Martin S

If you’re visiting San Francisco, a stop at Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf is an absolute must. Known as the birthplace of sourdough in the city, skipping their legendary bread or sourdough pizza would be a culinary crime. We grabbed seats at one of the three upstairs bars and were immediately welcomed by a friendly barman who made us feel right at home. A few refreshing drinks later, we indulged in fresh oysters and a sourdough margarita pizza—both were flavorful and perfectly prepared. The combination of crisp crust and tangy sourdough made the pizza a standout snack. Before leaving, we had the chance to watch the bakery team prepare a massive batch of dough for the next day’s bread. Seeing the process on such a large scale was fascinating and added to the authentic experience. Bottom line: Great food, warm service, and a peek behind the scenes of an iconic San Francisco tradition. Whether you’re here for a quick bite or a full meal, Boudin Bakery delivers a taste of history with every bite.

+6

Sarah Bhimani

The Boudin Bakery is just one of a kind! We had the beef chili bowl with the chicken sandwich toasted! Great experience. The bakery side with the bread is nice too. They have scones and other pastries. Clam chowder & tomato soup is pretty good too. There are other locations now too throughout San Fran!

+4

Town Traveller

Great location! The food was amazing. We ordered fired calamari, ribs and burger. They are all fresh with the fries. The location can be very busy and so are the servers. One refused to take our picture because he is not our server. There is also a self guided tour that shows the history of the bakery. They have complimentary bread too!

+6

My favourite place to grab lunch at Pier 39. I love their fresh sourdough… one of the best places you can get your food from while walking on the pier. Their clam chowder is my all time favourite and it never misses the spot. I love their waffles, and their sandwiches taste good too. My friend loves their tomato soup, I don’t like it in general. If you don’t know what to get, I’d suggest going with their clam chowder sourdough bowl. You can dip your sourdough in the soup and enjoy every bite of it. Sourdough tastes great and the crust is perfectly done. Finding a table can be a bit of a wait. I’d suggest a minimum company of 2 so one can find a spot to sit and the other can bring the food to the table, because it’s self serving. Plan your visit and you’ll have a great experience, especially during Christmas!

Fast food order line. Service was quick, and everything tasted incredibly fresh. One side for cafe order and one side for food order. Tried clam chowder bread bowl soup. Soft sour bread inside and tasted good with soup. Not easy to find seats during lunch peak hours. Had to wait a bit for seats

+3

Went here after visiting alcatraz about a 10 min walk down the Embarcadero. Line moved quick. Got a pizza, crab melt, clam chowder bread bowl and bacon grill cheese. A bit pricey but its in a tourist zone so can't really help it. Food did taste amazing, they used their house sourdough for everything. They also have a bakery which is a need to check out for all their delicious choices.

Wow, their size of the venue is gigantic! I've only experienced bakery side not the restaurant side, but it was already overwhelming. People kept coming in and out and the queue was long, but it didn't take that long to make an order/get a chowder soup and find a table. The soup was a bit salty to me but was good enough to soothe my body in the gusty weather in San Francisco.

+4

This location has 2 types of dining, casual food in the bakery downstairs or nicer restaurant dining upstairs in the Bistro though it is more formal than a typical bistro. My wife and mother-in-law ordered a light lunch from the bakery one day and then on our last night there we had an amazing meal with incredible views upstairs on the bistro! For dinner our son ordered the Spicy Fried Chicken Sandwich which he enjoyed. I ordered the Dungeness Crab Mac & Cheese. It was so creamy and delicious and the crab took it to another level! My wife ordered the Angel Hair Pasta with Herb Grilled Shrimp with a garlic Arrabiatta sauce which was amazing! For dessert our son ordered the Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée which he quickly finished. My wife and I shared Sourdough Beignets, dusted with cinnamon sugar, vanilla bean ice cream, caramel sauce, chocolate sauce and whipped cream. It was the perfect way to end a meal! The view doesn’t hurt either!

+6

All around great experience here. It only took a couple minutes for them to have the food ready once it was ordered. The food was all very good. I loved the sourdough. I would recommend stopping here.

Been here while was strolling the pier and area. Didn’t have a reservation so decided to wait which is not a problem since I have high patience. The aroma of the place just made my appetite grow and couldn’t wait to get a bite. Everything was a great experience from watching the bread making process to their well trained and friendly staffs to the food and to the delicious dessert I had. I highly recommend this place for anyone craving for fresh seafood or just happen to be in the area. Definitely will be back!

