Betty Lous Seafood and Grill

I discovered Betty Lou’s while exploring Columbus Avenue’s culinary scene, drawn in by the warm glow from the windows and the incredible aroma of garlic and grilled seafood. As a food blogger, I’m always searching for places that offer both exceptional quality and authentic atmosphere, and Betty Lou’s delivers on both fronts. I wanted to share this gem with you because it represents exactly what makes San Francisco’s dining scene special - incredible fresh seafood, skilled preparation, and that cozy neighborhood feel that makes you want to become a regular.

Restaurant Info

• Restaurant Type: Seafood, Steakhouses, Bars
• Address: 318 Columbus Ave San Francisco, CA 94133 , USA
• Phone: (415) 757-0569

🍽️ If you’re looking for where to eat next, check out this review of Cafe Bakery & Restaurant to see what makes this place worth a visit.

Betty Lou’s Seafood and Grill is nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood at 318 Columbus Ave. This charming spot combines the best of a seafood restaurant, steakhouse, and bar into one welcoming space. The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between upscale dining and casual comfort, with nautical decor that feels authentic rather than kitschy. The open kitchen lets you watch chefs expertly preparing dishes, while the well-stocked bar serves creative cocktails that pair beautifully with the seafood offerings. It’s the kind of place that works equally well for a romantic dinner, family celebration, or casual drinks with friends.

The pasta at Betty Lou’s is an absolute revelation - I had their signature seafood linguine and it was cooked to perfect al dente perfection. The noodles had that ideal slight resistance when you bite into them, coated in a garlic white wine sauce that’s both rich and light at the same time. What really sets it apart is how they incorporate fresh seafood directly into the dish, with plump shrimp and tender scallops that complement the pasta rather than overpower it. Each forkful is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Looking for a fun way to boost memory and prevent cognitive decline? Try Sudoku Journey featuring Grandpa Crypto for daily mental exercise.

As someone who’s tried seafood from coast to coast, I can confidently say Betty Lou’s serves some of the freshest seafood in San Francisco. Their grilled salmon melts in your mouth with a beautiful smoky char, while the raw bar offerings - especially the oysters - taste like they were just pulled from the Pacific. The seafood platter is a must-try, featuring perfectly cooked lobster tail, buttery crab legs, and crispy fried calamari that maintains a delightful tenderness inside. Everything is seasoned with a light hand that lets the natural ocean flavors shine through.

🔎 Looking for a hidden gem or trending restaurant? Check out Healthy Substance to see what makes this place worth a visit.

Don’t overlook the rice dishes here - their seafood paella is a showstopper that arrives sizzling in the pan. The rice develops this incredible crust on the bottom while remaining fluffy and aromatic throughout, infused with saffron and packed with chunks of chorizo, mussels, and shrimp. Each grain absorbs the rich seafood broth while maintaining its individual texture. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels both rustic and refined, perfect for sharing (though you might not want to!).

The restaurant appears to be a casual, upscale dining establishment with a focus on seafood. The atmosphere is lively and intimate, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The tables are well-set with fine china and glassware, and the walls are adorned with nautical-themed decorations. The overall atmosphere is sophisticated and inviting, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.

Rating is 4.5 out of 5. reviews:

The best cioppino ever; better than the one at Sotto! The portion is good enough for two people! It’s loaded with mixed seafood; crab, clams, mussels, baby…

Came here on a Thursday night around 6:30pm and was seated immediately. Service was great and you get an order of bread with your meal!What we ordered:-…

We came for a large group dinner and did a last minute reservation. They were able to accommodate but we had to come a little after peak dinner hour which…