San Pedro Fish Market
Iconic waterfront seafood market famous for its massive, customizable shrimp trays and fresh catch.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowds, great food
San Pedro Fish Market
Best Time
Less crowds, great food
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic waterfront seafood market famous for its massive, customizable shrimp trays and fresh catch.
"The food, the vibes, the people, just amazing. An absolute gem!"
🎯 Order at the Counter
If QR code menus are confusing, head to the counter. Just have your table number ready!
💰 Metered Parking is Cheaper
Skip the $20 Saturday parking fee; metered parking a block away is much more affordable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Shrimp Tray
Customizable Trays
A mountain of fresh shrimp, customizable with your favorite additions. A true feast for seafood lovers!
Fresh Catch Counter
On-site Fish Counter
Select your own fresh fish and have it prepared to your liking. The ultimate seafood experience.
Waterfront Dining
Outdoor Seating Area
Enjoy delicious seafood with stunning views of the harbor. Perfect for a relaxed meal.
Live Music & Ambiance
Main Dining Area
Vibrant atmosphere with live music, creating a fun and festive dining experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Order System
Portion Control is Crucial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Order at the Counter
If QR code menus are confusing, head to the counter. Just have your table number ready!
💰 Metered Parking is Cheaper
Skip the $20 Saturday parking fee; metered parking a block away is much more affordable.
⚖️ Be Mindful of Portions
The portions are huge! Avoid over-ordering to truly savor your meal.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The upbeat music and harbor views create a fantastic vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Order at the Counter
If QR code menus are confusing, head to the counter. Just have your table number ready!
💰 Metered Parking is Cheaper
Skip the $20 Saturday parking fee; metered parking a block away is much more affordable.
⚖️ Be Mindful of Portions
The portions are huge! Avoid over-ordering to truly savor your meal.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The upbeat music and harbor views create a fantastic vibe.
🌶️ Ask About Spice Levels
Some dishes can be excessively seasoned; inquire about spice levels to avoid disappointment.
📱 Order via Phone
Use the QR code at your table for a convenient ordering experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
San Pedro Fish Market is celebrated for its massive, customizable seafood platters and fresh catch, offering a vibrant waterfront dining experience with live music. While many praise the generous portions and lively atmosphere, some reviewers note inconsistencies in seasoning and suggest clarifying spice levels. The ordering system can sometimes be a point of confusion, but the overall consensus is a fun, flavorful, and memorable meal.
"Had lunch midweek, got the fried Shrimp and chips. It was spot on! Very good! Relaxing upbeat music, nice atmosphere, views of the water and not crowded. Different set up since my last visit. Pick a table, order from your phone, and get fish!"
G.A. Smith
"We kept walking by this place while exploring the area so we finally came for dinner around 6 pm on a Friday. There was staff at the entrance explaining how to place your order. You can scan a QR code at the table but that menu didn't show what one person wanted to order so we took a picture of the table number, had one person stay behind, and went to the counter to order. You must have a table number if ordering from the counter and if you don't, you're holding up the line to go back and get one.
Cinderella was the staff taking orders and despite the long line of hungry people, she treated each and every guest like family. She was truly sweet and friendly.
After placing our food order we got drinks and sat down at our chosen table. The food came about 30 minutes later. We had ordered tartar sauce and cocktail sauce but it didn't come with our order, so we just did without it. I gave 5 stars for everything but my mom's shrimp tacos had an excessive amount of seasoning on them. One bite and we all coughed from how salty they were. I'm sure the seasoning is normally great but it was WAY too concentrated on her tacos. We diluted them by donating our coleslaw to her but we were drinking large quantities of water to counteract the salt.
Music was playing in the background and was a mix of genres. The crowd was very diverse in age and ethnicity. People were ordering fresh fish to take home and cook, platters for large groups, and individual dishes like we ordered. This was a very good spot for dinner with great views of the harbor."
Brianne Smith
"Everything was great except we should have been warned how much food is served to prevent over ordering. Inclusively staff should have asked level of spiciness as one of the platters couldn't be eaten do to the heavy spicy seasoning. However the fried red Snapper reminded me of Puerto Rico! That was absolutely delicious. Wish the coleslaw had flavor vs shaved cabbage in a cup with some water."
