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Killer Shrimp

4211 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292
$$$$
Seafood, American

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Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)

Killer Shrimp 8.8
Admiralty Way Waterfront
Killer Shrimp is a long-running waterfront spot famous for its spicy, slow-simmered shrimp broth served with crusty bread and strong cocktails. Locals treat it as a go-to for indulgent seafood plates, marina views, and a lively bar scene that runs from happy hour through late dinners.
Must-Try Dishes: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp & Lobster, Lobster Mac
Scores:
Value: 7.4 Service: 8.4 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 9 Atmosphere: 7 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Signature spicy shrimp broth recipe served for decades on the marina.
Who should go: Seafood lovers craving bold flavors and lively marina energy.
When to visit: Golden hour or weekend evenings for views and buzz.
What to order: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp & Lobster, Lobster Mac.
Insider tip: Request patio seating for dog-friendly, front-row marina views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Large shared lot with valet on busy nights; self-parking is free but fills quickly after 6pm, especially near the waterfront.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual; jeans and tees are common, but many diners lean slightly dressy for marina evenings.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; patio is breezier and slightly quieter but still lively.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for patio tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few options, mainly salads, starters, and sides; seafood focus means choices are limited.
Vegan options: Very limited—vegans may need to customize salads or sides.
Gluten-free options: Some seafood plates and salads can be made gluten-free; the signature broth is not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you're aiming for a fun, high-energy marina setting with cocktails and waterfront views. It’s less ideal if you want intimate, quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially for indoor seating. Patio tables are first to fill—arrive early or plan for a wait during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy seafood and vibrant settings; high chairs are available, though the loud bar energy on weekends may overwhelm very young children.
Best For
Better for: Bold, signature shrimp dishes, strong cocktails, and waterfront patio seating that outshines nearby casual seafood spots.
Skip if: You want quiet dining, extensive vegan/vegetarian choices, or lighter fare without spice or richness.
Killer Shrimp 8.7
Admiralty Way Waterfront
Open since 1988, Killer Shrimp is a family-owned waterfront spot built around a fiercely guarded spicy shrimp broth served with crusty bread, now expanded into a full seafood and cocktail menu. Locals and visitors pack the big marina-side dining room and bar for hearty shrimp bowls, strong drinks, and lively energy that runs from happy hour through late dinners.
Must-Try Dishes: Killer Shrimp Original bowl, Killer Shrimp & Lobster, Lobster mac and cheese
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 7 Consistency: 9 Food Quality: 9.1 Atmosphere: 8.8 Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Legendary spicy shrimp broth recipe served for decades right on the marina.
Who should go: Seafood fans craving bold flavors, big portions, and marina energy.
When to visit: Golden hour or weekend evenings for views and buzzy atmosphere.
What to order: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp & Lobster, lobster mac and cheese.
Insider tip: Ask for patio or rail seating for dog-friendly, front-row harbor views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated valet is available at the marina lot and typically runs $10–$15; meter and street parking exist along Admiralty Way but fill quickly after 6pm, especially on weekends.
Dress code: Casual coastal — jeans, tees, sundresses, and light layers are all normal; most guests lean polished-casual for evening marina views.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak dinner hours due to the lively bar and open dining room; patio seating is slightly quieter with steady marina ambience.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups or patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal to no wait; walk-ins are seated quickly indoors or on the patio.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present — salads, pasta, and select starters; this is a shrimp-focused menu first.
Vegan options: Very limited; most items include seafood, dairy, or butter-based sauces.
Gluten-free options: Multiple options available including the Killer Shrimp broth (naturally gluten-free) and certain salads; ask staff for guidance as cross-contact is possible in a busy kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want lively marina energy rather than quiet intimacy. Patio tables at sunset offer a fun, energetic backdrop, but the indoor dining room can get loud during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, but expect a wait at peak times. Walk-ins are common; joining the waitlist early or arriving before 6pm helps secure faster seating, especially outside.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with school-age kids. The menu is seafood-heavy but flexible, and the upbeat marina setting keeps younger diners entertained. High chairs and booster seats are available.
Best For
Better for: Bold, signature shrimp dishes, waterfront energy, and large-group gatherings where lively atmosphere is a plus.
Skip if: You prefer quiet dining rooms, extensive vegetarian/vegan options, or delicate, fine-dining seafood preparations.
Killer Shrimp 8.4
Marina Harbor / Admiralty Way
Killer Shrimp is a waterfront institution built around a secret spicy shrimp broth, expanded into a full seafood menu and lively bar. With indoor and patio seating overlooking the marina, it’s where locals book birthday dinners, casual celebrations, and late-night shrimp feasts.
Must-Try Dishes: Original Killer Shrimp Bowl, Lobster Mac and Cheese, Beet or House Salad
Scores:
Value: 6.4 Service: 7.9 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 8.6 Atmosphere: 8.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Long-running waterfront spot centered on a signature spicy shrimp dish.
Who should go: Seafood fans planning casual birthdays or group celebrations.
