Since 1939, Santa Monica Seafood has established itself as a premier destination for seafood lovers in Southern California. Located at the southeast corner of Wilshire Boulevard and 10th Street, this market and cafe combination offers an impressive array of fresh seafood options that attract both casual diners and culinary enthusiasts.
Market Excellence
The market features over 60 linear feet of state-of-the-art refrigerated cases displaying an extensive selection of fresh fish, live shellfish, and frozen seafood. Customers can find everything from wild-caught shrimp and Scottish salmon to locally sourced fish, with clear labeling of origin and sustainability information. Beyond seafood, shoppers can browse through carefully selected wines, artisanal cheeses, fresh bread, marinades, sauces, and produce -— everything needed to create a complete meal at home.
Café Experience
The café portion of Santa Monica Seafood offers a diverse menu of fresh seafood dishes for lunch and dinner, served in a bright, casual setting within view of the market itself. Among customer favorites are the New England clam chowder, described as “one of the best in Los Angeles,” the Connecticut lobster roll “overflowing with lobster,” and the cioppino, a seafood stew loaded with clams, mussels, shrimp, and calamari in a flavorful tomato broth.
Oyster Bar Delights
The Oyster Bar is another highlight, featuring fresh raw oysters and clams, cooked crabs, and other seafood favorites. Regular patrons praise the variety and freshness of the oysters, which are served on ice with all the traditional accompaniments.
Service and Atmosphere
The staff at Santa Monica Seafood are consistently described as knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about seafood. Whether helping customers select the perfect fish for home cooking or recommending wine pairings in the café, their expertise enhances the overall experience.
The atmosphere combines the bustling energy of a traditional fish market with the comfort of a neighborhood restaurant. While the dining area is relatively small with about 15 tables, the proximity to the fresh seafood display creates a unique ambiance that seafood enthusiasts appreciate.
Discerning seafood lovers owe themselves a visit to Santa Monica Seafood, where four generations of expertise transform the ordinary dining experience into an extraordinary celebration of ocean-fresh flavors.
