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California's best

Pasta and Clam Chowder

A hearty bowl of clam chowder followed by a proper pasta dish that doesn't force you to choose between a coastal staple and a kitchen classic.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
The Dive Oyster Bar image 1
The Dive Oyster Bar image 2
The Dive Oyster Bar image 3
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American restaurant

Bright, nautical decor creates a modern, inviting atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. The vibe stays family-friendly and relaxed, making it a comfortable spot for casual dining. Fresh, flavorful oysters and Southern-inspired seafood dishes stand out as distinctive culinary features.

Lobster pasta stands out with rich flavor and perfect cooking. The House Specialty Pan Roast combines pasta with gumbo for a unique, hearty dish.

Rich and comforting, the clam chowder features cheese, bacon, and green onions for extra flavor. It often comes served in a sourdough bowl, making it hearty and satisfying.

People are saying

"I loved the savory, light, and clean flavors of the Cajun food."

"The clam chowder was rich, comforting, and packed with flavor."

"The lobster pasta here is phenomenal and so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted seafood options.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating for guests.

3

Parking is available in the shared plaza lot next to the restaurant.

02
Lobster-Guys Long Beach image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers a cozy seaside vibe with a relaxed, casual atmosphere and plenty of seating. The environment feels down to earth and friendly, with great music enhancing the experience. Fresh ingredients and standout dishes like lobster rolls and bisque define the menu.

Creamy sauces and fresh seafood define the pasta dishes here. The Lobster Pasta features rich, flavorful lobster pieces, while the Shrimp Pasta offers a fresh, satisfying, and comforting taste.

Thick and creamy clam chowder features large chunks of fish and oyster. It balances salt well and pairs perfectly with fish and chips.

People are saying

"The lobster tacos were balanced, flavorful, and not too heavy."

"I'm still thinking about their delicious clam chowder."

"The shrimp pasta here is so rich and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait for clam chowder during busy hours.

2

The clam chowder costs over $14 for a small bowl.

3

They do not provide forks; bring your own if needed.

03
Seven Seas Bar and Grill Vista image 1

Large outdoor patio and open-concept design create a tropical vibe with classy decor and comfortable seating. Atmosphere blends modern casual with hints of upscale, supported by well-planned lighting and acoustics. Busy and lively, it attracts a mix of diners for casual lunches and date nights.

Primavera pasta features a mix of vegetables but can be tricky to eat. Other dishes include steak and coconut shrimp alongside cheesy biscuits.

Clam chowder here features lots of tender clams and is full of flavor without being too heavy. It contains very few potatoes and stands out as exceptional quality among chowders on the central coast.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and solid."

"The Lobster and Crab Carbonara pasta had plenty of great lobster and crab."

"I thought this clam chowder might be the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough depending on the time of day.

2

Expect a 35-40 minute wait during peak hours, but it may be shorter.

3

Happy hour runs frequently, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

04
Playa Hermosa Fish & Oyster Co. image 1

Patio seating offers breathtaking ocean views and an open window to the kitchen with a bar area. The vibe stays laid back with live music and sports on big TVs, creating a fun atmosphere. Locals gather here for excellent cocktails and fresh seafood dishes.

Lobster mac and cheese and lobster pasta stand out as popular dishes. Squid ink pasta with shrimp or octopus also offers solid, flavorful options.

Clam chowder comes in a bread bowl and features pork belly for added flavor. The New England style chowder is tasty and well-regarded by those who try it.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the oysters."

"The lobster pasta dishes here are amazing."

"The clam chowder in a bread bowl was tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the structure just north of the pier plaza.

2

The restaurant offers a 10% military discount on the service memberโ€™s meal.

3

The location is steps away from the beach and the pier.

05
Pirates Kitchen Artesia image 1
Cajun restaurant

Interior features pirate and ocean motifs with ample seating and a large bar. Atmosphere stays laid back and quiet, with TVs showing sports but no sound. Crowd enjoys seafood boils and affordable drinks in a clean, well-designed space.

Seafood cream pasta stands out with a rich, creamy sauce and fresh shellfish like mussels. Rose pasta comes in a large portion with about 4-6 mussels and scores around 7.5 out of 10 for flavor.

Clam chowder comes with a piece of bread that pairs well. The clam chowder fries offer a tasty twist on the classic.