Vanessa Nogueras
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The San Pedro Fish Market is located at 1190 Nagoya St, San Pedro, CA 90731. It's accessible by car, and ride-sharing services. Public transportation options are also available, though may require transfers. Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends, with paid lots and metered street parking nearby. +1
Yes, there is paid parking available, which can be around $20 on Saturdays. Metered parking a block away is a more budget-friendly option.
While there isn't a direct boat service to the market itself, the location is on the waterfront, offering scenic views. Some visitors enjoy combining a visit with exploring the harbor area.
San Pedro Fish Market is located in San Pedro, which is part of the Los Angeles Harbor area. While it's close to Long Beach, it is a distinct location. +1
Driving and using ride-sharing services are popular. For those looking for a more scenic route, consider exploring the harbor area before or after your meal.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Reservations are generally not required, as it's a bustling market-style restaurant. However, on busy weekends, you might encounter long lines to get in and order.
The San Pedro Fish Market typically operates daily, but hours can vary. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
No, there is no entrance fee to access the San Pedro Fish Market. You pay for the food and drinks you order.
You typically find a table, note the table number, and then order either at the counter or via a QR code at your table. Staff will then bring your food to you.
Yes, you can purchase fresh fish directly from the on-site fish counter to take home and cook yourself.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
San Pedro Fish Market is most famous for its massive, customizable shrimp trays and its selection of incredibly fresh seafood. +1
The signature shrimp tray is a must-try! You can also customize it with various seafood additions like scallops, lobster, and sausage. Fresh whole fish preparations are also highly recommended. +1
Yes, the portions are notoriously generous. Reviewers often advise against over-ordering to avoid waste and ensure you can enjoy everything.
Some dishes can be quite spicy, and it's advisable to inquire about spice levels beforehand, as some guests have found certain preparations to be excessively seasoned.
Yes, while seafood is the star, they also offer options like hot dogs and burgers for those who prefer them.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfront views of the harbor are picturesque. The vibrant seafood platters themselves make for stunning photos. Don't forget to capture the bustling market atmosphere.
Yes, the open-air seating and lively environment provide ample opportunities for great shots. Golden hour by the water can be particularly beautiful.
Expect colorful shots of seafood platters, candid moments of people enjoying their meals, and scenic harbor views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful lighting with the sunset over the water. Weekends can be crowded, which adds to the lively photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider ordering a variety of items to share, and be mindful of portion sizes to avoid waste. While the focus is seafood, they do offer other options like hot dogs. The waterfront views also add an element of interest for children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for metered street parking instead of the paid lots, especially on weekends, to save money. Also, be strategic with your order; focusing on the shrimp tray and a few select additions can be more economical than ordering many individual items.
couples
Consider visiting during a weekday evening to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more intimate setting. The vibrant energy of the market, combined with delicious food, makes for a lively and enjoyable date night.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Famous Shrimp Tray Experience
When ordering, you'll typically select your shrimp and any additional seafood or sides. The staff then prepares it fresh for you. It's a communal dining experience that embodies the vibrant spirit of the market. Be prepared for a visual feast as much as a culinary one – these trays are designed to impress!
While the shrimp tray is the star, don't overlook the other fresh seafood options. The market prides itself on offering a wide selection of the day's catch, prepared in various delicious ways. It's a place where you can truly indulge in the bounty of the ocean.
Navigating the Ordering and Dining Process
Reviewers often highlight the importance of having a table number before approaching the counter. If you don't have one, you might need to go back to find a seat, which can cause delays. The staff, like 'Cinderella' mentioned in one review, are often praised for their friendly service despite busy conditions.
Once your order is placed, the food is brought to your table. Be aware that portions are substantial, and it's easy to over-order. Some guests have noted that side dishes like coleslaw can be quite plain, while others found their main dishes to be exceptionally flavorful.
Beyond the Food: Atmosphere and Views
On weekends, the market can transform into a hub of entertainment with open mic karaoke, creating a fun and interactive experience for visitors. This vibrant energy, combined with the scenic waterfront location, makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking for a memorable dining experience.
The surrounding area also offers attractions like the LA Maritime Museum and the USS Iowa Museum, making the San Pedro Fish Market a great starting point or endpoint for a day of exploration in the harbor district.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit