

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

Sabella & La Torre is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco, CA. Offering a variety of services including Takeaway and Dine-in, this restaurant is known for its fast service and is popular for Lunch, Dinner, and Solo dining.

Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at Sabella & La Torre:

These reviews highlight the charm and quality of Sabella & La Torre, making it a top choice for seafood lovers in the area.

Nick's Lighthouse#14
What stands out

  • Food was good overall, especially the chowder in a bread bowl and calamari salad

  • Some dishes like oysters lacked flavor and fries were cold

  • Service from the staff was friendly and efficient

  • However, some patrons found the prices to be overpriced for the quality of food

Nick's Lighthouse

3.71,102 reviews
2815 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

Nick's Lighthouse is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. This establishment offers a variety of services and features, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. Visitors can enjoy fast service in a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere.

Customers have left mixed reviews about their experiences at Nick's Lighthouse. Here are some summarized points from their feedback:

Visit Nick's Lighthouse and indulge in a delectable seafood dining experience that combines diverse flavors and a comfortable atmosphere.

Scott’s Chowder House#15
What stands out

  • Delicious clam chowder and lobster rolls with generous portions

  • Excellent value for money

  • Clean facility with attentive service

Scott’s Chowder House

4.030 reviews
334 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

Scott’s Chowder House is a renowned seafood restaurant located in the heart of San Francisco. With a 4.0 rating and 30 customer reviews, it's clear that this establishment has a lot to offer.

This restaurant is highly praised for its great food and friendly staff, providing customers with an unforgettable dining experience. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Featuring services such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, Scott’s Chowder House caters to a variety of preferences. Customers can enjoy a quick bite or a leisurely meal in a casual atmosphere that is perfect for both tourists and locals alike.

For seafood lovers looking for a memorable experience in San Francisco, Scott’s Chowder House is a must-visit destination. So why not drop by and savor the flavors of the sea in every bite!

Sam's Chowder House#16
What stands out

  • One reviewer highly recommends trying the lobster rolls for their freshness and delicious taste.

  • Another customer expressed disappointment in the food quality, stating that the shrimp was overcooked and the chowder was not up to par.

  • A reviewer complained about the slow service and disappointing food, suggesting that others might want to find food elsewhere.

  • Other satisfied customers appreciated the seafood offerings, such as raw tuna chips and the overall dining experience at this establishment.

Sam's Chowder House

3.512 reviews
1 Warriors Way, San Francisco, CA 94158, United States

Sam's Chowder House is a renowned restaurant in San Francisco that offers a variety of delectable seafood options. Customers can enjoy the fast service and casual atmosphere while indulging in popular dishes like lobster rolls and clam chowder.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visit Sam's Chowder House for a delightful dining experience filled with seafood delights and great customer service.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Fog Harbor Fish House 4.57,120
#2Hog Island Oyster Co. 4.63,076
#3Pier Market Seafood Restaurant 4.47,027
#4Tadich Grill 4.52,649
#5Betty Lou's Seafood & Grill 4.61,019
#6Crab House at Pier 39 4.33,788
#7Pacific Catch 4.5983
#8Woodhouse Fish Co. 4.41,190
#9The Old Clam House 4.41,160
#10Leo's Oyster Bar 4.5525
#11California Fish Market Restaurant 4.5306
#12Luke's Lobster SoMa 4.3726
#13Sabella & La Torre 4.12,016
#14Nick's Lighthouse 3.71,102
#15Scott’s Chowder House 4.030
#16Sam's Chowder House 3.512

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Map and areas

Map of Lobster Rolls in San Francisco

San Francisco is a seafood lover's paradise, with its lobster rolls being a standout favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you prefer a classic New England-style roll or a unique spin on this beloved dish, the city offers a diverse array of options to satisfy your cravings. Check out the map below to discover the best places to indulge in delicious lobster rolls in San Francisco.

How to choose Lobster Rolls in San Francisco

  1. Location: Some may prefer a spot near the waterfront for a truly authentic experience.
  2. Price: Lobster rolls can vary greatly in price, so it's important to find a place that fits your budget.
  3. Ingredients: Quality of the lobster, type of bread, and special toppings can all make a difference in the taste of the roll.
  4. Reviews: Checking out what others have to say about a particular spot can help you make an informed decision.

Frequently asked questions

Where can you find the best lobster rolls in San Francisco?

San Francisco is known for its diverse culinary scene, and you can find delicious lobster rolls at various restaurants and food trucks throughout the city. Some popular spots include: Hog Island Oyster Co.: Located at the Ferry Building, this restaurant serves up fresh and flavorful lobster rolls. Woodhouse Fish Co.: With locations in the Castro and Pacific Heights, this eatery offers a classic take on the lobster roll. Bar Crudo: This seafood-focused restaurant in the Divisadero neighborhood serves up a unique and delicious lobster roll.

What makes San Francisco lobster rolls unique?

San Francisco's lobster rolls have a unique twist that sets them apart from traditional versions. Some features that make these lobster rolls stand out include: Fresh local seafood sourced from the nearby waters of the Pacific Ocean. Use of local produce and ingredients to enhance the flavor of the lobster. Incorporation of California cuisine influences, such as avocado or spicy aioli.

Are there options for vegan or vegetarian lobster rolls in San Francisco?

If you're looking for a meat-free alternative to traditional lobster rolls in San Francisco, there are options available. Some restaurants offer vegan or vegetarian versions that substitute lobster with ingredients like: Hearts of palm or artichoke hearts for a similar texture. Pan-seared tofu or tempeh for a protein-packed alternative. Jackfruit or oyster mushrooms for a flavorful seafood substitute.

What is the typical price range for lobster rolls in San Francisco?

The price of lobster rolls in San Francisco can vary depending on the establishment and the ingredients used. On average, you can expect to pay between $15 to $30 for a lobster roll at most restaurants. Food trucks and casual eateries may offer more affordable options, while upscale seafood restaurants may charge a higher price for their lobster rolls.

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