10 Best Restaurants in Catalina Island
The ten best restaurants in Catalina Island are Bluewater Avalon, Maggie's Blue Rose, The Lobster Trap, Steve's Steakhouse, Avalon Grille, Original Jack's Country Kitchen, Descanso Beach Club Restaurant, NDMK Fish House, Antonio's Original Pizza, and The Naughty Fox. Restaurants in this island in Southern California specialize in fresh Pacific catches and traditional Mexican recipes. Local chefs focus on sustainable seafood by preparing pan-seared scallops and fresh lobster. These dining spots are found along the bustling Crescent Avenue, near the historic Green Pleasure Pier, and on secluded beachfront terraces overlooking Avalon Bay. The average cost of dining at popular restaurants in Catalina Island is $40 per person.
Bluewater Avalon holds the top spot on the list for serving fresh seafood and oysters in a waterfront setting. Maggie's Blue Rose is a local favorite known for award-winning Mexican cuisine and margaritas overlooking the bay. The Lobster Trap has earned a strong reputation for casual seafood dishes, including fresh oysters Rockefeller.
The best restaurants in Catalina Island are listed below.
10 Best Restaurants in Catalina Island are listed below.
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1
Bluewater AvalonBluewater Avalon serves fresh seafood right on the water. The restaurant features outdoor waterfront patios overlooking Avalon Bay. Cooks prepare fresh crab and lobster using sustainable sourcing methods.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:Seafood, American
Signature Dishes:Ponzu Sashimi Sea Scallops
Fish Tacos
Pan Seared Salmon
Location:306 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A pet-friendly outdoor patio offering unobstructed views of the harbor
What Makes It Special:Cooks prepare fresh crab, lobster, and oysters using sustainable sourcing methods.
What Sets It Apart:This restaurant delivers a highly popular and scenic seafood meal directly on the water.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Price:$30 to $60 per person
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2
Maggie's Blue RoseMaggie's Blue Rose prepares award-winning Mexican food on Catalina Island. The restaurant offers a colorful and lively atmosphere right on the front street. Bartenders mix famous margaritas to complement traditional enchiladas and fresh seafood dishes.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:Mexican
Signature Dishes:Lobster Enchiladas
Chips and Salsa
Pan Seared Chicken Chipotle
Location:417 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A waterfront location providing clear views of Avalon Bay
What Makes It Special:Bartenders mix award-winning margaritas to pair with innovative Mexican dishes.
What Sets It Apart:This dining spot brings high-quality and creative Mexican flavors to the main tourist corridor.
Operating Hours:Sunday - Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PMFriday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Price:$20 to $30 per person
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3
The Lobster TrapThe Lobster Trap is a beloved Avalon restaurant offering fresh seafood dishes in a casual atmosphere. Situated on Catalina Avenue, the restaurant was established in 2008 and invites diners to experience delicious island meals.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:Seafood, American
Signature Dishes:Oysters Rockefeller
Bacon Wrapped Scallops
Grilled Flat Iron Steak
Location:128 Catalina Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A relaxed and nautical-themed interior filled with local fishing memorabilia
What Makes It Special:Cooks prepare fresh oysters and bacon-wrapped scallops using simple and traditional methods.
What Sets It Apart:The restaurant provides a highly reliable and unpretentious seafood meal favored by locals.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Price:$20 to $30 per person
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4
Steve's SteakhouseSteve's Steakhouse is located in the middle of downtown with breathtaking views of Avalon Bay. The restaurant specializes in delicious aged Angus steak and fresh local seafood brought in from the pier.Type of Restaurant:Upscale Casual
Type of Food:Steakhouse, Seafood
Signature Dishes:Duck Cigars
Filet Mignon
Shrimp Avalon Style
Location:417 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A second-floor dining area offering elevated and panoramic views of the harbor
What Makes It Special:Chefs grill corn-fed Nebraska beef and prepare fresh seafood sourced directly from local fishermen.
What Sets It Apart:This steakhouse delivers a highly polished and traditional meat-focused meal with decades of local history.
