San Francisco's Seafood Sojourn: The Best Bay Area Bites This Season

2024-02-25

Join us on a culinary cruise through San Francisco's top seafood spots, where fresh flavors and innovative dishes make waves among food enthusiasts.

1. Catch

Nestled on Market Street, Catch presents a delightful surprise with its inviting courtyard and crackling outdoor fireplace, wrapping diners in its Californian charm and Mediterranean motifs. A parade of fresh and sustainable seafood commands the menu, with the grilled salmon standing tall as a fan favorite, and an artichoke dish that serves as a palate revelation. While opinions on the fare are mixed, the sumptuous risotto beneath a medley of grilled fish and the consistently top-notch service seal the deal. The brulee's sweetness might challenge some, countered by the impeccably crafted espresso martinis. The ambiance and attention to detail ensure that Catch remains on my 'must return' list.

Location: 2362 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114

2. Fish.

Sausalito harbors the quaint 'Fish.' restaurant, a treasure of sustainability and taste with unmistakable harbor-town character. Its alfresco tables, like sirens, call to seafood aficionados, offering a rich menu boasting Korean-American bibimbap and addictive bao bun tacos. While the pasta may not reach al dente perfection and the fish & chips could offer a tad more 'fish,' the ample clam basket and standout red chowder more than compensate. It's a self-service setup, infusing a sense of freedom reminiscent of maritime adventure. Despite the premium prices and crowds, the convivial atmosphere and generous helpings make 'Fish.' a destination worth revisiting for those wanting another taste of the ocean's bounty.

Location: 350 Harbor Dr, Sausalito, CA 94965

3. Hook Fish Co

Hook Fish Co has truly mastered the art of oceanic flavors, serving Fish and Chips alongside an extraordinary tartar sauce that can best be described as life-changing. The challenge of finding parking and the absence of abundant seating are small prices to pay for the quality that awaits. The quaint outdoor parklet adds a unique charm and despite some detractors, the loyal customers speak volumes. My suggestion? Take your seafood on an impromptu beach picnic. A bit on the high end, price-wise, but the quality is unmistakable in every bite. Despite the chill that might accompany an outdoor sit-down, I am eager to return. Whether it's for the surf atmosphere or the fantastic flavors, 'Hook Fish Co' secures a robust endorsement from this seafood lover.

Location: 4542 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122

4. Rubio's Coastal Grill

Rubio's Coastal Grill, located in Sunnyvale, provides a fresh take on the classic Mexican eatery with Baja-inspired bites. Its laid-back ambiance belies the gastronomic delights that await—their fish tacos have earned accolades for a reason. The service pace might try your patience, mirroring the sluggishness of drying paint, but the reward is worth the wait; the Coastal Trio tacos paired with mango lime agua fresca conjures a carnival of flavors. The local closures lend a sense of urgency to visiting Rubio's for those longing for superb seafood or a zesty chicken dish. While the queue might test your resolve, the culinary payoff tantalizes the taste buds sufficiently to guarantee my return for another round.

Location: 108 E El Camino Real, Sunnyvale, CA 94087

5. Hung To Seafood Restaurant

Exiting Hung To Seafood Restaurant leaves an impression of satiation and appreciative taste buds, thanks to their vast selection of authentic Chinese dishes at friendly prices. Parking may be daunting, but the struggle fades amidst the variety of dim sum and ambrosial chow mein to be savored once inside. The atmosphere is lively, to put it mildly, and service oscillates between attentive and elusive—perseverance pays off. My advice? Steer away from taro-based dishes but rest assured, vegetarians won't feel left out with options like scrumptious chive dumplings at the ready. Whether you're a regular or just passing through SFO airport, Hung To Seafood Restaurant is well worth the detour. Those chow mein noodles and succulent Chinese greens alone merit a swift return to this bustling eatery.

Location: 221 S Spruce Ave, South San Francisco, CA 94080