Fathom Bistro, Bait, and Tackle

They say "location. location. location" and there is a good reason. The location is the second best thing about Fathom, the atmosphere is the best thing. Food comes in a distant third. I love kitschy places and although Fathom is small, it is mighty on atmosphere. The decore captures the essence of Hollywood water fairing nostalgia and it's a lot of fun even if you aren't familiar with the 1950's and '60's movies. Even if you aren't into the vintage movies, you will love the location along the water and public park and water view.

I Actually Came Here To See If This Place Was Any Good. I Tried The Chicken Lumpias And They Were Better Than They Looked. I Definitely Haven't Tried The Adult Beverages Here Yet. Oh Yeah Not To Many Choices Of Soda's Here. I Did Try To Get The Bageits. Oh Yeah Dude Said. We Only Make Those In The Morning! Yup Definitely Didn't Like The Poor Service. I'm Actually Not Sure About Coming Back .

I went with a friend who was in town from the Midwest who wanted to hang out near the water. We enjoyed the view of the bay and the well curated beer list. A very boisterous group arrived shortly after my friend and I moved inside. I think they were from an organized pub crawl/beer tour that we later saw the vehicle of in the parking lot. We had no trouble finding close parking. I didn't rate the food as we only had drinks. The atmosphere was unpretentious. There was a whole host of folks on the dock fishing and we sat outside at first adjacent to a family with well behaved kids.

Really great hot dogs. Went with a friend and we both are of the opinion that the greek dog may be the best hog dog we’ve eaten in our lives. With that said, you can’t go wrong with any of them.

Absolutely fantastic. Was recommended to us by someone on the pier and it was worth it for sure. We were staying on Shelter Island and this place was perfect for when we had some downtime and were just walking around Shelter Island. Hot dogs and beers were the best.

This is our go place for a walk with our dog, then stop for edamames and craft beers. This place does get busy on the weekends. So visit during the week if you can.

Always have to come here whenever I'm in the area... such a unique and fun experience. The food is always great and coupled with a huge choice of good, craft beer and a spectacular location right on the water can't be beat. The view of San Diego across the bay at dusk... wow!

Glorious dive bar $ sausage hut on a pier jutting into the bay with sweeping views of the skyline and coast

There's no judgment when I get a beer and a plain hotdog. I love the consistency and the friendliness. In all seriousness, it's a little gem of excellence in food and service. My only complaint is that I wish they were open more often.

Really wanted to like this place more than I did. Decent parking, not too crowded even on a summer weekend and great views, obviously. Solid beer list. We were told our burgers would be done in 12-15 minutes. Not too bad for made to order food. It turned out that most of this time was to allow our burgers to be over-cooked...as in well done and actually a little flavorless besides the outer char! I'm a medium rare guy, so this was a no-go for me. Our group agreed that a burger is medium unless otherwise specified. I eat very few burgers, so I need to try to specify doneness from now on. But I also don't want to be difficult. Considering the other good reviews here, this was a surprising error. Too bad- the burgers looked to be hand formed and about 1/3 pound. Even though our burgers were $15+, no fries or any other sides were included or available, save for a $2 bag of chips- no thanks. This is unusual. Perhaps they don't have a fryer? They could easily drop a handful of chips or some bag salad on the side and even add $1 to the prices to cover it. I get that pricing is up due to COVID and new minimum wage, but I don't feel like we got good value.

Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle is a special oasis on Shelter Island in San Diego. I've been coming here since 2017 when it was just a wee Tackle Shop. Always friendly service and I love the theme and vibes for old seamen and fishermen. Nothing beats their sausages and dogs, along with the dogs that cruise in for snacks. Badass beer selection to boot! This is considered real life buried treasure - run, don't walk!

I frequent this cozy little pier often because I like to go fishing here sometimes. They have a wide array of beers on tap and sell some quick bites. However, their hot dogs are tiny! You can finish it in 4 bites. I wish they did a little more with their hot dogs such as a bigger toasted bun or added some type of side to make the meal more filling. I think next time I get food here I would probably opt for something else. The service was awesome though and the vibes are immaculate with the view of downtown SD. Plenty of seating as well.

My boyfriend has been very eager to show me this place. He really enjoyed going here and I must say, it's pretty good for what it is. I didn't order anything but chicken lumpia ($9), and personally thought it's a good amount for the price and it wasn't that bad! I'm Filipino and I thought it was pretty good. There were only two staff members working when I visited, but they managed to serve the food in a reasonable amount of time. Yes, I only ordered 1 food lol but still pretty good! I can't wait to come back and try their hot dogs! This spot is located right on the pier, which is a popular area for fishing, so I feel like some days will be crowded. Lots of locals & tourists in the area! A pretty sweet spot to get a beer!

