10 Best Clam Chowder San Francisco (2024 Update)

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If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious dish to warm you up during those chilly San Francisco evenings, then clam chowder is a must-try. Few things capture the essence of the city by the bay as well as its famous clam chowder. A rich and creamy soup made with juicy clams, fresh vegetables, and crispy croutons, it’s a dish that has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike for decades. However, before you dive in to taste the flavors of the city, there are some factors you should consider.

Firstly, you should check the freshness of the ingredients used to make the chowder as it makes a significant difference in the taste of the soup. The seasonings and spices incorporated, the creaminess of the soup are other factors to look out for. Additionally, you might also want to consider the location and ambiance of the restaurant where you dine.

Are you curious to know why clam chowder is a staple food in San Francisco? Would you like to discover the best spots to sample the soup in the city? Do you want to understand the unique flavors that make each restaurant's chowder distinct? If these questions intrigue you, then read on as we explore the history, culture, and flavors of the iconic clam chowder of San Francisco.

10 Best Clam Chowder San Francisco

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for those who want a hearty and delicious bowl of New England clam chowder at home.
2
The product is ideal for those who enjoy canned New England clam chowder in bulk quantities.
3
The product is ideal for those who want a quick and easy-to-prepare clam chowder in bulk quantity.
4
Ideal for those looking for a convenient, gluten-free soup to enjoy at home or on the go.
5
Ideal for those who want a hearty, filling and flavorful soup with chunks of potatoes and clams.
6
It is an ideal choice for those looking for a tasty and protein-packed New England clam chowder in a convenient can.
7
Ideal for making homemade clam chowder soup in convenient, pre-measured packs for large families or gatherings.
8
The product is ideal for those who want to enjoy a quick and delicious bowl of New England clam chowder.
9
This product is ideal for those who enjoy rich and creamy New England-style clam chowder in a convenient pack of six.
10
It is ideal for those who want a filling and delicious meal with the flavor of New England-style clam chowder.
It is ideal for those who want a hearty and delicious bowl of New England clam chowder at home.
The product is ideal for those who enjoy canned New England clam chowder in bulk quantities.
The product is ideal for those who want a quick and easy-to-prepare clam chowder in bulk quantity.
Ideal for those looking for a convenient, gluten-free soup to enjoy at home or on the go.
Ideal for those who want a hearty, filling and flavorful soup with chunks of potatoes and clams.
It is an ideal choice for those looking for a tasty and protein-packed New England clam chowder in a convenient can.
Ideal for making homemade clam chowder soup in convenient, pre-measured packs for large families or gatherings.
The product is ideal for those who want to enjoy a quick and delicious bowl of New England clam chowder.
This product is ideal for those who enjoy rich and creamy New England-style clam chowder in a convenient pack of six.
It is ideal for those who want a filling and delicious meal with the flavor of New England-style clam chowder.

1. Campbell's Homestyle New England Clam Chowder, 18.8 Oz. (Pack Of 12)

Campbell's Homestyle Soup brings a rich seaside flavor to your table with its delicious blend of succulent clams, tender potatoes, and vegetables. This package includes twelve (12) 18.8 oz cans of New England Clam Chowder, perfect for a family dinner or an office/school lunch. The soup is easy to heat up, just pour it into a microwave-safe bowl and heat it for up to 2 minutes. Wait for 1 minute and enjoy the warm and savory flavors of the soup. Campbell's Homestyle Soup does not contain any artificial colors or high fructose corn syrup, making it a healthy and hearty option for everyone.

Pros

  • Rich and savory flavor of succulent clams, tender potatoes, and vegetables
  • Easy to heat up in the microwave
  • No artificial colors or high fructose corn syrup, making it a healthy option for everyone

2. Chincoteague Seafood New England Clam Chowder, 15-Ounce Cans (Pack Of 12)

Looking for a traditional, authentic and favorite seasoning that is all-natural? Look no further than this Naturally Sea-Licious seasoning! This seasoning is made with all-natural ingredients and contains no MSG, preservatives, or artificial flavorings or coloring. It has been condensed for ease of preparation, making it a convenient choice for busy cooks who still want to enjoy the flavors of a traditional seasoning. Whether you are cooking up a classic family recipe or trying something new, this seasoning is sure to add a delicious flavor to your dish.

