Captain Kidd's Fish Market & Restaurant

Came here for late lunch after a drive in the beach area of Redondo last January. It was no longer busy so we got served in no time. We ordered the clam chowder which was really creamy and tasty. We also got the shrimp platter good for two which was reasonably priced in my opinion. The taste was acceptable and I appreciated the unlimited variants of hot sauces available to pair perfectly with your seafood. Overall, our dining experiences here were pleasant.

Hands down the best clam chowder in the South Bay. This is not a thick, potato-heavy soup pretending to be chowder. Every spoonful is packed with real clam meat, rich flavor, and a perfectly balanced broth that actually lets the seafood shine. You can taste the quality immediately. Simple, honest, and done right. If you think you know clam chowder, this one will reset the bar. This is coming from someone who lived in Boston.

This place is the entirety of my must-do list when in the Redondo area. We have been here many times and every time the food has been incredible. Great price and value for great seafood. We have literally worked our way through most of the plates/platters on the menu and have yet to find one we did not like. Photos are of various plates from multiple visits.

A local institution with both a fish market and restaurant serving a variety of fresh seafood, soups, tacos, and even a steak or two hiding on the menu. The location is right where the international boardwalk ends and the huge harbor parking lot begins... so there is plenty of parking. Line forms at the door and to the right is eat in and to the left is the fish market and oysters and such. You get a number and go find a table and get your condiment situation in order.. get plenty of napkins or you will keep returning for more as the food is so succulent and juicy. The fried foods are not overly salty or breaded and they taste like seafood not too greasy. The move here is simple grilled fish and then they also have good sides including all the usual suspects plus hush puppies. The clam chowder is thick and flavorful. Overall this rustic waterfront gem is more than just great food and people.. it is truly one of those iconic spots that is the fabric of Redondo Beach and a favorite for generations. Also a great place to take a nice walk after your meal and enjoy the ocean breeze and view. It is also right across from the larger hotels on Harbor Dr. so if you are visiting town this is great place to get some local flavor.

Captain Kidd's has been on my list to try for a while, and I finally made it. The atmosphere is decent, with a nice view of the water, but the whole experience starts on a sour note with the paid parking. It's a bit of a shock to pay just to park at a restaurant. As for the food, it was okay, but nothing to write home about. The mussel cup I had was fine—the mussels themselves were cooked properly, but the overall flavor was a bit underwhelming. The calamari appetizer was in a similar boat; it was cooked well, but it wasn't the best I've had. The same went for the clam chowder soup—it was edible, but lacked the rich, creamy flavor I was hoping for. Overall, it's a perfectly acceptable place to grab a bite if you're in the area, but I wouldn't go out of my way for it, especially with the hassle and cost of parking.

I came here for my birthday 07/05/2025 and overall my experience was alight. (Not the best) I expected higher expectations but I did choose this place because my brother said they have the best seafood. When my brother place his food order it was my turn to let the cashier know what I wanted. When I mention I wanted lobster she told me and my brother to go to the other side to order the lobster. He asked her why I can’t order it here and she said it’s because it two separate transactions and markets? Long story short we went to the side and waited almost 40 minutes to place my lobster order. And the guy ask my brother would you like any sides with that? And he said we order sides already on the order side of the main line. 🤦‍♀️ This line set up doesn’t make any sense. And the worst part was by the time we finished ordering my food, my family already received their food and was eating at the table. My garlic fries were lukewarm and my lobster had a grill taste to it. I like mimes tender and moist. Would I come back maybe

An amazing place if you're a fan of fresh fish. The ambiance is not stylish, so you may not pick this location for a first date, but authentic with great 70s music. The service was great (it's an over-the-counter place), very helpful (I had questions), and very friendly. Their fish was amazing - just as you would expect from a place like this. Overall, I would recommend this place to anyone who is in this area - or has a craving for fresh fish and wants to hang out in a place where you can smell the ocean. I made a 30+ detour just to dine here (mandatory with me to achieve 5 stars) and would happily do again.

Nearly went to the wrong spot. Luckily, they closed early and we ended up at Captain Kidd’s. I immediately recognized it as the seafood market from previous trips. I won’t forget their name next time.

