Sam’s Chowder House in Half Moon Bay is a celebrated restaurant known for its sustainable, ocean-fresh seafood, delivered in a style reminiscent of a New England seafood house. Acclaimed as the “Best Seafood in the Bay Area” by the San Francisco Bay Area A-List and recognized as one of the “Top Three Outdoor Dining Spots in the Bay Area” by San Francisco Magazine, this iconic establishment offers a variety of seafood delights. From lobster and crab to fish and chips, fried calamari, and fresh offerings from the raw bar like oysters and clams, the menu caters to all seafood lovers. Its fame was further bolstered when NBC-TV’s The TODAY Show featured Sam’s famous Lobster Rolls, hailed by the Food Editor as one of the top five “Best Sandwiches in America”.
Established in October 2006, Sam’s Chowder House is a casual, family-friendly restaurant that includes a pet-friendly patio for oceanfront dining. The restaurant is not only a favorite dining spot but also a popular venue for beach weddings, corporate events, and team-building exercises, offering six different private dining areas. Sam’s Chowder House has received numerous accolades, including a Service Hospitality Award from Sante Magazine.
Perched on a cliff with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, Sam’s offers an authentic seafood experience, complete with extensive outdoor seating equipped with cozy heat lamps for enjoying the fresh ocean air. The back patio, welcoming to well-behaved dogs, provides a first-come, first-served seating arrangement. The menu, crafted by award-winning Executive Chef/Partner Lewis Rossman, features daily fresh fish, live Maine lobster, and seasonal local crab, alongside other seafood specialties. Committed to sustainability, Sam’s adheres to the guidelines of the Monterey Bay Aquarium for sourcing seafood and also procures hormone- and antibiotic-free meats. The restaurant works closely with local farmers for locally sourced products.
An interesting eco-friendly aspect of Sam’s Chowder House is its rooftop solar electric system, which significantly contributes to the restaurant’s energy efficiency. The commitment to environmental stewardship extends to their use of 100% biodegradable straws and to-go packaging made from plants.
Visitors to Sam’s can enjoy the breathtaking water views from its expansive deck, which often features live music, adding to the lively atmosphere. Even on colder days, the deck remains a bustling spot for guests to enjoy the scenic backdrop and delicious seafood offerings.
