San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf's Best Fish and Chips [Updated 2025]

Having tasted and reviewed twelve different establishments, I've developed a keen sense of what makes an exceptional dish.

From the crunch of the batter to the freshness of the fish, every detail matters when it comes to this beloved seaside classic.

Join me as we dive into the flavors, textures, and unique twists offered by the various spots around Fisherman’s Wharf.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I guarantee you’ll find the perfect place to satisfy your cravings for this iconic dish!

Fog Harbor Fish House

Highlights
Stunning views of Pier 39
Fresh and consistent seafood
Inviting and vibrant atmosphere
Great service and attentive staff
Signature clam chowder

During my visit to Fog Harbor Fish House, I was greeted by stunning views of Pier 39, which set the stage for a delightful dining experience. The vibrant atmosphere immediately put me in a cheerful mood, making me eager to sample their fish and chips.

When the dish arrived, I was captivated by the crispy golden batter enveloping fresh pieces of fish. Each bite offered a perfect blend of crunch and tenderness, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to fresh and consistent seafood. It was a celebration of flavors that transported me to the coastal waters where fish thrive.

Notably, the service at Fog Harbor was exceptional; the attentive staff made sure every need was met without being intrusive. And I couldn’t resist complementing my meal with their signature clam chowder, which was a warm and hearty delight, enhancing my overall experience.

In the end, Fog Harbor Fish House isn’t just another restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf; it's a culinary gem where quality reigns supreme, making their fish and chips a must-try for any seafood enthusiast. If you find yourself wandering the bustling wharf, don’t miss out on this culinary adventure!

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Pier Market Seafood Restaurant

Highlights
Great bay view
Crispy exterior, moist interior
Amazing clam chowder
Prompt and friendly service
Fairly priced dining experience

Pier Market Seafood Restaurant caught my attention during my quest for the ultimate fish and chips at Fisherman’s Wharf. Set against the stunning backdrop of the bay, the ambiance is as inviting as their menu. The moment I arrived, I was greeted by the friendly staff, eager to help me navigate the seafood smorgasbord.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the fish and chips. What a delight! The batter had the perfect balance of crispy and light, encasing a heavenly piece of fish that was so moist it practically melted in my mouth. Every bite offered that satisfying crunch, complemented by a side of golden fries that were equally delicious.

But the experience didn’t stop there. I couldn’t resist trying their famous clam chowder, which was rich and creamy, an unexpected twist to my meal that I wholeheartedly embraced.

As I enjoyed the view of the bustling Wharf, the fairly priced dining made it even sweeter. Overall, Pier Market is a delightful spot that checks all the boxes for a memorable meal. If you're fishing for the best fish and chips experience, look no further—Pier Market is a catch you won’t want to miss!

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Scoma's Restaurant

Highlights
Fresh, flavorful seafood
Attentive and professional staff
Scenic views from seating
Caught daily for maximum freshness
Established since 1965

Scoma's Restaurant has certainly earned its place in the seafood pantheon of Fisherman's Wharf! As I settled in, I was immediately captivated by the scenic views of the Bay, which made for a perfect backdrop to my fish and chips indulgence. Established in 1965, this venue radiates an aura of tradition and freshness, with seafood caught daily to ensure maximum flavor.

Upon my first bite, I was met with the satisfying crunch of expertly fried batter enveloping succulent fish. The fresh and flavorful seafood was simply outstanding, as if the ocean itself had graced my plate. The chips were golden and crispy, creating an ideal partnership with the tender fish.

What truly impressed me, aside from the delightful fare, was the attentive and professional staff who made my dining experience feel special. They were eager to recommend their favorites, showcasing a passion for their craft that is often hard to find.

Overall, Scoma's is not just another fish and chips stop; it’s an experience. If you're in Fisherman’s Wharf searching for the best fish and chips, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into a plate at Scoma's—the only thing you'll regret is not coming sooner!