Pros

  • All-natural ingredients
  • No MSG, preservatives, or artificial flavorings or coloring
  • Condensed for ease of preparation

3. Snows New England Clam Chowder, Condensed, 15-Ounce Cans (Pack Of 12)

Looking for a high-quality clam chowder that you can enjoy anytime? Look no further than this pack of twenty-four 15oz cans of premium clam chowder. Made by a professional chef, this chowder is bursting with flavor and made with only the freshest clams. With no MSG added, you can rest assured that you're getting a healthy and delicious meal every time you open a can. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or an easy dinner, this clam chowder is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Pros

  • Made with fresh clams for maximum flavor
  • No MSG added for a healthier option
  • Convenient pack of twenty-four cans for easy meal planning

4. Progresso Traditional, New England Clam Chowder Soup, Gluten Free, 18.5 Oz. (Pack Of 12)

Enjoy the taste of traditional New England clam chowder with this delicious canned soup. Made with tender chunks of real potatoes and clams, this soup is a perfect meal option for those who crave a hearty and flavorful dish. The soup is ready-to-serve in under 5 minutes, making it a quick-and-easy meal option for busy individuals. This 18.5 oz. pack of 12 cans is perfect for stocking up your pantry, and the soup is made with quality ingredients, free from any artificial flavors.

Pros

  • Traditional New England clam chowder taste
  • Made with real potatoes and clams
  • Quick and easy to prepare
  • Quality ingredients

5. Campbell's Chunky Soup, New England Clam Chowder, 18.8 Oz Can

Campbell's Chunky Soup is a pantry staple that is perfect for those who are always on the go. This ready-to-serve soup is rich and flavorful, crafted with generous pieces of succulent clams and hearty potato chunks. Each can contains 12 grams of protein and vegetables, making it a hearty meal. With a microwaveable feature, this soup is easy to prepare, just heat and serve. It is a perfect choice for outdoor adventures, weeknights at home, or even for work or school lunches.

Pros

  • Rich and flavorful soup
  • Contains generous chunks of succulent clams and hearty potato chunks
  • High in protein and contains vegetables
  • Easy to prepare and microwaveable

6. Snow's Condensed New England Clam Chowder, 15 Oz Can (Pack Of 12) – 4g Protein Per Serving – Authentic New England Style Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy flavor of New England Clam Chowder with Snow's Clam Chowder. Made with fresh clams and chunks of hearty potatoes, this condensed clam chowder is a traditional recipe that is sure to satisfy your taste buds. The 12 pack of 15-ounce cans of Snow's Clam Chowder is perfect for stocking up your pantry and enjoying a hearty meal anytime you want. Each serving of this authentic chowder contains 4 grams of protein, making it a nutritious meal for your family. With Snow's Clam Chowder, you can now enjoy the authentic taste of New England clam chowder in a convenient can.

Snow's Clam Chowder is made from the finest ingredients to bring you a delicious taste that you can always count on. Whether it's a family dinner or a quick meal, this chowder is the perfect choice for all your favorite family meals. Snow's clams are sourced from a Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certified sustainable fishery, ensuring that they are sustainably managed sources. So you can enjoy your meal with the satisfaction of knowing that it is made with responsibly sourced ingredients.

Pros

  • Made with fresh clams and chunks of hearty potatoes
  • Contains 4 grams of protein per serving
  • Convenient pantry ingredient
  • Perfect for family meals
  • Sustainably managed sources

7. Bear Creek Soup Mix, Clam Chowder, 10.4 Ounce (Pack Of 6)

Experience the charm of a New England coastal inn with Bear Creek chowder. This savory chowder is thick, rich, and creamy, and boasts chunks of potatoes that add texture and flavor to every bite. The sea of flavor will transport you to the coast where you can enjoy a comforting bowl of chowder. This easy-to-prepare mix yields about 8 one-cup servings, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The chowder has 0 grams trans fat, so it's a healthier option than other chowders on the market. For a little variety, try adding corn, carrots, and asparagus to the mix to create a delicious and wholesome meal.

Pros

  • Thick, rich and creamy texture
  • Chunks of potatoes add flavor and texture
  • Easy to prepare mix

8. Campbell’s Condensed New England Clam Chowder, 10.5 Ounce Can (Pack Of 12)

Campbell's Condensed New England Clam Chowder is a pantry staple that is perfect for a warm and hearty meal. It is made with high-quality ingredients, including succulent clams, creamy broth, and potatoes. This canned soup is a family favorite that will warm you up inside and out.

One of the great things about this clam chowder is that it is easily customizable. Simply add milk and heat it up to savor the delicious flavor. Each 10.5 ounce can of clam chowder has 2.5 servings, making it a convenient and practical option for any mealtime.

In addition to being delicious and convenient, this canned soup is also low in calories. It has only 80 calories per 8-ounce serving, which is half condensed soup and half milk. This makes it a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality ingredients
  • Easily customizable
  • Low in calories

9. Bar Harbor Chowder, New England Clam, 15 Ounce (Pack Of 6)

Indulge in the delicious restaurant quality New England clam chowder that is perfect for a cozy and comforting meal on a rainy day. This chowder is produced in small batches to ensure the freshest and finest quality. It is made with all-natural ingredients for a wholesome taste that you can enjoy guilt-free. The chowder is created using fresh clams off the docks of Maine, giving it an authentic and delightful flavor.

