Highlights
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Great beer selection
oChef » Franciscan Crab – San Francisco
Franciscan Crab - San Francisco
Photo from Franciscan Crab
Franciscan Crab at a glance
San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf
- 🦞 Seafood Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $51–$60
mentioned by 167 of the guests
#1233 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#26 Seafood Restaurant out of 48 in San Francisco
Good
7.4 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
828
Reviews
71.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Bay views
- Seafood quality
- Good service
Frequently criticized
- High prices
- Service inconsistency
- Small portions
The restaurant Franciscan Crab is a quintessential San Francisco Seafood Restaurant located right on Fisherman’s Wharf. As you step inside, you’re immediately immersed in a historic yet trendy atmosphere, offering both casual and upscale dining experiences.
You’ll find yourself drawn to the extensive offerings, including a great wine list that perfectly complements the fresh catches. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner or a romantic evening, this spot promises an authentic taste of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.
Overview: Introducting Franciscan Crab
For a memorable meal with a stunning backdrop, Franciscan Crab often delivers. Guests frequently praise the view and the quality of the seafood , making for a generally pleasant dining experience.
The attentive staff also contributes positively to many visits. However, some diners have noted inconsistencies, particularly with certain aspects of the service and the perceived price for the overall experience.
While the food is often well-received, the value proposition can be a point of contention for some.
Good
7.4
out of 10
828
Reviews
71.7%
Satisfaction
187
negative
47
neutral
594
positive
Looking at the overall picture, Franciscan Crab holds a solid Restaurant Score of 7.4 , indicating a generally good experience for most patrons. This is supported by a Customer Satisfaction rate of 71.7% , suggesting that a good majority of diners leave content.
These figures are drawn from a substantial 828 customer comments, with 594 positive remarks outweighing 187 negative ones. Delving into specifics, the Ambience (8.4) stands out as a particular strength, often lauded for its scenic setting.
Food (7.4) also performs well, with many appreciating the quality of the dishes. Service (7.2) is generally good, though not without occasional remarks.
The main area for improvement appears to be Value (4.3), which falls into the average range, suggesting some find the experience a bit costly for what they receive.
What people like
- Stunning Bay Views
- Quality Seafood Dishes
- Attentive Wait Staff
What people don't like
- High Price Point
- Inconsistent Service
- Small Food Portions
With a Recommendation Score of 7.5 , Franciscan Crab is generally a solid choice, particularly if you prioritize a beautiful setting and well-prepared seafood. It’s a place that often leaves a good impression, especially for those seeking a classic waterfront dining experience.
However, be prepared for a higher price point and potential variations in service. If you’re seeking exceptional value or a flawless dining experience without any hitches, you might want to manage your expectations or consider other options.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Franciscan Crab
Food (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 99% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 7.4 and a good customer satisfaction of 72%. Many of the 308 positive remarks rave about the delicious, fresh seafood, especially the crab and clam chowder, highlighting quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation. Guests often find everything cooked just right and full of flavor.
However, not every dish is a winner, as indicated by 93 negative comments. Some diners reported issues with small portions, bland food, or dishes being too salty. There were also mentions of overcooked crab and a lack of freshness in certain items, suggesting some inconsistency in preparation.
Food
428
Reviews
72%
Satisfaction
93
negative
27
neutral
308
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fresh seafood
- Delicious crab
- Excellent chowder
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Overcooked crab
- Inconsistent taste
Often praised
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The server was awesome, the food was excellent, and the view is pretty amazing. I ended up getting the Seafood Ciuchini and it was fantastic!
- crabOn my last visit with my husband and four children, we all relished the whole crab feast. Donning the bibs and using the tools was fun, and the crab was absolutely delicious. While The Franciscan has evolved and doesn't quite evoke the same feeling as before, the food remains great and the setting is unbeatable.
- seafoodThat being said, everyone was very kind and never made us feel like we should leave. The food was amazing, the views were breathtaking, and we got the craving we had for seafood satisfied. It's maybe better as a date night rather than a family meal on vacation, and it is pricey but totally worth it.
- clam chowderclam chowder in a sourdough bowl. That was actually very good.
- fishThe fish and chips were excellent, described as crispy, fresh, and full of flavor. The fish tasted incredibly fresh, and everything was cooked perfectly. The decor inside features a beautiful, nostalgic Art Deco style that feels classic and full of history.
- crab cakesWe had the crab cakes for starters which was moist and actually crab in the middle
- fish and chipsThe fish and chips were excellent, crispy, fresh, and full of flavor.
- FoodFood:5
- delicious foodMy experience at this restaurant was wonderful. The awesome views were complemented by delicious food. I have a personal connection to this place as my dad worked here as a waiter in the late 1950s and 1960s, which is why I will always love this place.