Short review: This is the place you recommend for someone that you dislike and they want a burger. Long review: I was curious about this place since it seems to be at great location and it happened to have a high rating so I thought there was no way this couldn't be terrible. I also didn't see any pictures of burgers here, even though it has its own section, especially since they have their own burger called "Fathom Burger" so it must be unique. Asking the staff what they recommended for my burger but he kept ignoring me and just kept saying "what you want?". I ended up ordering it with double patty and provolone cheese and a bag of chips since he wouldn't recommend anything. When it was finished and he handed me the burger, he couldn't even look at me in the face when he delivered this monstrosity. I was so confused when I looked at it but after examining it, they gave me a fucking hotdog bun for a double cheese burger and I thought he forgot the top bun but no, it was just one hotdog bun at the bottom. I even put the other half on top to see if it would be good at all but this thing looked like hot garbage. Also they must have dropped the burger patties into a tub of salt cause god damn that shit was so salty. I would rather eat a mcdonalds burger thats been left in the fridge for 2 weeks. They didn't make the chips so that was alright. Would not recommend this place unless I hated them. Their hotdogs might be better but I wouldn't even risk it here. Decor is cute though.

A must while in San Diego, sit and people watch outside on the mosaics table. Migs behind the counter was so amazing in taking care of us. We had to try the Loco Moco with Japanese Curry Sauce. A large Hamburger patty hand made on top of a delicious fluffy scrambled egg atop white rice all covered in this rich curry sauce. Had a little cal pinser and enjoyed the sunshine and fisherman. They have a small intimate tables and counters inside and tables on the patio

All the beer lovers know about Fathom, but the average out-of-townie or even local San Diegan might not have even heard of Fathom which sits on a quiet fisherman's pier in Shelter Island. Do mind the parking lot when you seek this spot out as there are signs that warn against reversed parking (even though this is the safest way to park, imo). Fathom operates the bistro and a small bait and tackle store next door. The bistro, serving the food and beer, be as quant as can be one with maybe two 6-seaters inside and the remaining tables outside on the pier. Order inside from the small window where an often surly worker will assist you right and quick. Their specialty be that classic sausage/ brat and hotdog and 20 taps often occupied primarily by IPA's. Honestly, I've never eaten their food, haha; only popped in for them easy pickings of PTY during that annual tapping (limit 2 16oz pours). Views are always outstanding outside, staring out into the bay to watch the boats rumble by or simply to snoop on the fisher people's happenings. I reckon this could also be the perfect sunset party out on the pier to drink in all the classic SD sights. Whatever the reason for your visit ends up being, know that you won't be disappointed at this no frills unique SD eatery.

Fathom Bistro bait & tackle is a lovely spot on Shelter Island offering ice cold draft beers on tap and a whole menu of gourmet food ranging from sausages, burgers, and there famous Loco moco! I decided to come here after a morning run to enjoy some great beer and food, and that's exactly what I got! Fathom is located on the fishing pier off Shelter Island, where you can see many fishermen cast their lines praying for their next big catch. As we enter inside, we notice a beautiful colorful menu of the draft beers on tap and a sign informing us that the menu does change. A good friend recommended the Pliny Elder, which is an IPA by Russian River, and is 8% ABV. I also went ahead and ordered the Loco moco with Japanese curry. The seating arrangements are open, and they have plenty of chairs and tables alongside the pier to enjoy your time in the great outdoors and, most of all, soak up that fine San Diego Sun! The beer was yet crisp and smooth and very flavorful and ice cold. On the other hand, the Loco moco was looking magnificent and stellar. The beef patty was hand formed and grilled to perfection, releasing all juicyness from the fat and protein inside the patty. It was nestled upon a lightly scrambled fluffy egg laying over a bed of white rice. The star of the show was the Japanese curry smothered along top of the beef patty all the way down to eggs and rice. I really enjoyed combining all 3 ingredients together and taking a super bite while washing it down with my scrumptious IPA. Customer service was second to none and provided service with a huge generous smile! The staff seemed to enjoy working here, and their pride could definitely be seen while entering this fine establishment. Please come check this place out for their amazing breakfast plates and lunch specials, but most of all, there variety for draft beers on the tap they offer because I guarantee this place will not disappoint!

