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Guide to Santa Monica

Fish spots

You are looking for a reliable place to get a solid serving of fish.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 2
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 3
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Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior with modern design and beautiful chandeliers creates a calm, clean vibe. Fish is incredibly fresh with standout dishes like spicy tuna rolls and yellowtail kama. Robot waitress Bella adds a unique, cozy touch to the dining experience.

Fish here is consistently incredibly fresh with high-quality cuts. Rolls like the spicy tuna are packed with fish, and dishes like yellowtail kama highlight the freshness well.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

"The lunch special here is a huge, affordable plate."

"The fish here is so fresh and good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

02
Shunji Japanese Cuisine image 1
Japanese restaurant

Minimalist space with blonde wood counters offers an intimate sushi experience. Fish is incredibly fresh, sourced mainly from Japan. Soft jazz and orchids create a peaceful atmosphere while chefs craft each dish with meticulous care.

Fish tastes incredibly fresh and comes primarily from Japan. The sourcing ensures consistent freshness and quality.

People are saying

"The sake here is a testament to meticulous attention to detail."

"The omakase tasting experience here is unforgettable and refined."

"The fish here tastes incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least one week in advance for the omakase experience.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for tips.

03
Miyako Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers a cozy atmosphere with cherry blossoms and neon signs. Fresh fish shines in dishes like the Miyako Roll, blending creamy avocado and perfect sauces. Affordable sushi and bento boxes make it great for casual dinners or dates.

Fresh fish stands out in every bite, with a tender texture that complements dishes well. The Miyako Roll combines creamy avocado, fresh fish, and perfect sauces for a flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and beautifully presented."

"I thought the ramen here was pretty good and spicier than I expected."

"The fish here is so fresh and tender."

Good to know

1

Miyako Restaurant closes at 9 PM.

2

Parking may be hard to find due to limited street parking.

3

Expect to pay around $20 per person for lunch.

04
LA PUREPECHA COCINA MEXICANA image 1

Small Mexican spot offers fresh fish tacos with bold spice and thick homemade tortillas. Casual, family-friendly vibe with paper plate service and lively Mexican tunes. TVs show local sports, creating a welcoming atmosphere for quick, tasty meals.

Fish tacos feature fresh fish with a good amount of spice and balanced flavors. Shrimp and fish burritos come flavorful and filling, paired with thick homemade tortillas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is oozing with flavor and moisture."

"You have to try their thick, homemade tortillas; they're full of flavor."

"The fish tacos here have thick crusts and plump fillings."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a 1 plus 1 deal on tacos.

2

Specials are available Monday through Friday with $2 off select items.

3

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

05
Mariscos Guillen La Playita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Fresh seafood shines with fried fish tacos and a popular campechana cocktail featuring octopus and shrimp. Simple, unchanged atmosphere keeps prices low and vibe casual. Small seating area invites quick, flavorful meals.

Fried fish tacos stand out as a highlight here, often praised for their flavor and texture. The menu also includes fried shrimp tacos, which receive similar positive attention.

People are saying

"I thought the ceviche here was the best in the world."

"These fish tacos are the greatest thing I've ever put in my mouth."

"I loved the fried fish tacos; they were the greatest thing ever."

Good to know

1

The restaurant closes at 7:45 PM, not 9:00 PM as indicated by GPS.

2

Expect to eat outside or next door at the tire shop due to limited seating.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

06
Library Alehouse image 1
American restaurant

Gastropub shines with Pliny the Elder on tap and a quiet dog-friendly patio. Fish dishes impress with crispy fish and chips and flavorful fish tacos. Warm, inviting interior can get loud due to dense seating.

Fish and chips come in generous portions with a perfectly crispy and tasty coating. Fish tacos stand out as crispy and highly flavorful.

People are saying

"They have an awesome, wide selection of craft beers."

"I thought the burgers here were the best I ever had."

"I loved the fish and chips; they were perfectly crispy and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm Monday to Friday with great deals.

2

Trivia night is held every Wednesday evening in the back area.

3

Parking can be challenging, but there are usually spots available nearby.

07
SaMo’s Oaxaca image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot with fresh fish tacos and flavorful mole enchiladas. Family-owned vibe shines through authentic Oaxacan charm and a vibrant wall mural. Enjoy a standout fast casual meal with bold Oaxacan flavors and good music.

Fish Tacos and Fish Burrito stand out with fresh flavors. Mole Enchiladas complement the fish dishes well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Oaxacan."

"I thought the street tacos were the best I've had anywhere."

