Top 10 Best Waterfront Restaurants in San Francisco

This Spanish jewel on Pier 5 brings Basque-inspired small plates and waterfront glamour to the Embarcadero, courtesy of chef Michael Chiarello's masterful touch with Mediterranean flavors. The Txangurro—a luxurious Dungeness crab gratin baked in its shell—is an absolute must-order, combining SF's finest seafood with Spanish technique in one swoon-worthy bite. The vibrant, convivial atmosphere encourages sharing plates tapas-style, making it perfect for groups and adventurous couples who want to graze through multiple flavors while sipping Spanish wines and vermouths. Snag a table on the waterfront terrace during sunset and prepare for one of the most memorable meals along the Embarcadero—just remember to make reservations well in advance.

While Boudin is famous citywide for their sourdough empire, the Jefferson Street location doubles as a waterfront restaurant where you can watch bakers shape loaves through viewing windows while noshing on Bay Shrimp Louie served in—you guessed it—a hollowed sourdough round. It's unabashedly touristy but delivers on the San Francisco experience with reliable clam chowder, Fisherman's Wharf views, and that signature tangy bread that's been made with the same mother dough culture since 1849. Families love the bakery museum upstairs and the casual counter-service format that keeps hungry kids from melting down. Grab your bread bowl and head to the outdoor tables for prime people-watching along the bustling waterfront promenade.

Perched at the western edge of Golden Gate Park facing the Pacific Ocean, Beach Chalet offers a completely different waterfront experience—rugged coastline, crashing waves, and stunning sunsets over the open ocean rather than the bay. Their House-Brewed IPA pairs perfectly with the Dungeness Crab Mac & Cheese, a decadent comfort dish that locals crave on foggy San Francisco afternoons. The two-story historic building houses a brewery downstairs and restaurant upstairs, both showcasing beautiful WPA-era murals and a laid-back, neighborhood vibe that welcomes everyone from surfers to Sunday strollers. The outdoor terrace is unbeatable for weekend brunch when the fog lifts and you can watch hang gliders soar above Ocean Beach.

EPIC Steak makes no apologies for its carnivorous focus, dry-aging premium cuts in-house and grilling them over almond and oak wood for a smoky depth that seafood-centric neighbors can't match. The 40-day Dry-Aged Ribeye is the crown jewel—richly marbled, intensely flavored, and worth the splurge for steak purists who appreciate craft alongside their waterfront views. The industrial-chic interior with exposed brick and waterfront patio attracts a sophisticated crowd: business dinners, anniversary celebrations, and couples seeking a change from the endless seafood offerings along the Embarcadero. Don't sleep on their craft cocktail program; the Old Fashioned variations are expertly balanced and pair beautifully with red meat.

Tucked away in Mission Bay with a locals-only feel despite its waterfront real estate, Mission Rock Resort serves up cold beers, hefty burgers, and weekend BBQ in a refreshingly unpretentious beer garden setting. The Baby Back Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and served with tangy sauce that's become somewhat of an underground sensation among Giants fans who pack the place on game days. With picnic tables, cornhole boards, and a dog-friendly patio, it's the antidote to stuffy waterfront dining—think backyard party vibes with bay breezes and sailboat views. Weekend live music and the laid-back crowd make it ideal for groups of friends seeking a chill afternoon that might stretch into evening.

Sharing Pier 39 with its pricier neighbors, Pier Market punches above its modest price point with straightforward, well-executed seafood platters and a casual vibe that welcomes everyone from backpackers to business lunchers. The Crab and Shrimp Louie salad is a refreshing, generously portioned classic that showcases sweet Dungeness crab without breaking the bank. Large groups and families appreciate the spacious layout, flexible menu, and lack of pretension—this is the spot where you can show up in shorts and sneakers after a morning at the Aquarium. The harbor views from the outdoor tables provide all the ambiance you need without the premium pricing of nearby competitors.

Technically across the bay in Berkeley, Skates rewards the short trip with unobstructed views of the San Francisco skyline and Golden Gate Bridge that locals argue are even better than those from the city side. Their Grilled Miso Salmon with shiitake mushroom rice has a devoted following, and Sunday brunch here—complete with bottomless mimosas and harborside tables—is a Bay Area ritual. The spacious, airy dining room and expansive deck create a relaxed, California-casual vibe perfect for groups celebrating milestones or families with restless kids who can gaze at sailboats. Pro tip: the bar's happy hour oysters and craft cocktails from 4-6pm weekdays are an insider secret for avoiding weekend crowds.

Positioned at the end of Pier 39 with sweeping views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, Fog Harbor Fish House champions sustainably sourced seafood with a commitment that's earned them green certifications. The Fisherman's Stew bursts with clams, mussels, crab, and fish in a saffron-kissed broth that captures the essence of the bay, while their clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is a must for first-time visitors. Expect a bustling, tourist-friendly atmosphere that's surprisingly kid-welcoming, with outdoor heated seating perfect for watching sea lions bark below. The combination of stellar views, ethical sourcing, and consistently executed classics makes this more than just a tourist trap—it's a genuine waterfront treasure.

A Fisherman's Wharf institution since 1965, Scoma's remains family-owned and fiercely committed to serving the freshest Dungeness crab and local catch in a classic San Francisco setting. Their Lazy Man's Cioppino—a hearty bowl of cracked crab, prawns, scallops, and fish in tomato-wine broth—is the stuff of local legend and worth every messy, delicious bite. The warm, old-school ambiance with nautical decor appeals to multigenerational families and tourists seeking authentic SF seafood history. Arrive early or make reservations; this beloved local favorite fills up fast, especially during crab season from November to June.

Perched directly on the Embarcadero with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the Bay Bridge, Waterbar is San Francisco's seafood temple where the daily catch takes center stage. Their raw bar is legendary—don't miss the Shellfish Tower piled high with oysters, crab, and prawns, best paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc from their extensive wine list. The sleek, modern interior and sophisticated vibe make it ideal for date nights and special celebrations, though the knowledgeable staff ensures even solo diners feel welcome. Insider tip: snag a patio table during golden hour for Instagram-worthy sunset shots.