I dropped my brother off at the airport and didn't want to deal with rush hour traffic. I felt like getting food at a place away from said traffic and remembered this gem of a spot on Shelter Island. I haven't eaten here in a long time, so it was nice to be back to enjoy the indoor and outdoor ambience while I waited for my order (takeout). The lady who helped me was really nice and honest, telling me my order would take about 15 minutes to prepare, which was not a problem. There's lots to look at here from the nautical decor to the calmness of San Diego Bay. Great place to eat for locals and visitors alike. No alcohol for me today, but they have a wide selection of beer. I ordered the Bratwurst for myself and the Spicy Italian sausage for my boyfriend, who was at home. Our food was still hot by the time I got there and we enjoyed our meal very much. We'll eat there next time! I look forward to trying their other menu items.

This is my happy place. Awesome beer collection, fun house made sausages, and the most unsuspecting yet delicious burger around. Keep meaning to checkout weekend brunch, but I like sleep. Their outdoor tables are the perfect place to watch the sunset with a cold beer in hand, good company, and playing some games. Watch out for the one table with an umbrella hole if you do though, lost many a game pieces to that hole. People watching is top notch and it's always fun to see an enthusiastic fisherman reel in a catch. Staff is chill, place is mellow. It's my fave place to go every time I'm in town.

Best place in San Diego to enjoy a beer. One of the things that makes this place enjoyable is that it is small, not a large chain, the owner tells the jerks to not come back, giving us regulars a place to sit. Amazing view! Great beer!! Good people

Spam plate was delicious and location was unbeatable. Staff was very kind. We were shocked and delighted to be able to buy a 2xl shirt from their merch.

Beer...dogs...ocean...what more could you even want (well...it was a little cool out so more sun would have made it 11/10) Great Bartender...and will definitely be back.

This place is as amazing as it's name. It's got a vibe like Cheers but with vintage sea nostalgia. A 1965 James Bond aquatic themed movie played on the TV while the sun set across the bay behind San Diego's downtown. A regular said it's one of the best beer menus in the city. I had an delicious lambic beer bursting with cherries. I can't wait to go back!

Great variety of beer and menu to match. Highly recommend the loco motor with the curry sauce for brunch and the wedge salad for lunch. Great place to people watch - love watching the locals fish off the pier.

Great little find, with an amazing location, good eats, and an awesome selection of drinks! Definitely worth a visit to enjoy the San Diego Bay! Located on the pier along Shelter Island, this little eatery has a few inside and outside seats. Their menu is a little on the limited side for eats, but they have a great selection of beverages, great for just enjoying the day along the water. The hot dogs aren't the biggest but they are flavor-packed and if you order it just right - will punch you with the right amount of spice. The dish was excellent, the kids absolutely enjoyed it... they season them so it's not just salty. Overall, great place to visit if you make your way down to Shelter Island. There's a park nearby for the kids to run around and you can enjoy watching the fishers' try to bring in the big one!

I like the place. I really like the eclectic music. Not a fan of the fact that there is no bathroom. The food is great. The craft beer selection is great. The service is kinda weird. The white guy who was behind the counter just gave us a blank stare when we arrived. Overall, though, I recommend this spot.

Wow this was a horrible experience for me and my friend. Decided to go fishing but we got hungry, so we decided to try out this place. We saw on the sign that the order gets called out when it's ready. Waited over 50 minutes for 2 hotdogs, saw other people that was after us getting their food first. Decided to check back in because we had to leave soon so we were thinking about asking for refund. Whole time it was probably just sitting there because they never called us whatsover. The food ended up being cold, and tasted horrible.Honestly worst service ive ever seen, wouldn't recommend eating. Totally ruined my day.

Both the inside and outdoor area were extremely clean and well mantained. The food was delicious and came out quickly.

Nice simple food, amazing selection of beers, with a breathtaking view of the water. Nice ambiance of nautical and submarine lore, If you paid more than $14 for your burger and do not have this same view, then you have paid too much!

Tiny inside but with a. Open and expansive patio for outdoor seating, this is a locals-only kind of space with a simple but functional menu and a great selection of beers on tap and in bottle or can. Great staff and an unbeatable view of the harbor

This is one place everyone should go to at least once, just for the uniqueness of it. It's a teeny tiny creaky little hut near the end of a relatively obscure short pier off the Shelter Island bayside walkway that makes its own sausages and sells burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and breakfast items (on weekends). It has a surprising list of beers on tap, too. Friendly (if slow) counter service. A very genuine local spot. There are some tables outside on the pier, but the real experience is to eat inside at one of the few rough-hewn tables or at the dining bar along a window, where you can experience the ambience of the place and get a nice view of the Bay. If you can get in, that is. The place has been around for quite a while, but I started visiting only within the past few years. In that time, I've tried exactly two menu items, both sausage-on-a-roll items; namely, the bierwurst and the spicy Italian. I don't particularly care for the bierwurst, but the spicy Italian is very good. I keep meaning to try other things, like their pulled pork sandwich or their hot-shot hot dog, but haven't. So in the past few visits I've only asked for the spicy Italian and have left happy. Unless they're sold out. The reason for only 3 stars is the hit-and-miss aspect of trying to get in (without a long wait); the relatively uninspiring bierwurst (which isn't the same thing as a bratwurst, and it's cooked differently); and them being out of the spicy Italian sausage more than once. Also, it's pretty noisy inside when it's busy.