People are saying

"The Seafood service was quick and attentive, making me feel welcomed."

"I got two pounds of head-on shrimp for $20."

"I tasted the best clam chowder I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Pirates Kitchen offers a daily lunch special of two pounds of head-on shrimp for $20 from 11:30am to 3pm.

2

They have $1 soju shots (max 6 per person) and $3 beers during lunch.

3

Joining the wait list 20-30 minutes prior to arriving is highly recommended.

06
The Galley image 1
Steak house

Rustic steakhouse with nautical-themed decor and Christmas lights creates a unique, intimate vibe. Large, heated patio offers a relaxed, easygoing atmosphere with fun staff and a late-night menu. The setting blends dive bar charm with high-quality steaks and casual social energy.

Seafood pasta dishes include a shrimp pasta with only four shrimp and a fish pasta special. Pasta marinara tastes like canned tomatoes. Kids enjoy the pasta options here.

Contains many fresh clams and has a hearty texture. The flavor is delicious and stands out from typical clam chowders.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"The clam chowder here is hearty and full of fresh clams."

"The pasta here has a great atmosphere and is a lovely place to eat."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5-7pm with discounted drinks.

2

The restaurant offers late-night food service until 1am.

3

Expect some menu items to be marked as 'market price.'

07
COD Seafood House & Raw Bar image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with a nautical-themed bar and a lively atmosphere suits casual dates. Music adds a cool vibe while the space feels somewhat chaotic and run down. Affordable prices and well-balanced portions attract those seeking variety in seafood dishes.

Uni pasta appears in multiple dishes with a creamy sauce but sometimes lacks enough flavor or sauce, leading to dryness. Squid ink pasta is also offered, though opinions on the pasta quality vary.

Clam chowder features generous clam meat and a perfect chewiness. It stands out as top-notch and worth picking up to go.

People are saying

"The raw bar's uni was incredibly fresh, large, and perfectly shaped."

"I thought the clam chowder was delicious with generous clam meat."

"The Truffle Uni Pasta took my taste buds to another world."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a diverse menu with both seafood and Chinese cuisine.

2

Vegan options are available on the menu.

3

The restaurant is dog friendly.

08
The Ellwood at Goleta Beach image 1

Huge covered patio offers spectacular ocean views and a protected outdoor fireplace area with heat lamps. Atmosphere stays chic without being stuffy, attracting groups and couples who enjoy seaside dining. Private rooms and glass enclosures provide comfort against wind and weather.

Lobster pasta special stands out as a delicious option. The short rib pasta pairs well with Brussels sprouts and offers a hearty choice.

Clam chowder features a potato slice and cheese at the bottom, giving it a unique twist. It stays fresh and well-seasoned, standing out among other dishes.

People are saying

"This lunch spot has a spectacular ocean view."

"The salads here are excellent and fresh."

"The pasta here has an amazing ocean view, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4pm on Saturdays with a special menu.

2

Reservations are recommended as the place fills up quickly after noon.

3

A 20% mandatory gratuity is added for parties of six or more.

09
The Daily Grill image 1
Bar & grill

Open kitchen and elegant bar with top-shelf labels and multiple TVs create a spacious, casual dining room. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxing with candlelight and cloth napkins adding warmth. Dog-friendly with free dog food and operates from morning until night.

Pesto pasta stands out with rich flavor and generous portions. The menu also features spicy shrimp pasta and polenta raviolis, both highly recommended for variety and taste.

Clam chowder here has a rich flavor with a creamy texture. Some find it a bit too salty, but overall it ranges from decent to excellent.

People are saying

"The American food, like the chicken pot pie, is fantastic."

"The pesto pasta was so good, I couldn't finish it."

"I thought the clam chowder here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm, offering discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant is located inside the Westin hotel, making it convenient for guests.

3

Prices are generally high, so be prepared for a costly meal.

10
555 East American Steakhouse image 1

Steakhouse offers classic dark wood interiors and candlelit ambiance reminiscent of an East Coast martini bar. Live piano music plays amid a lively atmosphere that suits both celebrations and romantic dinners. Valet parking and outdoor patio seating add convenience and variety to the experience.

Spaghetti scores a solid 7.8 out of 10. Macaroni offers a rich, flavorful taste and serves as a perfect comfort side. Chicken pasta comes in a great portion size and delivers satisfying flavor.