The upstairs dining area of this restaurant offers a wonderful experience with stunning waterfront views. One unique touch is the open view of the bakery, where you can watch fresh bread being made. There’s also a dedicated area showcasing the restaurant’s rich history in San Francisco. The food is delicious, and the service is excellent.

+6

Have you ever walked by the movie theater only to smell the irresistible smell of fresh pop corn? Fisherman's Wharf has its own aromatic temptation. The smell of fresh sourdough bread being made lured us into the Boudin Bakery. We enjoyed lunch in the upstairs restaurant, which provided an upscale bar vibe with incredible views. I would say everything we ordered is a "must have." We started with the Sourdough cheese bread, OMG! Followed by the clam chowder in a sourdough bowl and the pepperoni pizza with a, you guessed it, a sourdough thin crust. In addition to the amazing food, the service is excellent. Fast, but not rushed. Friendly, personable, and very attentive. After lunch, we ventured downstairs to the bakery. In addition to the expected sourdough bread loafs that come in many sizes and shapes (including animals), they have an extensive assortment of pastries. All in all, Boudin Bakery was a huge hit and should be on everyone's bucket list when visiting Fishermans Wharf in San Francisco.

I tried the clam chowder in a bread bowl and a sandwich. The sourdough bread is very aromatic, crispy, and you can/should eat the bread bowl too. The sourdough sandwich was also tasty. The portions are large. Sitting outside was relaxed. I found the creative animal-shaped bread creations quite interesting. Overall, a highly recommended stop. Prices are fairly high for the US.

Great place for a nice dinner near Fisherman’s Wharf. We visited the city with our family, and it was a great night for soup in the sourdough bread bowl. Their bread was as good as I expected, and I highly recommend it. Our server was outstanding, and the environment is very nice. The location is great as well. Our group tried different dishes, and everyone was happy with their selections. I was pleased with the options on the menu, and they had a great drink and beer list. They also have a nice gift shop and museum at the place on the premises. Is it touristy? I guess, but in a good way! You won’t be disappointed!

+5

The meal and waiter were excellent. The male host who seated us was rude and made a poor first impression upon arrival. The restaurant has a wonderful atmosphere, but the open kitchen continually had timer alarms that sounded like European police cars. The sourdough bread was incredible, and exceeds its reputation.

The food was delicious! The chili and the bread and sandwiches were sooo good! I love going here for bread!

Nice restaurant, we were able to sit outside on the balcony. The food was delicious, and we were pleasantly surprised by the pizza in particular. The soup served in a loaf of bread was very good, and there was a nice selection of drinks.

Everything was delicious! The battered fish was crispy and flaky, and the fried shrimp were golden and perfectly cooked. Fries were fresh and paired well with the tangy tartar sauce. Generous portion and great presentation. Definitely coming back for this fish and shrimp combo at Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I went to Bistro Boudin based on thw reviews, and I will say they did not disappoint. The service was good and the food was delicious. Everything came out piping hot. We had a window table which overlooked the water and Alcatraz island. Unless you are already walking, I would suggest Ubering so you don't have to find parking.

+2

A bit overpriced but given the location it was okay. I got a crab chowder which was amazing! The bread was really fresh as well. And the hot chocolate was to die for!

A must visit if you're in San Francisco. Before entering, you'd be greeted by the large crocodile made with bread at their kitchen window, together with the pleasant tangy sourdough aroma. We tried their classic clam chowder which was more than enough for the three of us. The flavour was rich and it comes with a generous amount of clams.

A true classic. The bread is amazing. It's touristy but there is a reason it's an attraction. Such a great meal Pro-tip if the lines are long, order online for pickup

It's always nice to bring visitors from outside of San Francisco! 🦀 The signature clam chowder soup with sourdough bowl 🥣 is always great to try. The sourdough pizza is also my favorite. I ordered the steamed clam for the first time, it was brilliant too! 🍽 The service is always excellent for the guests, too. I recommend making a reservation online before you hit there! Also, you can ask to keep a table with an Alcatraz view at the window seat 😎

+3

Cities are constantly changing and the food scene is always evolving. When you are traveling to a new destination or an old favorite, it can be overwhelming deciding which food trend to try. Well, there is one thing I can tell you about San Francisco, California. Boudin Bakery is as delicious now as it was 10 years ago. Boudin Bakery is San Francisco's oldest continuously operating business since 1849 and after 176 years of business they are definitely doing something correctly. The Classic Clam Chowder and Crab and Corn Chowder are absolutely delicious and I hope you can find something warm and tasty on their menu to keep you cozy on a chilly summer evening in San Francisco from The Original San Francisco Sourdough™ bakery. Safe Travels and Happy Reading, Tani

