Cioppino is a lusty and flavorful seafood soup which is uniquely San Franciscan. The origin of both the dish and the name came from the Italian fishermen in the early 1900’s, when Fisherman’s Wharf was still called Meigg’s Wharf. Someone would make the rounds of the moored fishing boats, calling out for for contributions to a common, festive stew. One fisherman would toss a nice, fat fish into the bucket, another would drop in a succulent Dungeness crab, another some herbs and vegetables. The cry that prompted each contribution was :Chip In!, Chip In!”. But coming from an Italian throat, this American slang had to end in a vowel. And the “in” was, of course “een”. So “Chip-een-o” was born.
It’s been 100 years, but the Italian fishermen are still here, and so is Cioppino, which is our signature dish. Our Cioppino is so good we named our restaurant after it.
“Best Cioppino in San Francisco!” – Mario Batali, “Ciao America,” Food Network
“Great Food at Reasonable Prices!” – Robert Barton, San Francisco Gourmet Society
“Outstanding Service!”- Janine Vercoe, SFGS
Place Categories: Bar Dining, Children's Menu, Counter Seating, Cuisine, Features, Gluten Free, Italian Restaurants, Outside Dining, Personal Wines Welcome, Private Dining and Seafood Restaurants