Pros

  • Restaurant quality taste
  • Perfect for a comforting meal on a rainy day
  • Small batch production ensures freshness and quality
  • Made with all-natural ingredients
  • Authentic flavor from fresh Maine clams

10. Campbell's Chunky Soup, New England Clam Chowder, 18.8 Ounce Can (Case Of 12)

Enjoy the rich and flavorful Campbell’s Chunky New England Clam Chowder, which comes in a pack of twelve (12) 18.8 oz cans. This soup is crafted with generous pieces of succulent clams and hearty potato chunks, providing delicious big flavors in every bite. Each can of this soup contains vegetables and 12 grams of protein, making it a hearty meal that can keep you full for longer. You can check the nutrition information for the sodium content of this soup. This soup is a convenient pantry staple that can be taken on outdoor adventures, enjoyed on weeknights at home, or brought to work or school. It is also easy to microwave, making it a simple and quick meal that can be prepared in minutes. Just heat and serve.

Pros

  • Rich and flavorful soup with generous pieces of clams and potato chunks
  • Contains 12 grams of protein and vegetables in each can
  • Convenient pantry staple that is easy to prepare and microwaveable

Best Clam Chowder San Francisco FAQs

How can I make San Francisco clam chowder at home?

One of the best ways to make San Francisco clam chowder at home is to start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. You'll need clams, bacon, onions, celery, potatoes, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, flour, and seasonings like thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Once you have everything, you can start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then removing it from the pan and sautéing the onions and celery in the bacon fat. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings, and let everything simmer until the potatoes are tender. In a separate pot, steam the clams until they open, then remove the meat from the shells and add it to the chowder. Finally, add the heavy cream and a roux made from butter and flour to thicken the chowder. Serve hot with the crispy bacon on top for an authentic San Francisco clam chowder experience.

How is San Francisco clam chowder traditionally served?

San Francisco clam chowder is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by many for years. Traditionally, it is served in a bread bowl, which is a sourdough bread that has been hollowed out and filled with the creamy, flavorful chowder. The bread bowl not only adds an extra layer of texture to the dish, but it also serves as a vessel for the soup, making it easy to transport and eat. The chowder itself is made with fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and celery, and is seasoned with herbs and spices to create a rich, savory flavor. Some restaurants also serve the chowder with a side of oyster crackers or crusty bread, which can be used to dip into the soup or to soak up any remaining broth. Overall, San Francisco clam chowder is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly day or any time you're in the mood for some classic comfort food.

What are some recommended drink pairings to go with San Francisco clam chowder?

San Francisco clam chowder is a classic dish that is best enjoyed with a great beverage pairing. When it comes to choosing the perfect drink to complement the rich and creamy flavors of clam chowder, there are several options to consider.

One of the most popular drink pairings for clam chowder is a crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The acidity in the wine helps to cut through the richness of the chowder, while the citrus notes add a refreshing contrast to the flavors of the dish.

For those who prefer beer, a light, refreshing lager or pilsner can be an excellent choice. These beers have a clean, crisp taste that complements the flavors of the chowder without overpowering them.

If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water or lemonade can be a great choice. The bubbles in the sparkling water help to cleanse the palate between bites, while the citrus flavor in the lemonade adds a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the chowder.

Ultimately, the best drink pairing for San Francisco clam chowder will depend on personal taste and preference. Whether you prefer wine, beer, or a non-alcoholic option, there are plenty of great choices that can enhance your dining experience and make your clam chowder even more enjoyable.

What are the different variations of San Francisco clam chowder?

San Francisco clam chowder is a popular dish that originated from the San Francisco Bay Area. It is a creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and other ingredients. There are several variations of this dish, each with its unique twist.

One popular variation is the New England-style clam chowder, which is made with milk or cream and has a thick, creamy texture. Another variation is Manhattan clam chowder, which is made with a tomato-based broth and has a thinner consistency than New England-style chowder.

San Francisco-style clam chowder is known for its sourdough bread bowl presentation. This variation is made with a blend of cream and milk, potatoes, onions, celery, and herbs. The soup is thickened with flour and butter and is served in a bread bowl, which is a San Francisco tradition.

Other variations of San Francisco clam chowder include adding bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor or using different types of clams, such as razor clams or littleneck clams.

Overall, San Francisco clam chowder has many variations, but the common thread is the use of fresh clams, potatoes, onions, and a creamy base. It's a classic dish that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

What are the essential ingredients in San Francisco clam chowder?

San Francisco clam chowder is a popular dish that is known for its creamy and savory taste. The essential ingredients in San Francisco clam chowder include fresh clams, bacon, onions, celery, garlic, potatoes, heavy cream, chicken or vegetable broth, butter, flour, and seasonings such as black pepper and thyme.

