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Nestled in San Francisco's historic North Beach, Sotto Mare serves authentic Italian seafood dishes that celebrate the bounty of the ocean with a vibrant neighborhood charm. This inviting spot combines old-school vibes with a fresh, flavorful menu perfect for seafood enthusiasts and pasta lovers alike.
Starters
Kick off your meal with a selection of fresh and vibrant starters featuring the ocean's finest. Dive into crisp Oysters on Half Shell or savor sweet Clams on Half Shell, each served with pristine freshness. For shellfish lovers, the Cold Cracked Dungeness Crab or Richie’s Marinated Cold Cracked Dungeness Crab deliver a hearty and succulent experience. Cocktail options such as the bracing Oyster Shooter and Clam Shooter add a spirited twist.
- Smoked Salmon – delicately smoked to perfection
- Benita’s Baccala – traditional salted cod with a savory touch
- Crab, Prawn, and Bay Shrimp Cocktails – chilled and refreshing seafood classics
The Octopus Salad, featuring tender octopus with fresh vegetables, and the Blue Cheese Wedge with crisp iceberg and tangy dressing provide a perfect balance to the richer seafood plates. Don't miss the legendary Crab Louis, Prawn Louis, Bay Shrimp Louis, or Combo Louis salads, all beautifully layered with lettuce, tomato, and egg for a satisfying start.
Mains
Sotto Mare’s mains are a tribute to Italian coastal cuisine, featuring fresh seafood expertly prepared to highlight natural flavors. The mussel and clam steamers, including a combo of both, are simmered in savory broth for a comforting dish. The “Best Damn Crab Cioppino” stands out with a rich tomato broth brimming with crab, shrimp, calamari, clams, mussels, and pasta—a must-try signature.
- Whole and Half Crab Diavolo over Linguine – spicy tomato sauce ignites the sweet crab and pasta
- Grilled Sand Dabs, Rex Sole, and Salmon – simply seasoned to celebrate delicate fish
- Sea Scallop and Prawn Saute, plus combined Prawn/Scallop Saute – perfectly seasoned and sautéed
- Calamari Saute with Pomodoro Sauce – tender squid in a rich tomato sauce
- Lobster Ravioli in a luscious tomato cream sauce
- Linguine with Manila Clams or mixed Seafood in white cream or pomodoro sauces
For pasta purists, choose from fettuccine, linguine, or penne tossed in pesto, alfredo, aglio-olio-peperoncino, or pomodoro sauces. The Boston Clam Chowder and house tomato sauce dishes add comforting classics to the savory lineup.
Desserts
Sotto Mare focuses on savory delights and does not offer desserts, encouraging guests to savor the rich flavors of their seafood-centric menu instead.
Drinks and Specials
Complement your meal with a curated selection of beers and wines that perfectly pair with Sotto Mare’s seafood offerings. The bar also serves cocktails to enhance your dining experience. Whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy the outdoor seating in San Francisco’s lively North Beach, the friendly staff and cozy atmosphere make every visit memorable.
