San Francisco's Best Clam Chowder [Updated 2025]

This vibrant city is renowned for its culinary diversity, but clam chowder holds a special place in my heart.

Having reviewed 12 different chowders, I’ve tasted the rich, creamy textures, briny undertones, and those delightful morsels of clams that make this dish unforgettable.

From the bustling waterfront to hidden gems tucked away in cozy corners, I’ve explored every nook and cranny for the perfect bowl.

Join me as we dive into this flavorful journey, uncovering the top spots that serve up San Francisco's iconic clam chowder.

Fog Harbor Fish House

Highlights
Stunning harbor views
Signature clam chowder
Fresh and flavorful seafood
Inviting atmosphere
Friendly and attentive service

Fog Harbor Fish House has a lot going for it—stunning harbor views that invite you to linger, and an atmosphere that's as warm as a sunny day by the bay. But let's talk about what truly matters: their signature clam chowder.

As the bowl was placed before me, I could already sense the ocean's essence. The first spoonful was nothing short of an experience; the chowder was rich and thick, with a wonderful creaminess that enveloped your taste buds. The fresh and flavorful seafood was generously incorporated, ensuring each bite was a tantalizing burst of flavor. What truly stood out was how well-balanced the seasoning was, allowing the clams to shine through without being overpowered.

The service was equally delightful—a team of friendly and attentive staff who made you feel like family right from the start. Overall, Fog Harbor Fish House strikes a perfect balance with its gorgeous setting and delectable chowder. If you're on the hunt for the best clam chowder in San Francisco, this spot deserves a place on your must-visit list. I’ll happily return for another round!

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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Great clam chowder
Stunning bay view
Friendly and prompt service
Well-prepared seafood
Generous portion sizes

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant is a delightful gem nestled along the vibrant waterfront. As I settled in, the breathtaking bay view instantly set the mood. But let's dive into the star of the show—the clam chowder.

From the first spoonful, I was hit by a rich and creamy texture that was as comforting as a warm hug on a chilly San Francisco day. The chowder was generously packed with tender clams and potatoes, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality seafood. It was clear that they’ve mastered the art of balancing flavors without overwhelming the palate.

What truly elevated my experience was the friendly and prompt service. My server was both knowledgeable and attentive, eager to share recommendations and ensure my glass was never empty. The portion sizes were abundant, making it easy to savor each delectable bite without feeling rushed.

Pier Market proved to be the ideal spot for any clam chowder aficionado. If you're looking for a delightful dining experience with fantastic views and exceptional flavors, this is a clam chowder adventure you certainly don't want to miss!

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Crab House at Pier 39

Highlights
Good service experience
Nice presentation
Overwhelmed crab flavor
Inconsistent cooking
Expected fresh seafood

Review of Crab House at Pier 39

When you arrive at Crab House at Pier 39, the sights and sounds of bustling tourists fill the air, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience. As I settled in, I couldn’t resist ordering their famed clam chowder, which was presented beautifully in a rustic bread bowl that beckoned for my attention.

As I took my first spoonful, I was greeted by an overwhelming burst of crab flavor that danced on my palate. It was clear that this establishment prides itself on using fresh seafood; the brininess complemented the creaminess of the chowder, making it a reminiscent taste of the Pacific Ocean. However, I must admit, the cooking was a bit inconsistent—some bites were heavenly creamy, while others felt a tad overcooked.

On the service front, the staff was attentive, enhancing my overall experience. While I had hoped for a signature twist from their seafood expertise, the chowder remains a solid choice for tourists craving something familiar. In the end, the lively atmosphere and substantial flavors made my visit to Crab House memorable, albeit not the triumphant clam chowder I dream of.

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Sotto Mare

Highlights
Fresh and delicious seafood
Perfect chowder creaminess
Great outdoor seating
Friendly and attentive staff
Old school vibes

Sotto Mare is a delightful gem tucked away in the vibrant North Beach neighborhood, and my recent visit was nothing short of spectacular. As soon as I stepped inside, the old school vibes washed over me, a charming blend of nautical decor that makes you feel right at home. The friendly and attentive staff set the tone with their warm hospitality, instantly making me feel like a regular.

Now let’s talk about the star of the show: the clam chowder. With each spoonful, I experienced a delightful balance of flavors—the perfect creaminess enveloping the tender clams and potatoes made it utterly irresistible. The seafood was undeniably fresh, taking me from the bustling streets of San Francisco to a picturesque dock right on the coast. I perched myself in the great outdoor seating area, enjoying the cool breeze while savoring every drop of that luscious chowder.

If you're on the hunt for clam chowder that marries tradition with taste, look no further than Sotto Mare. It’s truly a must-try for any chowder enthusiast visiting the city!

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Scoma's Restaurant

Highlights
Fresh, flavorful seafood
Attentive and professional staff
Scenic views from dining
Established since 1965
Recommended by locals

Scoma's Restaurant has long been a cherished gem by the bay, where you can indulge in an exquisite bowl of clam chowder. As I settled into my seat, I was immediately drawn to the scenic views of the water, a perfect backdrop for a meal that promises to excite the palate.

The clam chowder here is nothing short of a revelation. Rich and creamy, it boasts a delightful blend of fresh, flavorful seafood that dances gracefully across the taste buds. Each spoonful is a testament to their commitment to quality, as the freshness of the clams celebrates their coastal origins.