- drinksThe food the drinks the ambiance just WOWZERS
Frequently criticized
- foodIt was my birthday and my kids spent over $400. The drinks were okay, but the food wasn't that great and was overpriced. I don't recommend anyone to dine at this place.
- crabOur waiter was not knowledgeable about allergy options and seemed distracted, requiring me to waive him down twice for refills. I ordered a crab louie salad with extra crab and shrimp; the shrimp was soggy and the crab was dry. The cocktail was overly strong, tasting like pure alcohol.
- breadThe portions were very small, with the regular size pasta being the same as a kids' portion, and there was a $15 difference, which I found to be very overpriced. I ordered a chicken sandwich, but the bread was cold. When I asked for sauce for my shrimp, the staff member looked at me like they had no idea what I was talking about.
- clam chowdersimple clam chowder is over spiced and over salted
- food qualityfood quality dropped dramatically (super salty)
- portionsMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing. The portions were very small, with the regular size pasta being the same as a kids' portion, and there was a $15 difference, which I found to be very overpriced. I ordered a chicken sandwich, but the bread was cold.
- cocktailscocktails were disappointing in presentation
- fishseveral much smaller pieces of fish ready to go
- fish and chipsthe fish and chips and it was tastier at other restaurants
- mealwhy I hadn’t eaten my meal. It was the worst food
If you're craving fresh seafood, especially crab or clam chowder, this place is definitely worth a try, as many find it delicious and well-prepared. Just be mindful that some experiences mention smaller portions or occasional inconsistencies in taste, so manage your expectations.
Service (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 67% of the guests
When it comes to service, guests often rave about the friendly and attentive staff, with many praising the fast service and personalized attention they received. With 108 positive remarks, it’s clear that many diners experienced top-notch hospitality, often highlighting specific servers for their excellent work. The overall service score sits at a solid 7.2, indicating a generally good experience for most.
However, the picture isn't entirely rosy, as reflected by a 69.7% customer satisfaction, suggesting a mixed bag for some. Among the 43 negative comments, issues like long waits, distracted or inattentive waiters, and occasional payment problems surfaced. Some guests also noted a lack of water refills or a decline in service quality, indicating areas where consistency could be improved.
Service
155
Reviews
69%
Satisfaction
43
negative
4
neutral
108
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Fast food service
- Personalized service
What people don't like
- Inattentive staff
- Long waits
- Payment issues
Often praised
- serviceEveryone thoroughly enjoyed their food, and there were no complaints. The restaurant boasts amazing views as it's located near the water, and the service was excellent. We found the paid parking to be sufficient with plenty of space.
- staffMy experience at this restaurant was a pleasure, largely due to the very good seafood and the attentive staff. The floor-to-ceiling windows offering lovely views of the bay also significantly enhanced the dining experience.
- serverMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The server was awesome, the food was excellent, and the view is pretty amazing. I ended up getting the Seafood Ciuchini and it was fantastic!
- waiterWe had a great waiter, and unfortunately I only remember it starts with an A and he is from Guatemala. He was amazing
- ServiceService:5
- friendly serviceThe service is friendly
- wait staffThe wait staff are impeccable
- JulioMy experience at this restaurant was largely positive, primarily due to the impeccable service. I must give a standing ovation to Julio for his outstanding performance. The food was great, though as someone from the East Coast, I found the prices to be quite high.
- LorenLoren our server was great!
- UK MasterCardI was able to just tap my UK MasterCard
Frequently criticized
- serviceWe sat at the bar and were asked to move to a small table. Not a problem, but then the bartender had to take our table and wasn't entirely happy or prompt. The drinks we ordered, the Lemon Drop and Manhattan, were sour and not made properly.
- waiterThe combo platter with crab, shrimp, and mussels served on a sizzling cast iron platter was delicious, complemented by the vegetables. However, our waiter did not check on us and there were no water refills, which made the service a significant letdown. The food itself was a perfect 5/5, but the service was a low 1/5.
- customer serviceDuring my mother's visit from New York, we decided to dine at the same restaurant she had visited eight years ago, this time with my eight-month-old daughter. However, our experience was negatively impacted by the manager, Peter, who failed to provide adequate customer service. When we requested seating by the bay, he declined, stating that our stroller would not fit.
- serverAfter speaking to both the server and then the manager
- Head waiterthe rude Head waiter
- bartenderWe sat at the bar and were asked to move to a small table. Not a problem, but then the bartender had to take our table and wasn't entirely happy or prompt. The drinks we ordered, the Lemon Drop and Manhattan, were sour and not made properly.
- behaviorNevertheless, we observed that there was sufficient space available, especially considering the time of day. His behavior was unprofessional, and I was disappointed by the poor customer service displayed by the staff, except for our server, who was attentive and courteous.
