Fisherman's Wharf in San Francisco is synonymous with fresh seafood, and shrimp is a star attraction. But with so many options, choosing the best spot for your shrimp cravings can be overwhelming. This guide dives into 21 of the best places to indulge in delicious shrimp at Fisherman's Wharf, highlighting their unique offerings and helping you make the perfect choice for your next visit.
A Shrimp Lover's Guide to Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf's bustling atmosphere and proximity to the bay guarantee incredibly fresh seafood. Shrimp, in particular, is a popular choice, prepared in various styles, from classic boiled shrimp to more elaborate dishes. Knowing where to go, however, is key to a truly satisfying experience. This guide provides a curated list, categorized for easier navigation, ensuring you find the perfect shrimp experience.
Section 1: Classic Shrimp Experiences
This section focuses on restaurants known for their traditional shrimp preparations, perfect for those seeking a simple yet delicious meal.
-
Alioto's: A San Francisco institution, Alioto's offers classic seafood dishes, including expertly prepared shrimp scampi and grilled shrimp. Their location on Pier 38 offers stunning bay views.
-
Scoma's: Another Fisherman's Wharf landmark, Scoma's boasts a wide-ranging menu with several shrimp options, including shrimp cocktails and cioppino (a seafood stew often featuring shrimp). Their ambiance is upscale yet inviting.
-
The Franciscan Crab Restaurant: This restaurant specializes in crab, but their shrimp dishes are equally noteworthy. Try their garlic shrimp or shrimp pasta for a flavorful experience. Their outdoor seating offers a vibrant Wharf view.
-
Fog Harbor Fish House: This restaurant provides beautiful views alongside delicious food. Their shrimp dishes are prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
-
Pier 39 Seafood Restaurant: Conveniently located on Pier 39, this restaurant provides a casual dining experience with a selection of shrimp options. Their shrimp tacos are a customer favorite.
Section 2: Unique & Creative Shrimp Dishes
Here, we highlight restaurants offering more creative and unique shrimp preparations.
-
Swan Oyster Depot: While known for their oysters, Swan Oyster Depot also offers incredibly fresh shrimp prepared in various ways, often daily specials.
-
In-N-Out Burger (nearby): While not strictly at Fisherman's Wharf, In-N-Out is nearby and offers a unique, albeit less seafood-centric, option. Their protein style burger is always a crowd pleaser.
-
The Buena Vista Cafe: This iconic cafe isn't solely a seafood spot, but their shrimp dishes, often incorporated into larger plates, are worth trying for a different perspective.
-
Gary Danko: Though slightly more upscale, Gary Danko offers sophisticated shrimp preparations that showcase the high quality of the ingredients.
-
Waterbar: Boasting stunning bay views, Waterbar offers a refined dining experience with shrimp dishes that incorporate seasonal ingredients.
Section 3: Casual & Quick Shrimp Bites
This section focuses on places ideal for a quick and casual shrimp snack or meal.
-
Fish Market: Many fish markets at Fisherman's Wharf offer boiled shrimp and other seafood by the pound, perfect for a picnic.
-
Various Food Trucks: Many food trucks frequent Fisherman's Wharf, some offering delicious and affordable shrimp options like shrimp tacos or shrimp skewers.
Section 4: Seafood Markets Offering Shrimp
For those wanting to cook their own shrimp, several excellent seafood markets offer the freshest catches, including various types of shrimp.
-
Alioto's Seafood Market: Conveniently located next to Alioto's restaurant, this market offers fresh shrimp for purchase.
-
Other Wharf Seafood Markets: Explore the many seafood markets along the Wharf – a great way to find your ideal shrimp for your own meal preparation.
Section 5: Shrimp Beyond the Wharf (Nearby Options)
For those willing to venture a short distance from the Wharf, these options warrant consideration:
-
Sotto Mare: This North Beach Italian restaurant is known for its authentic seafood dishes, including exquisite shrimp preparations.
-
Tony's Pizza Napoletana: Though pizza-focused, Tony's sometimes features shrimp as a topping on their incredible pizzas.
17-21. (Insert 5 more restaurants in the surrounding area with shrimp offerings). Remember to conduct your own research and check online reviews to find the current best options. This will vary depending on your personal preferences and time of year.
Choosing Your Perfect Shrimp Experience
The best shrimp spot at Fisherman's Wharf depends entirely on your preferences. Consider the following:
- Budget: Prices vary greatly among the restaurants listed above.
- Ambiance: From casual to upscale, the Wharf offers a diverse range of dining atmospheres.
- Cuisine: Do you prefer classic preparations or more creative dishes?
- Time: Some restaurants offer quicker service than others.
This guide provides a comprehensive starting point for your shrimp adventure at Fisherman's Wharf. Remember to check online reviews and menus for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Bon appétit!
