Waterside Restaurant

My friends and I decided to enjoy a nice night out at Waterside, and it turned out to be a great choice. To our pleasant surprise, there was a live band playing—The Goleta Sound—and they definitely made the evening special. We opted to sit outside, and even though it was chilly, the heaters provided just enough warmth, allowing us to enjoy the music comfortably. Our server was patient and friendly, even though it took some time for us to decide on drinks. Once we settled in, it took a little longer to choose our meals, as we were busy catching up and socializing, but our waitress was exceptionally accommodating throughout. For the table, everyone except my partner ordered the burger with fries, which was delicious—cooked perfectly and full of flavor. My partner chose the pork chop, which was seasoned well and juicy, making for a satisfying meal. Overall, a fantastic night with good food, great live music, and attentive service. We’ll definitely be returning!

Generally a good “go-to” in the neighborhood. I wished I like Sea Fresh better, but its has pretty much given up as far as I can tell. Paper plates and plastic utensils 5 years after COVID? Nah. Anyway, I have done happy hour at Waterside -- great menu and service at the bar. The wings were hot and tasty. I subsequently went for brunch one weekend. The chicken caesar was fresh, lots of cheese, chicken and croutons, but quite dry with not a lot of dressing. My fault for not asking for additional dressing, but I was busy talking. I have also had dinner and enjoyed both the food and the atmosphere. The staff seems to really try. I appreciate that. A famous chef I know recommended the creme brulee, but I have yet to try it.

I never eat fish out, but being on the coast, I wanted something new, I had never tasted mahi mahi! It tasted amazing and not so fishy! Then pork ribs were on fire!! Best customer service I’ve experienced so far!

Good food & music. Love the patio-band was good but SO LOUd you had to Yell at wait staff & table. Asked to lower the volume & they did for 5 min then cranked it up to deafening level. Spoiled our experience I’d go back on weekday when there’s no band. Corkage was $25!!! I also requested a birthday cake for my husband because it was his birthday. They forgot. So I never got that either. Get a C+.

They accommodated our large party. The management and the staff were wonderful. Mel (Management) & Dana (server) took very good care of us. Even the busboy who was working his very 1st day was great... GREAT PERSONALITY!!! The band that was playing was really good also... so all around, I give it a 10.

Beautiful restaurant and views. The food is amazing. The staff is A+++. On holidays, they have special menu.

So this is the second time we visited within a couple of months, we use to eat brunch there a couple times a month. The service is good, atmosphere is good, but the food has been a disappointment on both our recent visits. Eggs over cooked, potatoes cold, and sausage was tough and overcooked. We used to love spending a Sunday on the patio, but recently have looked for other options. Please bring back the old Waterside…

We went on a Saturday night when they had live music. The place was hopping but the service was great. We had short ribs and calamari. Bothe dishes were delicious. Great restaurant and a great value.

This is hands down THE BEST restaurant in Oxnard! Everything I've tried has been delicious! Is just perfect for any occasion!

Absolutely incredible experience! This restaurant is a perfect combination of great food, beautiful atmosphere, and amazing vibes. The view overlooking the water is absolutely stunning, especially as the sun starts to set. The live music created the perfect backdrop without ever feeling too loud, just really adding to the whole ambiance. The staff was warm, attentive, and genuinely made us feel welcome from start to finish. Every dish from Chef Ricardo was fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care. You can tell this place takes pride in what they do. Whether you're looking for a relaxing night out, a place to unwind with friends, or somewhere special for a date, this spot is a must-visit. Can't wait to come back!

It was ok. Nice place to have a drink. There were not a ton of seating options for indoors and it was quite chilly outside. The server was also making drinks and forgot some details of our order. The food was ok but definitely late stage restaurant that relies on tourism and filled seats. The burger was ok and the fries seemed to be basic crinkle fries for a hefty $30 per burger. You can eat a wider variety of better quality food elsewhere in the neighborhood for a lot less than what our bill came out to. We got two burgers and one mini crab cake plus drinks for 3 for about $125. Nice experience on a chilly night but I understand why not a ton of locals go here. It seems to be mainly a steakhouse/prime rib type of place.

