Cherylynn N.
Yelp
3.5 STARS
If you're going out for seafood, you already know it's going to be cha-ching. Unless you want a free detox with the Hershey squirts, you can't cheap out.
Valley Swim Club is a new casual seafood shack in Sonoma from the owners of Valley Bar + Bottle. Tho, it's casual counter service, they charge $$-$$$ sit-down restaurant prices...a snack for two was $60 (post-tip). But, it doesn't seem to stop locals because it was poppin' on a Tuesday. The parking lot was full. And, my friend had to hover for an open table while I waited in line to order. So def recommend visiting during off peak hours.
They're open for takeout and dine-in. Most of the seating is outdoors (dog-friendly) which is why we visited before heading back to the city.
M E N U
American seafood: Snacks, salads, sandwiches, and plates. Beer and wine available.
Based on the food I saw on neighboring tables, if you're looking for value, stick with their cod sandwich ($16, no side). Their poke bowl ($24) looks like the ones from fast-casual poke shops w/ little ahi, cucumbers, green onions, and furikake but at a high mark-up.
2% wellness charge added to all bills.
D R I N K
* Sour Cherry Lemonade ($6)
Not my drink so didn't try it.
F O O D
* Fried Whole Belly Clams ($20): https://tinyurl.com/378fefxf
Hot, golden brown, crunchy-chewy deliciousness. Great fry with light batter, not greasy or heavy. Served with a creamy, zesty tarter sauce. GET THIS!
* Spicy Peel 'N Eat Shrimp (4 pc - $20)
A special of the day, the shrimp were large, plump, and tender but the sauce was barely spicy and one note in flavor. IMO, at $5/apiece, it was a poor value.
S E R V I C E
Friendly and prompt.
Order at the counter, grab a number placard, and seat yourself. Your food will be delivered to you and they'll bus your table after you're finished.
There's a self-serve water station with condiments.
A M B I A N C E
Spacious, partially covered patio overlooking the grassy fields. Once you can snag the seat, it was relaxing to enjoy the picturesque backdrop. But, can we talk about their chairs? They're hella clunky and heavy...it felt like moving a bookcase.
There's only one restroom stall (outside) so had to wait a bit.
P A R K I N G
They have their own private lot but it was full on a weekday.
Overall, I have mixed feelings about Swim Valley Club. I will gladly pay $$$ for good food and I know seafood ain't cheap but their price points are too high for a fast casual model and small portions. BUT, they seem to be already a hit with the locals. If you visit, def get the fried whole belly clams!