With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, Ventura has a thriving seafood scene, but there’s so much more to the area’s cuisine than just fish. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, Ventura actually has a much more diverse food scene than you would ever think.
I’ll admit that I didn’t know much about Ventura at all before I decided to move there in 2022. It doesn’t generally make the list of hotspots on anyone’s California bucket list. But if you actually hop off the freeway in this laidback beach town, you’ll be rewarded with many great restaurant choices and tons of great local breweries.
» You might also like these 14 Fun Things To Do In Ventura For A Day Trip.
Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you’ll want to check out these 15 great Ventura restaurants. You’ll find everything from classic American fare to international cuisine, and each restaurant has its own unique atmosphere and vibe. So, get ready to treat your taste buds to some of the best food in California.
Where is Ventura?
If you’re not from Southern California, you might not even know where Ventura is. I often tell people where I live and they’ve never heard of it. It’s located about 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles and about 30 miles south of Santa Barbara.
Getting to Ventura is easy. The city is located just off the 101 freeway, which runs from Los Angeles to San Francisco. If you’re flying in, the closest airport is the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport. Alternatively, you can fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) or Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR), which are both about an hour’s drive from Ventura.
Once you’re in Ventura, you’ll find that there’s plenty to see and do. In addition to its beaches and scenic views, the city has a rich history and a thriving arts scene.
Why Stop in Ventura for a Meal?
One of the reasons to stop in Ventura for a meal is the abundance of fresh seafood. Being a coastal city, Ventura is home to many seafood restaurants that offer the freshest daily catch, fish and chips, and even sushi. Many of the restaurants even offer beautiful ocean views to go with your meal.
Another reason to stop in Ventura for a meal is the city’s commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many restaurants in Ventura pride themselves on using fresh produce from local farms and ranches, which not only supports the local economy but also ensures that you’re getting the freshest and most flavorful ingredients in your meal.
Ventura also has many family-owned and operated restaurants that have been serving the community for decades. These restaurants offer a unique dining experience that you won’t find in chain restaurants.
Finally, Ventura is a great place to stop for a meal if you’re on a road trip along the California coast. With its convenient location off the 101 freeway, Ventura is a popular pit stop for travelers looking for a quick meal or a place to rest before continuing their journey.
Best Ventura Restaurants
Lure Fish House
If you’re looking for a seafood experience that is fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced, Lure Fish House is the place to be. Located at 60 S California St in Ventura, this restaurant offers a top-tier seafood experience, complete with an oyster bar. They are dedicated to locally caught seafood, organically grown local produce, and wines from local vineyards whenever possible.
With 2664 reviews on Yelp, Lure Fish House has a 4.5-star rating, and it’s easy to see why. The menu is packed with great seafood dishes, including fresh oysters, some of the best clam chowder in the area, and fish tacos. My favorite things to order are the Rock Shrimp appetizer and the Veracruz platter.
The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a nautical theme that adds to the seaside vibe. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, always ready to help you choose the perfect dish or wine pairing. And they have a brand new outdoor patio to enjoy the sea breeze.
Location: 60 S California St, Ventura, CA 93001
Paradise Pantry
Paradise Pantry is a charming restaurant and market. The restaurant is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, with the ingredients used in each dish being sourced from local farmers and producers. I particularly appreciate the commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The menu is always changing and the chef, Kelly, puts a lot of thought into what’s being served. For instance, this week’s special is Chef Kelly’s house-made garden herb spaghetti tossed with preserved lemon & saffron sauce topped with Parmiggiano.
One of the standout dishes at Paradise Pantry is the charcuterie board. This board features an assortment of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and homemade jams and spreads. We also really love the Kel’s Killer Mac, which always has different and amazing toppings on it.
Another must-try dish is the wild mushroom pizza. This pizza is made with a crispy crust, fresh mozzarella cheese, and a variety of wild mushrooms that are sautéed to perfection.
In addition to the restaurant, Paradise Pantry also has a market that offers a wide selection of artisanal products, rom locally made honey to cheese from around the world. They also have a full wine shop too.