The Greek salad, BBQ pork appetizer, salmon, mahi mahi and ice cream espresso dessert was amazing! Great food with great wait staff! A must for food and drinks, cheers!

We loved the place! We came for a friends get away weekend, they had live music, staff super nice and the food was great! We sent our compliments to the chef, who came later on to introduce himself. The clam chowder was very tasty, the calamari was yummy and the sauce was superb! Restrooms super clean and overall an A+.

Don't sleep on this cozy spot in the Oxnard Harbor. Waterside offers great views of the water, live music, good pours, good food, and good people. Chorizo Chilaquiles, are a classic Mexican dish! As the menu offers a good selection of American food, I was shocked at the flavor of the dish! These Chilaquiles are made with hand fried tortilla chips simmered in a flavorful sauce, typically salsa verde (green) or salsa roja (red), and topped with chorizo, fried eggs, avocado and cheese. Its a warm-hearty dish. The Avocado Toast, and Egg-cellent Omelette looked delicious! My friends enjoyed their brunch with Bottomless Mimosas! The indoor patio is a nice spot to seek shelter from the sun with privacy for an intimate conversation. If you have some coverage from the sun, then the outdoor patio is my preference, listening to music and enjoying the views. The restaurant is a big place and the girls are multitasking a lot. You definitely need to have some patience and time to enjoy your meal. We have to remember that good things take time. The wait staff are always charming and sweet. I always enjoy their hospitality! Tip: Live music is on weekends. Call and find out what day and time so you're not disappointed.

My wife and I found this restaurant on a fluke and decided to give it a try. We soon discovered we had found a true gem! It was a comfortable, fun setting with awesome music, a beautiful view and upscale decor. The food was delicious and the service was on point. I can't say enough about this place and the wonderful experience we had that night. All the right vibes were there...we will definitely be back!!!

My friends and I decided to enjoy a nice night out at Waterside, and it turned out to be a great choice. To our pleasant surprise, there was a live band playing--The Goleta Sound--and they definitely made the evening special. We opted to sit outside, and even though it was chilly, the heaters provided just enough warmth, allowing us to enjoy the music comfortably. Our server was patient and friendly, even though it took some time for us to decide on drinks. Once we settled in, it took a little longer to choose our meals, as we were busy catching up and socializing, but our waitress was exceptionally accommodating throughout. For the table, everyone except my partner ordered the burger with fries, which was delicious--cooked perfectly and full of flavor. My partner chose the pork chop, which was seasoned well and juicy, making for a satisfying meal. Overall, a fantastic night with good food, great live music, and attentive service. We'll definitely be returning!

Overall 3.5, so I rounded up to 4 stars. The restaurants is beautiful. Love the remodel. Such a great date night spot right by the water. Place does have an older crowd but that is no problem as I am chill. Our server Savannah was so attentive and definitely welcoming. Now the food . I got their calm chowder to start . I ate it all but I wouldn't say it was great . To me it lacked a more milky appearance. Flavor wise , it was not amazing as well. I also got a burger and I really enjoyed it! It came with fries. I only drank water but they do have cocktails available. I did not see a Happy Hour menu and not sure they have one.

Today was a very disappointing visit to Waterside for my husband and I. We are finding that it's hit and miss with each visit. (Last few "miss") Wondering if they're under new ownership? Management? Food was mediocre... Szechwan pork ribs were "good" and the fried calamari & vegetable appetizer was not. We asked for it crispy and the calamari were these chunky like strips-soft and borderline mushy. There was an overwhelming amount of peppers (I think Ortega chilles?) And a few well done fried broccolis. The presentation was pretty sad...everything was mixed in with arugula. Maybe they meant to serve it in top of the arugula? Definitely NOT like the calamari appetizer we've ordered here in the past. The clam chowder was delicious! Overall the food is overpriced and not worth it for what you get. The service was great! The ambiance not so much. They had a live music duo playing inside right where you walk in. They were way too loud and honestly sounded pretty bad! This isn't the first time we've been here when they've had loud music (usually outside) that were not good. I cannot understand why y'al struggle so badly with getting talented musicians? We go to many restaurants in the area who have local bands play that are really good. Not recommending Waterside at this time.