What truly sets Scoma's apart is the attentiveness of the staff. They navigate the dining room with a professional, yet warm demeanor—a delightful combination that makes you feel right at home. There's a sense that you’re part of a longstanding tradition since Scoma's has been satisfying diners since 1965, and locals often recommend it for good reason.

So, if you’re wandering San Francisco in search of a clam chowder experience that’s both heartwarming and unforgettable, Scoma’s is your ticket to oceanic bliss. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Woodhouse Fish Co.

Highlights
Juicy, delicious seafood
Huge, fresh oysters
Professional, welcoming service
Better fish batter
Affordable dining experience

I recently ventured to Woodhouse Fish Co. in San Francisco, and let me tell you, this place is a hidden gem for clam chowder lovers. As I approached the inviting entrance, the aroma of fresh seafood wafted through the air, enticing my taste buds. Upon entering, I was greeted by a team of professional and welcoming staff who made me feel right at home.

Now, onto the star of the show—the clam chowder. Picture this: a velvety base brimming with generous chunks of succulent clams and tender potatoes, creating a harmony of flavor that's simply irresistible. The chowder strikes that perfect balance between creaminess and richness, making each spoonful a delight. It's complemented beautifully by a side of their better fish batter. Trust me, it’s a match made in culinary heaven.

But what truly sets Woodhouse apart is its affordable dining experience. You can savor this chowder without breaking the bank, which is a rarity in this bustling city. If you're on the hunt for the best clam chowder in San Francisco, add Woodhouse Fish Co. to your list—your taste buds will thank you!

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Cioppino's

Highlights
Fresh ingredients
Friendly and accommodating staff
Welcoming atmosphere
Excellent seafood
Great outdoor seating

Review of Cioppino's Clam Chowder

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Cioppino's in the heart of San Francisco, and let me tell you, the clam chowder experience was simply delightful! From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The friendly and accommodating staff is a true testament to their commitment to excellent service.

Now, let’s dive into the star of the show—the chowder itself! Made with the freshest ingredients, the rich and creamy base was bursting with flavor. Each spoonful was a harmonious blend of tender clams and seasonings, creating a delightful medley that danced on my palate. It was clear that they take great pride in their excellent seafood, which is always a plus in a city renowned for its marine offerings.

What sets Cioppino's apart is not just the culinary marvel of their clam chowder, but the inviting outdoor seating that allows you to enjoy your meal while soaking up the vibrant San Francisco atmosphere. If you’re on a quest for unbeatable clam chowder, Cioppino's should definitely be your next stop!

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Pacific Catch

Highlights
Highly rated on TripAdvisor
Amazing seafood dishes
Outdoor seating atmosphere
Good variety of dishes
Needs improvement in service

Pacific Catch is a delightful haven for seafood lovers and, trust me, it won't disappoint those on a quest for clam chowder. From the moment I arrived, I was greeted with a warm vibe that perfectly encapsulated the coastal spirit of San Francisco. The outdoor seating offered a charming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to relish my soup while basking in the cool breeze.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the clam chowder. It was rich, creamy, and brimming with generous pieces of tender clams and aromatic herbs. Each spoonful had a perfect balance of flavors that transported me straight to the ocean's edge. However, while the dish was phenomenal, I found the service to be somewhat slow, which made me wish for a bit more attentiveness.

Not to overlook the variety of seafood options on their menu, I could easily see myself returning to explore more delectable dishes. Despite the minor hiccup in service, the chowder alone is worth a visit. If you're on a quest to find the best clam chowder in San Francisco, don't overlook Pacific Catch—it's worth every bite!

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Chowder's

Stepping into Chowder's was like diving into a cozy seafood haven. Their clam chowder, served in a freshly baked bread bowl, was a delightful twist that elevated texture and flavor. With a creamy base bursting with tender clams, it was both rich and comforting. The subtle hint of smokiness added an intriguing depth, making each spoonful a savory adventure. I particularly loved the sprinkle of fresh herbs on top, which brightened the dish perfectly. If you’re on a quest for a satisfying chowder experience, Chowder's should be at the top of your list—where every bite reigns supreme!

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The Old Clam House

Nestled along the picturesque waterfront, The Old Clam House serves up a chowder that’s nothing short of a seaside revelation. The moment I took my first spoonful, I was met with a sumptuous blend of creamy goodness, generously loaded with tender clams and a hint of smoky bacon that danced on my palate. Each bite felt like a warm embrace from the ocean itself. The rustic charm of the venue, paired with the chowder's rich flavors, made it a memorable experience. For those seeking a delightful bowl that whispers tales of the sea, this is undoubtedly one to savor!

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Hog Island Oyster Co.

Hog Island Oyster Co. serves up a clam chowder that is nothing short of a coastal delight. The moment I took a spoonful, I was enveloped in its creamy richness, perfectly balanced with a hint of smokiness. Fresh clams dance in harmony with tender potatoes and fragrant thyme, creating a bowl that feels both rustic and refined. The delightful crusty bread on the side is perfect for mopping up every last drop. With its stunning views and lively atmosphere, Hog Island proves that delicious clam chowder is not just a dish; it's an experience to savor.

Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands

The moment I approached the Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands, the aroma of savory clam chowder drew me in like a siren's call. This hearty, creamy delight was generously packed with tender clams and fresh potatoes, perfectly balanced with bold seasoning. Served in a warm, crusty sourdough bread bowl, it was a culinary hug that warmed my soul! The bustling atmosphere added to the experience, as I savored each spoonful while enjoying the stunning views of the Bay. If you're on the hunt for comfort in a bowl, this chowder is a must-try that encapsulates the essence of San Francisco.