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Cioppino's

Highlights
Fresh seafood ingredients
Friendly and accommodating staff
Welcoming dining atmosphere
Beautiful outdoor seating
Great for seafood lovers

Review of Cioppino's Fish and Chips

During my recent fish and chips adventure at Cioppino's, I felt instantly welcomed by the sun-soaked atmosphere and the hearty aroma of fresh seafood wafting through the air. Nestled along the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf, this spot offers not only great food but also a delightful outdoor dining experience, perfect for soaking up the vibrant Bay Area vibe.

The fish and chips here are a true delight, made from the freshest catch, encased in a perfectly golden batter that strikes the ideal balance between crunchy and tender. Each bite revealed succulent fish that practically melted in my mouth, complemented beautifully by their crispy fries—a satisfyingly classic duo.

What made my visit even more memorable was the friendly and accommodating staff, who treated every diner like a long-lost friend. Their enthusiasm for the menu was infectious, making it easy to see why this place stands out among the competition. In a city renowned for its seafood, Cioppino's captures the essence of Fisherman’s Wharf dining, making it a must-try for any seafood lover visiting the area. I walked away with a full belly and a smile, convinced that I had discovered a hidden gem among the bustling wharf.

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Crab House at Pier 39

Highlights
Good service
Nice ambient atmosphere
Poor crab dish presentation
Inconsistent cooking temperatures
Insufficient explanation provided

Review of Crab House at Pier 39

Diving into Crab House at Pier 39 was like stepping onto a vibrant seaside adventure, complete with a lovely ambiance that captures the essence of San Francisco. The service was attentive, wrapping us in a warm welcome, which set the stage for what I hoped would be a stellar fish and chips experience.

Now, let's talk about the fish and chips. The batter was crispy, exhibiting a tantalizing crunch that beckoned me for more. However, I found the cooking temperature a bit inconsistent—some bites were perfectly cooked while others felt a touch soggy. The flavor, though delightful, was sadly overshadowed by the presentation of their crab dish, which left much to be desired. A little more care in plating and serving would have elevated the meal significantly.

Despite its flaws, the atmosphere paired with those crispy bites creates a charming dining experience. If you venture here, do it for the enchanting views and the potential for great fish and chips—with a sprinkle of adventure for good measure. Just keep your expectations balanced, and you might find a platter that sings with flavor. Bon appétit!

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Wipeout Bar & Grill

Highlights
Lively ambience and atmosphere
Delicious Wipeout lager
Crispy calamari appetizer
Polite and efficient service
Highly recommended pasta

Visiting Wipeout Bar & Grill was a delightful experience that perfectly combined beach vibes with a bustling atmosphere. As soon as I stepped in, I was greeted with a lively ambiance that set the tone for a fun meal. I started off with their crispy calamari appetizer, which was served with a tangy dipping sauce that whetted my appetite.

When it came to the star of the meal, I ordered their infamous fish and chips. The batter was delightfully crisp and golden, enveloping the tender fish inside. Each bite was an explosion of flavor, impeccably seasoned and fresh. For a refreshing touch, I paired my dish with a chilled Wipeout lager, complementing the rich flavors on my plate.

The service was both polite and efficient, making for a pleasant dining experience. While I was tempted to try their highly recommended pasta, I remained focused on my fish and chips quest, and I must say, it truly didn’t disappoint! In the bustling heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, Wipeout has successfully carved a niche as one of the top spots for fish and chips, leaving patrons like me with lasting memories and a longing to return.

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Pacific Catch

Highlights
Highly rated on TripAdvisor
Amazing seafood dishes
Great outdoor atmosphere
Good variety of beverages
Needs improved service

Pacific Catch stands out in the vibrant Fisherman's Wharf scene, particularly when it comes to their fish and chips. My trip here was a delightful culinary adventure, marked by the freshness of their seafood, which is a hallmark of this establishment. The fish, fried to a perfect golden crisp, showcased a deliciously tender inside that made each bite a revelation.