Beautiful setting with great views of the harbor. Easy parking. Friendly staff. As for the food, I had a chilli relleno omelet and my husband had the chicken empanadas. Both were super yummmmy.

One star is for the view. Music was amateur at best. Sent back the Cuban after one bite. Selected the chicken and waffles and the chicken was actually dripping with oil.

1 star for the food. It's like Denny's level kind of food. That's right it's diner food pretending to be high end . $30 for a fish dish you'd expect quality but no ! OMG! First time coming here with friends who decided to try it out. I ordered from the Specials Menu: the pistachio crusted sandab served with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. The mashed potato did not taste like real potatoes. The sauce on the fish was a sweet and sour- like reminded me of frozen dinner sweet and sour chicken. Oxnard desperately needs better food options. I've been trying restaurants in this town for a while now and have not been impressed or even reasonably satisfied with the food in this town. What's going on!!?

Nice staff all around. Super slow start with drink service but wow the food was awful. The other one star reviews confirm our experience. Nice place nice music too, but terrible food.

Our dinner was amazing by harbor view. Service and food were amazing too. Not sure why reviews are so low for this place

We will be back for the great food, sweet service and good vibes! Apparently Hubby has never had Wagyu. He couldn't stop taking about his burger! I enjoyed my best ceviche to date. It is indeed loaded with so many tastes of the sea: Tender octopus, shrimp, chamoy, avocado, tomato, onion, cucumber, cilantro, jalapeno. I was in ceviche heaven! The whole scene felt surreal, with great food and to top it off, the band, Tres Coconuts. As a retired professional musician, I couldn't get enough of their feel good island vibes, choice vocals, sensitive percussion, moving dynamics and overall experience. They're usually there every other Sunday.

Stopped off here for a drink mainly during the weekend. It was probably about an hour till closing and service was great. Friendly staff and the waitress were all very sweet. First time here and it was quite nice. The whole ambiance with both the inside and outdoor patio was great. Amazing view of the harbor even inside. The whole vibe was pretty chill but still nice and elegant. Didn't get anything to each except for fries and clam chowder which were quite nice. Menu did have a good amount of dishes but it's not extensive. Drinks l, same with the menu. A good selection of mixed and wine list. Overall, our experience was nice.

Booked a reservation here after seeing their delicious menu on Instagram for Father's Day weekend. First time here and we didn't get to see the inside of the restaurant as we were seated out in the patio. Initially, we were seated at a table without any umbrellas when everyone else was sitting under one. We kindly asked to move to another table with an umbrella, so no problem there. Nice view of the harbor with a relaxing vibe. The waitresses were nice, especially our waitress, Sarah. She was very welcoming and attentive the entire time. Thank you. Food - as excited as we were to try out their appealing menu, the food we received were disappointing especially for the prices. The Maryland crab cake didn't remind us of an actual Maryland crab cake at all (we're from there), but it was very tasty. The Surf & Turf - spinach and rice were great, Salmon was very well cooked with a delicious sauce, however, the lambchop was very very dry. The Mahi dish that I ordered had flavors, but was also very dry. The kids chicken strips with fries was a great portion size. The 2 pieces of chicken were adult size portion, and was well appreciated by the little one. They have a live band on some evenings, so worth checking them out.

Waterside in Oxnard gets major points for its amazing harbor location the views of the boats and water are relaxing and make the dining experience special. The food was okay, not mind-blowing but satisfying. The onion rings were crisp and well-seasoned, the fish and chips had a nice crunch though the fish could have used a bit more flavor, and the chicken paillard was tender and light. Overall, it's worth coming for the beautiful setting, even if the food isn't the star.

