Dungeness Crab Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco
San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf is one of the city's most popular tourist destinations. The iconic pier is home to a variety of seafood restaurants and shops, but one of the most important delicacies found here is the Dungeness crab. These delicious crustaceans are a staple of the area's cuisine, beloved by locals and visitors alike.
History of Dungeness Crab Fishing in San Francisco
Dungeness crab have been a part of the San Francisco fishing scene for over a century. The crab were first fished commercially in the 1910s, and the industry quickly grew in popularity. Today, the Dungeness crab industry is an important part of the local economy, with hundreds of fishermen and seafood businesses dependent on its success.
The crab are typically caught in traps, which are set in the shallow waters of the San Francisco Bay. During Dungeness crab season, which runs from November to June, local fishermen can be seen setting and hauling traps on a daily basis. Many of these fishermen sell their catch directly to the public at the Fisherman's Wharf.
The Best Places to Enjoy Dungeness Crab at Fisherman's Wharf
When it comes to enjoying Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are a few of the best:
Alioto's
Alioto's is one of the oldest seafood restaurants in San Francisco, and it's been serving up delicious crab since the 1920s. The restaurant is known for its classic seafood dishes, including its famous crab cioppino.
Scoma's
Scoma's is another long-time favorite among San Francisco seafood lovers. The restaurant is located at the end of a pier and boasts stunning views of the bay. Their crab dishes are always fresh and delicious.
The Crab Station at Pier 39
If you're looking for a more casual dining experience, the Crab Station at Pier 39 is a great option. The restaurant serves up fresh crab in a variety of ways, from crab cocktail to garlic noodles with crab.
Dungeness Crab Festivals in San Francisco
If you're a true Dungeness crab lover, you won't want to miss one of the many crab festivals held in San Francisco throughout the year. Here are a few of the best:
San Francisco Crab Festival
The San Francisco Crab Festival is held every year in Fisherman's Wharf. The festival includes live music, beer and wine tastings, and plenty of fresh crab dishes to try.
Crab Feast Mendocino
If you're willing to venture a bit further from San Francisco, the Crab Feast Mendocino is definitely worth the trip. The festival takes place in the quaint coastal town of Mendocino and features plenty of fresh Dungeness crab, as well as local wine and beer.
Conclusion
Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Dungeness crab at Fisherman's Wharf is a must-try. From classic seafood restaurants to casual crab shacks, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. And if you're lucky enough to be in San Francisco during one of the many crab festivals, be sure to add it to your itinerary for a truly unforgettable experience.