So lucky to live across from this place. I go often for their fish market sashimi and get both the salmon and the tuna. I'd say it's priced appropriately... the only downside is the ridiculous $2+ cutting fee if you order the fish sashimi style (like how isn't that included...?) All the staff members are SO kind and helpful. I love seeing the same staff consistently :) Great indoor and outdoor seating by the water. It's like eating out of a movie

This review is just for the restaurant, not the fish market. The fried shrimp taco here is the single best shrimp taco I've ever had in my life. It's a perfect balance of the crispy shrimp, the crunch of the cabbage/slaw, and the savory spicy mayo. It comes with two sides, so I usually get the veggies. Also got the popcorn shrimp. It was good but nothing special. Ambiance of the interior is what you'd expect from a mid-range seafood restaurant with an outdoor patio area, and the view of the ocean is beautiful. As for service, you order at the counter and self serve and clean up. My rating is just for the food.

We're here trying this spot for the first time and it's delicious! The fresh fish is on point, with lots of options including yellowtail, swordfish, scallops etc. you can pick how they cook it and the spices. We also ordered a clam chowder, which I'm very picky with, and it was good! It was chunky and full of clams, which is the sign of a good chowder. :) We also dug the 70s music. The ambiance is chill and casual. Good stuff!

What an incredible experience. My brother and I stumbled across this place while I was playing tour guide since he was visiting during the holidays. Fresh seafood, great music and lots of indoor and outdoor seating. We chose outdoors and the vibe was great with the sunshine and music. The food was fresh and delicious. Fresh seafood and a market with plenty of options. Free parking and great location to go for a walk along the seaside afterwards.

I've walked by this place so many times over the years, and I finally made my way inside. Ordered the fish and chips, and the fish was fresh, delicious, and perfectly fried. I definitely plan on returning soon!

So restaurant suggested by hotel staff. You can pick any fish displayed you want and the kitchen staff will sear it for you. They will steam crabs as well. Good beer selection on tab. All around good place to grab some seafood.

I thought this would be a tourist trap, but it is far from it. Even though the lines are long, this fish market is worth the wait. I got the shrimp fajitas 3/4 lbs, and it was SO worth the price. Shrimp Fajitas - They have an option of 3/4 lbs (meant for 1-2 people) and an option of 1.5 lbs (meant for 3-4 people). I got the 3/4 lbs, it was about $18 and HUGE. The flavor was just insane, it almost reminded me a bit of Chinese stir fry (so my Taiwanese parents loved it), and the fajitas vegetables were so flavorful and delicious. 2 people could have easily shared this and felt satisfied, and at $18, it was a pretty cheap meal for a HUGE portion. Overall, I would recommend this place to anyone who is in this area. Next time I want to try out the fish and chips too!!!

Very disappointing lunch. The lobster roll used frozen, dried out lobster with little taste, the corn on the cob was frozen, the cantaloupe was not yet ripe. Very expensive (draft soda $3.50!) fish in fish and chips was a few days short of being fresh. $50+ for lunch for two. Handicap parking very good, but no tables to accommodate a wheelchair, so I ended up blocking the aisle. In retrospect, I should have purchased ahi tuna from the fish maker and had it grilled. But after today, I doubt I'll return. California Fish grill is a far better choice for fish and chips, and the Lobster Guys on Willow St Long Beach has a couple of lobster rolls much, much superior.

Still a place that holds a special place in my heart. I tried the Spider Crab here for the first time and it was delicious. I love how they have free parking when purchasing from their restaurant. The lady with the piercing on her face working the register on the restaurant side is not too friendly. She seemed annoyed when we asked her questions, and had a look of impatience when my family was trying to decide what to order. The guys that work on the market side are super friendly and helpful. And for those wondering, a 4lb Spider Crab cost us about $90. Not too bad.

We stopped here, because my wife had wanted to try a Lobster Roll. She was not a big fan after eating it.The roll was in butter. You have the option to have butter or mayonnaise. It was a little dry. Not too much flavor.I had to add some tartar sauce to add flavor to it. It was okay, not too special.

