34 Best Seafood Restaurants in Ventura

“Awesome place. Perfect vibe and food. The quintessential California beach experience. This was our first time and we can’t wait to return!“

“Sanddabs were awesome, very good fish and chips and cod skewers were very delicate and tasty. Thanks to our waiter Will he was terrific. Easy parking garage directly behind restaurant with very short walk to entrance. Great seafood menu. Would definitely eat here again.“

“I have been to the location in SB. Spouse & I were in the mood for some fish & chips. They don't disappoint. The only disappointment was the service, I waited until the 2 young ladies were done talking until they decided to ask if I needed help. No apology. I know I'm old school, but without us customers, you ladies wouldn't have a job.“

“We had dinner tonight 10/24 @cafe zack. I made reservation for 6 pax. We seated in the patio and it was beautiful. I ordered rack of lamb (forgot to take photo). I ate every bit. We had Ceasar salad and the rest of the group ordered cowboy rib eye and fettuccine seafood curry. We had the desserts. Everything was delicious. It was our first time and cafe zack didn't disappoint us. We definitely comeback on December 26 for my birthday!“

“If you’re a seafood taco lover, do yourself a favor and make the trip—no matter how far—to Spencer Makenzie’s Fish Company in Ventura, California. I’ve driven several hours more than once just to eat here, and every time it’s 100% worth it. The fish tacos are unreal—hands-down the best I’ve ever had. Perfectly cooked, super fresh, and packed with flavor, with just the right amount of crunch and spice. They’re the kind of tacos that ruin you for all others. But it’s not just the food that makes this place special. You can feel the family-oriented values the moment you walk in. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, the staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, and you can tell this is a family-run spot that takes pride in everything they do. Spencer Makenzie’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination. Whether you’re local or traveling from hours away like I do, this place is an absolute must-visit. Can’t wait for the next trip back to Ventura just for another bite!“

“Love this place and have been coming for years specifically for their parmesan crusted tacos, think Taco Bell on steroids! They have a lovely patio, you can bring your pups, and the service is outstanding! 👍🏻👍🏻🌮❤️“

“Great views , good food! Casual place. \n\nWe wanted to eat by the water. We sat inside but there is also outside seating. \n\nHusband had Ahi sandwich and it was cooked rare, and he said it was good. It was pretty big with fries! I had shrimp and crab quesadillas, they were served with an avocado cream sauce over it and a large scoop of shredded cabbage. Delicious! (2 could split it) \n\nFull bar available too! Place your order and you get a beeper, head over to the bar and order your drinks, pay separate from food. \nGet your parking ticket stamped for free parking.“

“If you’re a seafood taco lover, do yourself a favor and make the trip—no matter how far—to Spencer Makenzie’s Fish Company in Ventura, California. I’ve driven several hours more than once just to eat here, and every time it’s 100% worth it. The fish tacos are unreal—hands-down the best I’ve ever had. Perfectly cooked, super fresh, and packed with flavor, with just the right amount of crunch and spice. They’re the kind of tacos that ruin you for all others. But it’s not just the food that makes this place special. You can feel the family-oriented values the moment you walk in. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, the staff is incredibly friendly and attentive, and you can tell this is a family-run spot that takes pride in everything they do. Spencer Makenzie’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a destination. Whether you’re local or traveling from hours away like I do, this place is an absolute must-visit. Can’t wait for the next trip back to Ventura just for another bite!“

“WOW WOW WOW!!! 🤯🦐

It’s insane how good this place is! Honestly, I wasn’t expecting it to be this good based on the outside appearance, but it did not disappoint one bit. We did arrive a little late, so we weren’t able to dine in but based on looks it’s a really quiet place where I’d be a nice date place.,
the guy working there was so nice and encouraged us to order to go — which we gladly did.

We ordered a little bit of everything: shrimp, clams, crab legs, and all the sides. The only thing they didn’t have was eggs, which is a little sad because a seafood boil with eggs is just top tier. But let me tell you… the flavor made up for it completely.