Went in on a Sunday, at 2:30pm. First floor was packed but second floor had plenty of room. As always best to plan how you'll park in the area if possible. The wait was short, around 15 mins before the table was prepped. Food was great. Ordered a dungeness crab mac & cheese, got the order by 3pm, it was cooked well and tasted great. Kids meal also available for any children. Service was lovely, the staff constantly asked if things were ok in our table. There were a few kids with us, so checking in more often was actually quite helpful. In particular the little bits of extra help from the staff were lovely. Atmosphere was great, great for loud chats and large group meetups. This even takes into account possible noises kids are making.

Boudin is always a must-visit for us. Every time we’re in town, we make it a point to stop by for their clam chowder — comforting, rich, and served in their signature sourdough bowl. We never leave without ordering the turkey avocado sandwich on sourdough, and we always grab a couple of their French long sourdough loaves to enjoy later with some wine in the evening. It’s a tradition we look forward to every time.

+6

When you first walk into the building, you’re greeted by the smell of fresh sourdough bread. You can watch the bread being made which is interesting. The French 75 here is VERY good. It’s more lemon forward but the gin stops it short of being too overpowering. It’s refreshing. The Ciappino was top notch. The flavors were perfectly balanced and there was a good amount of seafood within the broth. I would absolutely recommend trying it here. Sitting on the outside balcony was a pleasant experience with Alcatraz in the backdrop. Overall a very good experience.

This place is awesome! Food tastes so good and the alcoholic drinks were tasty! Took my time with mine! Atmosphere was really nice and we sat by the windows upstairs with a perfect view of the bay and the pier!

Looking for a place to host an event? Host it here at Bistro Boudin! We hosted our Super Bowl weekend Brunch at the 2nd floor restaurant and we were SO happy with how everything went! Mishan, the event manager, was AMAZING! She was so responsive in her communication and helpful every step of the way. She even purchased extra little decor items to help make our event look great. Her team day of was such a huge help and every one of our guests commented on how great the venue was. This was our best event in the past 5 years!

You can't go to San Francisco without visiting Boudin's! We went for breakfast/ brunch all the time and enjoyed a great selection of freshly baked food! I miss it so much now I'm home.

+1

I should’ve stuck with the bread bowls! The pizza was pretty average for $13, but the almond croissant was great for $5, overall good for a quick lunch, and it was quick because we managed to order immediately despite tons of people in there. Pretty crowded/touristy, definitely not a quiet relaxed spot, but personally that didn’t bother me! They do have a restaurant upstairs if you wanted it quieter. I’ll be back for the bread bowl!!

This was my wife’s favorite clam chowder that she had in San Francisco! It was so good she wanted it for breakfast everyday ha! We tried quite a few things here and they were all good. Our favorite dessert was definitely the Peanut Butter Brownie! It is a MUST TRY if you go here. It was so good we had to bring some back home for the kids!

Everything was fantastic. The food, the service, the environment. It was worth it. Booked a reservation at the bistro upstairs and didn't not have to wait when we arrived. Also had a nice view of the bay while eating. The food was amazing, especially the sourdough bread (as expected). I had the chicken and it was amazing. The staff was very friendly and not overbearing. Also stop by the museum about the restaurant's history if you have the chance.

Everything was Great!!! We showed up at 8pm, they closed at 9pm and the service was top notch!!! Highly recommend. The photo is the fish and chips, 1/2 fish and 1/2 shrimp.

I stopped by Boudin at the Wharf in San Francisco and had the crab soup – it was absolutely fantastic! The soup was rich, creamy, and full of flavor, with generous chunks of crab and just the right amount of seasoning. What made it even better was the iconic sourdough bread bowl – crispy on the outside, soft and tangy on the inside, perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup. The atmosphere was lively, and the views of the bay added to the experience. Service was friendly and quick, despite how busy it was. If you're in San Francisco, this place is a must-visit, especially if you’re craving something comforting and uniquely local. I’ll definitely be coming back!

Food was good! The Sourdough Bowl Clam Chowder was the favorite on our table. We also liked the crab cake and their cheesy garlic bread. We were seated in the upstairs restaurant with fantastic views of the Bay and Alcatraz!