When to visit: Evenings or weekends for marina buzz and fuller menu.
What to order: Original Killer Shrimp, lobster mac, beet or house salad.
Insider tip: Order extra bread for the broth and consider dock-and-dine arrival.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Large shared lot on Admiralty Way with validated parking; valet available during peak evenings. Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans, sweaters, and relaxed marina attire are all common. Groups celebrating tend to lean slightly dressy.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on weekends and during late-night service. Conversations are doable indoors; patio can get energetic with marina activity.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for patio seating during peak evenings.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though waterfront tables may require a short queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few salads, sides, and non-seafood starters are available, but the menu leans heavily seafood-first.
Vegan options: Very limited; most dishes rely on seafood or butter-based sauces.
Gluten-free options: Several items can be made gluten-conscious, but the signature shrimp broth includes bread service; ask staff for modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a fun, energetic waterfront setting and shared plates; less ideal for hushed, intimate conversation due to the lively atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes, but expect a wait during prime weekend dinner hours. Walk-ins are easier at lunch or later in the evening.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often dine early. Portions are sharable, high chairs are available, and the marina setting keeps younger kids entertained.
Best For
Better for: Large groups, casual celebrations, and anyone craving the signature spicy shrimp broth in a lively marina setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet, upscale fine-dining atmosphere or need extensive vegan/gluten-free options.
Killer Shrimp 8.7
Marina Harbor / Admiralty Way
Killer Shrimp is a longtime marina-front institution built around a secret spicy shrimp broth, now expanded into a full seafood menu with one of the largest waterfront patios in the area. The outdoor deck looks straight over the slips, drawing groups for sunset shrimp bowls, cocktails, and late-night hangs that feel more casual than polished.
Must-Try Dishes: Killer Shrimp Original with French bread, Killer Shrimp Rice, Sweet potato pecan pie
Scores:
Value: 6.8 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 9.2 Food Quality: 8.8 Atmosphere: 9.1 Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Family-owned waterfront legend centered on a signature spicy shrimp dish.
Who should go: Seafood fans planning casual marina dinners with a view.
When to visit: Sunset into evening for patio energy and harbor views.
What to order: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp Rice, sweet potato pecan pie.
Insider tip: Ask for a table along the deck railing to maximize marina sightlines.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Large on-site lot shared with neighboring businesses; free but fills during sunset and weekend dinners. Street parking on Admiralty Way is available but competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; jeans, tees, and hoodies are common. Layers recommended for windy evenings on the deck.
Noise level: Moderate to lively outdoors, especially at sunset and late night; conversations are doable but expect some crowd and marina ambient noise.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation during peak evenings, slightly longer if requesting a deck-railing table.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating on the patio is common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable; salads, veggie sides, and non-shrimp entrees available.
Vegan options: Very limited; may rely on salads or customizing sides. Not ideal for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: Several naturally gluten-free options, including the signature Killer Shrimp broth (confirm with server). No dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual, fun first dates where waterfront views matter more than quiet ambiance. Not ideal if you need a polished or intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Generally yes—walk-ins are common. Arrive early for outdoor tables or put your name in and grab a drink while waiting.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes; families are common. High chairs are available, and the casual energy plus outdoor seating works well for kids 4+. Evenings can be louder, so earlier visits are best for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Large waterfront patio, iconic spicy shrimp broth, casual group hangouts, and late-night atmosphere compared to more polished marina seafood restaurants.
Skip if: You want upscale plating, quiet dining, extensive vegan options, or a wide-ranging fine-dining seafood menu.
Killer Shrimp 8.7
Marina Harbor / Admiralty Way
Killer Shrimp is a longtime marina-front institution built around a secret spicy shrimp broth, now expanded into a full seafood menu and sprawling pet-friendly deck. The outdoor tables look straight over the slips, drawing dog owners for sunset shrimp bowls, cocktails, and late-night hangs.
Must-Try Dishes: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp Rice, Shrimp mac and cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 7 Consistency: 9 Food Quality: 8.7 Atmosphere: 8.2 Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Waterfront legend with a signature spicy shrimp broth and big patio.
Who should go: Seafood fans who always bring the dog along.
When to visit: Sunset into evening for patio buzz and harbor views.
What to order: Killer Shrimp Original, shrimp rice, shrimp mac.
Insider tip: Request a rail-side table and order extra bread for broth.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Admiralty Way is usually available before sunset; valet is offered in the shared Marina Harbor lot for a fee, and it fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual coastal—tees, jeans, and sandals are all fine; many guests lean slightly polished for sunset patio dining.
Noise level: Moderate to lively on the patio with marina activity; indoor tables are quieter but still conversational.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even for patio seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but solid—salads, sides, and a couple of meatless plates, though the main draw is seafood.
Vegan options: Very limited—expect 1–2 modifiable items; best to confirm with your server.
