Chowder's

Happened to come here quickly. I asked the staff if they were still open and they said yes and were very friendly and accommodating! The food was amazing. I got a crab melt and it was soo delicious! Tried one from some place in Monterey and it didn’t even compare to this one. Plus it was very clean. Loved it here and would definitely recommend.

Every time I visit my son and we go to San Francisco, there’s something that can’t be missed: enjoying a white clam chowder at Chowder’s, at Pier 39. It has become a special tradition for us. The clam chowder is simply delicious—creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—perfect to enjoy while walking along the pier and taking in the lively atmosphere. Without a doubt, an absolute must-try on every visit to San Francisco.

This is a drive-by fish and chips restaurant. The food really isn’t bad, but it’s not particularly noteworthy either. Don’t get me wrong, it’s really not bad, your basic 3-out-of-5 seafood. Self-service. But the price reflects that too, which I was totally okay with. My wife and I I both got the fish and chips and we were satisfied with it. Would recommend if you want a no-frills fisherman’s wharf meal.

So I finally tried Chowders in SF, Pier 39, famous for their clam chowder in sourdough bread. Honestly, it was an ok‑ok experience. The chowder was fine but I could barely taste the clam here and there, definitely few grains of sand – could have been better. Ambience is nice though, comfy seats and a good mix of cuisines on the menu. Felt slightly pricy, Had to try it once, but not blown away. Traveler Tips 🧳 - There might be better chowder spots, but if you’re nearby, give it a shot. - Maps can be a little confusing, especially if you’re coming from the deck – keep your eyes open. - It gets crowded, so plan to visit during non‑peak hours for a smoother experience.

You can enjoy a regular clam chowder and fish and chips here at a reasonable price. The chowder is good, but you can find better ones at other restaurants in Pier 39. The view is nice, though you should expect a few birds to join you while you eat, the staff do their best to chase them away whenever they get inside the restaurant.

Absolutely fantastic clam chowder, there's a reason these guys are the original bread bowl chowder places. I couldn't believe how many fresh clams were inside the chowder! I was expecting to wait a few minutes to get my food but as soon as I put my card away the bread bowl was ready! The cashier literally turned around and back with my food in less than 10 seconds. I can't believe how fast that service was! Now this was a random Thursday afternoon so I couldn't say the same for a weekend. Clam chowder itself is amazing, I added some hot sauce in there to kick it up a notch; only reason I didn't give a 5 star is because I didn't really like the bread bowl itself, I feel like it really lacked the classic sourdough flavor that sourdough normally has, it tasted really plain to me, like eating an unsalted soft pretzel from the movie theaters. It just tasted like dense bread to me but all in all, the main event the clam chowder itself is definitely worth a taste!

The Clam Chowder was good and hot for being able to eat it out in 54° evening. Clam chowder was also very flavorful.

Went there after the Alcatraz night tour. I wanted something comforting and warm, but not too filling so I could sleep at night. This was fulfilled by the chowder. Thanks for the restaurant to be open so late :) Taste wise, it could be improved but I think this is a fast food type of chowder so I don't expect much. The bread was a bit chewy (maybe it's crispier in the morning) but the filling was comforting. Inside is very fast food like, all in plastic and looks low quality, but then again I don't think it has higher standard Paid 16,28 dollars with tax for it.

One of the best clam chowder with breadbowls I've ever had, and at a very fair price point for San Francisco. Made for a relaxing time at the wharf. Thanks

I just HAD to have some Clam Chowed before heading home to San Diego! This place was great and service was fast! Very delicious!

We were visiting a friend in San Francisco recently, so we stopped by Pier 39. We walked past Chowders, and it was a pretty chilly day, so clam chowder sounded like a great idea for a quick afternoon snack to warm ourselves up. We only got the clam chowder, and it came out pretty fast. The clam chowder came in a bread bowl, and it was so tasty. It had so much clams, and the flavors were just perfect. The bread also tasted really nice too. It was just overall the perfect quick snack on a cold day at the pier.