Went on a weekday so the line was short. Had great clam chowder in a bread bowl with dungeness crab Mac and cheese. Arrived right before sundown and had a great view. Upstairs has a wonderful museum upstairs with a view to the baking process.

Boudin Bakery @ Fisherman’s Wharf – A Classic San Francisco Bite 🌊 If you're craving a taste of San Francisco’s soul, Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf delivers in spades. I stopped in for a cozy meal and left completely satisfied. I started with the Oysters Rockefeller—rich, buttery, and baked to perfection with just the right hint of herbs. The Caesar salad was crisp and refreshing, a perfect balance to the indulgence of the oysters. But the real star? The clam chowder. Creamy, comforting, and brimming with tender clams, it came nestled in their signature sourdough bread bowl—warm, tangy, and freshly baked. It’s the kind of dish that makes you pause mid-bite just to savor the moment.

Very busy place with lots of seating. The prices are fair for San Francisco tourist hotspot. The food quality is good. We had the crab chowder which always comes in sourdough bowl. The chowder was filled with real crab meat. The taste was excellent! The Dubai Chocolate croissant fell very short of expectations. They shouldn’t use pistachio paste. It needs real crushed pistachio and softer chocolate. I’ve had better Dubai chocolate croissants elsewhere. The seating are is constantly being cleaned and bussed by workers. The security guard is a nice addition to prevent homeless from coming in.

The bakery and shop on the ground floor are really really good but are very very busy! Avoid the crowd and head upstairs to the bistro - delicious food, very good selection of cocktails and wines and tentative professional staff - this is hands down the best place to go to when in the are.

+1

What can I say everyone gets their sourdough bowls from here?There's a wonder why it's the freshest in this city.Super cool restaurant.You can even watch the bakers in the back baking the fresh bread.Our waiter was great.Our food was greater and the experience was the greatest.I recommend going to this restaurant while you're in the city of san francisco.Do not miss it

+4

Great food and service. Loved the Rib Eye steak and sour dough. Margaritas pizza and veggies pizza were excellent. Will definitely be back.

What an amazing place to try when in San Francisco! Their food is simply DELICIOUS; the overall vibe of the restaurant is so cool; the only thing is you better prepare for a long wait and slightly grumpy staff. I would say, classic American hospitality.

We had one day in San Francisco, and after seeing their sourdough bowls on an episode of food truck race, we decided this is where our dinner was going to be for the night. We are so glad we stopped here! The food was fresh and very delicious and the service was very good too. The view of Alcatraz and the bay was stunning and we would gladly go back.

The food was delicious I had the ½ roast Beef Sandwich and a Bread Bowl Clam Chowder Soup. Beautiful atmosphere and loved to see the bakers making the sour dough bread ❤️

+1

Great food! We visited on a Saturday afternoon and it was really busy. Nonetheless our order was served quickly and it was really tasty. We had a range of options and all felt good quality.

I love their sourdough! I always get the bear shaped bread. It’s very cute. It’s cool because you can see the bakers making the bread through the large glass windows.

+3

This is a great bakery, best known for it's sourdough breads - which are very good. However they sell a lot of bakery treats, such as brownies ( which I've never tasted better ), lemon bars, peanut butter/chocolate bars, almond croissants, chocolate croissants and regular croissants. I could go on and on. They make some of their sourdough bread in animal shapes. They are incredible and fun. They sell other hot and cold foods, as well as souvenirs. We loved Boudin Bakery!

A must visit if you’re in San Francisco. The chowders were sooo yum! So much flavour - the clam chowder was definitely my favourite and the sourdough bread is so fresh. Prices are so reasonable as well.

Michelle Bowman

Our oysters were super tasty. The tomato soup was perfect on this chili day. The crab and spinach Alfredo dip was fabulous with their famous bread. We ate upstairs where we watched boats and cruise ships pass.

Kelly Sienicki

We enjoyed a variety of "personal" pizzas with sourdough crust. The "personal" pizza is big enough for two unless you are really hungry. We enjoyed some drinks there two. We visited the bakery afterward and enjoyed their cinnamon coffee cake, blueberry scone, and oreo brownie the next day! So good!!!!!!

+2

Antonio Curiale

Clam chowder is a must in this place! San Francisco clam chowder is basically a creamy New England clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl.  It’s the sourdough that makes it a west-coast dish rather than an east-coast dish.  Allegedly, the first sourdough bread bowl + clam chowder creation came from the San Francisco restaurant, Boudin, whose business is still up and running at Fisherman's Wharf. Also tried the chicken (roast and burger): tender and tasty. Fries are from real potatoes (not frozen ones). Service fast and professional.