Everything was so rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The whole time we were eating we just kept saying how good it was and how much flavor everything had. It was a total hit! 🙌

We got so much food and the price honestly wasn’t bad at all. I can truly say this is wayyyyy better than Boiling Crab, no doubt.

I already can’t wait to come back this weekend for round two — and this time I definitely want to eat inside to get the full experience. I would strongly recommend this place to anyone who loves a good seafood boil! 🔥“

“Clean and great bar !! Breakfast was delicious“

“I gotta say it's was my first time being there to experience the breakfast on the cozy patio. I order the pecan pancakes with crispy bacon and their special syrup so deelish. The beignets are magnificent. The staff super Friendly!!! I highly recommend you try this French restaurant out . Follow Your Taste Buds!!!“

“A beautiful friendly restaurant with a unique and delicious menu and drinks.“

“I went to Andria’s to get Halibut, Cod and Clam chowder but was very curious about getting fresh seafood to cook at home. Miguel who works in that department was polite, knowledgeable and made me a lifelong customer. He was exceptional in explaining everything so that i could make my food at home taste like the restaurant. He cut the fish for me, then i got the batter, tartar sauce, cocktail sauce and condiments to take home. The process was so easy. Miguel is definitely a shining light for the company. I am on my way to get more fish to cook at home because i learned that i will get double the amount if i fry it myself. Now i will be having fish fry’s at my home at the once a month. Thank you Miguel for being a shining light.“

“Super fun. We had a great group dinner. The food was great and so were the staff.“

“Impressive customer service, while our waiter was busy w/other tables (which is understandable and totally fine) there is a busy bus boy buzzing around with water, clearing off plates and bringing extras people are asking for. Our waiter came and took our drink order. Malbec for me… so good, I had to ask what it was: Öko 🤤 and my husband ordered a smash berry something. THAT was SO BOMB! A hint of mint and full flavor of berries bursting bar god deliciousness! We ordered the butter board, now the presentation could use some work… I’m more about flavor and that butter (two options) was finger lickin good. The waiter took a few minutes to chat and told us it was pineapple butter. 🤯 it’s served with small pieces of… maybe focaccia bread (which btw alone was so good too). Meanwhile, the manager has his eye on everything. He saw the moment we put down our menus, and was there to ask is we has any questions. I did: there’s no house salad on the menu & he accommodated my request for one, which was a deciding factor for my main course. The SoCal Bolognese was bursting with flavor. This is new to the menu, we’ve been a few times… my husband is a fan, I was never impressed… until last night. The chorizo was spicy, but not overpowering, pasta cooked perfectly. The house salad could’ve used more tomatoes, but I really can’t complain since it’s not on the menu to begin with. My husband ordered the ahi steak on top of green beans and he said it was really good. It looked amazing, but I was in heaven with the butter board & the bolognese, my palate couldn’t handle the flavor overload 😜 After about 6 visits, I finally found something worth writing home about. For sure putting this place back into rotation. And the prices… very reasonable. Might be coming here a lot more. Everyone was super nice and helpful.“

“Great breakfast, bloody Mary's and staff!“

“sushi is delicious!!!!!! Love it ❤“

“If you're searching for a quiet meal on the beach, this place has few rivals. We came here for our anniversary, and LOVED the rooms, the peace and quiet, the row of chaise lounges at water's edge, the restaurant on site, and the gracious continental breakfast. The management was chill, and we couldn't ask for more.“

“The staff was friendly and very fast. I had the fish and chips. It was excellent, one of the best I have had. I would definitely recommend this place.“

“Best Mexican on this side of Ventura! Insanely kind staff, and you can tell the food is always cooked with love.