Been coming here many years for clam chowder in bread bowl but first time reviewing. Located within Pier 39, this is our spot for quick lunch. They have seating inside and outside. We ordered clam chowder in bread bowl, crab melt sandwich, and fried zucchini. The crab melt is not as good as it used to be, it's bland and lack of crab meat. Clam chowder is as good as I can remember but it was mainly bread. They did not remove much bread for clam chowder. It was mainly bread bowl. Should of order the soup in a cup. Fried zucchini is light battered and fried to perfection with a side ranch dipping sauce. This is a place to self seated and throw your trash out after done. I like eating here when I'm in the area or craving for clam chowder but will skip the bread bowl and crab melt next time.

Came here to order the iconic clam chowder in a bread bowl (around $15). The speed that it came out was surprising - literally took one second as the person we ordered from in the counter turned around and put a ready one on a tray within one second of ordering. The chowder itself was pretty good but not the best I've had. The bread bowl was soft and served as a filling end to the chowder. Also got the popcorn shrimp ($8) which was fresh out of the fryer, super hot and crispy, and came with a delicious cocktail sauce. Not too much searing but we were able to find a table outside.

Chowders is in a prime location around Pier 39 surrounded by many food spots and stores! I ordered the shrimp and crab sandwich. There was nothing bad about it, but it didn't impress me. I'm a big crab salad sandwich person when it comes to San Francisco, however, if you are too, I would recommend the stalls near Fisherman's Wharf over these. Nonetheless, the service was really good, and I loved there was ample seating both inside and outside even with the weekend crowds.

Delicious fresh clam chowder bowls! Our order came out fast. Can be very crowded and tricky to wait for a table since everyone else is looking for a table as well. Outside patio can be windy but great view of Alcatraz and the seals on the water. Inside is very crowded, shoulder to shoulder. Love the creamy chowder and freshly baked sourdough bowl. Fish and chips was a large portion and shrimp and chips as well. Definitely will return.

Chowders is one of those restaurants located at the heart of tourist attractions, serving the "must-eat" dishes, but not very worth it. This restaurant offers clam chowders, fish and chips, and many other seafood dishes you'd expect at a pier. My mom ordered the clam chowder and did not enjoy it. I ordered the fish and chips, and just by the looks of it, it seemed disappointing, and it indeed was. I'd say the price of about $12 is pretty decent, but the lack of quality and taste makes the fish and chips not worth it at all. The amount of fries is unforgiving as well. The restaurant is quite small and can be very packed--not ideal for large parties. It's very convenient to go here since it's at the center of the pier, but I highly suggest going to other restaurants that serve your seafood cravings.

Chowders is really good. The quality of food service and price point are fair especially for seafood - this is one of my favorite places to bring people to when visiting this area. I'd recommend the bread bowl even though there's another popular spot nearby theirs is just better!

This place was ok. I like how the kitchen area is open so you can see the staff cooking the meals and they all appear to enjoy working together. The white clam chowder was pretty delicious. The crab melt sandwich left a lot to be desired. It was very bland and there was hardly any meat in the sandwich. I had to show the staff the small portion that was in the bread and they did rectify things by giving me a little more on the side, which I really appreciated. The crab cakes were just ok as well. They tasted like there was more dressing/ stuffing than actual crab added in it. That could be because the crab that was used for it was not very seasoned if I were to guess why they tasted like they do. I recommend this place if you require unseasoned food due to allergies, etc or if you want a pretty good clam chowder bowl.

Food: Bread Bowl: the sour bread balances the salty chowder Fried Seafood: very nicely done; fish, shrimp, fries and calamari are all included. Their tartar sauce is not too sour or salty Shrimp Louie Louie: not very recommended if you're not a salad person but the shrimps are fresh! Service: no tip needed, self service The speed to serve is pretty quick even during long weekend holidays. Ambience: the seats are pretty crowded, so if you're here to grab a bite, there's no issue, but if you'd like to have a nice place to chill, there are plenty of other choices around the area.

Have been a customer of Chowders for over a decade. Prices are great. Can't go wrong with a clam chowder. Big fan of the seafood platter: calamari, fries. Fish and shrimp.