+5

Jacob Celestine

Visiting Boudin Bakery at Fisherman's Wharf for their classic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl is a true San Francisco experience. I'm not kidding when I say this dish is special. It's one of their specialties for a reason - the clam chowder is delicious and served perfectly in the fresh sourdough. There’s something incredibly calm and peaceful about sitting there and enjoying the meal while looking out at the view. Even if it's your first time trying it, like it was for me, I can't recommend this dish enough. For a simple, cozy, and deeply satisfying meal that feels iconic to the city, this is a must-try for everyone.

+5

Bryam Cabrera

This restaurant offers a truly unique experience: the food is served inside a bread bowl, and it is absolutely spectacular! Every dish is full of flavor, well-prepared, and really delicious. The location is in a very touristy area, which makes it a perfect stop while exploring around. Prices are surprisingly affordable compared to other nearby places, which is a big plus. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind: the place gets very crowded, and there aren’t enough seats for all the visitors, so you might end up eating standing. Parking is also very difficult to find, so it’s best to get there on foot. Still, the overall experience is totally worth it. If you’re looking for tasty, unique, and affordable food in a tourist-friendly area, this spot is definitely a must-try!

+5

Boudin Bakery & Cafe is a true San Francisco tradition! It was founded in 1849 by Isidore Boudin, a French immigrant from a family of master bakers in Burgundy. It is San Francisco's oldest continuously operating business, 172 years and counting! They have several locations around the Bay Area, and I happen to live within walking distance of two of them. The one on 160 Jefferson Street is my favorite. My little four-legged furry friend and I often take our afternoon walks along Jefferson Street, especially when the cool ocean breeze kicks in and brings the fog with it! Sometimes, we stop at Boudin for a hot chocolate or coffee. Before the pandemic, we’d occasionally step in and grab a bite to eat. My favorite was always the New England Clam Chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl. But like most folks, my post-COVID habits have changed, so now, without any particular reason, I usually just grab something to go.

They are known for their sour-dough for a reason, it was some of the best I have ever had. I got the clam chowder and was happy as those clams. The chowder as good, the bread bowl was great, and the vibes in the restaurant are also very fun.

Mike Henderson

Solid food and service, comfortable atmosphere in the upstairs restaurant away from the pier crowds and noise. Of course, the bread is delicious! I'd recommend the sandwiches on sourdough or just stick with the amazing bread and butter over the sourdough bread bowl soups. The soups were good, not super interesting, and the bread bowl isn't really crispy on the outside. But just getting the baguette style bread sliced with butter is phenomenal. I also got the heirloom tomato salad which was great! Servers are fine, attentive, no issues with speed of service. The dining room has lots of natural light, good views of the harbor, and is up and away from the crowds. Bar has really nice cocktails and good service.

Abhijeet srivastava

I stopped by Boudin at Fisherman’s Wharf and had a really enjoyable meal. The location is classic San Francisco right by the water, lively atmosphere, and the smell of fresh sourdough everywhere. You can even watch the bakers shaping the bread, which adds to the whole experience. I tried a few items from their menu, and everything came out fresh and flavorful: • Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread Bowl This is the dish everyone talks about, and it really lives up to the hype. The chowder was rich, creamy, and loaded with clams, and the sourdough bowl had that perfect tang and chew. The best part is tearing off pieces of the bread and dipping it into the soup classic SF comfort food. • Rustic Tomato Soup A lighter vegetarian option but very satisfying. It came topped with sourdough croutons and shaved Parmesan, adding great texture and flavor. The tomato soup itself was smooth and balanced, not too acidic. • Great Grilled Cheese Loved this sandwich. The blend of Havarti and sharp cheddar melted beautifully, and the parmesan-crusted sourdough gave it a nice crisp and salty finish. Simple, but extremely well done. • Chicken Pesto Sandwich One of my favorites. The chicken was tender, the pesto mayo added great herbal flavor, and the sourdough baguette held everything together perfectly. The arugula and tomatoes made it feel fresh, not heavy. Overall, the food was delicious, portions were good, and the sourdough really is the star of the show. It does get busy (very much a tourist spot), and prices are a bit on the higher side, but the quality and experience make it worth a visit. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in Fisherman’s Wharf especially for the chowder in the bread bowl!