Gluten-free options: Multiple GF-friendly options including the signature broth served over rice; cross-contact possible, so notify staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something casual, waterfront, and energy-forward. The patio has great views, though the vibe is more relaxed hangout than intimate fine dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—walk-ins are common. For sunset patio seating, arrive early or expect a wait, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are common, and the menu has approachable items. The energetic patio and waterfront setting make it better for ages 6+.
Best For
Better for: Dog-friendly waterfront dining, spicy shrimp bowls you can’t get elsewhere, and a casual marina energy perfect for late-night visits.
Skip if: You want fine-dining precision, a wide range of non-seafood dishes, or very quiet conversation-friendly seating.
Killer Shrimp 8.6
Marina Harbor / Admiralty Way
Killer Shrimp is a long-running marina institution built around a secret spicy shrimp broth, now expanded into a full seafood menu and sprawling deck. The crowd skews social and mixed-age, with families, friend groups, and late-night crews all chasing big bowls of shrimp, cocktails, and sunset harbor views.
Must-Try Dishes: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp Rice, Shrimp Mac and Cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.4 Service: 6.8 Consistency: 9.1 Food Quality: 8.8 Atmosphere: 8.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Waterfront staple with a cult-favorite shrimp broth and a huge patio.
Who should go: Seafood fans and groups who want loud, casual marina energy.
When to visit: Sunset into late evening for deck buzz and harbor views.
What to order: Killer Shrimp Original, Killer Shrimp Rice, shrimp mac and cheese.
Insider tip: Request rail-side outdoor seating and order extra bread to soak up the broth.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Large on-site lot shared with neighboring businesses; typically easy on weeknights but can fill up around sunset and weekends. Metered street parking available along Admiralty Way.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Most guests arrive in relaxed marina wear, but trendy groups often lean slightly dressier for evening cocktails.
Noise level: Loud, especially on the deck during peak hours. Expect energetic conversation rather than quiet, intimate dining.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially around sunset.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; walk-ins typically seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but present—salads, sides, and a few non-shrimp dishes work for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Very limited. Expect only a couple of customizable items like basic salads and vegetable sides.
Gluten-free options: Moderate selection; several shrimp dishes can be made gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible. Ask your server for guidance.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a lively, social waterfront vibe rather than intimate conversation. The energy is fun, but not ideal for a quiet or deeply personal first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially if you’re flexible with indoor vs. outdoor seating or willing to wait. Sunset hours fill quickly, so arrive early or join the waitlist.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. The spacious patio, casual atmosphere, and simple seafood dishes work well for families. Evenings can get loud, so earlier dining is better for young kids.
Best For
Better for: Best for big, comforting shrimp bowls, marina-front sunset views, and group-friendly energy. It outshines competitors for its signature broth and lively deck scene.
Skip if: Skip if you want quiet dining, refined plating, or extensive vegan options. Consider alternatives if you prefer modern fine dining or more diverse seafood preparations.
Killer Shrimp 8.5
Admiralty Way Marina District
Killer Shrimp sits on the marina with a big dining room, bar, and patio built around its namesake spicy shrimp broth, plus a broad seafood and steak menu. While it closes around 10pm, it functions as a late-night harbor hang with strong cocktails, water views, and hearty plates that work well after evening events nearby.
Must-Try Dishes: Original Killer Shrimp Bowl, Killer Shrimp Mac & Cheese, Pan-Seared Salmon
Scores:
Value: 6.8 Service: 7.4 Consistency: 8.6 Food Quality: 8.8 Atmosphere: 8.2 Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Marina-front spot built around a famous spicy shrimp dish and cocktails.
Who should go: Seafood lovers wanting hearty marina dinners and a lively bar.
When to visit: Evenings 7–10pm for harbor views and a buzzing room.
What to order: Original Killer Shrimp bowl, shrimp mac, salmon.
Insider tip: Request a patio table for nighttime harbor views and heat lamps.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Large shared lot on Admiralty Way with ample self-parking; valet available during peak hours. Street parking is limited after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans and tees are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy for marina-side dinners.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak evening hours, especially near the bar; patio tables are slightly quieter.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though service begins later in the day depending on season.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but doable — salads, sides, and a few non-seafood entrées.
Vegan options: Very limited — expect 1–2 customizable options; best to ask the server for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Strong options — the signature Killer Shrimp broth is naturally gluten-free, and several seafood plates can be prepared without gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual-but-fun dates with marina views and cocktails. The room gets loud at peak hours, so it’s better for high-energy dates than intimate, quiet ones.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially for smaller groups before 7pm. After 7pm on weekends, expect a wait unless you're willing to sit at the bar or the patio.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 6+; the menu has approachable seafood and pastas, and the water views keep things entertaining. High chairs available, but late-night energy can feel loud for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Hearty late-night seafood, strong cocktails, and marina-front atmosphere without going fully upscale. Great for groups wanting big portions and lively energy.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic dinner, early-morning brunch, or a wide range of vegan/vegetarian entrées — nearby waterfront spots or hotel restaurants may suit those needs better.