Clam chowder stands out as a delicious starter option, often chosen over Caesar salad. It ranks among the best in Long Beach and Monterey, served alongside main courses like petit filet and sea bass.

People are saying

"Our server Jorge made our anniversary special and memorable."

"I thought the chicken pasta was great and the portion size was phenomenal."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I had in Long Beach."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is highly recommended for convenience.

2

Expect to spend $50-100 per person, potentially doubling with drinks and dessert.

3

The restaurant offers free desserts for celebrations like anniversaries or birthdays.

11
Sizzler image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers huge tables and high ceilings creating a spacious, family-friendly setting. Multiple HD TVs show sports, adding to a chill atmosphere. Large, well-stocked salad bar complements a clean, modern decor.

Offers spaghetti and pasta as part of warm dishes and an all-you-can-eat salad bar. Pasta comes at a reasonable price and is noted for its good taste.

Clam chowder here is cooked to perfection with a quality that stands out. It appears in the soup and salad bar and pairs well with crab salad.

People are saying

"I loved the salad bar; it was always fresh and stocked."

"The salad bar has pasta, tacos, and ice cream."

"I thought the clam chowder was cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

The location is easily accessible from the highway with ample parking available.

2

The women's restroom is not wheelchair accessible.

3

Expect to pay around $19 for seniors with a salad bar and drink.

12
Anchors Fish & Chips And Seafood Grill image 1

Seafood restaurant offers spacious, comfortable seating with patio options and a cozy, welcoming vibe. The atmosphere stays quiet and low-stress early in the evening, with good spacing between tables. The setting feels clean and ordinary, focusing attention on the food rather than decor.

Seafood dominates the pasta options with dishes like fettuccine with prawns standing out. The menu offers a wide range of fish and pasta combinations that deliver solid flavors.

Creamy texture with plenty of clam meat and potatoes defines the clam chowder here. Clam chunks stay soft and tender, though it can be a bit salty for some.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are perfectly flaky and not greasy."

"The clam chowder is creamy with plenty of clam meat."

"I enjoyed a tasty fish and pasta dinner."

Good to know

1

They offer a full bar and a happy hour from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Parking is available nearby, especially after 7 pm.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.

13
Serrano Vista Cafe image 1

Minimalist space with fresh roses daily and modern tableware creates a classy, relaxed atmosphere. Tables are well spaced, avoiding crowding, and the vibe resembles a lively bistro. Reservation is often necessary due to popularity and steady flow of guests.

Spaghetti and meatballs come with giant meatballs and garlic cheese toast. The sauce keeps a simple, sweet tomato flavor without fancy spices.

Clam chowder features corn as a unique ingredient, adding a sweet crunch. It comes highly praised for its rich flavor and is available for takeout.

People are saying

"The cafe's service is always attentive and friendly."

"The spaghetti and meatballs had giant meatballs and a simple, delicious marinara."

"I thought the clam chowder was really great."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect a 10-15 minute wait for breakfast seating without a reservation.

3

The cafe is open 24/7, making it convenient for late-night dining.

14
Soup โ€˜n Fresh - Rancho Cucamonga image 1

Buffet restaurant with a nostalgic atmosphere and a layout that mirrors classic salad and soup bars. Loud environment due to hard surfaces and packed space creates a lively, bustling vibe. Offers all-you-can-eat options with fresh salads and soups, attracting families and those seeking a familiar, cozy dining experience.

All-you-can-eat pasta comes with a variety of options including classics like tuna pasta. The pasta dishes are part of a buffet that also includes soups, salads, and baked goods, all priced at $17.99.

Clam chowder features large potato pieces, clam chunks, and bacon with a great overall taste. Potatoes sometimes come a little undercooked but the soup stands out for its flavor.

People are saying

"This soup place is identical to Soup Plantation and Sweet Tomatoes."

"I thought the clam chowder tasted great, just like back in the day."

"The pasta here is identical to Souplantation."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of 1.5 hours on weekends if arriving after 10:40am.

2

The restaurant enforces a 2-hour dining limit, even when tables are available.

3

Parking is hard to find, with no handicapped spots available.