+6

San Francisco icon boudin Bakery is a must visit when at the pier area. The Jefferson branch is must bigger with a great street view into the kitchen where all the bakers are busy at their craft. This branch is broken up into a bistro area and a bakers hall area. Their full range of offering from breads to breakfast wraps to pizzas to souvenirs are all available. Try their super cute animal shaped sourdough bread.

We loved the sourdough bread. It was very flavorful. The crust was nice, and the inside of the bread was warm. The chowder had nice flavors. Not close to the best I've had but servicable. The I was impressed with the volume they were able to handle. We sat outside, and even in December, it was pleasant. There wasn't anyone sitting around, so we fed our extras to the plentiful birds, which my son loved feeding the crows, pigeons, sparrows and seagulls. It was really fun and we'll remember it for a long time.

The bread is amazing. The cookies are amazing. The staff is very helpful. Even with long lines at the counter the food came out super fast. We barely sat down and they were calling our number. They are famous for clam chowder in a bread bowl, but I don’t like clams so I ordered the chili. Worst chili ever, seriously a can of a hormel would have been better. But the bread was still good. You can watch them the bread from the window on the street if you want.

justine

stopped in for lunch after a morning of walking along the embarcadero and visiting the sea lions at pier 39. we wanted to show the kids all the sourdough critters at boudin bakery, and opted for more comfortable seating upstairs at the bistro. it was a long weekend and the place was packed but we were promptly seated. service was polite and efficient. my daughter loved the turtle sourdough bread bowl her clam chowder came in, and didn’t have complaints for the soup either. i found the chicken, mash and carrots off the kids menu to be a great value. crab & corn bisque was ok, nothing special. the standout of our meal was definitely the dungeness crab salad. fairly generous portion of sweet, succulent crab on a bed of fresh and beautifully presented vegetables. so refreshing!

A grand establishment that fancies itself both bakery and empire, wherein loaves rise and fortunes fall with equal ceremony. The place hums like an industrious factory, one half devoted to the worship of sourdough, the other to the steady clatter of commerce. I half expected to see a steam engine ladling chowder into bowls. The view of Fisherman’s Wharf was quite enchanting from top floor, a fine panorama to distract the mind from one’s rumbling stomach and the faint suspicion that one has entered a dining conglomerate. Having just returned from Alcatraz, our merry party swore, half in jest and half in hunger, that we should consume nothing but clam chowder that night, a vow as solemn as any made. The chowder did arrive, noble in appearance, I must confess, the bread! Ah, the sourdough! Soft as a maiden’s sigh and pleasingly tangy, it alone might have redeemed the meal. In sum, I departed with my hunger sated but my soul somewhat amused, for Boudin is less a humble eatery than a theatrical performance in which bread, not man, is the true hero.

Tried one of the most recommended restaurants in San Francisco. Unique and worth a stop, though the food didn’t quite wow me.

+1

Historical building with that industrial feel. Can watch the process from behind glass and the bakery counter is well set out and service is relatively quick. Coffee was ok bit was too hot, should be drinkable and not burn your mouth. Pastry was excellent though and there were other options too. It was relatively easy to find a table inside and the atmosphere wasn't too noisy. Was out of the weather and bustle of the pier areas.

I visited a couple of times during a recent visit in SF and it was a bit of hit and miss for me! Great breakfast but very average clam soup!!

This building has such a cool vibe with the working bakery, cafe, sit-down restaurant, and even a bread conveyor belt in the ceiling. The bread was really solid, but I preferred the sourdough pizza crust. The clam chowder is solid, not the freshest or richest ever, and the calamari is a highlight. The dining room also has awesome views of the bay including Alcatraz. Overall great experience!

We ordered a crab sandwich — it was good but nothing special. Same with the clam chowder in a bread bowl: tasty, but I expected more soup. There was more bread than soup.

We couldn't take a trip to San Fran without getting a sourdough bread bowl! We got a little bit of everything and shared it amongst the family. Tried the sourdough clam chowder bowl, and it's as good as advertised. A slice of Pepperoni sourdough pizza, which was decently good. A dungeness crab mac and cheese that was AWESOME! But, for me the start of the show was the Tuna Salad sandwich. It was delicious! For what it is, quick service food in a very touristy area, the food was surprisingly good. There was a LOT of people there, but the cooks were banging the orders out quickly! Keep me in mind, this was at the Bouding Bakery quick service counter. They have a sit down restaurant upstairs that we didn't have time to try. 4/5 Would Recommend!

