Orange County and Catalina Island Restaurants

We’ve compiled the best of the best in Orange County and Catalina Island - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.

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  • 1. Descanso Beach Club

    $$

    Set on an expansive deck overlooking the water and a few boats, Descanso Beach Club serves a wide range of favorites: grilled burgers, street tacos, clam chowder, salads, and layered nachos, along with the island's sweet signature cocktail, Buffalo Milk---a mix of fruit liqueurs, vodka, and whipped cream. Firepits and chic beach cabanas add to the scene, as does the sound of happy and terrified screams from the zipliners in the canyon above the beach. There is a shop to purchase beach items, and a stand to rent kayaks and snorkel equipment.

    1 Descanso Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–7410

    Known For

    • Tropical beach vibe
    • Scenic views
    • Chic cabana rentals
  • 2. Eric's on the Pier

    $$

    Grab a stool at this little snack bar on the Green Pleasure Pier for people-watching while drinking a draft beer and munching on a burrito, fish-and-chips, or signature buffalo burger.

    4 Green Pier, Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–2550

    Known For

    • Comfort foods
    • Quick eats
    • Beachside location

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner
  • 3. The Lobster Trap

    $$$

    Seafood rules at the popular Lobster Trap, because the restaurant's owner has his own boat and fishes for the catch of the day and, in season, spiny lobster. Ceviche is a great starter, always fresh and brightly flavored. Locals (you'll see many at the small counter) come for the relaxed atmosphere, large portions, and happy hour specials (not offered during the summer season) for select $4 pints and other specials. Try the grilled swordfish with mixed veggies and a baked potato. They can prepare it seven different ways including crisp macadamia nut breading. Open daily from 11 am for lunch through late evening. 

    128 Catalina St., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–8585

    Known For

    • Locally caught seafood
    • Convivial atmosphere
    • Local hangout

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: no reservations accepted
  • 4. Bluewater Grill

    $$$

    Overlooking the entire harbor, this open-to-the-sea-air patio is the preferred spot to dine on freshly caught fish, savory chowders, and all manner of shellfish. Order a swordfish steak, the lobster roll, or the sand dabs if they are on the menu. Save room for homemade Key lime pie or java mud pie. The dining room has an understated nautical vibe. Fishing rods serve as room dividers, and plank floors lend a casual feel inside and out. Vintage black-and-white photos acknowledge the island's famed sportfishing legacy. Happy hour offers craft beers, potent cocktails, and tasty bites like fried calamari and oyster shooters.

    306 Crescent Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–3474

    Known For

    • Fresh local fish
    • Handcrafted cocktails
    • Overwater harbor views
  • 5. Catalina Coffee & Cookie Company

    $

    There is no Starbucks on the island, so the Catalina Coffee & Cookie Company is very popular in the morning. While you're grabbing your coffees, lattes, and mochas, you may want to kick-start the day with fresh-baked pastries, a hot breakfast burrito, or one of their custom made-to-order bagel sandwiches. Sit outside at one of the tables in the quaint Metropole Market Place.

    205 Crescent Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510--2447

    Known For

    • Dark chocolate pistachio bars
    • Bagel sandwiches
    • Popular breakfast spot

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Open daily 6–4.
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

  • 6. Steve's Steakhouse and Seafood

    $$$

    A hop, skip, and a jump from the bay, this popular second-floor restaurant keeps regulars happy with sizzling steaks and locally caught swordfish and shrimp. The sultry black-and-blue decor and old-fashioned supper club feel creates a romantic atmosphere set off with stunning harbor views.

    417 Crescent Ave., Avalon, California, 90704, USA
    310-510–0333

    Known For

    • Friendly staff
    • Water views
    • Steak and seafood dinners

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