Travel4Food

On a recent adventure to Sausalito, San Francisco, I indulged in the ultimate Sausalito seafood dining experience at Scoma’s. This renowned seafood restaurant, consistently ranked among the top eateries in the area by Trip Advisor, is nestled in a charming standalone “beach house.” With its delightful interior décor and promise of stunning views of the Sausalito waters, Scoma’s sets the stage for a memorable meal. Though the rain obscured the scenic vistas during our visit, the culinary delights more than made up for it, making it an unforgettable seafood dining experience.

Arriving before the restaurant officially opened, we were promptly seated once the doors were unlocked, a testament to their efficient service. Our party of four decided on a diverse selection for lunch:

• Clam Chowder in a Bowl ($13.95)
• Clam Chowder in a Cup ($10.95)
• Calamari Fritte ($19.50)
• Steamed Manila Clams ($19.95)
• Lobster Risotto ($33.95)
• Linguine con Vongole ($28.95)
• Chianti Braised Wagyu Short Ribs ($33.50)

Starters @ Scoma’s: Warm, Hearty Soups and Surprise Calamari

The clam chowder was the first to arrive, and it set a high standard right away. Rich and creamy, it featured a generous amount of clams and potatoes, making it incredibly filling. By the time we finished our soups, we were already half-full, which speaks volumes about the portion size and quality.

Next, we sampled the Calamari Fritte. This dish was a pleasant surprise. The squid was lightly coated with flour and deep-fried to perfection, preserving its fresh taste and tender texture. Unlike the rubbery calamari often served at other restaurants, Scoma’s calamari retained a delightful flavor that confirmed its freshness.

A Taste of the Ocean: Steamed Manila Clams

The steamed Manila clams were a highlight for me. Cooked with a harmonious blend of clam juice, garlic, onion, white wine, and butter, the clams were tender and brimming with the essence of the ocean. Each bite transported me to the seaside, and the balance of flavors was impeccable.

Main Courses @Scoma’s: Generous Portions and Mixed Reviews

As the main courses arrived, we were struck by the generous portions. The linguine con vongole was delicious, featuring a bounty of clams that complemented the perfectly cooked pasta. However, the Chianti braised wagyu short ribs were a letdown. Overcooked and tough, they were difficult to chew and didn’t live up to the dish’s potential.

The lobster risotto, made with spinach, tomato, mushrooms, and cooked in shrimp stock, was a mixed experience. While the risotto itself was well-prepared, the combination of ingredients didn’t quite appeal to my palate. The dish lacked the cohesive flavor profile I was hoping for, leaving me slightly disappointed.

Final Thoughts about Scoma’s

Despite the rain dampening our view, Scoma’s provided a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The appetizers and bread were delightful, making it a great spot to enjoy the Sausalito area on a clear day. Would I return? Perhaps, but I would likely explore different menu items to fully experience the breadth of what Scoma’s has to offer.

In conclusion, Scoma’s is a charming restaurant with standout appetizers and a pleasant ambiance. While some main dishes fell short of expectations, the overall experience was enjoyable. For those looking to savor fresh seafood and soak in the Sausalito scenery, Scoma’s is certainly worth a visit—especially on a sunny day.

The Verdict (ave of 2.0 out of 3 thumbs up)