A fine choice for lunch on the wharf. We ate at the cafe order/pick up and sat in the outdoor picnic area. Probably not a good choice for anyone with gluten issues, otherwise lots of great sourdough options and a decent canned and bottled beverage selection. They’ve conveniently placed the gift/Boudin souvenir offerings in the waiting area.

+1

Boudin Bakery at Fisherman’s Wharf is spacious and full of energy, with a wide selection of food, gifts, and souvenirs. The clam chowder was just okay—not quite as memorable as I expected. It gets very crowded, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours. Next time, I might explore other spots nearby, but it’s still worth a visit for the classic San Francisco experience.

+1

The first time we came here on a Saturday night it was chaos. Couldn't move and the line to Boudin was massive. Came back through the week - nice pastries, cute bread. There's 2 around - one also further down Pier 9.

Food was wonderful! We had the famous clam chowder in the sour dough bread bowl. Hands down wonderful. Atmosphere is beautiful and you overlook the bay. Nice list of wines.

Seems more of a hype than anything else. Food was alright. We liked that they had a crab chowder. We got a crab melt as well - kinda on the dryer side, didn’t hit the spot.

This restaurant is located by the Fisherman Wharf and actually makes their own bread fresh on the premise (you could see the big machines). They have take out, counter service and a dining room. We ate at the dining room with a great view and our food was delicious. The steamed clams bowl was full of garlic flavor and garlic bread on the side for dipping into the juice. The fried calamari was crispy and yet moist. The famous San Francisco clam chowder sourdough bowl was creamy and fresh and yummy to the tummy. Oh…the Lavender Lemon Drop summer cocktail was sweet and delightful!

+4

The bakery offers an impressive variety of items, with a particularly strong selection that caters to different tastes. The opportunity to view the bakery process and learn about its history adds a unique and enjoyable element to the visit. On the downside, the environment can be noisy at times, and staff interactions—especially with tourists—could be more welcoming. Table cleanliness also requires more attention, as high standards of hygiene are essential in a food business. Overall, a solid experience with room for improvement. Rating: 7/10.

It's a go to spot in SF, I highly recommend this location. Parking is in the back and requires website payment but you can get a 1hr free validation at the tablet inside just ask. Bread bowls as absolutely amazing, the sour dough bowl won't let you down. Clam chowder is reasonably priced and the downstairs eating area is like being at a collage campus cafeteria, great atmosphere.

JACKIE MACIEL

The atmosphere is really nice because is Cousy. Food is priced for the taste. Crab chowder is too spicy and no taste. The person who delivered my food made the mistake of giving me clam chowder instead of crab chowder, and when I pointed out the error, they reacted with a bad attitude, throwing the entire dish into the trash from a distance, splashing everything around. They then prepared another bread bowl with the correct soup, but the bread was still covered in splashes. The place is good, and some of their bread is too, but the service and the cleanliness of their restrooms are not.

+2

Food is extremely mid. This place is a tourist trap. Oyster shots are disgusting. The chicken sandwich is bad. Oysters themselves are not shucked well and I kept biting into bits of shell. The crab mac and cheese and lemonade were actually pretty decent, but when half the food sucks, your experience is ruined.

Sohrob H

🥖 A Quintessential San Francisco Sourdough Experience Visiting the flagship Boudin at Fisherman’s Wharf is practically a rite of passage when you're in the city. The atmosphere is vibrant and historic, and you can’t beat the smell of fresh sourdough wafting through the air as you watch the bakers shape loaves into crabs and turtles through the observation window. The food quality itself was actually quite good; the bread has that perfect tangy crust and chewy interior that Boudin is famous for. If you are coming here for the iconic taste of San Francisco, the flavors definitely live up to the reputation. 🚩 A Significant Hygiene Disappointment Unfortunately, the meal took a turn for the worse when I discovered a hair in my sandwich. While I understand that mistakes happen in high-volume kitchens, especially in a tourist-heavy area like the Wharf, it is still a major hygiene concern that immediately affects the appetite. It’s disappointing because the sandwich was otherwise tasty and fresh, but finding a hair mid-meal is a tough hurdle to clear. For a brand as established as Boudin, I really expected a higher level of quality control in the assembly line. ⏳ Challenges with Service and Responsiveness What truly brought the rating down from a potential five stars to a three was the way the staff handled the situation. When I pointed out the issue, I expected a quick and professional resolution. However, the service felt a bit disjointed and slow. I actually had to ask a few different times to get the sandwich remade. Instead of an immediate apology and a priority replacement, it felt like I had to keep following up just to get a clean meal. In a fast-paced cafe environment, the staff should be more empowered to fix these kinds of errors quickly without the guest having to become persistent. Iconic Sourdough: The bread is undeniably excellent and fresh. Crowded Atmosphere: It is a major tourist destination, so expect long lines and a lot of noise. Hygiene Slip-up: Finding a hair was a significant letdown for a place with this much history. Remake Delay: The resolution process was much slower than it should have been, requiring multiple requests. 👍 Final Verdict: Worth it for the Food, if You’re Patient I am giving this Boudin location 3 stars. On one hand, the food was good and that famous sourdough is hard to find elsewhere. On the other hand, the combination of a hair in the food and the sluggish response from the service team made the experience a bit of a headache. If you’re at the Wharf, it’s still worth stopping by for a loaf of bread or a quick bite, but keep an eye on your order and be prepared to stand your ground if the service isn't up to par.