Never had clam chowder before so I'm not sure if my review is trustworthy. But, I enjoyed it! Served in a sourdough bread bowl, the piping hot clam chowder was creamy and perfect for the raining weather. It was $12 but $14 after tax. A nice little bite in Fisherman's wharf. Plenty of indoor seating and some outdoor seating as well!

Nice small spot at pier 39. Counter service only. Order there and pick up at the counter. Music playing... good music. The menu is a primarily seafood, so know that much! I didn't get a photo of our clam chowder bread bowl because we were starving... but it was delicious! The Shrimp Louie was inside a strange hard tortilla bowl... which wasn't the best...salad was good though. The best Melt I've had in a long time! They keep the doors opened here, so if it's hot, you will be extra steamy. If it's cold, dress warm!! Parking garages are across the street. Or you can Bart and Uber. The restrooms are not too close.

Went on a Wednesday night. They had both indoor and outdoor seating. I got the white chowder bowl ($11.99) and the red chowder bowl for my dad. Seafood prices were reasonable, but we were sad that we hadn't gotten the calamari after seeing the big rings the table over had ordered. The white chowder was good and came out steaming, but not too many pieces of bacon or clams. It was definitely filling. A pigeon has wandered in a few times and had to be shoo'ed away, as country music played in the background. 2023 #10

white chowder bowl $11.99 - good and creamy but not much soup. most of it was sourdough bread. Menu says "loads of clams," but honestly not much clams, potatoes, bacon or veggies. Crab & shrimp sandwich $12.99 - good but so small!

The food was as expected. Expensive and mostly deep fried. The sauce for their crab cakes was as well as their fish and chips. Beyond that, everything was just ok.

There was a bit of a line however it moved quickly. We ordered a bread bowl and crab cakes to share amongst us two. The bread bowl was pretty loaded and the bread was delicious. The crab cakes were tasty and went well with the sauce. Overall the pricing was reasonable for being seafood. I wish there was combo plates instead of offering everything a la carte.

The clam chowder was pretty good. It was a little on the salty side, i could taste garlic and I saw bay leaf in there. It was not too fishy if that's a deal breaker for you. I had it in a bread bowl and I do feel like you're cheated out of a good amount. They barely scraped the bread out of my bowl so I felt like I didn't have as much soup. My gf had a little more. I had to take a star off for this. It would be smart to give the soup in a cup so you can fill it yourself and get the proper amount. The shrimp basket and fries were really good. The service was good, the workers were nice and friendly. Inside the restaurant is clean. It's more of a fast food ambiance with lots of seating inside and outside.

Excellent. Chowder bowls were hot and ready quick, despite the crazy crowd. Chowder was delicious, as was the bread bowl. The chicken strips were very good as well.

Second time here and noticed a lot of changes since 2008. This eatery in between Wipeout and Mrs Fields on the boardwalk is an excellent counter service spot in the Pier 39 area. Plenty of seats inside and out. The ramp next to it leads to tables with a view of the pier (very chilly though). Price was still reasonable considering the location. Service was fast and efficient. Food was excellent. Had the Crab Melt and an Anchor Steam beer (don't judge) for lunch this time. Remembered this place for decent chowder from 2008, returned and still liked the place and food. Highly recommended.

I was pleasantly surprised. The Philly cheesesteaks and chili cheese fries were delicious.

Mi gente!! Let me start by saying WOW! This small spot on the boardwalk is PHENOMENAL!! Looks like is family owned at least the ppl that were running it today were all family! Super friendly, n down to earth ppl! Chowder is SUPER flavorful, had to try the shrimp sandwich(they give u the option of regular Mayo or Chipotle Mayo) Chipotle Mayo on it makes it soo much better! Highly recommend!!!

We've been coming to chowders for years. It's been a staple for my family when we have relatives over as well. We'd always come visit. My mom and I visited a few days ago. Lady taking my order barely spoke English which is fine. But my order was completely wrong. Furthermore, the sandwich now comes in a hotdog bun. It never used to be like that. They're wasn't much flavor on the crab and shrimp sandwich. It's not the same like the years past.

