The origin story of San Francisco’s seafoodcentric stew (aka cioppino) may be as hazy as the city’s famous fog, but there is definitely something to the dish’s Italian-sounding name. Though no one can say for sure in what year the recipe was invented, the consensus is that it was created by the Italian fishermen who migrated to the area a century or so ago. They are said to have added their catch of the day to a tomato base to create this comforting staple, which is similar to a number of Mediterranean seafood dishes. Though the inclusion of seafood is the one constant of this recipe, the exact type varies from chef to chef, as do the seasonings and accompaniments. The popularity of San Francisco’s signature dish has spread far beyond the city’s borders, with a variety of versions being ladled out at restaurants across the country.

Photography courtesy of Gather