Like all the best dining experiences, presentation is key. It’s a sign that everything was thoughtfully and artisanally prepared to make a great moment even more memorable. We all long to relive a great meal with great company, which is part of why the search for Instagram-worthy restaurants and food is so compelling!
San Francisco’s Pier 39 is a world-class hub for cuisine as superb as the views, making it a destination for anyone who wants a great story to go along with their dish. Scroll through our top 10 picks of what to eat at Pier 39 for fully Instagram-ready snapshots, where the only thing better than how it looks is everything about the in-person experience.
1. Anything with Sourdough
Sourdough is synonymous with the history of the city, and any Instagram-worthy seafood restaurant will showcase it as the treasure it is. When you enjoy it at Pier 39 on Fisherman’s Wharf, whether as a standalone appetizer, as part of a burger, dipped in garlic butter, or to soak up cioppino, you will definitely be able to say – and post – that you struck gold.
2. Clam Chowder
Hit the spot with classic comfort food that is nothing short of an iconic San Francisco masterpiece. Clam chowder is one of the best dishes to eat at Pier 39. Order it served in a sourdough bowl, and add decadent crab meat for the full experience. It will be an Instagram shot at Pier 39 that you won’t want to miss.
3. Biscoff Cheesecake
If you have managed to muster room for dessert, try out an indulgent treat like the Biscoff Cookie Cheesecake from Biscoff Coffee Corner. Topped with Biscoff cookies, it pairs delightfully with coffee drinks and is worthy of any Instagram feed. The coffee shop is close to the entrance of Pier 39, so it’s a great place to get a coffee or smoothie before walking down the pier. 
4. Sunset Cocktails at Pier Market
Speaking of cocktails (or mocktails), exploring what to drink is just as exciting as planning what to eat at Pier 39. With the perfect glow of the setting sun from the window illuminating an expertly crafted drink, you take in the beauty of Pier 39, with Instagram serving more as your reminder to treat yourself to a perfect evening a little more often. 
5. Get Serious About Soaking up the Vibe
There’s more than one right way to enjoy cocktails by the sea! If kicking up your feet in a more casual setting is your speed, then you definitely can’t miss Wipeout Bar and Grill, an Instagram-worthy restaurant for great food and drinks alike. Try any shareables like fish tacos with margs, fish and chips with local pints, or loaded nachos with tropical, umbrella-topped Mai Tais; you’ll find a bright mosaic of surf shack classics with plenty of glam for the ‘gram, no filter needed. 
6. Killer Crab® at Crab House at Pier 39
Savor one of the most Instagram-worthy foods from an iconic San Francisco restaurant: the World Famous Dungeness Killer Crab® from Crab House at Pier 39. And yes, it tastes just as good as it looks! Roasted in a secret garlic sauce and served with some garlic butter, the Killer Crab® should definitely be on your “what to eat” list at Pier 39. 
7. Crab Cakes
Our top 10 list of Pier 39’s most Instagram-worthy foods would be incomplete without including crab cakes. This versatile starter is served at Fog Harbor with harissa aioli, mixed greens, and mango for an unforgettable (and well-presented) experience. 
8. Get Your #Brunch On at Eagle Cafe
Enjoy brunch by the bay for quintessential breakfast and lunchtime foods that just hit different at Pier 39. But what to eat from all the temptations?
Eagle Cafe is a restaurant with Instagram-worthy brunch foods, such as chilaquiles, perfectly crispy and topped with queso fresco.
With or without a mimosa, you’ll be glad that all you have to share are the photos! 
9. Mesquite Grilled Lobster Tail
Pier Market is known for its flavorful mesquite dishes. Here, perfectly seasoned grilled lobster tails are served with drawn butter and that world-renowned sourdough as a starter. Whether alongside some fresh veggies or with mesquite-grilled shrimp skewers, these tails make this restaurant Instagram-worthy indeed. 
10. Cioppino
We’re ending our list with a timeless, local favorite and a definite meal worthy of Instagram. Loaded with all the goodness from the sea and some Italian inspiration, ask any seafood-loving local what to eat at Pier 39 and you’re bound to hear the praises of this favorite seafood stew. 
Come One, Come All
It’s easy to lose your heart in San Francisco when each culinary moment makes it go aflutter. For both visitors from around the world and locals who want to reconnect with the place they love to call home, Pier 39 is a premier destination for the best of the City by the Bay, plate by plate. We warmly look forward to serving you at any of Pier 39’s Instagram-and you!-worthy restaurants. Reserve your table or walk into Fog Harbor today!
