Catch yourself in Morro Bay!

Morro Bay Food Tour - Seafood Edition

There are many ways to experience Morro Bay's thriving, multi-generational seafood industry.

Whether you are taking the time to learn about the native marine life at the Museum of Natural History, heading out to join a fishing charter, or simply savoring the quality catch of the day at one of the town’s many waterfront restaurants–there is something for everyone. No matter how you go about it, exploring this facet of the local culinary scene undoubtedly offers a glimpse into the beating heart of this community.

The Morro Bay Fish & Stroll Tour

Gather up your fellow seafood lovers, put on your walking shoes, and head down to the waterfront to breathe in the salty air and appreciate the local flavors. This tour includes multiple stops and many chances to indulge in Morro Bay seafood along the way! Feel free to take the recommendations listed or order something else off the menu. Depending on your pace, taking on the full route can take up to 5 hours, however it can easily be adjusted to fit seamlessly into your schedule!

1. Blue Sky Bistro

699 Embarcadero
What to order: Mexican Shrimp Cocktail

Start your journey of flavors by finding a seat on their outdoor patio and ordering up an appetizer. A shrimp cocktail is a classic first course, but Blue Sky Bistro puts a twist on this dish with a Mexican influence. Not a fan of shrimp? Consider the Salmon Crostini. Enjoy your choice with great views of Morro Rock and sounds of the bay.

2. Dutchman's Seafood House

701 Embarcadero
What to order: Clam Chowder

Right next door you’ll find Dutchman’s Seafood House. Settle into the modern dining room overlooking the ocean with some of their famous clam chowder. Creamy and packed with potatoes and clams, you can even get your chowder topped with shrimp and/or crab for extra flavorful goodness! While heading in this direction, you simply can’t miss the murals. Take a photo with the Mermaid and make a mental note to come back to see more of the Morro Bay Mural Mile.

3. Giovanni's Fish Market & Galley

1001 Front Street
What to order: Poke

Giovanni’s Fish Market has been family owned and operated for 30 years–making it one of the most popular Morro bay seafood restaurants around! With access to fresh local sustainable seafood directly from their fishing fleet, you’re in for a treat. Try the poke bowl with Ahi, Salmon, or a combo. Whatever fish you don’t get a chance to try off the menu you can always get shipped directly to your door - seriously. Before heading onto the next location stop for a photo between the clam shells and pick up some salmon candy for the road. As you're making your way further down the path towards the Rock, keep an eye on the rocky waves. Our resident sea’lebrities are often found relaxing near the shore between the piers – so make sure to get your cameras ready.

4. The Great American Fish Company

1185 Embarcadero
What to order: Crab Cakes

Built over the water and looking out onto the fishing pier, The Great American Fish Company is a traditional spot with maritime décor to go along with your seafood selections. Dungeness crab is a popular community favorite, especially over the holidays, so we insist you try an order of GAFCO’s famous crab cakes. You can thank us later!

5. Tognazzini's Dockside Too

1235 Embarcadero
What to order: The Catch of the Day

Tognazzini's Dockside Too is a casual and fun all outdoor dining experience. Enjoy the live music and something off their menu such as oysters, shrimp or whatever happens to be in the fish case on the day you visit (fish commonly caught nearby include: rockfish, lingcod, halibut, tuna, and salmon). Ordering has never been more simple–select what you want off the menu from the friendly staff and grab a table for a front row seat to the fishing boats as they come into the harbor the seals swimming by. After your meal you can walk over Morro Rock and the six miles of beach to the north, or turn the group around and head right back down the path.

6. Bayside Café

10 State Park Road
What to order: Scallops on Fried Green Tomatoes

Located inside Morro Bay State Park at the Marina, Bayside Café is a fan-favorite offering delicious home cooked recipes in a casual indoor/outdoor dining area looking out onto the bay. The menu features a variety of seafood and classic café selections. And if you’re looking for something sweet to finish the afternoon, look no further than a piece of their made from scratch cream pies!

More Fresh Seafood Restaurant Options

This walking seafood tour is the perfect way to celebrate maritime history and sample the sights and flavors that define the community with your friends and family. With so many premier, seaside restaurants–many with their own docks or lifts to unload the daily catch–you simply won't find a more fresh option than what's served in Morro Bay. Sampling the fare with friends or trying your hand at reeling in a fresh catch on the coast, your seafood tour of the town is sure to be as memorable as it is mouthwatering!

Book your trip to Morro Bay today to experience the fishing and seafood scene for yourself!

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