I don't wanna write this review, because I don't want people knowing about this place so it doesn't get crowded lol! Captain Kids is amazing. To keep it simple, their food is fresh, they have a great selection of seafood, and their service is very nice. I took My Wife and Daughter there. And we literally stuffed our face with all the seafood we wanted, and it all tasted amazing. What I recommend it? Absolutely!

Seafood kabobs and lobster rolls are solid too! Can't go wrong ordering anything on the menu

Stopped by Captain Kidd's in Redondo Beach and it's a solid seafood spot right by the harbor. Very relaxed place and easy to enjoy, especially if you're in the area and want seafood without overthinking it. We ordered a lot: shrimp fajita tray, whole grilled pompano, lobster bisque, stone crab (steamed and cracked), a sashimi plate, and fish & chips. The whole grilled pompano was probably my favorite of the day -- simple and really well done. The lobster bisque and fish & chips also stood out and were both really satisfying. You can order off the menu or pick your seafood straight from the market, which is a nice option. The marina setting makes it a good spot to sit for a bit, especially with friends or family. Overall, a dependable South Bay spot for fresh seafood with a good location and a laid-back feel.

The food was so super fresh and the micheladas were good Love the girl at register she provided great service and was so super nice and helpful The ambience was good too Would recommend and definitely return again

I love this restaurant every time I go in I am greeted by a lovely young lady with a beautiful smile and bow on her hat. She always helps me make the right decision I'm planning my meal for the day by the way did I mention that I love this place!!! there's a few gentlemen on the market side that are very helpful and kind as well. I recommend either getting your fish to go and cook it yourself or allowing them to make you a fabulous meal and enjoy the experience..

This restaurant is definitely a bit of a hidden gem. How many restaurants can you go to and pick your fresh peice of fish that you want cooked up for dinner!? This place is unique in that way. You can pick your cut of fish from shrimp, catfish, halibut, sea bass, you name it. You let them know who you want it prepared and seasoned. It's priced per pound based on the type of fish and then you add $5.99 for two additional sides for your plate. I opted for a cut of Seabass with lemon pepper and rice pilaf and steamed veggies as my sides. It was obviously sooooooo fresh! The fish melted in my mouth. The rice was really great but the veggies were definitely frozen vegetables (not that great). I also tasted the clam chowder which was outstanding!! It's informal dining so you order and pay and then you find a seat. They call your number when it's ready. Great option for quality food in a casual setting. Highly recommend!

A great place for some fresh seafood. Casual and clean dining area. It's a very laid back atmosphere with plenty of seating. Plenty of parking in the area around the building or in the structure. When you come in, there are two lines, one for fresh seafood you want to take home and another line for dine-in. Good variety of fish if you wanted to take home and cook yourself If you're ever in the mood for some fresh seafood, it's been our go to for years. Their fish and chips are great. Pair with a nice beer and it's a nice combo. We didn't get them on this occasion but I can recommend it. Personally as I eat a lot of tuna and salmon during the week, I tend to opt for more of the "white" fish when I come here. Highly recommend the swordfish or halibut plates. They come with two choice of sides. I prefer to get corn on the cob and will usually alternate between Cole slaw or rice pilaf depending on my mood. I don't get the veggies as they tend to come from frozen and not as fresh For the fish plates, I always go grilled with simple seasoning. It's always cooked perfectly here. Their clam chowder is decent. Not the best but flavorful enough if you want a something warm with your meal. Popcorn shrimp is plenty for the portion. It's a nice snack. Another dish I would recommend is their fried whole fish plate. We got the pompano and it's a nice sized fish with plenty of meat on the bone. Sometimes it's fun to "dig" into your food.

An amazing place if you're a fan of fresh fish. The ambiance is not stylish, so you may not pick this location for a first date, but authentic with great 70s music. The service was great (it's an over-the-counter place), very helpful (I had questions), and very friendly. Their fish was amazing - just as you would expect from a place like this. Overall, I would recommend this place to anyone who is in this area - or has a craving for fresh fish and wants to hang out in a place where you can smell the ocean. I made a 30+ detour just to dine here (mandatory with me to achieve 5 stars) and would happily do again.

First time here in beautiful Redondo Beach! we took a nice walk with our friends and were craving seafood. Chill atmosphere and nice people we will definitely be back!