+6

I was a bit skeptical whether to try out the Boudin Bakery or not. The skepticism was mostly around whether the quality of the food would uphold or not given that the bakery is located at the center of tourism. The experience was overall underwhelming. The sourdough was tasty with perfect texture. The clam chowder on the other hand lacked flavors. It’s better if you compare it to something like Panera, but the standards should be higher given the price. They were also insanely packed and the service level showed. The basket that contained my clam chowder had a little too many chili stains on it, presumably from lack of care.

A little disappointed to be honest. I ordered the Pulled Pork Roll. It was like warm and essentially pork smothered in something like Sweet Baby Rays BBQ sauce. Underwhelming.

+3

We opted for the sit down restaurant for a table with a view but honestly it would have been much better to get our food at the cafe portion. The bread bowls are cheaper and there are different options like my daughter wanted the Mac and cheese and the cafe selection is different. I love the sourdough but the chowder was just ok, my cocktail had zero alcohol in it, her pasta with shrimp was super bland. Not worth the extra charges for lack luster service and food. Great spot for memories but the food is just ok.

The restaurant upstairs was great all 5 stars, the downstairs was extremely poor. The crab chowder in their bread bowl was just an easy way to hide how little chowder you get. The crab chowder was too sweet. My wife got a sandwich on their baguette style bread and it was like eating a rubber brick. I have a hard time believing this is the quality they serve normally but that is what I got.

We visited because it’s a well-known bakery with a nice concept and a spacious interior, but it was very disappointing. Both the croissants and the sourdough bread tasted stale and lacked any flakiness or freshness. Unfortunately, the bread was so unenjoyable that we couldn’t finish it and ended up throwing it away. Given the reputation, we expected much better quality.

I had both the clam chowder and the crab chowder. The crab chowder was better. The clam chowder was a completely let down. I wonder if they use canned chowder. It has the clunky consistency of canned soup. And the server didn't even serve it to the top of the bread bowl. I've come to realize there's a lot of food waste eating bread bowls. Their bread is fantastic though, so if you want to try it maybe just get a loaf, but find a clam chowder elsewhere.

I ordered the cioppino at Boudin Restaurant at Fisherman’s Wharf, and this experience was completely unacceptable. While eating, I found an actual rock inside my dish — mixed in with the seafood. This is not only shocking but dangerous. When I called the manager over, his response made the situation even worse. He showed zero urgency or concern, didn’t apologize properly, didn’t say he would speak with the kitchen, and didn’t treat the issue with the seriousness it deserved. He simply said, “I’ll take it off your check,” and walked away. That kind of response is unacceptable for any company, especially one serving as many guests as Boudin does. Situations like this should be taken seriously, addressed immediately, and handled with professionalism and care. As regular customers, we expected far better. Very disappointing and concerning experience. Would like for someone to get ahold of me. And discuss this matter. It's a law suit!

$10 for this sandwich. Also, careful they have extra chargers everywhere - my wife selected no tip and then when we were a block away realized they added a tip on somehow… 2 people and we ended up with a >$70 meal

If you enjoy waiting for 20 minutes for a bowl of half filled clam chowder you’re at the right place. Staff lost track of multiple people’s orders and no apologies were shown. Very rude staff and poor customer service overall.

Food was not tasty at all. Service was slow. Food was dropped off and we didn’t see our waiter until we got the check. Finished my Diet Coke and the waiter didn’t come back to fill it or ask if we wanted another till the end. Had the crab corn chowder and it was dismal at least. Tasted like tomato soup. The crab Mac n cheese was watery and no flavor. The burger was the best thing at a seafood restaurant