- callthey end my call
- chequeRequested for cheque and it took long time
- chose a 20% tipthe waiter "helpfully" chose a 20% tip for me
Overall, the service here seems to be a bit of a mixed bag, leaning towards good but with some noticeable inconsistencies. If you value friendly and fast service, you'll likely be pleased, but be prepared for the possibility of occasional hiccups like longer waits or less attentive staff.
Ambience (8.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 68% of the guests
The ambiance at this spot truly shines, with a strong focus on creating a memorable setting. Based on 190 customer remarks, the overall experience is rated a good 8.4, and customer satisfaction sits at a very respectable good 87.9%. Many of the 167 positive comments rave about the stunning views, especially of the bay and Alcatraz, the charming nautical theme, and the cozy atmosphere that makes for a great dining experience.
However, not every detail is perfect, with 17 negative remarks highlighting a few areas for improvement. Some guests felt the interior was a bit tired, mentioning concerns about dated tableware and the restrooms. A few also noted that the noise level could be an issue, making conversation difficult at times.
Ambience
190
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
17
negative
6
neutral
167
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Stunning bay views
- Nautical retro vibe
- Cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Dated interior
- Can be noisy
- Restrooms need cleaning
Often praised
- atmosphereI visited the restaurant in the afternoon when it wasn't too crowded. The atmosphere was beautiful. It's my go-to place for out-of-town guests, and I love their bow tie bibs :)
- viewMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The server was awesome, the food was excellent, and the view is pretty amazing. I ended up getting the Seafood Ciuchini and it was fantastic!
- viewsMy experience at this restaurant offered great views and good service. The food was tasty, although the portions were small.
- ambianceThe ambiance is much better than those small restaurants
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- locationthe restaurant lives from its location
- amazing viewsEverything was cooked just right and packed with flavor. The amazing views complemented the meal perfectly, making it a winning combination. Dining at this historic spot was a smart choice, especially in a touristy area where finding good food can be a gamble.
- ocean viewI absolutely loved their Fish and Chips and the Soft Crab Shell Sandwich. The upstairs seating provided a lovely view of the ocean, and it was great that I could choose to sit either inside or outside. The food was rated a 5, and the atmosphere and service were also rated a perfect 5.
- vibeGreat vibe at this restaurant!!
- view of the bayThe view of the bay is spectacular
Frequently criticized
- restroomsnicer restrooms at a public park
- ambianceambiance… not great. Hence the toenails on the floor
- cleaningCould use a more thorough cleaning
- interiorIts very tired inside
- men's bathroomMen's bathroom has only one toilet and two Urinals
- noise levelToo noisy for comfortable conversation.
- noisySalle un peu bruyante
- older ladyan older lady behind us (Karen) asking the waiters
- parking spaceSomewhat difficult to find parking
- seatingHowever, our experience was negatively impacted by the manager, Peter, who failed to provide adequate customer service. When we requested seating by the bay, he declined, stating that our stroller would not fit. Nevertheless, we observed that there was sufficient space available, especially considering the time of day.
If youre looking for a restaurant with breathtaking views and a charming, cozy atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that while the overall vibe is fantastic, some minor details like the interiors age or occasional noise might not be perfect.
Value (4.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 29% of the guests
When it comes to value, its a bit of a mixed bag here, with a score of 4.3, placing it in the average range, and customer satisfaction at a rather poor 20%. Out of 55 total opinions, 11 found the cost and price to be value for money or reasonable price, especially considering the location. Some even noted affordable prices for items like a large beer.
However, the majority of 34 opinions leaned negative, frequently mentioning things being pricey, expensive, or overpriced. Many felt the quality-price ratio was off, and the added 5% Service Charge was a common point of contention, making it not an affordable place' for some.
Value
55
Reviews
20%
Satisfaction
34
negative
10
neutral
11
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonable for location
- Good value for beer
What people don't like
- Overpriced food
- High service charge
- Poor quality-price ratio
Often praised
- pricethe price was reasonable especially considering the touristy location
- pricesthe prices were reasonable
- $$It's well worth the $$
- affordable pricesCeny przystępne
- charge is clearly visiblecharge is clearly visible
- costWe enjoyed a window seat with amazing views of the San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz. It’s a classy spot with delicious food, definitely worth the cost. I highly recommend it if you’re visiting Fisherman’s Wharf.
- large beerThe large beer was a good value
- quality pricein terms of quality price it is not bad
- value for moneybon rapport qualité prix, surtout en groupe
Frequently criticized
- priceWe paid top dollar for what turned out to be very average, frozen food. Furthermore, the food was bland and definitely not worth the price. I would not recommend this place based on the food quality.
- expensiveQuite expensive for what you get
- priceya little pricey
- 5% Service Chargeadd a 5% Service Charge to all orders
- affordable placeDefinitely not an affordable place to go often
- breadSad that they are charging extra for bread now.
