What should I order at Sam's Chowder House?
Sam's Chowder House
Lobster Roll
Mentioned multiple times as 'best lobster roll,' 'stuffed to the brim,' and 'overflowing with meat,' praised for generous portions and excellent taste, considered a must-try and highly recommended by many reviewers.
Crab Cake
Frequently highlighted for being packed with crab, crispy, meaty, and flavorful without fillers. Many reviewers specifically recommend it and praise its quality and taste.
Clam Chowder
Described as having good consistency, either the best or second-best around, well-seasoned, and a staple dish that is consistently enjoyed by patrons.
Gumbo
Noted for having a good amount of crab and being chunky and flavorful, making it a satisfying choice among seafood soups.
Oysters (including Oysters Rockefeller and Grilled Oysters)
Several mentions of oysters being perfect, delicious, and well-prepared, including the Oysters Rockefeller, which is highlighted as a tasty appetizer.
Fish and Chips
Mentioned as good though slightly under-seasoned, with malt vinegar improving the flavor. Overall a solid and enjoyable dish.
Seafood Boil
Highly praised for freshness, perfect cooking, generous portions, and flavorful combination of lobster, mussels, clams, sausage, corn, and potatoes with melted butter.
Scallops
Recommended for their amazing taste and paired with fennel salad or sauce, though noted as somewhat pricey, they are considered worth it for scallop lovers.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 8:30 PM |
About Sam's Chowder House
Classic seafood house known for clam chowder, lobster rolls & patio dining overlooking the Pacific.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Live music
- Serves local specialty
- Sports
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Happy hour drinks
- Happy hour food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Counter service
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Romantic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Brunch reservations recommended
- Lunch reservations recommended
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Sam's Chowder House known for?
It is best known for the Naked Lobster Roll and clam chowder, both of which reviewers repeatedly describe as rich, creamy, and full of flavor. The oceanfront patio and Half Moon Bay location also come up often, since many people pair the seafood with the view and the nearby coast trail.
What dishes are most recommended at Sam's Chowder House?
Reviewers most often recommend the Naked Lobster Roll, clam chowder, fish and chips, cioppino, and Dungeness crab cakes. Other specific favorites mentioned include oysters, scallops, swordfish, and the olive oil and sea salt soft serve dessert.
What is the atmosphere like at Sam's Chowder House?
The vibe is casual but polished, with huge windows, a patio, and clear ocean views that make it feel scenic and relaxed. It works well for groups, families, tourists, and solo diners, and several reviews mention it as a good place to linger before or after a walk along the coast.
Is Sam's Chowder House good value, and what is the price range?
The listed price range is $20 to $40, and reviewers generally say the pricing fits the Half Moon Bay and oceanfront setting. Some dishes, like three scallops for $17, are described as a bit expensive, but many guests still call the meal worth it because the seafood is fresh and the portions and location feel worthwhile.
When is the best time to visit Sam's Chowder House?
Weekdays, especially around lunch, are often the easiest time to go, while weekends can bring a long wait and even a line before opening. Reviewers also note that the patio is especially appealing when the weather is good, since the ocean view and sunset windows are part of the experience.
Is parking available at Sam's Chowder House?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking is available.
Is Sam's Chowder House kid-friendly?
Yes, Sam's Chowder House is good for kids.
Restaurants like Sam's Chowder House in Half Moon Bay
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