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A PCH
Master Critic Review
A PCH
7.8
River Jetty Restaurant Group's 2023 addition to 2ND & PCH brings seasonally-focused modern American cuisine with Alamitos Bay views. Executive lineup from partners McG Nichol and Jordan Otterbein showcases signature land and sea dishes from their portfolio of coastal restaurants.
Must-Try Dishes:
Table-Side Chicken Pot Pie, Seasonal Seafood, Craft Cocktails
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Waterfront views in 2ND & PCH shopping center from proven restaurant group
Who should go: Marina-side diners, business professionals, date night couples
When to visit: Weekday lunch 11:30am-4pm; Wednesday for half-off wine
What to order: Pot pie, fresh oysters, seasonal fish preparations
Insider tip: Industry Night Mondays offers half-off all food items
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free validated parking in 2ND & PCH structure with restaurant validation - ample spaces, very convenient
Dress code: Business casual to smart casual - collared shirts work well, jeans acceptable if polished
Noise level: Moderate - conversational dining room, suitable for business meetings and date conversations
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday evenings, reservations strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait - walk-ins typically seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - 3-4 options including seasonal vegetables and creative preparations
Vegan options: Limited - 1-2 options, but kitchen accommodates modifications with advance notice
Gluten-free options: Yes - several naturally gluten-free seafood and protein options, staff knowledgeable about modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - waterfront views create ambiance without being overly romantic, noise level allows conversation, and upscale-but-not-stuffy vibe removes pressure. Wednesday half-off wine adds value without seeming cheap.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch is safe for walk-ins. Dinner requires reservations Thursday-Saturday. Sunday-Wednesday dinner has 50/50 success rate for walk-ins before 6:30pm - bar seating typically available as backup.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for ages 8+ who can appreciate upscale dining - no dedicated kids menu but kitchen will modify dishes. Waterfront views keep kids engaged. Weekday lunch more forgiving than prime dinner service.
Good for a business lunch? Ideal - noise level supports conversation, professional atmosphere, reliable service, and prime 11:30am-4pm lunch hours. Central Alamitos Bay location convenient for LBC professionals.
What's the Instagram factor? Strong - Alamitos Bay sunset views, elevated plating, and modern coastal interior design all photograph well. Golden hour (5-7pm) offers best natural lighting for waterfront shots.
Best For
Better for: Waterfront dining with proven restaurant group pedigree - more reliable execution than indie spots, better views than inland competitors, and shopping center convenience that fine dining neighbors lack. Wednesday wine deals and Monday Industry Night beat competitors on value.
Skip if: You want a hidden local gem (this is prominently placed in shopping center), prefer intimate small-restaurant feel over polished corporate hospitality, or need extensive vegan options - better served elsewhere in 90803.