Location: 222 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001
Pete’s Breakfast House
If you’re looking for a classic breakfast spot in Ventura, Pete’s Breakfast House is a must-visit. This American café diner has been serving up delicious breakfast dishes since 1986 and is definitely a local favorite.
Their extensive menu features pancakes, waffles, omelets, and more. The portions are generous. Their coffee is also a standout – it’s strong and flavorful, the perfect complement to your meal. One of the most popular dishes at Pete’s Breakfast House is their biscuits and gravy. The biscuits are homemade and the gravy is rich and flavorful.
Another standout dish is their breakfast burrito, which is loaded with eggs, cheese, potatoes, and your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham.
The atmosphere at Pete’s Breakfast House is cozy and welcoming, with friendly staff and a casual vibe. The restaurant is open from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM daily, so it’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. The prices are reasonable.
Location: 2055 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001
Model Citizen
This is one of the few fine dining experiences to be found in Ventura. Model Citizen has a unique atmosphere, creative cuisine, and exceptional service. The menu is a mix of classic and contemporary dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
The restaurant’s interior is sleek and modern, with a variety of seating options, including a bar area, comfy booths, and some bar-height communal tables. The staff is knowledgeable and attentive and they’ve never minded us constantly asking about the double smash burger (it was relegated to the happy hour menu only).
Some of the standout dishes at Model Citizen include the roasted carrot salad, the soft and fluffy ricotta dumplings, and the chicken schnitzel, which is huge! The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, with options from around the world.
If you’re looking for a more casual experience, Model Citizen also offers a happy hour from 5-6pm, with discounted drinks and small plates.
Location: 70 S Oak St, Ventura, CA 93001
Rumfish y Vino
One of the first restaurants I went to in Ventura was Rumfish y Vino, being our friends’ favorite. It has a really nice coastal vibe with a creative menu with a Central-American flair, fantastic cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere, complete with an outdoor fireplace and a canopy of huge lemons growing overhead.
Some of the standout dishes at Rumfish y Vino include the conche chowder (where do you ever see that on a menu?), the ceviches, the tacos (there are 4 to choose from), and the Caribbean fish stew. The restaurant also has a great selection of cocktails, wine, and beer to pair with your meal.
If you’re looking for a special occasion spot, Rumfish y Vino is a great choice. The restaurant has a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe that is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. And with its convenient location in Downtown Ventura, it’s easy to make a night of it and explore the area after your meal.
Location: 34 N Palm St, Ventura, CA 93001
Brophy Bros.
While Brophy’s isn’t my favorite for their food, it’s got a stellar view of the harbor and surrounding mountains. This seafood spot is sort of a must-visit when in Ventura just because of its location in the Ventura Harbor. It has a lively atmosphere because it’s a local favorite.
Brophy’s is known for its seafood, including fish and chips, swordfish, seabass, steamed mussels and clams, peel and eat shrimp, and clam chowder. I can’t really recommend the chowder (it’s a bit pasty), but the fish is great and it can be served blackened on request.
The bar at Brophy’s is a popular spot, and it’s a great place to grab a drink and watch the sunset. The restaurant also has outdoor seating, which is perfect for a warm day. They’ve got a week day happy hour from 3-6:30 inside only.
Brophy’s can get busy, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation. The dress code is casual, so you don’t need to worry about dressing up. Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Location: 1559 Spinnaker Dr, Ventura, CA 93001
Café Zack
Café Zack is a quaint, family-owned and operated restaurant, located only a few minutes from the beach and the downtown core in Ventura. It’s housed in a cozy 1930s cottage and offers indoor and outdoor seating options. I particularly enjoy sitting outside in the courtyard.
I first dined there during a wine-paired dinner with a local winery, and the dishes were a little uninspired, but there are some standouts on the menu, like the tellicherry peppercorn encrusted filet mignon, slow roasted boar shank, and the fettuccine seafood curry. They also offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
The atmosphere at Cafe Zack is cozy and intimate, making it a great spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are on the higher end but worth it for the quality of the food and experience.
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. They also offer takeout if you want to take it back to your hotel room or empress out of town guests with a delicious (not so homecooked) meal.
