We love our Oceans

Sam’s is a proud member of the Surfrider Foundation, and certified in the Ocean-friendly restaurants program. Surfrider is dedicated to the protection and preservation of the world’s oceans and beaches. We are committed to the environment, and the ecological systems from where our food is sourced and grown – and we’re working hard to meet today’s needs without compromising future generations.

Eco-friendly straws – no plastic!

Made entirely from plants, not petroleum, our straws are derived from plant sources like corn. Certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI), our straws meet the international standards for compostability. We also only serve straws upon request.

It’s estimated that there are now over 5.25 trillion pieces of plastic in the ocean, with the number growing daily. This plastic stays in the environment well past our future generations lifetimes, proving to be a danger to the environment and wildlife.

Biodegradable Packaging

Our to-go packaging is made from 100% biodegradable and compostable boxes created from sugarcane. After the sugarcane stems are crushed and the juice is removed, the dry fibrous material leftover is called bagasse – and that’s used to create the durable, disposable to-go boxes.

Sustainable Seafood Practices

We serve fresh, sustainably sourced seafood following the guidelines of the Monterey Bay Aquarium whenever possible and practical, as well as the finest hormone- and antibiotic-free meats. We work closely with local farmers to source products locally when we can.

Oil Recycled & Donated

We recycle all of our rice-based, trans fat-free vegetable oil from our fryers. Given that we are an East Coast-style seafood house with many fried seafood items on the menu, this represents about 300 gallons a week. The oil is picked up regularly by a local non-profit which provides housing and community services to developmentally disabled people. The oil fuels the vehicles and machinery used on their farm.

Rooftop Solar Electricity

Sam’s rooftop is covered with a solar electric system. It adds about 13.8 megawatt hours of electricity annually for the restaurant, saving lots of energy!

Eco-Friendly Lighting

We have replaced all of our incandescent lights with fluorescent, which are known to outlast up to 13 incandescent bulbs, consuming far less energy.

Surfrider Foundation
plants not plastic - eco-friendly plant-based straws at Sam's Chowder House in Half Moon Bay


rooftop solar panels on Sam's Chowder House in Half Moon Bay

Rooftop Solar Panels at Sam's Chowder House


harbor view towards Sam's Chowder House in Half Moon Bay


sunset with boats