12 California Seafood Spots Locals Can’t Stop Talking About
California’s coastline stretches for hundreds of miles, bringing fresh catches straight from the Pacific to your plate. From San Diego to the Oregon border, locals have their favorite hidden gems where the seafood tastes incredible and the atmosphere feels just right.
I’ve gathered the spots that Californians actually recommend to friends and family when they want the best ocean-to-table experience.
1. Swan Oyster Depot – San Francisco
Walking past this tiny counter spot, you might miss it if you’re not paying attention. The line outside tells you everything about how good the seafood really is.
Families have been running this place since 1912, serving the freshest oysters and clam chowder in the city. You’ll sit elbow-to-elbow with strangers who quickly become friends over shared plates of Dungeness crab.
2. The Fisherman’s Restaurant & Bar – San Clemente
Perched right above the waves, this spot gives you front-row seats to surfers catching breaks while you eat. The grilled swordfish here tastes like summer vacation, perfectly seasoned and never overcooked.
Local fishermen actually supply most of the catch, so the menu changes based on what’s swimming that week. I always ask the server what just came in that morning.
3. Connie and Ted’s – West Hollywood
You’d never expect to find authentic New England-style seafood in the middle of Los Angeles, but here it is. The lobster rolls are packed with meat, not filler, and the oyster selection rotates daily.
Chef Michael Cimarusti modeled this after classic East Coast clam shacks he loved growing up. Everything from the checkered tablecloths to the steamed clams feels transported from Cape Cod.
4. Phil’s Fish Market – Moss Landing
This harbor-side spot became legendary for its cioppino, a tomato-based seafood stew that warms you from the inside out. Huge portions mean you’ll probably have leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch.
The market side lets you buy fresh fish to cook at home if you’re feeling ambitious. I’ve watched tourists and locals alike line up 30 deep on weekend afternoons, and nobody ever complains about the wait.
5. Bluewater Grill – Newport Beach
Built inside a historic Dory fishing fleet building, this restaurant honors Newport’s fishing heritage with every dish. You can watch boats unload their morning catch right from your table on the patio.
The mesquite-grilled fish gets a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with their garlic butter sauce. Kids love feeding the seagulls while parents enjoy sustainable seafood that’s both delicious and responsibly sourced.
6. Woodhouse Fish Co. – San Francisco
Forget fancy white tablecloths – this place keeps things real with paper napkins and incredible flavor. Their po’boy sandwiches overflow with crispy fried shrimp or oysters that crunch with every bite.
The New Orleans influence shows up in the jambalaya and gumbo too, making this a unique California-Louisiana fusion. I’ve never left here without sauce on my shirt and a smile on my face.
7. Mitch’s Seafood – San Diego
Right across from the harbor, this no-frills spot serves fish tacos that’ll ruin all other fish tacos for you. The batter stays crispy even under the cabbage and white sauce, which seems like magic.
Surfers stop by still wearing wetsuits, grabbing tacos between sessions in the waves. You’ll pay less than $5 per taco and get portions that actually fill you up instead of leaving you hungry.
8. The Lobster – Santa Monica
Sitting at the entrance to Santa Monica Pier since 1923, this restaurant offers views that match the quality of the food. The butter-poached lobster melts in your mouth, paired with seasonal vegetables that taste garden-fresh.
Sunset reservations book weeks in advance because watching the sky turn orange over the Pacific while eating world-class seafood creates unforgettable memories. Dress code leans upscale, so save this for special occasions.
9. Duarte’s Tavern – Pescadero
This family-owned tavern has been feeding travelers since 1894, which tells you something about their staying power. The cream of artichoke soup is so famous that people drive an hour just to have a bowl.
Fresh abalone and local rockfish appear on the menu when available, prepared simply to let the natural flavors shine. The old wooden booths and vintage photos create an atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
10. Water Grill – San Diego
Downtown San Diego’s seafood crown jewel serves over 40 oyster varieties daily, flown in from both coasts. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through flavor profiles from briny to sweet, making oyster tasting an adventure.
Whole grilled fish arrives at your table looking restaurant-magazine perfect, deboned tableside by servers who clearly know their craft. Business dinners and romantic dates both feel appropriate in this polished yet welcoming space.
11. Splash Cafe – Pismo Beach
Their clam chowder has won so many awards that they’ve lost count, and one spoonful explains why. Thick, creamy, and loaded with clams, it comes served in a sourdough bread bowl that soaks up every drop.
The casual beach vibe means sandy feet and swimsuits are totally acceptable here. Locals grab takeout containers to enjoy on the beach, though I prefer eating mine hot at the picnic tables outside.
12. The Boathouse at Hendry’s Beach – Santa Barbara
Your toes can touch the sand while you eat here, making this the ultimate California beach dining experience. The fish and chips use local catches, battered and fried until golden and perfectly crispy.
Dolphins sometimes swim past during dinner service, which feels almost too California to be real. The laid-back atmosphere welcomes everyone from wetsuit-clad surfers to families celebrating birthdays, all united by amazing seafood and ocean breezes.
