San Francisco's Best Cheap Seafood [Updated 2025]

From hidden gems to beloved local joints, I've scoured the city to find twelve standout spots that serve fresh, delicious seafood without breaking the bank.

Living in San Francisco has given me the privilege of indulging in some of the finest and most affordable seafood experiences.

Each location offers its own unique twist on classic dishes, ensuring that there’s something for every palate.

So, whether you're a lifelong resident or just visiting, this guide will help you navigate the vibrant seafood scene while keeping your wallet happy.

Fog Harbor Fish House

Highlights
Stunning views of Pier 39
Incredible clam chowder
Fresh, well-prepared seafood
Consistent quality over time
Friendly and attentive service

Fog Harbor Fish House is a delightful spot that perfectly showcases the charm of San Francisco's seafood scene while keeping your wallet intact. Nestled at Pier 39, its stunning views set the stage for a memorable meal. As soon as I stepped inside, the welcoming aroma of the ocean greeted me—a sure sign that great things were in store!

I decided to start with their famous clam chowder, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of incredible! Rich and creamy, it was served in a sourdough bread bowl that had me savoring every last morsel. As I dug deeper into the menu, I found myself drawn to their fresh seafood offerings, all of which were well-prepared and showcased the essence of the bay.

The service was attentive yet relaxed, allowing me to enjoy my meal at my own pace. Over the years, Fog Harbor has maintained a consistent quality, ensuring that each visit is as delightful as the last. If you're on the hunt for affordable seafood in San Francisco, this gem deserves a spot on your must-visit list! ✨

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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious Clam Chowder
Crispy Crab Cakes
Great Bay View
Fast and Friendly Service
Generous Portions

Visiting Pier Market Seafood Restaurant felt like a delightful treasure hunt along the waterfront. As I settled into my seat with a view of the stunning bay, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of the sea. One of my first bites was their famous clam chowder, which was a bowl of pure comfort. Creamy with just the right amount of seasoning, it warmed my soul with every spoonful.

Next up were the crispy crab cakes that practically danced on my palate. Perfectly golden on the outside and delightfully moist within, they were paired with a zesty remoulade that made each bite a celebration.

What truly stands out at Pier Market is the combination of generous portions and fast, friendly service—unique traits that elevate your dining experience without denting your wallet. And let's not forget that breathtaking bay view! There’s something magical about enjoying fresh seafood while soaking in the beauty of San Francisco.

In the ever-expanding landscape of cheap seafood, Pier Market Seafood Restaurant has carved out a special place in my heart (and stomach). If you’re on the hunt for savory seafood without breaking the bank, this is a must-visit spot!

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Seafood Station

Highlights
Friendly and helpful staff
Delicious scallop salad
Cozy local seafood spot
Shared cioppino option
Well-cooked seafood dishes

Seafood Station is a charming little gem that caught me by surprise on my seafood expedition through San Francisco. The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly and helpful staff, which set a welcoming tone for my visit. I decided to try their delicious scallop salad, and oh my! It was an explosion of flavors—fresh scallops expertly cooked to perfection, nestled atop a bed of crisp greens. The combination was light yet satisfying, making it feel like a little indulgence without breaking the bank.

One of the highlights of the menu is their shared cioppino option, which is perfect if you’re visiting with a friend or just looking to sample a few delights. This cozy spot combines a local atmosphere with exceptionally well-cooked seafood dishes, each bite a reminder of why I love exploring these culinary treasures.

Overall, Seafood Station is an affordable and delightful choice for seafood lovers wanting to enjoy top-notch dishes without going over budget. It might just become your new favorite spot to savor the ocean's bounty in the heart of the city!

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Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Delicious melt-in-mouth cod
Superb stuffed petrale sole
Flaky, flavorful salmon
Comfortable and inviting ambiance
Friendly and attentive service

When I stepped into Sam's Grill & Seafood Restaurant, I was immediately struck by the comfortable and inviting ambiance. It's the kind of place that beckons you to linger a little longer over your meal. As I perused the menu, my eyes were naturally drawn to the seafood offerings, and I was ready to embark on a culinary adventure.