"I thought their fish tacos were the best I've had anywhere."

Good to know

1

There are no restrooms available at SaMo’s Oaxaca.

2

Parking is a little dense in that small strip mall.

3

A simple burrito costs almost twenty dollars with a can of soda.

08
Orla by Michael Mina image 1

Tiered flooring and panoramic ocean views create an elegant vibe. Fish dishes like Alexandria Fish shine with perfect cooking and wine pairings. A large bar and DJ music keep the atmosphere vibrant yet conversational.

Alexandria Fish and Branzino come out cooked to perfection. Wine pairings for the fish are spot on.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots is extraordinary, with layers of flavor."

"The sunset view here is a beautiful, magical show."

"The fish here is cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Valet parking costs $25 if validated inside.

2

A mandatory 20% service charge is added to all bills.

3

Reservations are recommended to guarantee a spot, especially for outdoor seating.

09
The Galley image 1
Steak house

Rustic steakhouse shines with fish tacos during Happy Hour and hearty fish specials. Nautical decor and Christmas lights create a cozy vibe. Large heated patio and late-night menu keep the energy casual and fun.

Happy Hour features delicious fish tacos with exceptional portions. Fish and chips and a fish pasta special also appear on the menu.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers tasted excellent."

"I found the tomahawk steak to be humongous and impressive."

"I found the fish tacos to be delicious."

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.'

10
Rustic Canyon image 1
Californian restaurant

Rustic, chic design with hardwood interiors sets a lively, intimate scene. Roasted fish shines with a delicate citrus glaze, paired well with fresh salads. Outdoor patio adds a charming experience for laid-back diners.

Roasted fish comes flaky and flavorful with a delicate citrus glaze. White fish serves as a solid choice but shares the spotlight with fresh salads and vegetables.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, highlighting fresh, local ingredients."

"The beet and berry salad was a definite highlight."

"The fish here is flaky and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 30-45 minute wait for tables during peak hours.

3

A 4% health charge is added to the subtotal before tax.

11
Santa Monica Seafood Market & Cafe image 1

Seafood market blends fresh seafood with a lively oyster bar and casual dining. Fish dishes like grilled white fish and lobster rolls are moist and generous. Atmosphere mixes bustling energy with quiet spots, creating a true community hub.

Fish here stays fresh and high quality consistently. The grilled white fish comes out moist and flaky, and the menu offers varied choices like lobster rolls and fish tacos with generous portions.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The market has an excellent selection of fresh seafood."

"The fish here is super fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at the back of the market.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for fresh seafood are comparable to upscale restaurants.

12
Perry's Café & Beach Rentals - Santa Monica 2400 image 1

Enjoy ocean views while dining on crispy fish and chips and fresh grilled Mahi in the California Bowl. Outdoor seating on sand with umbrella tables creates a relaxed beachside atmosphere. Live music on select days adds to the laid-back vibe.

Crispy and flavorful fish and chips stand out with a price of 24 dollars. Fish tacos come across as pretty decent, while the California Bowl features firm grilled Mahi that tastes very fresh.

People are saying

"I loved watching everything happening on the beach from the cafe."

"I enjoyed a cold beer while watching the sunset."

"The fish and chips were crispy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 7pm on weekdays.

2

Bikes and beach umbrellas can be rented for $8 per hour.

3

The café closes just before sunset, limiting evening visits.

13
Sushi Kanpai Santa Monica image 1

Sushi spot shines with fresh fish and generous portions. Cozy, spacious seating sets a relaxed, intimate mood. Friendly staff create a welcoming vibe that matches the pristine, quiet space.

Outstanding quality and very fresh fish define the menu, with generous portions and a variety of options not commonly found at other sushi spots.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"This Lunch Spot has fantastic ramen and delicious donburi bowls."

"The fish here is outstanding and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off on all hand rolls until 6 PM.

2

Reservations are required to meet a $50 per person minimum on weekends.

3

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant.

14
O'Briens Irish Pub image 1

Irish pub buzzes with loud atmosphere and many TVs showing sports. Cod fish and chips are crispy and golden, a solid choice here. Heated outdoor patio adds to the authentic vibe, perfect for lively nights.

Fish and chips come out crispy and golden without being greasy. Cod fish and chips are served, with some variation in quality noted.

People are saying

"This pub has an authentic, welcoming vibe and feels like home."

"This bar has so many TVs, it's great for watching games."

