Dock and Dine: 5 Restaurants to Visit Via Boat in San Francisco, California
San Francisco has always been a city defined by its connection to the sea. From its historic role as a port town to its present-day status as a global culinary capital, the City by the Bay has long blended maritime charm with world-class cuisine.
Whether you’re cruising the bay in a sailboat, arriving in a motor yacht from Sausalito or coming from a private boat dock rental, San Francisco offers a handful of restaurants that cater to those who come by water. Here are some of the best dock and dine experiences in and around San Francisco.
1. The Ramp
A local favorite with a Caribbean twist, The Ramp is a casual dockside restaurant in the industrial-cool Dogpatch neighborhood near the Mission Creek harbor. With a marina just a short paddle or tender ride away, this is a popular stop for boaters seeking cold drinks, grilled seafood, burgers, plantain chips and live salsa music on weekends. The outdoor patio sits right on the water, making it feel like a true escape from the city.
2. Greens Restaurant
Greens is a pioneering vegetarian restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, Marin Headlands and the marina. Order from a variety of menu items, including grilled polenta, roasted vegetables, a seasonal tasting menu and more. Located inside the Fort Mason Center, it’s a scenic walk from the docks. While you may not be able to tie up directly outside the restaurant, the nearby marina makes this an accessible stop for boaters who don’t mind a brief walk.
3. Waterbar
Just a short stroll from the docks at South Beach Harbor, near the Embarcadero, Waterbar is one of San Francisco’s premier seafood destinations. With dramatic views of the Bay Bridge and a raw bar that rivals any on the West Coast, this is a must-visit for boaters who want to dress up and dine in style after a day on the water. Choose from oysters on the half shell, lobster risotto or whole roasted fish.
4. Mission Rock Resort
Mission Rock Resort offers a relaxed yet polished experience right on the water in the rapidly developing Mission Bay area. It’s an ideal spot for grabbing a post-cruise brunch or happy hour drinks. Small boat access is available at nearby docks for those coming from a marina, the bay or a private boat ramp for rent. The outdoor deck is one of the best-kept secrets for soaking up the sun while watching the boats drift by. Choose from dungeness crab rolls, grilled oysters and a crisp glass of California white wine.
5. Sam’s Anchor Cafe
Okay, it’s not technically in San Francisco, but no list would be complete without Sam’s Anchor Cafe in Tiburon. Just a short sail across the bay, Sam’s offers one of the few true “pull-up-and-dock” experiences in the region. There’s a dedicated dock for boaters on a first-come, first-served basis.
With front-row views of Angel Island and a fun, beach-town vibe, it’s a favorite among local boaters coming from private boat slip rentals or marinas. Order Sam’s Burger, cioppino or a towering Bloody Mary with shrimp and bacon.
