San Francisco is a city with serious food game, whether playing as multi-featured food served in a white tablecloth hush or a simple crab cocktail eaten in the midst of the boisterous clamor of Fisherman's Wharf. Also, with the Super Bowl heading to nearby Santa Clara, the eager crowds craving for a taste of the local food scene won't be frustrated.
Cioppino
This is the fish stew made in San Francisco by Italian fishermen in North Beach in the late 1800s. They'd hurl into a pot whatever fish was left from the day's catch like crab, shrimp, clamps, fish and so forth along with onions, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, wine and herbs. Italian restaurants began serving the dish, and it was a piece of the area's culinary lexicon.
This is a completely caffeinated city with cafés on just about every block. For something strange, try Ritual, a pioneer in the specialty caffeine movement. The flagship area is 1026 Valencia St. in the Mission District. Blue Bottle that started across the bay in Oakland has a spot in San Francisco's Ferry Building. Furthermore, for espresso with that little additional kick, try the popular Irish coffee at the Buena Vista Cafe in Fisherman's Wharf (2765 Hyde St.).
Crab
You can get a traditional crab cocktail at one of the numerous vendors lining Fisherman's Wharf. For an alternate take, try it broiled and presented with garlic noodles at Thanh Long (4101 Judah St.). Like your crab crispy, then get it shelled, battered and pan fried at the R&G Lounge in Chinatown (631 Kearny St.).
Oysters
Oysters on the half shell are a longstanding San Francisco custom. For an exquisite experience, take some with an awesome view of the Bay Bridge attempt Waterbar (399 The Embarcadero). Starting Jan. 30, dinner will be joined by a free light show with the return of the Bay Lights, a display that flashes nightly on the west span of the bridge. Additionally, on the waterfront is Hog Island Oyster Bar in the Ferry Building.
