Best Clam Chowder in San Francisco
Looking for the best clam chowder in San Francisco? From classic New England-style recipes to local variations, the city offers plenty of standout bowls. These restaurants serve some of San Francisco’s most popular clam chowders, each bringing something different to the table.
San Francisco’s Best Clam Chowder Spots
Anchor Oyster Bar
Anchor Oyster Bar serves a Boston-style clam chowder that is smooth, creamy, and balanced. Each spoonful includes clams, celery, and potatoes. Free bread makes it easy to enjoy every last bite.
- Location: 579 Castro St, San Francisco
Woodhouse Fish Co.
Woodhouse Fish Co. is known for lobster rolls, but its chowder is equally noteworthy. The rich soup includes tender clam pieces and soft potatoes. Nautical décor creates a fitting setting for enjoying a bowl.
- Location: 1914 Fillmore St, San Francisco
Hog Island Oyster Co.
Hog Island Oyster Co. offers a chowder that takes a different approach from traditional New England recipes. The soup features bacon, seafood, and large potato chunks. Waterfront views make it even more enjoyable.
- Location: Ferry Building, #11, San Francisco
Boudin Bakery & Cafe
Boudin Bakery & Cafe is famous for serving clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls. Their thick chowder follows the New England style. The bread bowl adds a classic San Francisco touch.
- Location: 160 Jefferson St, San Francisco
Popi’s Oysterette
Popi’s Oysterette serves chowder with plenty of clams and bacon. Chives and black pepper add extra flavor. Oyster crackers complete the dish.
- Location: 2095 Chestnut St, San Francisco
Rusty Ladle
Rusty Ladle keeps clam chowder as a regular menu favorite. The silky soup includes clams, potatoes, and leeks. Bacon bits, crackers, and hot sauce are available alongside it.
- Location: 3645 Lawton St, San Francisco
Blue Mermaid Restaurant
Blue Mermaid Restaurant offers several homemade chowders near the Fisherman’s Wharf waterfront. Guests can enjoy their meal indoors or on the patio. Their signature chowder also appears at seasonal community events.
- Location: 495 Jefferson St, San Francisco
Sotto Mare
Sotto Mare serves a Boston chowder with a rich, glossy texture. Bacon adds extra flavor to every bowl. Endless bread is available for dipping.
- Location: 552 Green St, San Francisco
Fog Harbor Fish House
Fog Harbor Fish House serves creamy clam chowder made with clams and a rich broth. Fresh seafood remains a focus throughout the menu. Complimentary sourdough bread pairs well with the chowder.
- Location: 39 Pier, San Francisco
Scoma’s Restaurant
Scoma’s serves generous bowls of chowder at its longtime Fisherman’s Wharf location. The chowder has a thick, hearty consistency. Free bread makes it easy to enjoy every spoonful.
- Location: 1965 Al Scoma Way, San Francisco
The Ramp
The Ramp is known for clam chowder, waterfront views, and live entertainment. Their chowder is thick and hearty. It remains a favorite among many visitors.
- Location: 855 Terry A Francois Blvd, San Francisco
The Old Clam House
The Old Clam House has served San Francisco diners since 1861. Its chowder balances creamy and tangy flavors. Guests can also order it in a bread bowl.
- Location: 299 Bayshore Blvd, San Francisco
Crab House at Pier 39
Crab House at Pier 39 serves clam chowder topped with crab meat. Guests can order it by the cup, bowl, or bread bowl. Waterfront views add to the experience.
- Location: 2 Beach St, San Francisco
Tadich Grill
Tadich Grill serves a notably thick chowder filled with celery and potatoes. Complimentary sourdough accompanies each meal. The chowder is hearty enough to stand alone.
- Location: 240 California St, San Francisco
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. serves New England clam chowder made with clams and potatoes. Guests can enjoy a bowl while overlooking San Francisco Bay from Pier 39. The family-friendly atmosphere and seafood-focused menu make it a popular waterfront dining destination.
- Location: Pier 39 Box M-211, San Francisco
Wayfare Tavern
Wayfare Tavern offers a take on New England-style chowder. The rich soup includes manila clam bellies and bacon-jalapeño hushpuppies. It is presented with a tableside pour.
- Location: 201 Pine St, San Francisco
Mission Street Oyster Bar
Mission Street Oyster Bar serves flavorful clam chowder with garlic bread. The garlic bread sets it apart from many chowder spots. It is a popular choice while exploring the neighborhood.
- Location: 2282 Mission St, San Francisco
Billingsgate
Billingsgate serves creamy New England-style clam chowder in several sizes. Bacon adds extra richness to the recipe. Toasted bread accompanies every serving.
- Location: 3859 24th St, San Francisco
Swan Oyster Depot
Swan Oyster Depot has built a reputation for quality seafood and clam chowder. Quick service and reasonable prices attract loyal customers. Many diners happily wait in line for a bowl.
- Location: 1517 Polk St, San Francisco
FAQs:
Many restaurants serve clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl, a style closely associated with San Francisco dining.
Most seafood restaurants serve clam chowder throughout the year, making it a popular option in every season.
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