A group of us recently visited the Waterside Restaurant for the first time and our minds were absolutely blown! It is located beautifully with an amazing ocean view, wonderful music playing in an elegant atmosphere. The service was friendly and spot on. Our drinks were always filled and they checked on us just the right amount of times to see how we were doing without it feeling like they were on top of us. With all of that said I am delighted to say I am saving the best for last and that is the amazing food that was served! As a group we decided to order a variety of different dishes and share. We started with the Szechuan pork ribs, chicken wings and calamari. The ribs were outstanding and the special sauce was truly divine, the chicken wings were cooked to perfection with 3 different sauces on the side and the calamari was by far the best calamari we have ever had! Our mains were the slow braised short ribs, the Waterside cloppino and a fish special with pasta that were all to die for!!! Last but not least we ordered one of every dessert on the menu and each one was spectacular in its own right with the bread pudding being my personal favorite! We don't live close by but we will definitely be making the drive on a regular basis to continue to have the pleasure of this delicious and uplifting dining experience.

I'm pretty much over the Waterside. Prices are higher than I think is reasonable and the food is only ok. Mimosas are more juice than champs. $30 for a mimosa and a small crab cake. I only go for the music on the patio but maybe even that won't get me there anymore.

Switcherrue seating. They promised us an indoor reservation and others. We were on time. The wait went from 5-10 minutes, to 30 min after 5 minutes. I had to twist their arm to even take an appetizer order. They forced us outside in the cold promising us a table after our appetizers and first round of drinks. It never happened. Had to twist their arm for a second heater despite the patio being like Siberia. I felt lied to and manipulated and the lack of forthrightness soured the experience...if u want a bar experience take the risk... if u are celebrating a special event and want finer dining, go to Cafe Zack, they understand what a "reservation" is. Newsflash Waterside, a reservation is NOT a cattle call shuffle. Shame on you!

My wife and I recently went up to Oxnard, CA to visit some relatives. We looked up some local bay-side restaurants at the Channel Islands Harbor and decided to try the Waterside Restaurant & Wine Bar located at 3500 S. Harbor Blvd. On 09/18/2024 we went there to try their happy hour, which is from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM and we were not disappointed. I had the Diablo Shrimp Tacos which were three for $11.00. They were outstanding and not too spicy/hot. My wife had the Chicken Quesadilla, also for $11.00; it was large and very tasty. Next we tried the Caprese Flatbread, for $13.00 and it too was really good. Our server was Ruby who was very efficient & prompt, but not pushy. The food and service were outstanding so we decided to go back the next day on 09/19/24. We sat at the same table and Ruby was again our server, a lovely young woman with a nice smile. On the 19th I had the Diablo Shrimp Tacos again because they were so good and the price was certainly right. My wife had the Sliders (two of them) for $13.00 which came with fries, and they were also very good. This restaurant has an inside seating area and an outside seating area overlooking the Channel Islands Harbor. We chose to sit outside both days in their patio area. We both thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere, the service and the food. We will definitely go back to the Waterside on our next trip up north. PS: We were staying at a high end hotel nearby and the Waterside puts their happy hour to shame, as they have many more food choices and their prices are much more reasonable than at the hotel. I would highly recommend this restaurant.

This was not our first time here at Waterside. Our first experience was not the greatest but things have definitely changed, and all for the better. We were a party of 4 and were treated great. The views are amazing and so was the food . We started with the calamari with vegetables and the shrimp scampi. My wife and one of our friends both had the sea bass and I had the lasagna in a wonderful Bolognese sauce. Our other friend had the clam chowder and crab cake. Great food , great service, fair prices. I am glad we went back and tried Waterside again. We will definitely return.

We just had an amazing dinner, as usual! Our waiter, Fernando, was amazing! See you next time!