Great place to have a beer and meet eccentric people LOL. Bring a sweatshirt; it gets chilly out there on the pier.

Service was abrasive and unwelcoming. Though it didn't seem that crowded, and there was no one else in line, the staff seemed overwhelmed and they took it out on the customers. We were told our orders would take 1/2 an hour and it felt like we were being discouraged from ordering. We ordered anyway as we didn't mind a wait. Our food was ready in less than 20 minutes. Hamburger was well beyond charred and the lumpia were overcooked. Food was dropped on table without a word and a major side of attitude. This place used to have better service and better food. If you don't want to run a restaurant, with the normal challenges that come with it, choose another career.

It's a good spot for a quick lunch and a beer. They have the best sausages made in house! The Chicken Basil is sooo good

This place seems poorly run, tried to order some food on a Saturday but the kitchen was changing over, and kept being told to wait more time.

I love this place. Great hot dogs, beer, and even breakfast (on the weekends) for a reasonable price. All whilst overlooking San Diego Bay. What more do you want?

One of the best spots in San Diego. The food, the view, the people who work there!! A big part of the charm is that while the food is great it's not your typical, boring, fare. The food is awesome and they have great beers on tap supporting local breweries.

Great beer selection and THE BEST HOTDOG (sausage) I've ever had!!! Sat inside and enjoyed my beer and listened to some great music

This is my favorite not so secret bait & tackle shop / amazing beer bar with house made sausages and the best views of the city and the Coronado islands and the bay, in the land. It's ON the pier on Shelter Island. The beer list is sick. Pliny the Elder is on all the time and there are excellent sours too. Order at the counter and get the lumpia and a TJ dog, or a one of the incredible sausages OR the Greek burger. Seating is very limited but a kind man in full Pirate gear will help you find a spot. Use the restroom at home or you can use the park service public restrooms before you walk out on the pier. They are very rustic and privacy is somewhat limited. Bring a friend to the rest room with you if you need to go there.

Place is amazing ! Been going to for years and never let down. Great views and great beers. Enjoy the pier as well. Recommend this place to anyone and everyone I just really enjoy this place. Plain n simple

Fathom is special. Every beer is chosen with care and the entire establishment shows the love for beer and for San Diego. Plus you've got one of the best views in San Diego. If you drink beer and you're visiting San Diego, it should be on your very short list. If you drink beer and live in San Diego, you probably already known and love Fathom (and you're overdue for a visit despite the drive.)

Amazing!! Hidden gem!! Service, beer selection, food.. all top notch!! Bierwurst and fathom burger were delicious. Highly recommend.

My daughter and I visited San Diego for her fifth birthday and your restaurant was our favourite way to end our days! We sat outside and took in the beautiful scenery while enjoying the most delicious burgers. She made fast friends with your friendly staff and returned after our first visit with a picture she had coloured of the sticker she was given the day before. A beautiful location with delicious food and friendly humans!

Cute, quaint family spot with plenty of yummy drink / ipa choices, if you like ipas.. Food menu is delicious, filling size bites.. I got the shrimp po'boy and it was a perfect size and for the price! But personally, the red hot sauce was a bit much and made my buns soggy almost right away and overbear the taste of the shrimp pieces But it's a cool spot, right on the pier, over the water with great views all around especially if you're eating outside

My husband and I came in to get some Hotdogs the guy at the counter when I told him what we wanted not only disrespectful said I can't have it and it's only brunch. I was like alright then. So I left. I love how you can get alcohol at 11am but not a fucking hotdog. Honestly I'm never coming back to this establishment. I know my one review doesn't mean anything. But just letting you and the staff know

I've always enjoyed this place. Wish the menu was diversified during the week (as I might come more often)

What is there not to love about this place? Tons of taps and great food to eat. Had spicy Italian sausage and chicken taco for taco Tuesday.