"The fish and chips were crispy and golden."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Wednesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

The pub quiz on Mondays fills up quickly, so arrive early.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

15
Chinois On Main image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Asian fusion spot shines with soft shell crab and whole fried fish among its unique dishes. Vintage charm and upmarket setting create a cozy, lively vibe with close tables. Distinctive artwork and tile work add character to the intimate, bustling space.

Soft shell crab and whole fried fish stand out among seven appetizers and fried fish with sides. Fried rice and a trio of crème brûlées round out the meal.

People are saying

"The Chinese chicken salad is fresh, flavorful, and perfectly crunchy."

"The Chinese Food here is amazing, and the staff are so kind."

"Joel made the fish experience memorable and special."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like birthday parties.

2

Dietary restrictions can be accommodated, but confirm with staff upon arrival.

3

Chinois On Main offers a unique French/Chinese fusion menu.

16
MUSE Santa Monica image 1
Modern French restaurant

Modern French restaurant showcases art deco inspired decor with moody lighting and elegant, inviting atmosphere. Space feels intimate yet stylish, balancing comfort with sophistication. Guests experience exceptional culinary craftsmanship paired with memorable desserts and cocktails.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with such attentive and friendly service."

"The staff's attentiveness and warmth made it feel so intimate."

"The fish here is so juicy and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at the restaurant.

2

Valet parking is suggested as parking is limited in the area.

3

Expect to spend between $400 and $500 for two people, including drinks.

17
The Curious Palate image 1
New American restaurant

Open-air seating creates a calm atmosphere perfect for families. Fish dishes use never frozen fish, with tacos that are incredible and a special fish curry flavor. Bright, spacious space feels homey and relaxing.

Fish dishes feature never frozen fish with the tacos standing out as incredible. The fish curry offers a special flavor that sets it apart.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, healthy, and delicious."

"This Local Spot's fresh, from-scratch cooking uses local ingredients."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they're incredible."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on the 3rd floor of the Santa Monica Place Mall.

2

The menu offers a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

3

There are many vegetarian options available.

18
KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar image 1

Small sushi bar offers an intimate, lively vibe with U-shaped counter seating and upbeat energy. Fish is extremely fresh and cold, paired with warm rice and crispy nori. Menu features both clean classics and unique options like toro.

Fish arrives extremely fresh and cold, paired with warm rice and super crispy nori. Options include straightforward, clean preparations and some interesting, unfamiliar varieties like toro.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the hand rolls, is incredibly fresh."

"The food here is so fresh, you can really taste the quality."

"The fish here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a flat 16% fee and does not accept tips.

2

Expect a wait time of around 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The seating area is small, which can be uncomfortable during busy hours.

19
Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge image 1

Frank Gehry's design creates a gorgeous architectural setting with chic decor and warm vibes. Fish dishes shine with perfectly salted fish and generous portions, especially the fish sandwich and tacos. A DJ spins tunes, adding lively energy while the outdoor patio shows vintage LA clips for a unique touch.

Fish dishes feature perfectly salted and beautifully cooked fish. The fish sandwich stands out as exceptionally good, and the fish tacos come in impressive portions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food and cocktails here are amazing for Date Spots."

"I thought the fish sandwich was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers food and drinks for $10.

2

Parking is available, but not validated.

3

The restaurant has a family-style dining option for sharing.

20
Diner Antonette image 1
American restaurant

Old building hosts an American diner with retro-inspired decor and cozy booths. Fish sandwich offers great flavor and salmon is a solid choice. Patio and event spaces provide airy, bright settings for relaxed gatherings.

Fish sandwich stands out with great flavor and quality. Salmon also appears as a solid choice among entrees.

People are saying

"The diner's fried chicken is wonderfully spiced and crispy."

"It's a warm, retro-inspired atmosphere with a modern, curated vibe."

"You have to try the fish sandwich; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price drinks before 7 PM on weekdays.

2

Kids meals are available for $5 each.

3

Parking is generally available on the street, but check for meters.

21
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 1

Space blends Japanese decor with a cherry blossom tree and floral ceilings, creating a cozy, romantic vibe. Fresh, high-quality fish shines in the Yellow Volcano Roll and sashimi combos. The bar offers an authentic izakaya vibe with a laid-back, friendly crowd.

Fish comes fresh and high quality here, especially in the sashimi combo and sushi sets. The Yellow Volcano Roll features crispy yellowtail fish flame-grilled outside with spicy tuna inside, topped with sweet teriyaki sauce.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food, especially the bento boxes, had a great variety and large portions."

"The sashimi here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The fish here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until midnight for late-night drinks.