I’ve been here a few times, one of which I ordered online and when I came to pick it up, they were actually closed for construction. The cashier, who I’m assuming was the manager, was very apologetic and offered to call in my order at a restaurant nearby. But I had a migraine and honestly just wanted to go home. Today I came in to pick up dinner, and he insisted that it was on him!! So not necessary, but so kind. <3

The birria combo is really good. If you want something filling and fast their rice and bean burrito with chicken is great too!“

“:

Oak Street in downtown Ventura has quietly become one of the coolest little pockets to explore. Step off Main Street and you’ll find a street that’s had real energy breathed into it — trees wrapped in lights, a lively atmosphere, and a collection of businesses that make the block worth lingering on.

You’ve got VCBC Brewing pouring some of the best beer in town. Across the street is Jaguar Moon, the agave and mezcal-focused cocktail bar with its beautiful patio, paired with Corazon Cocina by Michelin-starred chef Ramon Velazquez. Nearby sits NAMBA Arts Center with its incredible programming — everything from children’s dance classes and concerts to stand-up comedy and live performances.

One of my favorite newer additions is the public community library built into the façade of the Great Eastern storefront — take a book, leave a book, completely free to the Ventura community.

But what has really evolved is Model Citizen.

We’ve eaten there for years, but our most recent dinner may have been one of the best meals we’ve had in Ventura.

There’s clearly a new level happening in the kitchen. A chef who came in from Los Angeles a few months back has elevated the menu in a big way. The standout? A Harry’s Berries dessert on a house-made pastry that was absolutely memorable.

Dinner started with house-made focaccia with aged balsamic and EVOO, marinated olives layered with fennel and citrus, and a shaved cabbage and fennel Caesar with fried capers and parmesan that was fresh, bright, and unexpectedly addictive.

The rigatoni alla vodka with ’nduja sausage and burrata was rich and balanced, and the prime hanger steak frites with au poivre sauce and gremolata was spot on.

The room feels alive — great bar energy, warm ambience, and surprisingly approachable pricing for the quality coming out of the kitchen. My wife enjoyed a couple glasses of Chardonnay, I had my NA beer, and we left talking about when we were coming back.

Ventura has some excellent dining. Model Citizen just reminded us why it belongs firmly in that conversation.“

“Love Sunday Brunch…. Never gets tired of coming back…“

“Great food and drinks.The spice Jalapeno Margarita is excellent 👌 The staff is very friendly and it comes with a beautiful view“

“We tried the AYCE and it was such a good bang for your buck! Service was attentive and the food was SO good. We will definitely be back and recommend that you try it out if you're curious! (The CNS Lemon Pepper was finger-licking good).“

“Have been treating the family at least once a month. Vivian always so friendly and upbeat. Try it you won’t be disappointed!!!“

“The best food in Ventura!“

“I'll always be a fan. Breakfast burrito was goated. Make sure you have room for it! Nothing more romantic than the view of the ocean here. You can really relax. At night it's so cozy and ambient. Great music selection. Potato tacos are yummy too.“

“Great food and all the staff’s are friendly“

“Great Coctel de Camarón 👍🏽👍🏽“

“delicious steak and eggs, greAt waitpeople but miss the old wheat bread“

“A homey restaurant, with the most friendly staff that makes you feel at home, so much so I forgot to take pictures and videos of the place 🤣. The star of the show came right away, the refried beans with the chips and salsa! 🤤🤤🤤. I can't remember the last time something was that good! Plenty of on site parking, handicap ♿️ friendly parking and entrance, lots and LOTS of menu options (including vegan)

Wheelchair accessibility: Plenty of parking, entrance and 1st floor entrance (only 1 floor)“

“Delicious food. Nice staff who very attentive and treat us like family. Great entertainment on most nights -- Salsa on Thursdays and Country dancing on Saturdays with a DJ or a good band. Vaquero is a favorite restaurant of ours.❤️“

“Large plate is pretty filling so come hungry. The crab salad is a great add on if you're lookin for more protein. Sauce option: Ponzu + Spicy Mayo + Sriracha = 👌 btw. this place is Keto Friendly“

“Always have family lunches here and it’s always on point“