5 Reasons Why Crab House at PIER 39 Is a Must-Visit for Seafood Lovers

 

Two women in bibs enjoying a meal at Crab House at PIER 39 seafood restaurant

Does your list of places to visit in San Francisco include Crab House at PIER 39? If not, add it now! This iconic PIER 39 seafood restaurant is the ultimate destination for anyone visiting the Golden City. It offers an unforgettable dining experience with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Fisherman’s Wharf. And the views are just the beginning.

If you love seafood, Crab House at PIER 39 is the perfect spot to savor some of the freshest seafood in the city while soaking in the vibrant energy of the Bay Area. From succulent crab to other fresh specialties, here’s why this is the destination for the best seafood on PIER 39 and an unbeatable feast by the water.

1. The World-Famous Killer Crab®

At the heart of Crab House at PIER 39’s menu is the signature Killer Crab®—a true showstopper and a must-try for everyone, not just seafood lovers. This mouthwatering dish features a 2 lb+ whole Dungeness crab that is roasted to perfection in a secret garlic sauce and served hot on an iron skillet. An irresistible aroma of garlic fills the air when this masterpiece is brought to your table, making it impossible to wait to dig in.

Cracking open the tender crab meat is half the fun, and every bite delivers a burst of succulent, flavorful crab that seafood enthusiasts rave about.

But what makes it so good? Apart from the secret garlic sauce—a recipe that has been passed down through generations—we use fresh, local Dungeness crab caught right from the waters surrounding the Bay Area.

Dungeness crab is known for its sweet, delicate flavor, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it stands out from other types of crab like King or Snow crab. No visit to our PIER 39 seafood restaurant is complete without diving into this iconic dish!

2. Fresh, Sustainable Seafood

A Crab House platter of the best seafood on Pier 39

At Crab House, you’re getting the freshest seafood San Francisco has to offer. We go the extra mile to bring in the best catches straight from local waters.

Other crabby crowd-pleasers, also made with the sweet Dungeness meat, include crab fried rice, crab chowder, and our signature crab cakes. If crab’s not your thing, there are plenty of other options like mussels and shrimp—all cooked to perfection. We’re the perfect spot for anyone craving the best seafood PIER 39 has to offer.

What makes dining at this PIER 39 seafood restaurant even more special is our commitment to sustainability. All our seafood is responsibly sourced, adhering to sustainable fishing practices. 

3. A Unique Dining Experience with Stunning Views

There’s no better backdrop for a seafood feast than our window-side tables. From your seat, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and the vibrant San Francisco Bay. Even locals enjoy gazing out at the sparkling waters and watching the boats pass by.

The atmosphere inside our PIER 39 seafood restaurant is just as captivating. The energy at Crab House at PIER 39 is infectious with upbeat music playing in the background, a cozy circular fire pit warming the room, and the unmistakable sound of sizzling skillets. This mix of sights, sounds, and smells creates a dining experience that’s both lively and memorable.

4. A Full Bar to Complement Your Seafood Feast

No meal at Crab House at PIER 39 is complete without the perfect drink to complement its delectable flavors.

In addition to the best seafood PIER 39 has to offer, we also have a full bar boasting an impressive selection of California wines that are handpicked to pair beautifully with the fresh flavors of the ocean. Picture yourself sipping a crisp white wine that cuts through the buttery sweetness of your crab chowder as the sun casts a golden glow on you and your date.

If you’re more of a cocktail enthusiast, you’re in for a treat. Our bar also serves up a variety of handcrafted cocktails, both classic and with our own creative spin. Plus, there’s always an ice-cold beer on hand for those who want to keep it simple at our PIER 39 seafood restaurant.

5. A Convenient Location and Memorable Atmosphere

Finally, Crab House at PIER 39 boasts a prime spot with breathtaking views. Nestled in Fisherman’s Wharf on the second level, our dining room offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling crowds below, yet remains easily accessible for a visit between trips to other PIER 39 attractions.

We’re also open 365 days a year so you can count on us for a delicious seafood feast any day—whether you’re a local craving a midweek treat or a tourist seeking a memorable dining experience. Lunch or dinner, any day of the year, our PIER 39 seafood restaurant is ready to serve up its renowned dishes with warm hospitality.

Visit Crab House at PIER 39 for a Seafood Feast

The freshest, tastiest seafood, stunning views, and a lively atmosphere—what more could you ask for?

Check out Crab House at PIER 39 today and savor the flavors of San Francisco! You’ll find out firsthand why it’s the best seafood spot on PIER 39.