- bread and butterpay for Acme bread and butter
- crabcakesoverpriced in my opinion
- expensive sideIt is definitely on the expensive side
- foodfood wasn't that great and over priced
If you're looking for a budget-friendly spot, this might not be your first choice, as many find it quite expensive for what you get. However, if you prioritize location and views, and are prepared for a higher bill, you might still find some aspects to be reasonable.
How are the prices at Franciscan Crab?
You’re looking at roughly 54 per person – reported by 167 diners. That puts it in the $51–$60 category. For a Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, prices are quite spread out. While many enjoy a more mid-range meal, there’s also a good number of diners opting for a more premium experience, which pulls the average up.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 167 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels quite fair for a Seafood Restaurant in San Francisco. It offers a good range, so you can likely find something that fits your budget while still enjoying quality seafood.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Franciscan Crab
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Delicious Fish and Garlic Fries!
My experience at this restaurant was simple and delicious. Before you get the garlic fries, make sure you like garlic! I got fish and garlic chips, which were a top 5 for me.
The service was excellent, a perfect 5 out of 5, and the food was also rated a perfect 5. The atmosphere was pleasant with a rating of 4, and the noise level was quiet, making it easy to talk. This was a great lunch experience for a group of 3-4 people, with a price range of $10–20 per person.
- garlic fries5
- fish9
- garlic chips9
Price per Person
- $91–$100
Visit Type
- Solo Dining
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
3
Disappointing Service, Okay Food
My experience at this restaurant was largely negative due to the terrible service. Despite clearly requesting house water with ice and ordering the crab cake and chowder, the waiter failed to provide water. He also served bread and water to other tables but not mine, even after repeated requests.
When it came time to pay, the wait for the cheque was excessively long. Furthermore, the waiter was unable to provide tissues for cleaning hands after eating seafood. While the food quality was decent (rated 4/5), the overall experience was marred by the lack of basic service.
I will never come again.
- crab cake8
- Chowder8
- food quality8
- house water1
- waiter1
- cheque2
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Awesome Vibe and Calamari!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic! The decor and vibe were awesome, creating a great atmosphere. I highly recommend their calamari.
While the price is a little on the higher side, it's a good location for a family and friends gathering.
- decor and vibe10
- calamari10
- price6
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
9
Outstanding Seafood with Bay Views
My experience at The Franciscan Crab Restaurant was outstanding. The fish and chips were excellent, described as crispy, fresh, and full of flavor. The fish tasted incredibly fresh, and everything was cooked perfectly.
The decor inside features a beautiful, nostalgic Art Deco style that feels classic and full of history. The service was professional, efficient, and friendly. We enjoyed a window seat with amazing views of the San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz.
It’s a classy spot with delicious food, definitely worth the cost. I highly recommend it if you’re visiting Fisherman’s Wharf.
- fish and chips9
- fish10
- Art Deco style9
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
9
Great Seafood with Bay Views
My experience at this restaurant was akin to visiting a place right on the ocean bay. The food was great, even though there was a long wait. We enjoyed the Dungeness crab and legs and a soft shell crab sandwich with seasoned fries.
We chose to sit outside and were treated to great views of San Francisco Bay. I highly recommend this place!
- food9
- Dungeness crab and legs9
- soft shell crab sandwich9
- long wait4
What Franciscan Crab offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Brunch reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Hard liquor
- Late-night food
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Brunch
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Upscale
- Historic
- Cozy
- Trendy
- Romantic
FAQs
What dining options and atmosphere can you find at Franciscan Crab?
At Franciscan Crab, you can enjoy a range of dining experiences from brunch to dinner, including lunch and dessert. The atmosphere is a unique blend of casual, upscale, historic, cozy, trendy, and romantic, ensuring a perfect setting for any occasion. Table service and comfortable seating are always available for your convenience.
Is Franciscan Crab suitable for families and accessible for all guests?
Absolutely! Franciscan Crab is good for kids, offering a dedicated kids’ menu and high chairs to make family dining easy. The restaurant is also fully accessible, with wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, seating, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for every guest.
What is the overall dining experience like at Franciscan Crab?
Franciscan Crab offers a generally good dining experience, reflected in its Restaurant Score of 7.4 . Guests particularly appreciate the Ambience (8.4) and Food (7.4), while Service (7.2) is also well-regarded. Value (4.3) is an area where opinions are more mixed.
What are the main highlights of dining at Franciscan Crab?
Diners consistently praise the restaurant’s stunning bay views and the quality of its seafood dishes, including fresh crab and excellent fish and chips. The overall ambiance is a significant draw for many visitors.
Are there any common concerns or drawbacks when visiting Franciscan Crab?
Some guests find the restaurant to be pricey for the portions received, impacting the perceived value . There are also occasional reports of inconsistent service , with some experiences being less attentive than others.