OC's Best - The Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar, San Clemente CA

As you drive down Pacific Coast Highway and begin to absorb the spectacular ocean view, all senses are caressed and stimulated by the sights and sounds which surround your very essence. If you make this coastal California journey in a convertible the experience is greatly magnified. The scent of fresh ocean air with that tinge of salt makes you feel invigorated and closer to the natural treasures which we sometimes take for granted. The crisp sea breeze tosses your hair and kisses your face. The scenery is typical California in every way, from the gorgeous ocean view to the unique architecture which is a blend of Latin American with a touch of Mediterranean flair. Palm trees line the roadways and small upscale boutique style stores dot the landscape. Southern California truly is a one of a kind experience home to roughly 900 miles of sun drenched beaches, a place where you can find just about any scenery to suit you taste. As you continue to cruise Pacific Coast Highway, off in the distance, a long wooden walkway leading out to the ocean begins to come into focus. It's the San Clemente pier. Located in South Orange County midway between Los Angeles and San Diego is where you'll find this distinct dining landmark, a cozy place to walk with a significant other or friend, a gathering place to discuss the days events, and home to one of Southern California's best seaside dining establishments, The Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar. If your a seafood lover or seafood & pasta lover your paradise awaits.

LOCATION

• Situated in the heart of the city where the Pacific Ocean meets the sand at the San Clemente Pier -

• 611 Avenida Victoria
  San Clemente, Ca. 92672

AMBIENCE

For the beach or ocean worshiper, in my opinion, this is one of the very best venues So Cal has to offer. Located right on the sand in the heart of San Clemente, this jewel is the epitome of dining Southern California style. As you drive or walk up to the restaurant, the beach atmosphere is ever so impressive however the exterior of Fisherman's is rather modest looking, nothing too fancy just a nice quaint layed back and relaxing feel about it. As you enter, you immediately inhale the scent of fresh seafood combined with a hint of everything else they cook, and from the moment you walk in the front door, the genesis of a unique dining experience begins. You have two choices, you can either dine outside where the pier extends to facilitate the restaurant, or if the sea breeze adds a cool chill to the air, even though all tables are equipped with a heater to buff the cold, you may prefer to stay indoors, the choice is yours. Outside on the deck you will find several tables with individual umbrellas to shade you from the sunshine and natural elements. The restaurant is split into two distinct sections one on either side of the pier, the Restaurant is to the left as you approach the main entrance, and the Oyster Bar to the right. So depending on you appetite, large or small, either direction will lead you to some exquisite cuisine. If you dine outside the distinct Southern California landscape and charm will certainly engulf you. Gazing out at the crystal clear blue Pacific Ocean, then glancing upward to take in the luxury condo view complete with perfectly manicured landscapes containing indigenous palms and various other plants to accentuate. Either way, indoor or out the visceral experience may change but the food remains the same, excellent.

MENU

As previously mentioned, if your a seafood lover you may find this eatery paradise on earth. Almost any type of shellfish that can be found in the New England area can be found here, dinner entrees feature delectable's such as Dungeness, Snow, and King Crab along with other non seafood choices. ( I would assume like every other restaurant seafood dishes are subject to availability so calling ahead of time to confirm menu items might be recommended ). If your not a seafood lover you can also find a burger with fries or the sandwich & soup of your choice or even a fresh healthy tossed green salad, the menu is diverse and contains at least one dish which should appeal to all preferences and ages. No shortage of appetizers either, from the traditional Chicken Strips & Hot Wings to Bay Shrimp Cocktail & Oysters Rockefeller and just about everything in between. A good selection of salads as well, from Seafood to Spinach & BBQ Chicken to Oriental Chicken, several to chose from. Lunch entrees are few but diverse, ranging from Halibut & Chips to a Grilled Vegitable Sandwich for the health conscious. A very extensive wine & champaigne list at your request and a sizable selection of deserts and after dinner caps such as Cafe Latte & Cappuccino. It is a bit pricey but when you take into consideration the breathtaking aesthetic beauty and unique dining experience, the additional cost as compared with a typical chain restaurant is soon forgotten and well worth it in my opinion.

The Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar REVIEW / OPINION

All things considered, I would have to rate The Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar at the very top of my list as one of So Cal's very best places to eat. It's certainly a prime dining experience. If your an ocean or beach lover it dosn't really get much better than this. The fare is excellent for the price and you can tell the seafood and other ingredients are fresh and recently harvested, not sitting around for too long before touching the pan. The interior although not lined with fancy or elegant decor is perfectly suited for the style of food they serve, the picture of a weather worn Fisherman cloaked in traditional garb on the menu cover should give you the first indication of what the restaurant is all about, what it serves, and the overall atmostphere. Without a doubt it's 'So Cal beach motif' to the max, where you envision and expect a certain degree of built in California flair like sun bathing, surfing, and sitting on the sand as the sun sets on the horizon. It's certainly not suit and tie night when dining at The Fisherman's. Access is fair, although at times the only place to park your car is on a narrow street which paralels the Restaurant. Some parking is free and paid parking slots via meeters are located in designated spaces along the outer perimeters. So if your looking for really tasty cuisine at a reasonable price designed for the entire family in a venue overlooking Southern California's spectacular Pacific Ocean as an extra added bonus, The Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar in San Clemente is definately worth a visit.