Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

We all know how much Forrest Gump loved shrimp. He talked about shrimp wherever he went. In the end, he lived out the dream of launching a successful shrimp company after his tiny boat bore the fruits of the sea. The name of the company was Bubba Gump. But which came first – Forrest Gump the movie or the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, now a humongous worldwide franchise?

Usually, movies are based on real life, but in this case, the movie was inspiration for a fun-filled restaurant concept. The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. chain began on Cannery Row in Monterey in 1996, launching the first and only chain of its kind, based on a motion picture. Visitors to San Francisco can flock to the Pier 39 location, located at the center of a popular West Coast attraction.

The fun begins before you even walk in, when you sit on a replica of the bus stop scene that launched the movie. Here, you can step into Forrest Gump’s shoes and snap a pic next to his suitcase and box of chocolates. Once inside the restaurant, you’ll find that quotes and inspiration from the movie are everywhere, from the map on the wall following Forrest’s 3-year run across America to the license plates on the tables reading “Run Forrest Run.”

The restaurant is separated into two areas, a bar and a dining room, and the atmosphere throughout is relaxed and casual, with boating paraphernalia like nets and life vests mixed in with the movie references. The menu features quality seafood, a variety of shrimp selections, fresh fish, and award-winnings ribs. Other options include tacos, burgers, salads, steak, and fried chicken. The restaurant also offers a kids’ menu and hosts birthday parties especially for the young ones, complete with goodie bags and trivia games. A retail store is attached, where you can purchase souvenirs and your own box of chocolate.

With the movie’s beloved character behind it, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. became an immediate success. Locations can be found in hot spots throughout the U.S. and internationally.

HelloSanFrancisco Tip: Combine your visit with one of many Pier 39 activities, like a visit to the Aquarium of the Bay, a ferry ride to Alcatraz or Angel Island, or a stroll through Hyde Street Pier. 
 

- by Renee M. Rutledge, San Francisco Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Renee M. Rutledge

Renee M. Rutledge currently writes articles on local travel and culture for Red Tricycle, Parents' Press, Oakland Magazine, and Alameda Magazine.