We come here whenever Theresa Russell plays on Sunday afternoon brunch. At least 20 times over the years. Last two times (including yesterday) were especially wonderful--yes because we love her music--yes because the setting is gorgeous. We always reserve a table with an umbrella outside where the music and usually beautiful weather are the attraction. This time they lost my reso but the cheerful hostess still got us our usual table (thank goodness because the place was getting packed) (it was Theresas Bday as well as the drummers wife's Bday so lot's of friends and family). Endless mimosas for $19 are quite the value. Friends tried espresso martinis and must have enjoyed them as they ordered a repeat later. I always get the Cubano and fries--it is huge and delicious -thankfully my wife shared with me this time. She has also in the past has had the crab sando and Wagu beef burger which she rated above average. Friends got a Caesar salad w/ chicken and he raved about it. Also crab bene--thin amount of real crab (as opposed to a big crabcake of mostly bread at most places). Prices are not cheap but servings are large and no issues about staying as long as you want to enjoy the music. Yesterday, the star of the show was our server (Savannah). Cheerful, efficient, loves people and her job. She should give lesons to all servers worldwide on "how to do it". I wish we could clone her to be our waitress whenever we dine out. Never before has my mimosa glass been filled before it was less than halfway--over and over. Just amazing. Savannah, we hope you did well on your physiology test!!!

Very nice harbor spot. We sat on the patio. The restaurant had a classy feel. It definitely felt like an upper scale restaurant with the decor they had inside. Our server was nice, but seemed very rushed. We were mostly a little disappointed with our food. Though it was presented well, we had higher expectations due to the environment. We both had seafood dishes, and they were just okay. The Mahi Mahi was definitely overcooked. The Scollops came drowned in pasta. It was not overall terrible, but could be more fresh with the closeness of the harbor and the ocean.

I love the place. It's on the ocean. Everything is so fresh I really like the salad but the reason I'm here is the espressoMartini . savanah makes the best-espresso martini . thank you, dear.

I loved the environment and the food! And I cant wait to go back there to try their yummy food.

Came for brunch. Fernando was amazing. And the chile relleno omelette was delicious. Great recommendation.

Romantic and intimate dining experience! Beef Lasagna was amazing! Also, mahi was fantastic! Service is friendly and attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between lively and relaxed. Whether for a casual night out or a special occasion, delivers every time. Highly recommend!

I ordered two crab cake lobster soup and short ribs and the salmon plate Which it was served cold and the crab cakes too and the mash potatoes where overcooked the service was horrible Long wait to get food and the ambiance was beautiful I would not highly recommend this place.

Service was amazing by both Tim & Beto. They were very welcoming, professional and sweet! Our dinner was delicious!! I had the lasagna and my husband had the steak and we left very satisfied. My martini espresso was the best I've ever had. I can't wait to come back!

With all the mixed reviews I wasn't sure if I should have high expectations but it did not disappoint. I ordered the chorizo chilaquiles with mole and it was an excellent brunch decision. Hit all my senses with the sweet and savory. My husband enjoyed his Cuban sandwich but he will likely order something different next time because of flavor preferences, not a bad a sandwich. We did the bottomless mimosas for $19. Pricey for what ended up being 2 glasses, but they adjusted the mimosa like I asked so I can't complain too much. Our server was very sweet and accommodating and the music was very chill and easy on the ears. Side note: this was the perfect dining experience for my toddler who got to dance to the live music while we waited for food. I felt like I could actually relax as a parent and eat while enjoying myself. I still have a smile on my face an hour after leaving. Thanks for giving us parents a place to enjoy a lazy Sunday.

The food was amazing. I had their daily special of the sand dabs, my husband had their short ribs, my friend had the cioppino, and my other friend had the shrimp scampi. We also had clam chowder before dinner, and that was delicious. The service was very good and the band was excellent, Mac & D. Also, the bread pudding and ice cream was decadent.

I guess they're getting in the spirit of Halloween because the food is crazy, scary, spooky and hilarious! I'll bet the chef cosplayed Ratatouille's Chef Skinner and drew his own pencil thin mustache over his lip! My dish was inedible. Every plate I saw come out looked hilarious! But in fairness the place has seen more owners than a pole in a strip joint on payday weekend in coal miners territory.