The atmosphere outdoors is perfectly inviting — the salt-infused air and the lively sounds of the Wharf set a wonderful backdrop for my meal. However, while I enjoyed the surroundings, I did notice that the service could use a bit more polish; my server seemed to be juggling too many tables at once, which took away slightly from the overall experience.

Yet, it's hard to dwell on that when the food is this good! I appreciated their variety of beverages as well, which complemented my meal nicely and added a refreshing twist. In summary, if you're after fish and chips that emphasize quality and flavor, Pacific Catch is definitely a worthy stop, despite its few service hiccups. Enjoy your meal, and dive into those crispy delights!

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The Hook

Highlights
Fresh salmon sandwich
Creamy clam chowder
Clean restaurant ambiance
Cold wraps with excess coleslaw
High tourist pricing

After my recent excursion to The Hook, I must say, it has quite the playful charm nestled in the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf. With its crisp, clean ambiance, the moment I stepped inside, I felt a hint of seaside warmth enveloping me. Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter—the fish and chips!

They had a crispy coating that was undeniably delightful, making every bite a crunchy delight. While I tried the classic version, the menu also offered a tempting salmon sandwich, which I couldn’t resist and ended up savoring its fresh flavors. The clam chowder was a comforting touch—rich and creamy, it warmed my soul on the chilly waterfront.

However, I did find the wraps a tad too generous on the coleslaw, which almost overshadowed the other ingredients. It's worth mentioning that the pricing felt a pinch high, likely due to its prime tourist location. But honestly, that’s a small price to pay for indulging in such a delicious experience. In short, if you're on the hunt for exciting fish and chips with a side of coastal flair, The Hook is definitely a spot worth diving into!

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The Codmother Fish & Chips

The Codmother Fish & Chips serves up a delightful twist on a classic dish. As I tucked into my generously portioned batter-dipped cod, I was greeted with a perfectly crispy exterior that gave way to flaky, tender fish. The accompanying chips were golden and seasoned just right, adding the perfect crunch. Their homemade tartar sauce? A must-try! The friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere made my visit all the more enjoyable. If you’re on the hunt for satisfying, mouthwatering fish and chips in Fisherman's Wharf, The Codmother should definitely be on your radar—it captures the essence of this iconic dish with style!

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Chowder's

At Chowder's, the fish and chips are a delightful twist on a classic! The batter, light and crispy, encases perfectly flaky cod that melts in your mouth. Each bite is accompanied by golden, hand-cut fries that provide just the right amount of crunch. I was especially charmed by the tangy tartar sauce, which elevates the dish to new heights. The ambiance is lively, with the waterfront views adding to the overall charm. If you're wandering the Wharf, don’t miss this spot—it's a wonderful testament to San Francisco’s culinary scene. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands

Nestled among the lively stalls of Fisherman’s Wharf, Fisherman’s Wharf Chowder and Crab Sidewalk Stands offers a delightful twist on the classic fish and chips. The battered cod was golden and crisp, embodying that perfect crunch while still flaky inside. Paired with golden fries, each bite felt like a warm hug on a foggy day. The tartar sauce added a zesty tang that elevated the dish, while the bustling atmosphere created an unforgettable dining experience. While it may not claim the crown for the absolute best, it certainly stands out as a charming option worthy of a visit. 🌊🍟

Franciscan Crab Restaurant

At Franciscan Crab Restaurant, the fish and chips are a delightful revelation! The crispy golden batter envelops the fresh cod, making each bite a celebration of flavor. Served with a generous side of fries, their light seasoning complements the dish beautifully. The ambiance, with stunning views of the Bay, adds to the overall charm—perfect for a leisurely lunch. They even offer a zesty tartar sauce that elevates the experience. While it may not dethrone the reigning champs, it certainly deserves a spot on your culinary radar. If you're seeking a satisfying meal with a view, this is the place!