Santa Clarita, a charming city nestled in the northern part of Los Angeles County, is often overlooked by many visitors to California. However, its rich blend of scenic views, outdoor activities, and surprisingly vibrant food scene makes it a hidden gem worth exploring. One aspect that particularly stands out during my recent visit to the area was the seafood. From casual eateries to fine dining, Santa Clarita has a variety of places that serve incredibly fresh, flavorful seafood. If you’re a seafood lover like me, you’ll definitely want to explore these local favorites during your visit.
In this post, I’ll share my experience at some of the best seafood restaurants in Santa Clarita, each offering a unique atmosphere and a chance to savor the freshest catches from the ocean. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed dinner with friends or a special occasion meal, these restaurants will not disappoint.
1. The Beach House – A Taste of the Coast
The first spot I recommend is The Beach House, a laid-back seafood restaurant that feels like a little slice of the coast without leaving the city. Located just off the main drag in Santa Clarita, it’s a place where the décor immediately transports you to a beachfront paradise, complete with wood paneling, nautical decor, and coastal-themed artwork.
What to Try: Their clam chowder is an absolute must-try—creamy, rich, and brimming with fresh clams. But the true star of the show here is their seafood platter. Featuring shrimp, crab legs, oysters, and scallops, this platter is a celebration of the ocean’s bounty. Everything was so fresh, I almost felt like I was dining by the Pacific Ocean itself. The platter is generously portioned and perfect for sharing with friends or family.
Atmosphere: The ambiance at The Beach House is casual and inviting, with a friendly staff that makes you feel right at home. The restaurant is perfect for a relaxed evening where you can kick back and enjoy a meal without the usual hustle and bustle of more crowded venues.
How to Book: For convenience, I recommend using OpenTable to book a reservation ahead of time, especially on weekends when it can get quite busy. The online booking system is seamless and easy to navigate, ensuring you won’t have to wait long for a table.
2. The Fish Grill – Freshness at Its Best
If you’re looking for a more contemporary, upscale setting without going overboard on price, The Fish Grill is an excellent choice. With a sleek modern interior and a menu full of fresh, high-quality seafood, it’s the ideal spot for a dinner that’s both refined and approachable.
What to Try: The grilled salmon here was perfectly cooked, with a light char on the outside and a tender, flaky interior. Paired with a side of roasted vegetables, it was a simple but delicious dish. But for something a little different, I recommend the fish tacos—they’re packed with flavor and come with a tangy sauce that ties everything together.
Atmosphere: The ambiance at The Fish Grill is contemporary and stylish, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. It’s a great choice for a date night or a celebration dinner, but it’s also casual enough for a solo meal. The open kitchen concept adds to the experience, allowing you to watch the chefs at work.
How to Book: The Fish Grill is often busy, especially on weekends, so I recommend reserving a table through their website or using OpenTable to secure your spot. This way, you won’t have to worry about waiting, and you can enjoy your meal without any delays.
3. Seafood City – The Local Favorite
For a more no-frills, local experience, Seafood City is a great spot to visit. It’s not as fancy as some of the other options in town, but that’s part of its charm. Here, it’s all about fresh seafood at reasonable prices.
What to Try: The shrimp and garlic noodles are an absolute winner. The shrimp is tender and perfectly seasoned, while the garlic noodles are rich and flavorful without being overpowering. It’s a simple dish, but sometimes the best meals are the simplest. Another standout is their seafood paella, a hearty dish with a variety of shellfish, rice, and spices. It’s perfect for a group meal.
Atmosphere: The vibe at Seafood City is more laid-back and casual, with a cozy interior that makes you feel like you’re in a local neighborhood restaurant. The staff is friendly and the service is efficient, making it a great place to grab a quick but satisfying meal.
How to Book: While you can usually get a table without a reservation, I recommend calling ahead if you plan to visit during peak hours. It’s a popular spot, especially for dinner, so a little planning ahead can make your dining experience much smoother.
4. Mariscos El Conde – A Hidden Gem
For those willing to venture off the beaten path, Mariscos El Conde is a hidden gem serving authentic Mexican seafood dishes. This small but vibrant eatery offers a range of fresh seafood options with a Mexican twist, and the flavors are nothing short of amazing.
What to Try: I highly recommend their ceviche de camarón (shrimp ceviche), which is bursting with bright, zesty flavors from lime, cilantro, and tomatoes. The shrimp is incredibly fresh, and the tangy marinade makes for a refreshing appetizer or light meal. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, their pescado a la talla (grilled fish) is grilled to perfection and served with a smoky sauce that brings out the natural flavors of the fish.
Atmosphere: Mariscos El Conde has a humble and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly staff who are always ready to recommend the best dishes. The restaurant has a bit of a family-run vibe, which adds to its charm. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a more authentic, low-key experience.
How to Book: Since it’s a smaller restaurant, it’s best to arrive early or call ahead to secure a table, especially on weekends. They don’t offer online reservations, so a quick phone call will do the trick.
5. The Lobster Trap – For a Classic Seafood Experience
If you’re craving lobster, The Lobster Trap is the place to go. As one of the more classic seafood spots in Santa Clarita, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable lobster experience that’s sure to satisfy any seafood craving.
What to Try: The lobster roll is the highlight of the menu—packed with tender, sweet lobster meat and served in a buttery, toasted roll. It’s simple but utterly delicious. Another must-try is their whole lobster, which is served with melted butter and a side of crispy fries. It’s the epitome of a classic seafood feast.
Atmosphere: The Lobster Trap offers a more refined dining experience, with dark wood accents and soft lighting creating a cozy yet upscale ambiance. It’s an ideal spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner, but the relaxed vibe makes it suitable for any occasion.
How to Book: This place gets busy, especially around holidays, so it’s a good idea to book your reservation ahead of time. OpenTable is a convenient option, or you can call the restaurant directly to reserve a spot.
6. Booking Platforms for Easy Reservations
When it comes to booking your table at any of these seafood spots, there are a few great platforms that make the process quick and hassle-free:
- OpenTable: This is my go-to platform for making reservations. It’s easy to use, and it offers a wide range of dining options, including reviews and availability times.
- Resy: Another great platform for securing a spot at popular restaurants. Resy is ideal for high-end places or those that tend to book up quickly.
- Yelp: While primarily a review site, Yelp also allows you to book reservations directly through their platform for certain restaurants. It’s a great way to discover new places based on real customer experiences.
These platforms ensure you won’t be left waiting for a table, and they often provide insight into what to expect at each restaurant, from reviews to wait times.
7. Exploring the Freshness of Santa Clarita’s Seafood Scene
Santa Clarita may not be right on the coast, but its seafood offerings are just as fresh and delicious as you’ll find by the beach. Whether you’re indulging in a lobster roll at The Lobster Trap or enjoying a seafood paella at Seafood City, there’s something for everyone in this city. Each restaurant offers a unique experience, from casual dining to upscale meals, all while celebrating the incredible flavors of the ocean.
If you’re planning a trip to Santa Clarita, make sure to add these seafood spots to your itinerary. Not only will you get a taste of the freshest seafood around, but you’ll also experience the warm hospitality and laid-back charm that make this city such a hidden gem.