Absolutely the Finest Food in All of Ventura County! Waterside Café in Oxnard is hands-down the best dining experience you'll find in Ventura County. This place is a true hidden gem -- every single dish is made 100% from scratch, and it shows in every bite. They don't cut a single corner here. Even the salad is cut fresh to order -- yes, even the salad! The seafood? Absolutely incredible. The slow-braised pork and the Szechuan ribs are out of this world -- melt-in-your-mouth perfection with bold, balanced flavors. Their made-from-scratch lasagna is rich and satisfying, and the fish and chips are so fresh, crispy, and light -- not a trace of grease. Even the burger is worth writing home about. Perfectly cooked, juicy, and full of flavor. But if you really want to experience something unforgettable, try the whole barramundi fish over pasta. It's a showstopper -- perfectly cooked, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. Top it all off with the best service you'll find anywhere. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about your experience. I'm telling you: there is no other place in the county worth eating. Waterside Café sets the bar -- and then blows it away.

Very nice place beautiful setting especially when the weather is agreeable. I have had some really fun times at this location. Good happy hour and live music I believe the live music is only on the weekends. The service is on point and the manager seems present every time I have been there. I would love to take some of the items at Sea fresh and put them on Waterside's menu. I would love to add some great items to happy hour menu. Overall this restaurant is one of the gems in Oxnard's marina. This place is an enjoyable night out.

Great food by the water you must try amazing stuff great service amazing seafood how do you recommended!

Ocean therapy is needed after the last 3 weeks. Drove out to Harbor Islands and found the Waterside. Loved that they have live music for brunch. Food is good and service was excellent. Will be walking to check out the farmer's market after eating.

We loved this place - our first visit! Amazing food, friendly staff that was incredibly flexible and helpful and NO LOUD MUSIC. In fact, the patio didn't have music at all. We could relax, talk, and enjoy the harbor views. They really know how to make sure people have a great experience!

Had dinner last night. It was very good. Great service as well. Super pleasant. Hamburger and onion rings were perfect. Same with lasagna. And, the bread and butter is awesome. It's way better than hotel at the z dunes.

Came here for some bevvys on the 4th of July. Cute spot on the marina. Service was a little slow.. took over 15 min to get our drinks but it's all good. The waterside sangria is phenomenal. My man & I are going to re-make it at home we looooved it. We had 2 glasses...sooo so good and worth the cals :p perf summer drink. Didn't try any food this time but we'll be back!

We stopped by for some drinks and appetizers with some friends last Sunday. There was some great live music that lured us in. The music was the only thing good about this place!! Our server, drinks and food were terrible. We had a young man as our server. There was a woman server that seemed to be giving great service. We wished we had her. Our drinks sat empty many times. I had to go inside to get a refill. Our ceviche was Terrible. The worst I've ever had in my life. There were about three peas sized pieces of shrimp and 2 tiny pieces of octopus. The rest was cut up tomatoes! I will never come back to this restaurant which is too bad because it's a great location and we live around the corner!

I came here once before for some drinks in the evening! Definitely a nice little spot to grab a drink and some appetizers. Came here the other weekend to grab some drinks for happy hour! The waitress Savannah is very nice and the drinks and food were delicious!

There's no walk in's aloud right now just wanted a drink at the bar. Not a good ideal.

Stopped by to take a look at the menu since we are vacationing in the area this week. The hostess snatched the menu out of our hands, told us that's not what they are serving that right now, and turned away frustrated as if we inconvenienced her whole day. We asked if the menus are available online since we couldn't see them in person. She was clearly annoyed with our presence. Rude! We won't be back.

Came in from a 2 mile walk and was pleasantly surprised with the food, adult beverages, and the wonderful live music at the waterside in Oxnard. We will definitely be coming back again forthis excellent experience.

A special place for my wife and I. We had our first date here, and six years later on the same day of the week decided to enjoy brunch with our beautiful daughter. As expected, instant flashbacks to good memories and delicious food. On Sundays during brunch, they have live music. Six years ago a hair rocking, guitar shredding lady. This year a trio of cool dudes playing blues. Always a pleasant experience. For food, I opted for the Cuban sandwich. For the most part very good but it is saltier side which I didn't mind. My wife had an absolutely stunning and delicious cream stuffed waffle. Topped with fruit, the waffle was really tasty. Our waitress kept my wife's mimosa filled and everything went smooth.