Average place to me since I couldn't eat the clam chowder (it has bacon and I'm a pescatarian) but my partner seemed to enjoy it! I had the shrimp & chips which were good but nothing amazing. Has a local diner feel to it as well as nice outdoor seating!

Took a family visiting from out of the country a tour in San Francisco. Not a local so I thought to Google the best clam chowder in a bread bowl restaurant in Pier 39, although there were several options, we ended up going here. The place wasn't too busy for an almost closing time on a weekday. It's a simple dining area and very straightforward menu. We all got white clam chowder and crab cakes which was a dream! It was a sweater weather and coming here was the best decision we made! Serving is huge and price is fair. Will come back here when in town again.

This place has options for indoor and outdoor seating. The food came out quickly for our big group. I had the clam chowder in the bread bowl. The chowder had big chunks of fresh tasting celery and the texture of the soup itself was not too thick. The bread bowl was perfectly chewy and the sourdough flavor came thru. We also got the fried fish filet and fries. The fish tasted fresh and the breading was not too thick. The tartar sauce was the perfect accompaniment. The fries were not the best, flavorless with an underdone texture, otherwise I would've given 4 stars. We enjoyed the view from our outdoor table and the location is right in the middle of all the wharf excitement!

Huge question mark about this place. This has been our stop any time in frisco for clam chowder. Either they forgot some ingredients or changed the recipe, today was not very good. First time ever leaving more than half of the chowder on my bread bowl. Not sure about returning

Quick and easy way for San Franciscan tourists to check that box off and get their clam chowder bread bowl fix on. The cost is about the same everywhere you go around and at the Embarcadero but you won't have to leave a tip here and you can have select your own ocean view seat at the backside of this cute little spot. We tried the red chowder bowl too which I don't recommend unless you really like tomatoes- it has a red (tomato) base and tasted like spaghetti sauce with bits of clam and celery. The white chowder was great, enough for two to share. The sourdough is super fresh and hearty and the clam chunks salty and plentiful!

Best bead bowl White Clam Chowder around Pier 39 in San Francisco. I have came back to this establishment over 10 times in the past few years. I have tried clam chowder all around this tourist location. On this visit my daughter said day if we are going to San Francisco, we need to go to Chowder's for clam chowder and shrimp. And here we are.

My sister, boyfriend, and I decided to come to the pier from San Jose to take in some good views and get great seafood. My partner recommended this place and I'm glad we stopped by. We ordered: -white clam chowder bowl -fish n chips -popcorn shrimp -chicken tender side This was personally my first time trying clam chowder and it was really good! I feel like it was decently priced (roughly $12) as well, although I don't have much to compare it to. It was hot, flavorful, and paired wonderfully with the sourdough bread bowl. The clam chowder comes in a sourdough bread bowl, with clam, potato, bacon, and celery. The fish n chips were amazing, and my partner and sister particularly loved it. The fries were too salty for me, though. High marks for the tartar sauce. this was roughly $14.99? I can't remember the exact price but it's around there. the chicken tender side was $9.99 and it was nothing special. It definitely was not worth the price but if you're someone who isn't a fan of seafood, or have kids who are picky, this is a safe bet. It comes with fries and ranch. I don't remember how much the popcorn shrimp costed, but I really enjoyed it. There were some pieces where I could only taste breading, but it was very yummy with a great crunch. The bigger shrimp were my favorite. The reason I didn't give this place a 5 star rating was because when we ordered, the lady who took our order was very rude. I get that the pier is a busy location with a lot of customers, but her attitude was uncalled for and even my sister was taken back by it. I work in food service myself and I never talk to my customers with a nasty attitude. Thankfully, the other employees were respectful and kind to their customers. You never know what is going on in another person's life so it doesn't kill to be somewhat nice, especially when we showed nothing but kindness back.