15
Islamorada Fish Company image 1

Large blue-lit aquarium surrounds the bar, creating a unique and vibrant atmosphere. Spacious interior features festive decorations and eye-catching sections, offering a distinctive dining environment. Ambiance is generally quiet and scenic, with a mix of lively energy and relaxed seating areas.

Creamy pasta dishes stand out here, especially the Cajun pasta and blackened shrimp pasta loaded with shrimp. The pasta pairs well with hearty sides like BBQ ribs.

Clam chowder comes very hot and tastes like the sea. It pairs well with sourdough bread or served in a bread bowl.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, and the service is great too."

"The service here is excellent, making the pasta experience amazing."

"The clam chowder here is delicious and served hot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 4pm on Fridays; arrive early to avoid crowds.

2

Expect high prices with small portion sizes; a meal can cost around $20.

3

The restaurant is located inside Bass Pro Shops, making it easy to find.

16
Boathouse on the Bay image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with waterfront patio offers live jazz music and spectacular ocean views. Atmosphere feels warming and inviting, enhanced by heaters and a fire pit. Guests often enjoy the setting for dinner or cocktails while watching the bay and marina.

Lobster tail pasta stands out with rich flavor and perfect cooking. Angel hair pasta carries the lobster well, making it a delicious dish.

Rich and creamy clam chowder stands out with its fresh clams and hearty texture. It pairs well with sourdough bread and offers a satisfying, flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The view from here is beautiful and amazing."

"The live music with waterfront views is a stunning experience."

"The lobster pasta here is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance for dining.

2

Happy hour runs from 4pm to 6pm with discounted drinks and food.

3

50% off whole bottles of wine available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

17
The Pasta Market image 1
Italian restaurant

Large space with festive theming and Instagram-worthy decor creates a warm, quiet atmosphere for friends and family. Food serves in generous portions with affordable prices and a mix of authentic and fast-food style service. Locally owned vibe blends casual dining with unique presentation like sandwiches on cutting boards.

Fresh pasta made in house stands out with authentic Italian flavor. Dishes like seafood pasta and fettuccine Alfredo with chicken offer good flavor without heaviness.

Clam chowder comes cold and takes about 20 minutes to arrive. It pairs with dishes like spaghetti and chicken Alfredo and costs around $44 for a meal including it.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pasta, was really good."

"The pasta dishes here are really tasty and flavorful."

"I found the Clam Chowder soup delightful and fulfilling."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $22 for a sandwich with tip and tax.

2

Kids are welcome, making it a family-friendly dining spot.

3

The restaurant has been locally owned since the 1980s.

18
22nd St. Landing Seafood Grill & Bar image 1

Seafood restaurant overlooks marina with stunning harbor views and heated patio seating. Atmosphere feels romantic and relaxed, with tables arranged for optimal viewing of boats and yachts. Bar area offers drinks but lighting is dimmer compared to dining spaces.

Seafood pasta features jumbo-sized grilled shrimp with tails on and fettuccine cooked al dente. Mushrooms taste fresh, and the seafood pasta stands out as very good.

Rich and creamy clam chowder stands out with its excellent flavor and amazing texture. It pairs well with other seafood dishes like Cajun shrimp and cioppino.

People are saying

"The seafood here is tasty, especially the chowder and linguine."

"I found the clam chowder to be rich and flavorful."

"The seafood pasta had seasoned, jumbo shrimp with Cajun sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times during busy brunch hours.

2

Brunch gets busy around noon, so arrive early for a better experience.

3

There is plenty of free parking available, including an overflow lot.

19
Broad Street Oyster Company image 1
Seafood restaurant

Open-space design offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay, creating a cozy and lively atmosphere with bright decorations and rocking good music. The space features a fantastic bar setup and seafood display, attracting those seeking a fun vibe and casual feast.

Sea urchin pasta stands out with a luxurious and creamy flavor, though it sometimes arrives not hot. Uni spaghetti was once a menu item but is no longer available.

Clam chowder here is consistently great and often described as top-notch. It pairs well with other seafood like lobster rolls and oysters.

People are saying

"The lobster roll was simple, warm, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

"The oysters here are crisp and clean."

"The uni spaghetti was good, and the lobster roll was delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is generous, and the staff are accommodating.

2

The prices were quite high, with $45 for tuna tartare.

3

Portions at Broad Street Oyster Company are small.

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