Sam's Chowder House

Nice location for the view, but I'd drive right by and have fun, real food, great beer and music at Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. Or you can go to the ''real'' Sam's restaurant in Half Moon Bay, Sam's Coffee Shop, for some great service and good basic food. I'm not sure if the Chowder House's view is worth the poor service and mediocre food. The Half Moon Bay Brewing Co. has similar views, good music, a service staff willing to put the customer first, and a nice menu of tasty choices.
Jim Rey
Half Moon Bay eating machine

I ate at Sam's for the first time and will probably not rush back. They do have a prime spot for view, and the patio is set up with plenty of heat lamps and a couple of fire pits, which really added to the outside atmosphere. However, I found the dining room service extremely slow and the food just fair. The crab and artichoke dip was extremely dry (you could choke). The choices of wine by the glass are very limited. They only had a couple of choices for chardonnay, and they were out of one!
Lisa Phlegar
Campbell

We are very pleased with Sam's. The views are unbelievable, there is great outdoor seating, and the food and service have improved tremendously over the past few months. Great chowders and fresh seafood.
Murlan Fowell
Half Moon Bay

I have visited three times, and all three were very disappointing. From the reception (''I'm not interrupting your evening conversation, am I?'') to the water-thin base of the lobster bisque, I found nothing that would make me return for more punishment. Kids cannot run a restaurant, but that's the only personnel you'll find on duty on a weeknight. Cetrella is the best; what happened?
Harold Lott
Half Moon Bay

I have gone to Sam's Chowder House quite a few times since it opened, and it keeps getting better. My favorite is the lobster roll, with lots of lobster and a touch of butter. It's decadent. I also like the fish and chips -- the seasoning on the fries is excellent. I prefer white over red chowder, but I've tried both and they're great. The bar is always fun, and since my girlfriend doesn't eat seafood, it's the perfect place for both of us. I can get my oysters, chowder and lobster roll and she can get a burger, chicken or steak.
Tim Salazar
El Granada