Heard so many praises about this place but honestly not the best experience. We got the grilled fish burger and grilled red snapper, both just felt under seasoned. Same for the rice pilaf. The garlic fries were tasty but there's a $3 extra charge. The lobster bisque was rich but didn't seem to have any lobster. There isn't much service, you order at the counter and then pick up based on your number. The inside is pretty small but they have a little patio with seats and then tables outside. Maybe we ordered wrong and should've gotten fried fish instead because that's what everyone else seemed to be ordering but overall pretty overpriced for what it was. There's a separate section for their market if you just want to get fish to cook yourself.

I've lived here for several years but am sadly just now trying this place but the timing couldn't be better. It's inaguration week in America and by Thursday I'm feeling heavy and nursing a cold. I felt like I was in desperate need of a homey feeling I still haven't quite found here in LA. Next best thing, a walk in the sunshine on this winter day with my little furry buddy and lunch outside by the water. In walks my amazingly delicious... east coast hug... erm, I mean... Cup of Lobster Bisque. If we weren't right edged on the water I'd believe they were shipping lobsters in from the better lobster coast that starts with A and ends with st. Shhhh don't tell anyone... But seriously, this was the warm east coast hug I needed on this afternoon. Your staff could use an uplift for reals because they were cold and unfriendly as hell. But imma give 'em a pass and still give 5 stars because Murica is hurting right now. Thanks for this soup and a great outdoor seating place in the sunshine for me and my pup.

Hi we're coming down there from Mar Vista and want to check if you have Live Dungeness crab now that it's in season? Hi Let me check (wait on phone) ... Yep we got them. They just came in. There are plenty. (drive, drive, drive) ... Hi we called earlier bout the Dungeness crab? Oh yes. All we have are rock crab. No Dungeness all day (disappointed, drive, drive, drive) ...

Had cod sandwich with house seasoning grilled,hush puppies and clam chowder. Well worth the visit. Nice beer selection. Definitely will come back next time in town. Fresh fish market looked great.

I have had consistently great experiences at Captain Kidds when ordering their crab and fried oysters. Especially the fried oysters are delicious and very reasonably priced for how big they are, and always fresh. Unfortunately I wish I had pictures but the problem is I devour them so quickly each time before remembering to take a photo. In terms of the sides, some are average tasting but usually a few minor tweaks like salt and pepper to the fries make them much better, also the portions for sides and mains are all very generous. Overall I'm a fan of Captain Kidds since I've had consistently great experiences here for the past 2 decades!

A Hidden Gem --Fresh, Delicious & Unique! This place is amazing! What makes it really special is that you can either buy fresh seafood from their market and I believe they even help you cook it, or, like my family did, you can order straight from their menu. We tried their fish sandwiches, clam chowder, and salad, and everything was absolutely delicious. The fish was fresh and flavorful, the chowder was rich and comforting, and the salad was crisp and well-balanced. The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable, especially for the quality. I'll definitely be coming back to try more dishes from their menu. Highly recommend if you're looking for a casual spot with great food and a cool market-style twist!

We love coming down to Captain Kids where everyone can get whatever they want!! Great for the family! We usually get the chowder, fish, and shrimp, but comes with salad, fries, etc! Love the casual ambiance. The kids can color on the white paper you lay on the tables. Service is at cashier only, but everyone is friendly.

My family has been visiting Redondo Beach for years. We typically eat at Quality Seafood, but we decided to eat at Captain Kidd's for the first time, which is similar in price, but with free parking, nicer seating, and has less tourists. We visited last Saturday around 11am. We were one of the first ones to arrive, so we had first dibs on seating. We were helped by an at-first apprehensive, but helpful crab seller who picked four of the biggest, healthiest fatty female stone crabs. They were perfectly steamed for $9.99/lb. We also ordered buttered corn on the cob, white rice, steamed veggies, and clam strips. The buttered corn was a little over cooked, but everything else was great. We also got a good amount of complimentary melted butter, tartar sauce, and hot sauce. And we rented two crab mallets for a $6 refundable deposit ($3 each). Not including the beer, our total came out to $115, or $23 per person for five people (plus a small tip since we ordered so much). Not bad at all!