Operating Hours:Monday - Thursday: 4:30 PM - 8:30 PMFriday - Saturday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PMSunday: 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Price:$30 to $80 per person
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5
Avalon GrilleAvalon Grille serves premium meats and local fish steps from Avalon Bay. The restaurant features a sophisticated interior and a large central bar.Type of Restaurant:Upscale Casual
Type of Food:New American, Seafood
Signature Dishes:Local Pacific Halibut
Coffee-Brown Sugar & Chili Rubbed Ribeye Steak
Classic Beef Tartare
Location:423 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A large and circular bar area pouring craft cocktails and local wines
What Makes It Special:Cooks use farmstand produce to create artfully crafted and chef-inspired dishes.
What Sets It Apart:The restaurant offers a highly refined and modern American menu in the center of the downtown district.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Price:$50 to $100 per person
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6
Original Jack's Country KitchenOriginal Jack's Country Kitchen serves hearty breakfast platters and fresh pastries on Catalina Island. The bright and nostalgic diner sits just a few doors up from the Green Pleasure Pier.Type of Restaurant:Diner
Type of Food:American, Breakfast
Signature Dishes:Fettuccine Alfredo
Chicken Parmigiana
Manzo Al Marsala
Location:118 Catalina Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:An old-style glass display case filled with fresh baked pies and cakes
What Makes It Special:Bakers prepare fresh pastries while cooks serve massive breakfast platters and traditional Italian dinners.
What Sets It Apart:This diner provides a highly nostalgic and family-friendly meal with a classic 1950s aesthetic.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 10:30 PM (Tuesday & Wednesday close at 2:00 PM)
Price:$10 to $20 per person
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7
Descanso Beach Club RestaurantDescanso Beach Club Restaurant features the only beachside dining and bar experience in Avalon. The restaurant sits nestled in Descanso Canyon just past the historic Catalina Casino.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:American, Seafood
Signature Dishes:Coconut Shrimp
Carne Asada Tacos
Poke Bowl
Location:1 St Catherine Way, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:Outdoor tables and lounge chairs situated directly on the sand
What Makes It Special:Cooks prepare fresh seafood and tropical drinks for guests lounging by the water.
What Sets It Apart:The restaurant delivers a highly exclusive and resort-style beach club atmosphere.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Price:$20 to $30 per person
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8
NDMK Fish HouseNDMK Fish House is a casual seafood restaurant in Catalina Island serving fresh catches and poke bowls. The relaxed eatery provides a quick and healthy meal option for visitors exploring the island.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:Seafood, Hawaiian-Inspired
Signature Dishes:Fresh Poke Bowls
Grilled Fish Tacos
Seafood Salads
Location:109 Clarissa Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A highly efficient ordering counter designed for quick and casual service
What Makes It Special:Chefs source fresh local fish to create light and flavorful Hawaiian-inspired dishes.
What Sets It Apart:This dining spot offers a highly reliable and budget-friendly seafood alternative away from the main tourist strip.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Price:$20 to $30 per person
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9
Antonio's Original PizzaAntonio's Original Pizza has been a Catalina Island tradition for over 18 years. The restaurant offers a casual family fun dining experience with traditional Italian dishes and world-famous pizza.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:Pizza, Italian
Signature Dishes:Italian Sub Sandwich
Margherita Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Location:114 Sumner Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A nostalgic and retro-themed interior filled with vintage signs and memorabilia
What Makes It Special:Cooks hand-toss fresh pizza dough and simmer rich marinara sauces daily.
What Sets It Apart:The pizzeria provides a highly consistent and family-friendly meal perfect for large groups.
Operating Hours:Sunday - Thursday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PMFriday - Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Price:$10 to $20 per person
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10
The Naughty FoxThe Naughty Fox invites guests to a sumptuous meal inside the Bellanca Hotel with breathtaking ocean views.Type of Restaurant:Casual Restaurant
Type of Food:American, Seafood
Signature Dishes:Ahi Poke Nachos
Grilled Chicken Wings
Harbor Burgers
Location:111 Crescent Ave, Avalon, CA 90704, United States
Special Feature:A beautiful outdoor patio offering clear views of the harbor and passing boats
What Makes It Special:Chefs craft fresh seafood and massive burgers to pair with local beers and cocktails.
What Sets It Apart:This restaurant merges a highly relaxed island setting with excellent food and stunning scenery.
Operating Hours:Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Price:$20 to $30 per person
What Makes Restaurants in Catalina Island Famous?
