Sometimes It's Not About the Food... It's About the People…read more
Maybe we spoke a little too soon after our last visit... because only three weeks later, hubby and I decided to give San Pedro Fish Market another chance. Looking back now, I'm so glad we did.
From the moment we walked in, we were greeted by Danny, who has been part of the San Pedro Fish Market family for 19 years. Within minutes, he gave us a sneak peek from the outside of what's to come with the brand-new development expected to open in 2028. The future expansion will span roughly 55,000 square feet and include exciting additions like pickleball courts, a Ferris wheel, and many of the eateries people have loved over the years--just with a fresh, modern twist.
Listening to Danny share stories from nearly two decades here was honestly inspiring. One story that truly stayed with us was when he shared that San Pedro Fish Market is where he met his wife. That alone speaks volumes about what this place represents. It isn't just somewhere people come to eat--it's where memories are made, friendships begin, families are built, and lives are forever changed. You could hear the pride in his voice as he talked about how many lives have been touched by this place. It made me realize that for so many people, you simply can't mention San Pedro without thinking about the Fish Market. It's become part of the city's identity.
We were also welcomed by Cinderella--yes, that's really her name!--who is also the current Employee of the Month. She's been here for over 30 years, and her kindness immediately made us feel at home. She shared some of her favorite menu items with us, and you could genuinely feel how much heart she has for this place. Employees like Danny and Cinderella are exactly what make businesses special. They're the ones who create lasting memories long after the meal is over.
Now onto the food!
Seafood Tray
Rating: 9.8/10
This visit was night and day compared to our last one.
Our seafood tray came out in about 15 minutes, piping hot, incredibly fresh, and absolutely packed with flavor. It honestly reminded us why San Pedro Fish Market became so iconic in the first place.
We enjoyed the fried tilapia, large scallops, baby octopus, head-on shrimp, crab legs, mussels, sausage, corn, potatoes, garlic bread, and all the delicious vegetables. Every bite was flavorful, fresh, and cooked beautifully. It honestly beats every seafood spot we've tried recently, and this visit completely redeemed our previous experience.
And then there was the fried calamari...
I honestly have a new standard for fried calamari now.
It was unbelievably tender, juicy, lightly crispy, and not rubbery whatsoever. We've ordered calamari at countless restaurants over the years, and this has officially become the one every future calamari order will be compared against.
For drinks, hubby enjoyed a refreshing Modelo Michelada, while I cooled off with their Peach Margarita featuring their house tequila, chamoy, and Tajín. On a hot and humid Fourth of July afternoon, it absolutely hit the spot. It packed quite a punch, but it was delicious!
The highlight of our visit, however, was meeting Scott, the General Manager.
We spent time talking with him about his 35 years in the hospitality industry and his journey with San Pedro Fish Market. What stood out most wasn't just his experience--it was his passion. Listening to him speak about the future of this place, the people behind it, and the history that has made it so iconic reminded me that San Pedro Fish Market has never just been about seafood.
It's about generations.
It's about family traditions.
It's about people creating memories together.
Nothing will ever replace the original 65 years of history that made San Pedro Fish Market what it is today. Change is never easy, especially for a place with so much history behind it. But after hearing the stories, seeing the vision, and meeting the people who continue to pour their hearts into this place every single day, I truly believe this is simply the beginning of a new chapter.
I cannot wait to see what 2028 brings when the new San Pedro Fish Market opens its doors. I have no doubt that new memories, new traditions, and new generations of families will continue to gather here for years to come.
Thank you to Danny, Cinderella, Scott, and everyone who made us feel so welcomed. Your kindness, passion, and genuine hospitality reminded us that the best restaurants aren't remembered just because of the food...
They're remembered because of the people.
Until we meet again very soon...
Happy Eats, and Happy Fourth of July!