Always good fresh and the ambience is totally seaworthy great spot on the weekend to bring the family

Captain Kidd's Fish Market & Restaurant in Redondo Beach is a popular spot known for fresh seafood and a casual dining experience. Customers praise the freshness of the fish, both for takeout from the market and for dine-in options. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood preparations, including fish and chips, grilled fish plates, and clam chowder. Serving the Freshest Seafood in the South Bay Iconic Fish Market & Restaurant Since 1976.

Captain Kidd is my go to spot for seafood when I go to Redondo beach. We always get the stone crab and have them steam it, be sure to get the female stone crab. I also love the fresh oysters where you can see them Shuck it right in front of you. We got the blue point and misty point. Both were absolutely delicious. They also serve beer with a variety of tap and they sell wine by the bottled or glass. If you get a soda, there's also free refill for soda.

Captain Kidd's Fish Market & Restaurant in Redondo Beach is seriously a gem! From the moment I rolled into the super convenient parking lot, everything just got better and better--the killer views of the pier and marina set the perfect vibe for a fun seafood feast. The seafood was honestly so fresh I felt like it might jump off my plate, and the staff kept things moving with quick, friendly service in a laid-back, casual dining area. I had such a good time I can't wait to tell all my friends about this spot--definitely planning a return trip soon!

Tucked right on the Redondo Beach Pier, Captain Kidd's serves up a fish and chips that honestly blew me away. The fish was ridiculously fresh and you could taste the difference with a light, crisp batter that added texture without overwhelming the flavor. The fries were spot on too: hot, seasoned just right, and perfect for scooping up tartar sauce. What really impressed me was the balance. It's indulgent comfort food, but not heavy or greasy like you'd expect at a pier spot. Add in the ocean breeze, the casual bustle of the pier, and it feels like the quintessential SoCal seafood experience. If you're anywhere near Redondo, this is one of those meals that makes you rethink what fish and chips can be.

First, it's a dive fish market that produces great food!!!! When you walk in it's a fish market on the left and restaurant to the right. You walk in and order and then they call you for your food! What did I order: -Manhattan clam chowder 8/10 very good - salmon with old bay (10/10) - salad with Italian (10/10) Ambiance is a seafood shack vibe with plenty of seats!! Overall, if you are in the area! Stop by and give it a try! Very fresh tasting seafood!

This dated-looking restaurant is basically surrounded by a parking lot. More of a view of cars than the ocean, as advertised. The food was not fresh. I may have food poisoning from the oysters (or the crab). The oysters were shucked with a mallet leaving shards of shell within them. Further, the thin crab cakes were filled with hot peppers, overpowering any crab flavor, assuming there was any to begin with. This often is a strategy to disguise flavorless or, worse yet, old crab.

Went here last night and had the crab cake and mozzarella sticks. The crab cake was good but thin and small for $8. The mozzarella sticks were awful-cold and no flavor.

If you're looking for fresh seafood in Redondo Beach, Captain Kidd's is the spot! I love that you can walk up, pick your fish or shellfish from the market, and have it cooked exactly how you want. Everything I've had here has been flavorful and perfectly cooked -- my favorites are the grilled salmon and the crab legs. The portions are generous, the staff is friendly, and you can't beat the view of the harbor while you eat. It's casual, relaxed, and the kind of place you can enjoy with friends, family, or even your dog on the patio. Definitely one of my go-to seafood spots in the South Bay!

I had a nice dinner at Captain Kidd's. The freshness of the meal is beyond repute as the fish was straight off the boat. You order at a counter and the clerk was very helpful describing the options. Thanks. Prices here are more lower than places that overlook the ocean. Just right if you only want a meal and are not after a seaside meal. The dining area is off the market and is resembles east coast seafood markets. Great place if you are here for the food.

I used to like this place - but I had a lobster roll recently - said butter and none was on it - lobster did not taste fresh - I could not finish it and had a stomach ache within an hour of eating it. ALL of their soups have bacon except the cioppino so this is definitely not a place for someone with an allergy to pork like I do as cross contamination is high. even their red chowder and their Lobster bisque - so if you are non pork for religious reasons or a pesca-vegetarian beware!