I decided to try the melt-in-mouth cod, and let me tell you – it was simply divine. Cooked to perfection, it had that perfect flaky texture, and the flavors danced on my palate. Next up was the superb stuffed petrale sole. This dish was a delightful surprise; it was both hearty and refreshing, with a stuffing that complemented the fish wonderfully.

Not to be outdone, the flaky and flavorful salmon completed my seafood trio, leaving me pleasantly satiated yet eager for more. And throughout my dining experience, the friendly and attentive service made me feel right at home.

In a city bursting with seafood options, Sam's Grill distinguishes itself for quality and comfort, all without breaking the bank. If you’re searching for an affordable seafood feast, this gem is not to be missed!

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The Hook

Highlights
Fresh and tasty salmon
Perfectly cooked calamari
Creamy thick clam chowder
Cleaner than nearby options
Good fish in the fish wrap

The Hook is undoubtedly a hidden gem nestled in the heart of San Francisco's bustling food scene. As I stepped inside, the inviting aroma of fresh seafood greeted me, setting the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. I started off with their creamy thick clam chowder, which was a comforting bowl of deliciousness, perfect for chilly San Francisco days. Each spoonful transported me to the coast, brimming with fresh clams.

For my main course, I couldn't resist the perfectly cooked calamari, a dish that strikes the right balance between crispy and tender, leaving my taste buds dancing in joy. The piece de resistance was the salmon – oh, that salmon! Fresh, flaky, and seasoned to perfection, it reminded me why I love seafood.

What truly sets The Hook apart, apart from its mouthwatering dishes, is its cleanliness and inviting atmosphere, which surpasses many nearby options. I was equally impressed by their fish wrap, offering good fish in each bite!

If you’re hunting for an affordable yet delightful seafood experience, look no further than The Hook. This spot has certainly hooked me for future visits!

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Woodhouse Fish Co.

Highlights
Tasty fish and chips
Huge oysters available
Juicy shrimp options
Welcoming and professional service
Great seafood value

Woodhouse Fish Co. is a hidden gem in San Francisco where seafood lovers can indulge in mouthwatering dishes without breaking the bank. Recently, I had the pleasure of diving into their tasty fish and chips, which captured my heart with perfectly crispy batter and moist, flaky fish. Each bite was a delightful journey into the ocean!

But let's not gloss over their huge oysters—oh my, what a treat! Freshly shucked and brimming with briny goodness, these beauties are not just big in size but also in flavor. If you're a shellfish enthusiast, you simply can't miss them. Next on my plate were succulent shrimp options, each packed with juiciness that brighten up any meal.

Beyond the scrumptious menu, the experience at Woodhouse is enhanced by their welcoming and professional service. The staff was enthusiastic about recommending their favorites, making me feel right at home. Add in the incredible value for quantities and quality, and it’s no wonder this spot stands out among other cheap seafood restaurants in the city.

If you're looking to satisfy your seafood cravings without a hefty price tag, Woodhouse Fish Co. is where the ocean truly meets your plate!

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Hook Fish Co

Highlights
Amazing fish and chips
Beautiful crispy cod
Fresh tartare sauce
Lovely outdoor seating
Worth the wait

Review of Hook Fish Co

I recently made my way to Hook Fish Co, and let me tell you, this spot is a seafood lover's delight! As I approached, the tantalizing aroma of fresh fish wafted through the air, drawing me in like a siren’s song. Their fish and chips are nothing short of legendary – beautifully crispy cod that practically dances in digital daylight.

The delightful crunch of the batter complemented the flaky fish perfectly, creating a symphony of textures in my mouth. What truly stole the show was the fresh tartare sauce—a tangy companion that elevated each bite to a new level of yum.

With ample outdoor seating, it's the perfect spot to bask in the San Francisco sun while enjoying a meal that won't break the bank. Just be prepared for a short wait; good things come to those who are patient, right? I can confidently say that Hook Fish Co serves up some of the best cheap seafood in the city. For anyone craving a coastal experience without the hefty price tag, this place is a must-visit! Dive in, and you'll be hooked! 🐟✨

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Tadich Grill

Highlights
Exceptional service
Delicious crab cake
Average food experience
Cold bread served
Pleasant atmosphere

Tadich Grill, a staple in San Francisco dining, recently welcomed me with open arms. The atmosphere is delightfully inviting, with a classic charm that whispers “I’m part of history.” As a seafood enthusiast, I was eager to indulge in their offerings.

Now, let’s talk about the crab cake—a true delight! Its flavor was rich and satisfying, showcasing a generous amount of crab that danced beautifully on my palate. However, I must admit that the accompanying bread was a bit underwhelming and served cold, which dampened my culinary experience slightly.

The service at Tadich Grill truly shone brightly. My server was attentive and friendly, ensuring my glass was never empty. Yet, despite the accolades, the overall food experience felt rather average compared to other gems in the city.

In summary, while Tadich Grill may not take the crown for the absolute best cheap seafood, it is an enjoyable spot for crab cake aficionados. If you find yourself strolling through San Francisco, it’s worth a stop. Just don’t forget to ask for the bread to be warmed up next time!

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Pacific Catch

Highlights
Highly rated on TripAdvisor
Delicious sushi and tacos
Great outdoor seating
Good variety of dishes
Needs improvement in service

Pacific Catch had me hooked from the moment I stepped in. The vibrant atmosphere coupled with outdoor seating made it a delightful escape in the city. This place has generous options on the menu, offering everything from delectable sushi rolls to mouth-watering tacos—each dish presented with a flair that makes your taste buds dance.

I was particularly impressed by their affordable pricing, which is a rarity in San Francisco, where seafood can often break the bank. I opted for their spicy tuna roll which was as fresh as the Bay breeze, perfectly complemented by a zesty sauce that ignited my palate. The tacos were no less exciting—each bite revealed layers of flavor that kept me reaching for more.

However, I must mention that the service could use a touch of fine-tuning. While the staff was friendly, there were moments of delay that interrupted the otherwise smooth experience. Yet, the delicious offerings at Pacific Catch far outweighed these minor setbacks, making it a fun and tasty adventure.

If you’re on the hunt for affordable seafood in San Francisco, Pacific Catch deserves a spot on your list!

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Sotto Mare

Highlights
Freshly made seafood
Old school vibes
Amazing crab Louie
Great with larger groups
Clean environment

Sotto Mare is a hidden gem that perfectly embodies the charm of San Francisco’s seafood scene. As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by old-school vibes—think wood-paneled walls and friendly faces that make you feel right at home. The menu boasted an array of fresh seafood that had me excited to dive in. I couldn't resist trying the amazing crab Louie, and let me tell you, it was pure bliss on a plate!

What struck me the most was the affordability of the dishes without sacrificing quality; dishes are generously portioned, making it a great spot for larger groups. The environment was clean and inviting, allowing for a delightful dining experience that didn’t break the bank.

If you’re on the hunt for cheap seafood in the city, Sotto Mare should definitely be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this place offers a taste of San Francisco that’s both affordable and unforgettable. I left feeling satisfied and eager to return for another round of that delicious crab. What more could you ask for? It’s a seafood lovers' paradise!

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Basa Seafood Express

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco, Basa Seafood Express is a hidden gem that truly delivers on flavor without breaking the bank. From their crispy fish tacos to the succulent shrimp po'boy, every bite feels like a delightful treasure. The friendly staff adds a warm touch to the bustling atmosphere, and the generous portions make you feel like you're getting a steal! Don't forget to pair your meal with their zesty tartar sauce—it takes everything to the next level. If you’re on a quest for affordable seafood that doesn’t skimp on taste, look no further than Basa Seafood Express.

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California Fish Market Restaurant

Stepping into California Fish Market Restaurant felt like diving into a treasure trove of seafood delights! It’s a cozy spot with a vibrant atmosphere that instantly whets your appetite. I indulged in their battered fish and chips, and let me tell you, the crunchy exterior gave way to tender, flaky goodness that danced on my palate. The portion sizes are generous yet budget-friendly—a rarity in this city! Don't skip their clam chowder; it's a creamy dream that complements the ocean vibes. For a fun, wallet-friendly seafood adventure, this gem is unbeatable!