"Family-owned since 1946, Seaside fixture Bell Buoy greets hungry travelers on Highway 101 with its retro neon sign, weathered brick market, and a fish and chips hut, Buoy’s Best Restaurant, in the parking lot. Most of Bell Buoy’s seafood in its tidy cold case comes from within 50 miles, an impressive feat. Over in the fry hut, the fish departs fresh and hot, served with thin fries, creamy slaw, and tartar sauce. For truly local seafood, try fried razor clams — dug on the nearby beaches. A massive Captain’s Plate comes piled high with halibut, salmon, cod, prawns, oysters, and one perfect razor clam. Order online for pickup, and keep in mind the restaurant is open for lunch but closes on the early side of dinnertime — some days by 5 p.m." - Jennifer Burns Bright