To prepare this delicious dish, the clams are first steamed until they open, and then removed from the shells and chopped into bite-sized pieces. The bacon is fried until crispy, and then the onions, celery, and garlic are added and cooked until softened. Next, the potatoes and broth are added and simmered until the potatoes are tender. Finally, the heavy cream, butter, and flour are added to thicken the soup, and the chopped clams are added back in.

The result is a rich and hearty soup that is perfect for a chilly day. San Francisco clam chowder is often served in a sourdough bread bowl, which adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a delicious comfort food, San Francisco clam chowder is a must-try dish.

What is the best time of year to enjoy San Francisco clam chowder?

San Francisco is known for its delicious clam chowder, which is a creamy seafood soup that's often served in a sourdough bread bowl. If you're planning a trip to San Francisco and want to enjoy some authentic clam chowder, the best time of year to visit would be during the colder months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is cooler, and the fog is thicker, which makes for a cozy atmosphere that's perfect for enjoying a warm bowl of chowder.

There are also a few festivals in San Francisco that celebrate clam chowder, such as the Fisherman's Wharf Chowder Fest in February and the Clam Chowder Cook-Off in October. These events are great opportunities to try different types of chowder from various restaurants and vendors.

However, if you're not able to visit during the colder months, don't worry – clam chowder is available year-round in San Francisco. Just be sure to visit a reputable restaurant or vendor to ensure you're getting the best quality chowder.

What is the history of clam chowder in San Francisco?

Clam chowder has a long history in San Francisco, dating back to the mid-1800s. It is believed that the dish was first introduced by Portuguese fishermen who settled in the area and made use of the abundant supply of clams found in the San Francisco Bay. The dish quickly became popular among locals and visitors alike, and it was served in many of the city's restaurants and cafes.

One of the most famous spots for clam chowder in San Francisco is Fisherman's Wharf, where it is still a staple of the dining scene today. In fact, the annual Fisherman's Wharf Chowder Festival draws thousands of visitors each year who come to sample the best clam chowder the city has to offer.

Over the years, clam chowder in San Francisco has evolved and taken on many different forms. Some restaurants serve it in a sourdough bread bowl, while others add bacon or other ingredients to give it a unique twist. Regardless of the variation, however, clam chowder remains a beloved dish in San Francisco and a must-try for anyone visiting the city.

What is the nutritional value of San Francisco clam chowder?

San Francisco clam chowder is a popular dish that combines fresh clams, vegetables, and cream to create a rich and hearty soup. The nutritional value of this dish can vary depending on the recipe and serving size, but on average, a single cup of San Francisco clam chowder contains around 200-300 calories, with roughly 15-20 grams of fat and 10-15 grams of protein.

In terms of micronutrients, San Francisco clam chowder is a good source of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, and Iron. However, it is important to note that some recipes may contain high levels of sodium, so individuals who are watching their salt intake should be mindful of this.

Overall, San Francisco clam chowder can be a nutritious and satisfying meal when enjoyed in moderation and prepared with fresh, wholesome ingredients.

What makes San Francisco clam chowder unique compared to other versions?

San Francisco clam chowder is unique compared to other versions because it has its own distinct flavor profile and ingredients. The recipe typically includes fresh clams, heavy cream, potatoes, onions, celery, and thyme, which all work together to create a rich and savory broth. Unlike other clam chowder recipes, San Francisco clam chowder often features the addition of sourdough bread, which gives the dish a tangy and slightly acidic note. The sourdough bread is often used as a serving vessel, with the top of the bread bowl removed and the chowder poured inside. This not only adds a unique texture to the dish, but also pays homage to the city's famous sourdough bread tradition. San Francisco clam chowder is also known for its use of local, sustainably sourced ingredients, which adds to the overall freshness and quality of the dish. All of these elements come together to make San Francisco clam chowder a truly unique and delicious culinary experience.

Which restaurants in San Francisco serve the best clam chowder?

San Francisco is well-known for its delicious seafood, particularly its clam chowder. It can be quite a task to pick the best place to get this creamy soup, but there are a few restaurants that stand out.

One of the most famous places to have clam chowder is Fisherman's Wharf. Here you will find many stalls and restaurants serving hot and fresh clam chowder. Some of the most popular places are Alioto's, Boudin Bakery, and Chowders.

Another great option is the Swan Oyster Depot, which is a small family-owned restaurant that serves up the freshest seafood. Their clam chowder is a must-try and is made using their secret recipe.

Other noteworthy places to get clam chowder in San Francisco include Fog Harbor Fish House, Hog Island Oyster Co., and Anchor Oyster Bar.

No matter where you go, you're sure to find some delicious clam chowder in San Francisco. Each place has its own unique twist on the classic soup, so don't be afraid to try a few different spots to find your favorite.

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