Service was fast! What impressed me the most was their soft shell crab, which was sooo airy and fresh, def one of the best I have had. But unfortunately, all the other food we had were just mediocre at best, plus bathrooms were extremely dirty

You can't call something a double "prime" cheeseburger and it's really a glorified grilled sausage patty on a bun, I don't remember there patties usually being this small, but the bun is massive and the patty is not even the size of my palm, disappointing

It's been a long time since I was here and I think it's better. Mid afternoon Wednesday was not busy which was nice. Friendly people working and a solid fish taco, even if it was a little short on the fish in my opinion. Two sides and two tacos made a very full plate of food for $15.

We have lived in the area for 6 years and only just found out about this fish market/restaurant. We decided to go in to check it out and chose to order their lobster bisque to take home for dinner. We vacation in Maine more than any other place and love all things lobster, including Maine's lobster stew. We make it at home often from live lobsters we steam ourselves. All that said, our expectations of lobster dishes elsewhere are fairly low. But wow! Captain Kidd's lobster bisque is outstanding. Top notch and full of intense lobster flavor. Just as good as our homemade. Traditional lobster bisque has no large chunks of meat floating in it so don't expect that. Just pure lobster goodness that is great with crusty bread dipped in it. I'm blown away. A+++ Food - Top notch lobster bisque Service - very friendly Ambience - a coastal fish market

A great casual fresh seafood joint and reasonably priced in Redondo Beach. There are 2 lines, 1 is the fish market where you can order fresh seafood / fish / sashimi style and the other line is to order cooked seafood / fish from the menu. After you ordered, the seatings and utensils are self served, you can grab any tables you want. There are indoor / outdoor bench style seatings in the back. Also, there are rolls of table paper you can put on the table so you don't have to clean up your seafood mess. The restaurant is next to the Seaside Lagoon. Parking is really easy, there is a small limited parking lot on the side of the restaurant and a giant paid lot in the back. We came early at around 11am on the wknd, so I was able to find parking on the side of the restaurant. It does get crowded during lunch rush hour and the line does get longer. The staff were all friendly and the food was really good. I got the Sea Bass plate (charbroiled cajun seasoning) with rice pilaf and salad ; half dozen raw oysters ; cup of steamed clams in wine sauce. I love how my cup of steamed clams were hot and flavorful, it wasn't even lukewarm temperature. My friend got salmon and tuna sashimi, they were really fresh. I highly recommend the cup of steamed clams and the sashimi. The oysters were a bit overpriced in my opinion. I will definitely come back and try their steamed crabs next time.

I skip the restaurant menu and head over to the fish market. Everything is always great! A little pricier than you'd think but seafood is always expensive. The grilled shrimp is perfect and I love that they butterfly it. Also so many seasonings to choose from!

Bestest fresh seafood in town. Usually get lobster roll and cold rbeer. Also great service and friendly atmosphere next to ocean with both outdoor and indoor seating. Can bring doggies too. Closeby parking clean restrooms. In past had Banning HS mini reunions there and owner is a Banning Pilot Alumni.

I love the casual and confident nature of a coastal restaurant that includes a fish market. Just love everything about them! This is one of them. Heart eyes.

Giving it 5 stars. We kept it basic and just got fish and chips but they were so fresh and cooked to perfection. No exaggeration, the food was up there with some of the best fish and chips I've had. You can tell it's a good choice as soon as you step foot inside. This place has a lot of menu options on both the restaurant side and market side. Fair prices, casual ambience, lots of seating both indoor and outdoor. There was a small line but nothing compared to a lot of the restaurants further down the pier. I would definitely stop back here on another beach day and try some other menu items.

I ordered a few things from here, claim strips, shrimp cocktail, new clam chowder, lobster bisque, a crab cake, and a pound of snow crab legs. The only thing that tasted good was the shrimp cocktail and that's nearly impossible to mess up. The food didn't even taste fresh. The worst of it was the snow legs. I one pound (just two clusters) cost over $50 and it taste like it freezer burned. We were looking forward to eating here and left incredibly annoyed at the fact that we did.

Malia helped me today at the fish market very nice girl and the man who runs the fish market very friendly I sure hope Malia gets recognized for being such an awesome worker over there and also the man who runs the fish market the tall man and Malia was very helpful and friendly to me very nice