Lame. Came at 12:20pm and wouldn't serve any food. Wouldn't do a hot dog until 1pm and said kitchen shut down early. "it's a discretionary thing". Then don't post time of business you won't honor. Especially in the middle of lunch hour.

I love this place. Good food but remember it's a sausage place. DONT GET THE HAMBURGER . Rookie move on my part. Lumping is also really good.

Held off reviewing Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle for a long time, mostly out of fear that word would spread and somehow jinx this joyous little gem located on a public fishing pier in the middle of north San Diego Bay. With views of the downtown skyline and mountains in the distance, as well as huge naval ships and other boats entering and leaving port, there is no better place with a view to grab a beer and a bite in all of San Diego. Fathom has a stellar selection of craft beers on tap and the highest quality specialty casual foods (try their explodo dog or lumpia and thank me later). Other than being busy, and maybe the fact that you have to use the public bathrooms on shore (which while safe and clean, don't always have doors for privacy in the ladies, lol)...Fathom kicks ass. The owner is passionate about what he does and it shows. Dennis gives back to the community and his staff never disappoints. Fathom provides a consistently cool vibe without attitude or pretension, and it's easy to meet people if sharing an outdoor table. LOVE LOVE LOVE Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle...a unique joyous gem that satisfies the senses. I don't know many bistros, bars, or restaurants that can do that, and none as well as Fathom.

Awesome spot to grab a cool drink and a sandwich while enjoying the beautiful views. The indoor space is small but cozy, but there is plenty of outdoor seating if you want to spread out. You order at the counter and seat yourself. The shrimp po'boy was as crispy and fresh, and hit the spot perfectly. If you just want drinks, there are plenty of delicious beers (and soju!) to choose from. Will be back!

Still great. Always great. Best draft tap list in San Diego. They've got Pliny, they've got tons of locals, and they've got Klokke Roeland. If you've never had Klokke, it's a terrific Belgian. The food is always solid. We tried three dogs: Pizza, Explodo, and Baja. All of them were good but, despite my love of kimchi, I'm going to say the Pizza dog, with marinara sauce, pepperoni, cheese and olives had the best flavor. Next best was the Explodo (bacon, kimchi, and cheese), and then the Baja (bacon and pico de gallo). I have to say, I like their sausages better than the dogs. The dogs are good but the sausages are better. Great beers, really good food, and an incredible view. You can see downtown, Coronado, boats, ships, helicopters, the bay, Point Loma. You're literally sitting over the water. It doesn't get much better than this.

Location: Perfect spot for a beer and a bite ON THE WATER. This dive-y gem is on the pier at shelter island. No indoor seating, but plenty of tables just outside the door. Only one or two have a heater so it's a bit chilly at night (in the winter). Public Bathrooms are located off the pier by the parking lot. Food: sausages with flare! We got the pot pie sausage which was interesting. Definitely NOT a pie so don't be fooled. Made of turkey, pie veggies, and smothered in gravy. The beirwurst is a classic- dressed in red cabbage and mustard. Not sure if it was the cabbage or the brat but one of them was super fennel-y. The buns are PERFECT for these brats and for capturing the juices. Toasted on the outside soft on the inside. The pulled pork was my favorite, everything made in house the kimchi was served crunchy and full of flavor! Beer: epic beer list on tap including the best from Russian River and local San Diego breweries.

The absolute best place in San Diego to drink beer. Worldwide, there might be a better place to have a beer, but I doubt it. And oh, what glorious beer they have! Oerbier and sours and IIPAs and so much more. The food is damned good, too. But note the burgers are served on sub rolls (small kitchen, so they stock only one type of roll).

Love this place! Great beer list, delicious food, unique decor (SO COOL), and just such great vibes. We were in town visiting family and had no idea what to expect when they recommended we meet here, but honestly, it was one of the highlights of our trip. Only regret? Not buying the t-shirt. Guess I have to go back.

Very fun spot to grab a beer and a bite! Right on the little fishing pier on Shelter Island, across from the Best Western Island Palms. Local beers and basic but yummy eats. Not a ton of seating but was not a problem getting a table outside after a short wait. Order at the counter and sit wherever you want. There is a small amount of inside seating. Very small place! Dog friendly! Service excellent! They did run out of a few beer selections, but our visit was late in the day. Fun visit! Would recommend. VERY casual! Great views!

A very nice and unique place, probably the only bar and eatery that I have ever been to that is actually on a pier (above the water)! Nice hidden gem in San Diego on Shelter Island! They seem to specialize mostly in craft beers (which they rotate a lot), as well as hot dogs/sausages. The seating is mostly outdoors and is great for people watching, plus you get a nice view of the water. Cheers!