2

There is a public parking lot nearby with 90 minutes of free parking.

3

The restaurant is open until 12 midnight, making it ideal for late-night snacks.

22
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside spot boasts huge outdoor deck with scenic views and dog-friendly patio seating. Fresh fish stars in Fish & Chips, served with generous portions and perfect cooking. Chill vibe flows with Bob Marley tunes and cozy heaters, making it a relaxed, casual hangout.

Fresh fish shines in the Fish & Chips with generous portions and perfect cooking. Steam lobster, white sauce mussels, and clam chowder also highlight the seafood offerings.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The oysters here are super fresh and delicious."

"The fish and chips here are amazing and crispy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

23
Jameson’s Pub image 1

Irish pub offers a lively sports bar vibe with authentic decor and many TVs. Fish tacos deliver exceptional flavor, while fish and chips feature a great batter and large plank fries. Live music and karaoke create an energetic atmosphere indoors and outdoors.

Fish tacos stand out with exceptional flavor and are often described as amazing. Fish and chips come with a great batter and a large portion of plank fries.

People are saying

"It's a lively bar with a fun, energetic atmosphere."

"I loved the happy hour deals, especially the two-for-one drinks."

"The fish and chips here are so good, I kept trying them again and again."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 7pm with 2-for-1 drink specials.

2

A cover charge applies after 10 PM on Saturday nights.

3

The pub can get very crowded during football season.

24
Tsukiji Sushi Sen image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate spot with a cozy authentic interior and a beautiful terrace sets a warm mood. Locals love the fresh sushi made from high-quality fish and enjoy smooth sake. Staff add charm by singing during celebrations, perfect for dates or family nights.

Fish here is consistently fresh and of high quality. The selection reflects a deep knowledge of sourcing, ensuring every piece is top-notch.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"It's a cozy, sweet neighborhood spot with a relaxing, inviting atmosphere."

"The fish here is the freshest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 5pm with great prices on appetizers and drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special bento box during happy hour.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, accommodating larger parties.

25
Shirubē image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with intimate bar seating creates a cozy vibe. Fish is incredibly fresh, especially in sashimi and nigiri, with unique cured flavors like Aburi Shime Saba. Lighting adds a romantic atmosphere highlighting skilled chefs and antique sake cups.

Fish here is incredibly fresh and tender, especially in the sashimi and nigiri. Unique items like the Aburi Shime Saba offer a cured flavor that pairs well with the raw fish.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"You have to get the corn ribs; they're amazing."

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

26
The Whaler Santa Monica image 1

Oceanfront setting offers unmatched beach views and a lively vibe with a DJ and loud music. Enjoy crispy fish tacos and fresh oysters while watching sports on TVs in the game room nook. Outdoor terraces provide sunset views and a bar-focused atmosphere perfect for groups.

Fish and chips come with actual vinegar and a crispy texture. The menu includes crispy fish tacos, lobster roll, oysters on a half shell, clam chowder, and yellow fin tuna nachos.

People are saying

"The live sports here are great, with friendly and attentive service."

"The outdoor seating has a great view of the Santa Monica Pier."

"I loved the fish and chips, it's so good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Karaoke night, called terry-oke, happens every Monday at 9pm.

3

Parking is available nearby through SpotHero for convenience.

27
Sushi King image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar offers authentic Japanese ambience with a cozy, local vibe. Fish is served in large portions with exceptional freshness and clean taste. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly even when crowded.

Fish comes in large portions with exceptional freshness and a clean, high quality taste. Sauces are minimal, letting the fish's natural flavor stand out.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The sushi here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Japan."

"It's a small, cozy place to hang out for dinner."

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly advised due to high demand.

2

Sushi King tends to be quite crowded, especially on weekends.

3

Expect long wait times if you arrive without a reservation.

28
Casa Martin | 3rd St Promenade image 1

Cozy Mexican spot shines with live Mariachi and outdoor seating on a lively promenade. Fish tacos stand out as loaded and flavorful, though some fish dishes can be overly salty. Enjoy notable margarita flights in a stylish, warm setting.

Fish dishes include fish tacos that are loaded and flavorful, alongside a Garlic Fish option. Some fish preparations can be very salty, affecting edibility.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the fish tacos, is fantastic."

"The seafood, especially the garlic shrimp, was delicious."

"The fish tacos here are loaded and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Expect an 18% automatic service charge on your bill.

2

Happy hour offers better value with a 2 taco special.

3

The average entree costs around $25.

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