Best Dungeness Crab in San Francisco

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The An family’s "Roasted Crab" is a San Francisco icon. The whole crab is roasted with a heavy amount of garlic and secret spices, creating a fragrant, messy, and deeply addictive meal. It is almost always paired with their famous garlic noodles. It’s the definitive "fusion" crab experience. — Outer Sunset

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18:00.

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The oldest seafood restaurant in San Francisco, serving traditional cracked Dungeness crab since 1861. — Bayview

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Their Dungeness crab rolls are a popular and more portable way to enjoy the local seasonal king. — various locations

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Known for its incredible views and its commitment to sustainably sourced local Dungeness crab. — Embarcadero

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A more casual but equally beloved alternative to Thanh Long. PPQ offers several crab preparations, including a spicy "Peppercorn" version and a "Curry" style. Their set menus for groups are an excellent value and provide a true feast of Northern California seafood with Vietnamese flavors. — Richmond District

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19:00.

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A historic family-run spot that has been serving fresh Dungeness crab since 1925; look for their outdoor crab stand. — Fisherman's Wharf

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A vibrant, old-school Italian seafood spot. While their cioppino is the headliner, their seasonal cracked Dungeness crab is always exceptionally fresh and handled with care. The atmosphere is loud, friendly, and quintessential North Beach. — North Beach

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18:30.

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A beloved neighborhood spot where you can enjoy fresh Dungeness crab while waiting with a free glass of wine. — Richmond District

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Famous for their "Salt and Pepper Dungeness Crab." The crab is battered and deep-fried until the shell is slightly crispy, then tossed with salt, pepper, and fried garlic. It is a masterpiece of Cantonese technique applied to local ingredients, and it has been a favorite of visiting dignitaries and locals alike for decades. — Chinatown

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19:30.

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While a steakhouse, they offer very high-quality seasonal Dungeness crab legs that are a favorite for the Financial District crowd. — various locations

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A great waterfront spot for fresh Dungeness crab and oysters with a more local, neighborhood vibe. — Dogpatch

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The more refined sister restaurant to Thanh Long. Crustacean offers the same legendary roasted crab and garlic noodles but in a sleek, high-end environment. It is the place for a "fancy" crab dinner and is famous for its "Secret Kitchen" where only the family is allowed to prepare the signature dishes. — Nob Hill / Polk Gulch

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19:30.

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A reliable choice for fresh-off-the-boat Dungeness crab in a casual, high-quality setting. — various locations

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A second mention for their "Lazy Man’s Crab"—the ultimate way to enjoy Dungeness without the work. — Fisherman's Wharf

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While famous for oysters, their seasonal Dungeness crab preparations are consistently excellent and fresh. — Ferry Building

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Specializing specifically in Dungeness, this spot is famous for its "Killer Crab" served on a hot iron skillet with their secret garlic sauce. The aroma of sizzling garlic and crab permeates the restaurant and can be smelled from the boardwalk. It is a fun, messy, and quintessentially SF experience. — Pier 39

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13:00.

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The historic, 18-seat counter is the ultimate place for the "pure" Dungeness experience. Order the "Cracked Crab"—it is served cold, expertly cleaned, and accompanied by a small cup of melted butter and sourdough. It is a no-frills, high-quality institution that has changed little since 1912. — Nob Hill / Polk Gulch

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10:30 (Line starts early; counter-only).

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A second mention for their classic cracked crab, served in a historic, formal atmosphere. — Financial District

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While Pier 39 is tourist-heavy, Fog Harbor is the rare exception that serves truly high-quality, sustainably sourced seafood. Their "Garlic Roasted Whole Crab" is served sizzling on a hot iron skillet. It’s a great choice for those who want the classic Fisherman’s Wharf atmosphere without the typical quality compromises. — Pier 39

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17:30 (For sunset views over the bay).

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