Restaurants in Catalina Island are famous for serving fresh-caught Pacific seafood directly on the waterfront and offering stunning views of Avalon Bay. The island draws day-trippers from Los Angeles and Orange County seeking a relaxed coastal escape accessible only by ferry or helicopter. Local chefs source fresh lobster, halibut, and swordfish directly from the surrounding waters to create classic American and Mexican dishes. Many dining spots sit along the picturesque Crescent Avenue, which allows guests to watch luxury yachts and sailboats navigate the harbor while enjoying cold margaritas and fish tacos.
What Types of Restaurants are Commonly Found in Catalina Island?
The most common categories of Catalina Island restaurants include waterfront seafood grills, casual Mexican cantinas, classic American diners, and lively beach clubs. The following section showcases the different dining options available on Catalina Island.
- Waterfront Seafood Grills: Restaurants serving fresh Pacific catches and premium steaks with views of Avalon Bay.
- Casual Mexican Cantinas: Lively spots mixing fresh margaritas and serving lobster enchiladas.
- Classic American Diners: Nostalgic eateries cooking hearty breakfast platters and traditional Italian dinners.
- Lively Beach Clubs: Open-air venues serving tropical drinks and fresh seafood directly on the sand.
Does Catalina Island Have an Authentic Restaurant?
Yes, conventional culinary methods are still practiced by many restaurants on Catalina Island. Maggie's Blue Rose prepares authentic Mexican dishes with slow-cooked enchilada sauces and marinated meats based on classic recipes. Antonio's Original Pizza hand-stretches fresh dough before baking traditional Italian-American pizzas. Original Jack's Country Kitchen serves American comfort food with scratch-made pies and hearty breakfast platters.
Do Restaurants in Catalina Island Offer Easy Online Reservations?
Yes, online reservations are offered by many restaurants on Catalina Island. Avalon Grille and Steve's Steakhouse allow guests to reserve tables in advance through platforms such as OpenTable and Yelp, helping secure seating during the busy summer months. The Lobster Trap and Antonio's Original Pizza welcome guests without reservations and seat diners on a first-come, first-served basis.
What are the Signature Dishes of the Best Restaurants in Catalina Island?
The signature dishes of the best restaurants in Catalina Island include lobster enchiladas, pan-seared scallops, and fresh poke bowls. The following list presents famous food in Catalina Island.
- Lobster Enchiladas: Corn tortillas stuffed with fresh lobster meat and smothered in a rich, savory sauce at Maggie's Blue Rose.
- Ponzu Sashimi Sea Scallops: Thinly sliced raw scallops served with a bright and citrusy ponzu sauce at Bluewater Avalon.
- Oysters Rockefeller: Fresh oysters baked on the half shell with spinach, herbs, and a rich butter sauce at The Lobster Trap.
- Ahi Poke Nachos: Crispy wonton chips topped with marinated raw tuna, avocado, and spicy aioli at The Naughty Fox.
- Coffee-Brown Sugar & Chili Rubbed Ribeye Steak: A premium cut of beef coated in a sweet and spicy rub, grilled to order at Avalon Grille.
Do Locals in Catalina Island Enjoy Restaurant Food?
Yes, coastal California cuisine shapes much of the dining scene on Catalina Island. Travelers arriving on the Catalina Express often make seafood restaurants and waterfront patios along Crescent Avenue their first stop for fish tacos and craft beer.
What is the Average Meal Price at Restaurants in Catalina Island?
The average cost of dining at popular restaurants in Catalina Island is $40 per person. Breakfast sandwiches and coffee at local diners cost $10 to $20. Single entrées at Mexican cantinas and neighborhood pizzerias range from $15 to $25. Seafood platters for sharing and multi-course American dinners are priced between $30 and $50 per guest. Restaurants specializing in premium steaks and fine wines charge $50 to $100 per person.
Are There Vegan Options at Restaurants in Catalina Island?
Yes, vegan options can be found across Catalina Island. Steve's Steakhouse offers a separate vegan and vegetarian menu with roasted vegetables and salads. Maggie's Blue Rose creates meat-free Mexican dishes using fresh produce, avocado, and black beans. Original Jack's Country Kitchen serves customizable breakfast plates along with a variety of vegetable dishes.
Do Restaurants in Catalina Island Offer Gluten-Free Options?
Yes, Catalina Island features several restaurants with gluten-free menu choices. Bluewater Avalon serves seafood paired with naturally gluten-free salads. Avalon Grille accommodates gluten-free requests with grilled meats and fresh salads. The Naughty Fox rounds out the selection by offering unbreaded seafood dishes.
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