- Pier 39 is a terrific place to sample authentic San Francisco foods
- While these dishes are traditional, Pier 39 eateries often put their own spin on them
- You can enjoy all of these iconic foods when you dine at Pier 39’s Pier Market
Pier 39 is loaded with fun attractions, unique boutiques, and popular dining spots. That makes it the perfect place to sample some traditional San Francisco food favorites. Here are eight delicious dishes that offer a true taste of the local dining experience.
1. Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bowl
When you think of traditional food favorites that originated in San Francisco, this staple is sure to come to mind. Piping hot clam chowder served in a freshly baked sourdough bread bowl is both comforting and iconic. This rich, creamy soup, typically filled with clams, potatoes, onions, and bacon, is the perfect counterpart to the tangy, chewy sourdough from local bakeries. Pro tip: The chowder at Pier 39’s Pier Market is an award-winner, so if you’re looking for the best version of this classic, you know where to go!
2. Fried Calamari
If you favor something a bit crispier to start your meal, you can’t go wrong with the next traditional San Francisco food on the list: a plate of deep-fried calamari. Cooked to a golden crisp, this crowd-pleasing appetizer is both crunchy and tender. Served with a zingy cocktail sauce, it’s a great way to start your meal while taking in the pier’s views.
3. Crab Cakes
A favorite on both coasts, San Francisco’s take on crab cakes often features local Dungeness crab (more on that later!) It’s a bit sweeter than eastern crab meat, and West Coast chefs often go lighter on the filling and seasonings to let the crab really shine. Delicious when served with a side of spicy rémoulade, this treat can be enjoyed as either an appetizer or a main course.
4. Cioppino
With its roots in the Bay Area’s Italian-American fishing communities, this seafood stew is one of the most authentic foods you’ll find on San Francisco menus. A bowl of cioppino is as comforting as it is bold, featuring fresh fish, mussels, clams, and shrimp simmered in a hearty tomato and wine broth. Look for a version that’s served over pasta to soak up every last drop!
5. Linguini With Clams
Another traditional San Francisco food that takes its cue from Italian immigrant influences is this robust pasta dish. It matches simple ingredients with enticing flavors—expect perfectly al dente linguine mixed with garlic, white wine, clam juice, and butter, and a heap of fresh clams that take center stage. It’s a lighter option than some heavier pasta dishes, and the perfect choice for a well-rounded meal.
6. Dungeness Crab
Harvested from cold Pacific waters, Dungeness crab is a traditional food treasured by San Francisco seafood lovers for its sweet, rich flavors. Often served whole with drawn butter and lemons, part of its popularity is due to the hands-on nature of eating it. It makes the meal that much more memorable.
7. Fish & Chips
This seaside staple is typically prepared with Pacific cod in San Francisco, allowing the city to put its own spin on this traditional food favorite. Pairing the crisp, beer-battered fish with salty, golden fries makes for a super satisfying lunch or dinner on Pier 39.
8. Steamed Mussels
Although there are still a lot more authentic San Francisco food favorites, we’ll end with this classic that’s found on nearly every Pier 39 menu. You’ll find that many restaurants add unique flavors to their steamed mussels to keep things interesting; Pier Market, for instance, serves theirs with onions and peppers in a vibrant red curry coconut broth. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!
Enjoy Authentic Tastes at Pier Market
To sample all of this traditional San Francisco food in one spot, head over to Pier Market on Pier 39. We blend fresh, sustainable ingredients with recipes that have stood the test of time, serving up delicious meals that deliver classic flavors in every bite. Join us today and enjoy the best that Pier 39 has to offer!