Honestly I was experta better taste and quality on the clam chowder wanted to try it but really wasn't impressed the bread was ok but the clam chowder was saltier than my attitude lol it's the saltiest I've had and wasn't as creamy as it should be more watery than normal but I'll give customer service a 5/5 and one thing I would give a 5/5 is their tuna sandwich it was bomb only thing missing was some onion pieces if they add onion I would consider it the best in the bay that tuna was perfect I'll come back for that

One must-have when visiting San Francisco for the first time is a bread bowl of hot chowder soup. The visit was not for me, but tourists I took along with me. Although I would have preferred they have it at Boudin down the street, they were pretty okay with just having it here. (Plus we were kinda hungry for a snack since we kinda got done just doing walks around Pier 39 and its surroundings.) We put in our order at the counter and we were told they'll call us when we're ready. We ended up with 2 bowls and an order of shrimp and chips. The bowls were ready immediately and the shrimp/chips plate would follow. It was a semi-cold SF afternoon, so it wasn't a big deal getting seats outside. We opted to sit all the way at the back to get a small view of the pier. It was a bonus watching other tourists gawk at the seals where they normally post at. The bread bowls were warm and gave off that slight sourdough aroma, and the chowder was hot HOT HOT! Given we were outside, it didn't take long for it to cool down. VERDICT: it was okay, mediocre at best. The broth was smooth and thick seasoned with that familiar clam flavor. However, the overall flavor wasn't poppin' as I'd hope it would. Don't get me wrong: it was good, but it can be better. The shrimp and chips plate was slightly better. Cooked to order, it was a good snack for four. The shrimp batter was just right and the fries were a good crisp. FOOD: 3.5. SERVICE: 3. Very little interaction. They were slammed since there were a few customers they were tending to. VALUE: 4. Not bad especially given they're right dab smack in the middle of a tourist spot. PARKING: None. Park at the structures or lots somewhere around the area. If rideshare is an option, it'd be a better one. OVERALL: 3.5. I'm not around this area often and there are other places to try before coming back. But good first run. I wouldn't not check them out again, and I probably would once I've made a run on other places nearby.

Chowders has been our favorite spot for years! They have great clam chowder but also options for those who don't want something fishy. Their chicken ranch sandwich is great also! Staff is kind and service is quick! You can find this right in the heart of pier 39.

The chowder was delicious. I wish I got a bowl by itself because maybe then they would have given me more! Not a big portion at all! My only complaint.

Located at pier 39, near the entrance, on the left hand side. Close to Mrs. Fields cookies. Clam chowder is decent, chunks of potatoes and clams. Regular clam chowder Bowl is $7. They do have a kids menu $7.99 for the usuals with fries. (Fish & chips, dinosaur nuggets & chips) Food is decent, prices are decent. $90 for 4 with 2 kids. Meals and drinks.

Great food and quick service. We were there around 2:30 pm on a Saturday so it was quite busy but the staff was super quick with the order and very clean eating area. Went with my family and I really enjoyed it!

Tastes like I used to make in 1988 when it first opened. I miss the old crew and friends . Gil, where are you !!! the grilled cheese is still the best, along with the fried zucchini!

It was raining when I went so there wasn't any outdoor seating but the service was so quick that we got our food almost as fast as we ordered. That though could be a pro and con. It means the sides are ready-to-fry. However the chowder itself is delicious, combining salty, savory, and hearty flavors all into one. If you're ordering anything BUT chowder you probably will be disappointed (I mean come on though look at the restaurant name).

White Clam Chowder served in Sourdough Bread! When you are visiting Pier 39 and feeling the chill of the breeze that blows over the Bay, you may wish for something hot and tasty to satisfy your hunger and make you warm. One of the more popular choices by visitors in Fisherman's Wharf is the famous White Clam Chowder soup served in sourdough bread. Chowders is one of the many places that serves white clam chowder soup. It is located on your left side near the entrance of the pier. It offers a limited menu that includes fried seafood, sandwiches, a few sides and of course red and white clam chowder soups. They have outside sitting available in front of the store (see my photo below) or towards the back facing the marina and Pier 41 where you have a partial view of beautiful SF Bay. I have tried the Fish & Chips and White Clam Chowder Soup at Chowders and they are good. If you are looking for a quick bite so you can get on your way to the rest of your must see places on the pier, Chowders is a good option.

