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Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe
8.3
Family-owned seafood market since 1939 with attached cafe serving impeccably fresh catches and New England classics. The casual market atmosphere and kids menu make it perfect for seafood-loving families seeking quality without pretension.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lobster Roll Connecticut Style, Manhattan Clam Chowder, Grilled Swordfish Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Buy fresh fish and eat it too since 1939
Who should go: Seafood enthusiasts and families wanting freshness
When to visit: Happy hour 2-5pm daily for deals
What to order: Lobster roll, clam chowder, daily catch
Insider tip: Buy wine from market to enjoy with meal
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free parking lot shared with market, fills up lunch/dinner rush. Street parking available on Pico Blvd
Dress code: Very casual - market atmosphere, anything from shorts to business casual works
Noise level: Bustling market energy - conversation-friendly but lively
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, no reservations taken
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately before 12pm or after 1:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - grilled cheese, salads, sides available
Vegan options: Very limited - side salads and french fries only
Gluten-free options: Yes - grilled fish plates, salads, inform server about cross-contamination concerns
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual second or third dates - the market atmosphere is fun but not romantic. Great if you both love seafood and want a low-key vibe
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Order at counter, grab a table. Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 5:30pm) shortest waits
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - kids menu, high chairs, casual atmosphere where noise is expected. Kids love watching the fish market action
Best For
Better for: Fresher seafood than any restaurant - they're literally a fish market first. Best value lobster rolls in Santa Monica
Skip if: You want a full-service dining experience or don't eat seafood - this is counter service in a working market
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe
8.0
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Operating since 1939, this combination seafood market and casual cafe features 60 feet of refrigerated cases alongside an oyster bar and full-service restaurant. As the Southwest's largest seafood distributor, they offer first pick of daily catches at wholesale-influenced prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cioppino, Fish & Chips, King Crab Bisque
Scores:
Value: 9.1
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Buy fresh fish to cook or dine-in at distributor prices
Who should go: Budget-conscious seafood lovers and home cooks
When to visit: Early lunch to avoid crowds
What to order: Daily market specials, cioppino, oyster bar selections
Insider tip: Check weekly specials email for best deals on both retail and restaurant
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot behind building, usually spots available except weekend lunch rush
Dress code: Very casual - come as you are, many customers shop the market then eat
Noise level: Lively market atmosphere - expect bustling sounds, fine for casual conversation
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, no reservations taken
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min for tables, counter seating usually immediate
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - mainly sides and salads, this is seafood-focused
Vegan options: Very limited - green salad and fries only
Gluten-free options: Yes - grilled fish options clearly marked, inform server about allergy
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual second or third dates - the market atmosphere is fun but not romantic, perfect for low-pressure seafood and conversation
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they don't take reservations - arrive before noon or after 2pm for shortest waits, or grab counter seats at the oyster bar
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids love watching the fish market action, high chairs available, simple grilled fish and chips options, casual atmosphere where noise is expected
Best For
Better for: Fresher seafood at lower prices than any restaurant - you're buying from the source that supplies high-end restaurants
Skip if: You want white tablecloth ambiance or don't like the smell of fresh fish markets - this is casual dining in a working seafood market