Crab House at Pier 39: Your Guide to the Famous Killer Crab® Experience

Imagine the bright ocean breeze, the gentle sound of waves lapping against the pier, and the tantalizing smell of freshly caught seafood wafting through the air. Welcome to Crab House at Pier 39, a beloved San Francisco gem where every visit feels like a mini-vacation for your senses.

Perched on the historic Pier 39, this dining spot offers a feast for both the palate and the eyes. Whether you’re craving their famous Killer Crab roasted in a secret garlic sauce or simply want to sip on a refreshing beverage while soaking in the stunning views of the bay, Crab House San Francisco Pier 39 is a must-visit for any seafood lover.

Ready to dine? Here’s what you need to know…

What Makes Crab House Pier 39 an Icon?

Nestled on the lively waterfront of Pier 39, the Crab House isn’t just a place to eat; it’s a cornerstone of San Francisco’s vibrant culinary scene. As you approach, the irresistible scent of fresh seafood greets you, hinting at the memorable meal that awaits.

Inside, the Crab House buzzes with energy, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the city itself. Diners aren’t just treated to mouth-watering crab dishes; they’re immersed in a festive atmosphere, accentuated by stunning views of the bustling bay, Alcatraz, and the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s more than a meal—it’s a feast for the senses.

The glowing Crab House at Pier 39 reviews speak for themselves. Its dedication to fresh, high-quality ingredients means every dish is a celebration of the sea’s pure flavors. Here, the crab is king, prepared with care to highlight its natural sweetness and delicate texture. Dining at the Crab House is truly a quintessential San Francisco experience, capturing the essence of the city’s rich gastronomic heritage in every bite!

crab with shrimps, seafood, and various dips
Photo Credit: Crab House at Pier 39 via Facebook

Address, Hours, And Reservations

Crab House at Pier 39 is conveniently located at 203 C Pier 39, San Francisco, CA 94133. The restaurant is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM, providing ample opportunity for both locals and tourists to enjoy a meal, whether for lunch, dinner, or anything in between.

Its accessibility and extended hours make it a versatile choice for any day of the week, ensuring that you can experience the best of San Francisco’s seafood at your convenience.

To ensure a seamless dining experience at the Crab House, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak times such as weekends and holidays when the restaurant experiences higher visitor traffic.

You can reserve your table directly through the Crab House website. For larger groups or special occasions, the restaurant also accommodates group reservations, which can be made by contacting the restaurant directly.

Pro Tip: Enjoy one hour of free validated parking at the Pier 39 Garage when you dine at the Crab House. Simply remember to have your parking ticket validated at the restaurant to take advantage of this great offer!

A Sneak Peek at the Crab House Menu

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a family outing, or just a casual meal with your kids, here are some Crab House at Pier 39 menu highlights and recommendations to enhance your dining experience:

For Couples: Dive into the romantic ambiance with the “World-Famous Dungeness Crab” roasted in a secret garlic sauce, perfect for sharing and getting hands-on with your food. Pair it with a glass of crisp California white wine for an elegant dining experience. Don’t miss the Oysters on a Half Shell to start, and consider sharing a flavorful plate of garlic noodles to round out your meal.

For Families: The Crab House offers a variety of dishes that cater to both adults and children, making it an ideal spot for family dining. The “Crab Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl” is a comforting choice that embodies the spirit of San Francisco.

For the main course, the “Killer Combo” with crab, shrimp, and mussels offers a delightful taste of the sea that’s sure to please everyone, and dishes like crab fried rice bring bold flavors the whole table will love.

For Kids: Young diners will be thrilled with simple yet delicious options such as the Crab Mac & Cheese or the classic Fish & Chips. These dishes are not only kid-approved but also give them a taste of the restaurant’s signature flavors.

The Crab House at Pier 39 doesn’t just serve food—it delivers an experience in the heart of Fisherman s Wharf. Be sure to reserve your table to enjoy what’s truly a highlight of San Francisco’s culinary scene.

crabs, onion rings, pasta, seafood dishes
Photo Credit: Crab House at Pier 39 via Facebook

Beverages to Complement Your Seafood Feast

Crab House at Pier 39 offers an impressive selection of beverages that perfectly complement their famous seafood dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a plate of the World Famous Killer Crab® or savoring the delicate flavors of freshly shucked oysters, here’s how to elevate your meal with the ideal drink pairing:

Cocktails: The drink menu shines with creative concoctions like the Spicy Mango Margarita, a blend of jalapeno tequila and mango puree with a Tajin rim, ideal for adding a kick to your seafood.

For a lighter touch, the Cucumber Basil Martini, made with cucumber vodka and fresh basil, offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of crab and mussels. Each cocktail is crafted to enhance the flavors of the sea, making each sip as memorable as each bite.

Wine Selections: The wine list at Crab House is meticulously curated to complement the seafood-centric menu. Opt for a glass of Chardonnay from Kendall-Jackson or the Trefethen from Napa Valley to accompany a buttery crab dish.

The crispness of Sauvignon Blanc from Honig pairs beautifully with lighter fare like oysters or crab salads. For those who enjoy bubbles with their seafood, the Prosecco by Avissi is a delightful choice that matches well with anything from the raw bar.

Craft Beers and More: For beer enthusiasts, the Crab House Lager or the Fort Point Animal IPA provide robust flavors that stand up well to the hearty seafood dishes. The varied beer selection ensures there is a brew to match any dish on the menu, from fried calamari to a steamy crab pot.

Choosing the right beverage at Crab House not only complements your meal but also enhances the overall dining experience, allowing the subtle and rich flavors of the seafood to shine through.

Dining with the Golden Gate as Your Backdrop

The Crab House at Pier 39 offers a truly unique dining experience, where the ambiance is just as spectacular as the food. Situated on the top floor of Pier 39, the restaurant boasts panoramic views that frame the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, providing diners with a picturesque backdrop that captures the essence of San Francisco.

The designers of the dining room maximized the stunning views by incorporating expansive windows that flood the space with natural light and showcase breathtaking sights of the bay.

The interior combines rustic charm with nautical themes, featuring wood accents and marine-inspired decor that complement the seafood-centric menu. Whether you’re there for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, the setting at the Crab House invites you to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty while indulging in some of the finest seafood in the city.

Pro Tip on Seating: For the best views and an unforgettable dining experience, request a table near the windows when making your reservation. These seats offer the most direct views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the surrounding bay, providing a perfect, picturesque setting that enhances your meal.

We recommend making early reservations, especially during sunset hours, when the changing colors of the sky and the silhouette of the bridge create a magical dining atmosphere.

drink in a margarita glass with view of harbor at the back
Photo Credit: Crab House at Pier 39 via Facebook

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