Location: 1095 E Thompson Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001
The Jolly Oyster
When you’re taking a walk on the beach in San Buenaventura State Park, you’ll soon come by this cute little oyster truck, parked just off the beach. They’re serving up both raw and cooked oysters. While all of their food is good, the reason to go there is surely the raw oysters.
The Jolly Oyster is known for their fresh, high-quality oysters. They raise their own Kumamotos in Baja California and haul them north to sell at their Ventura location. If you’re not a fan of oysters, don’t worry – they also offer other seafood dishes, including ahi tuna packets and parmesan-dusted hard shell tacos with either shrimp or carne asada inside.
If you’re on the beach already, it’s pretty much a required stop. They have a few tables set up with umbrellas, and a little beach bar shack where you can order your drinks.
Location: 911 San Pedro St, Ventura, CA 93001
Topper’s Pizza
There are a few notable pizza places in Ventura, but I’m pretty partial to Toppers, and I think most locals would agree. They have multiple locations in the area, but my favorite one is downtown next to Transmission Brewing. There’s a really great atmosphere there, and you can combine beer and pizza for a perfect evening.
One of the standout features of Topper’s Pizza is their extensive menu. They offer a wide variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni and sausage to more unique options like mac and cheese or pulled pork. They also have a great selection of specialty pizzas, like the BBQ Chicken, the Meatinator, and the Hot Honey. If you’re not in the mood for pizza, they also have salads, sandwiches, and wings.
They use fresh, never frozen dough and their sauce is made in house from vine-ripened tomatoes. They also source their toppings from top-quality suppliers. We always build our own pizza, which we affectionately call the Jen special, created by our friend Jen, with fresh sausage, roasted tomatoes, and extra cheese.
IThey offer daily specials, like half-priced pizzas on Tuesdays and discounted wings on Wednesdays. They also have a loyalty program that rewards you for every dollar you spend.
Location: Multiple locations
Strange Beast
One of the newer restaurants to open on Main Street is Strange Beast. It’s a cocktail izakaya, located in the historic Bank of Italy building. They have lots of creative cocktails, sake, and Japanese izakaya-type dishes.
One of the most unique aspects of Strange Beast is their partnership with the Michelin Bib Gourmand chefs of Sama Sama Restaurant Group. This collaboration has resulted in a menu of delicious Japanese tapas that complement their cocktail offerings.
Their Ube Pina Colada, made with ube (a purple yam commonly used in Filipino desserts), is a fan favorite. My personal favorite cocktail is the Beast Side, with tequila, lime and cucumber. For food, you have to get the yellowtail crudo, katsu sando, and the chicken karaage.
One thing to note is that Strange Beast is a walk-in only establishment, so be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours. But trust us, the wait is worth it.
Location: 394 E Main St #B, Ventura, CA 93001
EXTRA: Bank of Italy Cocktail Trust
This is one of our favorite cocktail bars in Ventura. It’s located right next door to Strange Beast, and run by the same hospitality group. They make some really fantastic craft cocktails, my favorite being the Amaro Daiquiri (which again is only on happy hour).
They do have a few small plates of food, but those are more bar snacks and appetizers, so it doesn’t qualify as a restaurant, but I would suggest making a stop there either before or after Strange Beast.
Location: 394 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001
Rocks & Drams
I particularly like Rocks & Drams for it’s classic cocktail vibe. While they have an extensive cocktail menu that changes often, they also now have a great food menu to go with it. The place gets pretty crowded, particularly on a weekend evening, but if you get there early or are willing to wait, it’s a great place to hang out with friends.
The restaurant has a great cocktail bar vibe with exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and classy couches and plush chairs arranged around the space. They have a great $7 happy hour every evening from when they open to 7pm, if you can get in. My favorites to order are the smash burger and loaded fries.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, you can also sign up for one of their master classes. They pair up with local spirits producers to do a fun evening of learning and tasting. Check out their upcoming events.
Location: 14 S California St, Ventura, CA 93001
Boatyard Pub
For a seafood restaurant with a friendly atmosphere, Boatyard Pub is a great choice. This restaurant is located in Ventura Harbor Village and it’s one of the most “local” vibes you’ll find in town, because it’s an authentic waterfront, fisherman’s pub, but also tourist friendly.