Tried to play tourist, since my friend was visiting SF and was craving clam chowder. Honestly, biggest points about this place are that it's in a prime location, staff is SUPER efficient, and you can definitely snag a table. I say prime location because as you're passing by stores, you can't miss this spot. Aside from that, there's not really much I can say. I think their clam chowder is decent. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat here again, and there's definitely better tasting spots.

Searching for a good clam chowder place and found this one on Google. It's inside a busy strip mall and it has both indoor and outdoor seating. The chowder is a white one, served with bread bowl for 10.99 or a cup size for 2 dollars less/8.99. They don't have any bigger size though. Their chowder is thick and full of clams, we also found celery inside. I like it more than the Splash Cafe in Pismo Beach. We tried their crab melt sandwich and it's very yummy. Lots of crab meat and freshly made.

Walked around Pier 39 after our Alcatraz tour. This place was packed, but it closed early at 9PM on a Saturday. The fellas wanted seafood so we ate here after seeing others around eating clam chowders. They're named Chowders for a reason. Clam chowders are a hit here, but it was just ok for me. We also had the seafood platter which was also ok. The shrimp tasted like the shrimp that you'll find in the frozen section of your local grocery store. Fast and friendly service though.

Always a good go to when we come to the wharf. Great customer service. Did was quick and hot. Excellent and yummy

BLUF: decent food at this price point considering the location I went on a weekday evening at about 6:00 p.m. . The place is very very basic with a few tables and plastic chairs. You walk up and order and then take your food to your table. I ordered the white clam chowder in sourdough bread bowl and the shrimp cocktail. Be aware of the shrimp cocktail is really just some boiled shrimp put in a bowl with a little container of cocktail sauce and a sprig of parsley on top. Not that that's bad but it's not a put together cocktail like you might expect. I will say the shrimp had some nice firmness to them and not mushy like a lot of places. The clam chowder was a little under season for me but a little salt and pepper brought it up to standards. Not a lot of pieces of clam in there but it was still pretty tasty and is definitely a feel-good food to have on a chilly day out on the pier. The sourdough bread bowl pretty much rocked. I mean what's not to like about chowder soaked sourdough bread? Considering it's one of the more affordable meals to have on the pier and it's pretty tasty I would go back if I wanted something quick and simple. I only spoke to one person while there and that was the woman taking the orders. She was bright and cheerful and the food came out quickly

One of the best casual spots at the wharf/pier with both indoor and outdoor seating, Chowders serves delicious fare at very reasonable prices with a warm and welcoming smile.

Never eat here!! The food was horrible and we wasted more than we ate. My mom ordered some French Fries and took one bite and they were cold. After the bite, she told the cashier who then took the cold fries and gave them to another customer (with the bitten one as well). I intercepted and told the customer to look at the fries to show her that one had already been bitten off of and they were cold. Also, at 3AM this morning i woke up with stomach cramps which lead to throwing up and diarrhea. This place is horrible and after speaking to the owner, she said there is nothing she can do to compensate. Don't do business what people who are only into it for money and not customer service and good quality food!

So many choices- pick another for chowder. Tried both the red and white- both too salty and not enough clams. However, service is quick and friendly. A touristy place on the wharf.

After passing by this place during numerous trips to San Francisco, this time we decided to give it a try. We got fish & chips and shrimp and chips. Both were freshly cooked, hot and had a very good flavor. The fish & shrimp both were a good size. The fries were fresh cooked and hot but nothing special. Not bad or good just fresh hot fries. A good place to stop and grab a quick bite to eat!

Great place to get the infamous soup bowls. We arrived on a Wednesday morning and there was no line. The staff was extremely friendly. For being San Francisco, the soup bowls were reasonably priced. This is my second time going here, and definitely is a must try stop point if you want something quick, easy and affordable to eat.