We have our favorite dining spots on my annual girls shopping trip in San Francisco, but I always love to try at least one new restaurant every year.

This year my friend Tanji introduced me to Hog Island Oyster Co.  We broke off from our group to explore the farmers market at the Ferry Building.

It’s was a stunningly beautiful day by the water so she suggested Hog Island for lunch.

Tanji is a foodie so I knew it was going to be good.  Plus the restaurant always has a line (you can order a cocktail in line!).  She went for the oysters and I decided to try their chowder.

Of course we had to start with a little bubbly and choose a fave – Domaine Carneros Brut Rose.

The oysters were fabulous. Of course I had to try one or two.

It was the chowder that was the biggest surprise for me. It was creamy and yummy with carrots, potatoes, and other veggies. What I wasn’t expecting was the clams in their shells in the chowder.  Made you have to work a little for each bite and I loved it!