I’ve never had a bad experience there. The staff is so friendly and they all seem to be enjoying themselves. It doesn’t hurt that there’s almost always live music playing, and locals dancing and having a good time.
They have rather large menu with fish, steaks, lobster, and fresh poke bowls. They also have 16 local handcrafted beers on tap. One of the standout dishes at Boatyard Pub for me is the clam chowder. It’s one of the best in town. The fish is always fresh. I’ve gotten their Ahi Tuna Tacos a number of times and always enjoy it. They also make a really good Bloody Mary, which is perfect for brunch.
Boatyard Pub is definitely worth checking out, even if it looks like a rundown old English pub, the chef knows what they’re doing.
Location: 1583 Spinnaker Dr Suite 109, Ventura, CA 93001 (Ventura Harbor)
EXTRA: Coastal Cone & Parlor
If you’re at Boatyard Pub and looking for some dessert, all you have to do is hop over to Coastal Cone & Parlor, where you’ll find tons of ice cream flavors and their unique fish cones, that are deep fried fish with nutella inside, over a cup full of ice cream. I usually go for the Oreoyaki.
The Parlor is their attached restaurant which isn’t really somewhere I’d recommend eating, but they have burgers and hot dogs and such.
Barrel 33
Barrel 33 is an unassuming, yet intriguing building located away from the other restaurants on E. Thompson Blvd. You can tell there’s something unique and interesting going on there, but you have to make a reservation to find out. You’ll be greeted at the door and treated to exceptional service on the romantic outdoor patio.
This isn’t your typical restaurant for sure, and that definitely adds to the appeal. The outdoor space is enchanting and cozy. Makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy world. The menu features mostly pizzas and pastas. There’s cheese and charcuterie available from 5-7:30pm.
The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven and are crispy and flavorful. The pasta dishes are also a hit, with options like the creamy fettuccine alfredo and the spicy penne arrabbiata. The salads are fresh and tasty.
The restaurant is only open from Thursday to Sunday and the kitchen closes at 8:30pm. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the menu and wine list, and they are happy to make recommendations based on your taste preferences.
Location: 1067 E Thompson Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001
Cafe Fiore
For true Italian food, there aren’t a lot of options in Ventura, but I’ve been pretty impressed with the wide variety of Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood at Café Fiore. This restaurant has a cozy, intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
One of the standout dishes at Cafe Fiore is the lobster ravioli. This dish features homemade ravioli stuffed with fresh lobster and topped with a creamy tomato sauce. My favorite thing to order is the carpaccio di manzo with wagyu beef, and the Paccheri Strasinate, however the quality has varied every time I’m there.
Cafe Fiore also has an extensive wine list, so be sure to ask your server for a recommendation to pair with your meal. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to end your meal, try the tiramisu or the chocolate lava cake.
Reservations are recommended, as this restaurant can get quite busy. The dress code is smart casual, so dress to impress. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and the service make it worth it.
Location: 66 S California St, Ventura, CA 93001
Cafe Nouveau
Another cozy spot for brunch and lunch in Ventura is Cafe Nouveau. It’s a pretty unassuming place, located on E. Thompson Blvd. Similar to Barrel 33, there’s a sort of secret garden feel to the place, as they have a lot of cozy areas on their outdoor patio where you can feel like you have the whole place to yourself.
One of the standout dishes at Cafe Nouveau is their crab cake benedict. The crab cakes are perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the hollandaise sauce is rich and flavorful. Another popular item is the huevos rancheros, which features perfectly cooked eggs, black beans, and salsa.
The prices at Cafe Nouveau are reasonable, with most dishes averaging around $15. The restaurant is open for breakfast and brunch, with hours from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM. I think they do brunch best, but if you choose wisely from the menu, you’ll enjoy it.
Before You Go
There are lots of great things to do around Ventura aside from dining. We love the many breweries in this town and spend quite a bit of time hanging out in them. Here are a few articles you might want to read next:
- Day Trip to Santa Barbara
- 10 Wonderful Places to Go Whale Watching in Southern California
- Day Trips Around Ventura & Santa Barbara
Like this article? Save it on Pinterest so you can find it again.
FOLLOW US on Pinterest and Facebook for more California travel inspiration and tips!
Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.