OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAWe are very fortunate to live in the San Francisco Bay Area where Dungeness Crab is a staple. It is a symbol of the Golden Gate fishing industry and is caught seasonally in the nearby Pacific Ocean as well as all year long along the coast from Southern California to Alaska. We needed a crab fix and decided it was time to venture to the Crab House at PIER 39 which is on the upper level with great views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay. The interior décor is all about Crab!  There are over 250 beautiful hand-painted crabs which are each unique hung all around the walls and the ceiling of the restaurant.  The décor is very San Francisco featuring stylish white subway tile walls, marble tables and white marble flooring with black accent tile squares. The tables feature cane back chairs with comfortable black seats. The center of the restaurant has personality too… as there is a Fire Pit in the center and a full bar to the right. Upbeat music adds to the fun atmosphere where both large and small parties were having a great time on the Thursday night that we dined there.

Hand Painted Crabs

Hand Painted Crabs

We ordered a large bottle of San Pellegrino Sparkling Water and some “Drink like a Fish” Cocktails. The Bloody Shark was a fabulous Spicy Bloody Mary that we ordered with Belvedere Vodka. It had an onion, celery, hot whole pepper, olive, and wedges of lemon and lime as garnish. We also had their fabulous Cosmo made with Grey Goose Vodka. It was served up with plenty of fresh lime juice, was strong and not too sweet and served in a traditional Martini glass. The Bartender here makes serious drinks!

Iron Skillet

Iron Skillet

Our first course was one of their Iron Skillets which came out sizzling and had a fabulous aroma. We loved the perfectly prepared roasted Mussels and Shrimp which were delicious and served with a side of lemon, butter and garlic dipping sauce which was beyond words! Next, we enjoyed their Crab Chowder which was made with fresh crab, corn, red peppers, potatoes and celery.

Whole Killer Crab

Whole Killer Crab

Our main Course was their signature dish The Killer Crab which is a whole, two pound crab roasted in their secret garlic sauce. We cracked and dipped and ate but couldn’t finish it all which made us happy at lunch the following day! A Side of Garlic French Fries is a must as they were Killer too!

Cocktails

Cocktails

The Wine List is very focused and has something for everyone. We enjoyed the Ferrari Carano Sonoma County Chardonnay which paired well with the seafood. The Desserts were both superb! We loved the Tiramisu, best we have had in years, and the Torta Della Nonna with Meyer lemon and zabaglione! As a finale we had an espresso and a Sambuca after dinner drink.

Desserts

Desserts

We truly enjoyed our dinner at the Crab House at PIER 39. The Killer Crab was as advertised, “Killer”. The service was very friendly and professional and the atmosphere was inviting and fun. I guess we’ll have to come back soon to taste other menu items, as we hear the Fish & Chips is great too!

Crab House at PIER 39

203c. PIER 39 Upper Deck West Side
San Francisco, CA. 94133
415-434-2722
www.CrabHouse39.com

Open Daily 11:30 A.M. -10:30 P.M.

By

Carol & Joe Davis

Dining Detectives