We kicked off our foodie tour in Pismo Beach. I’d heard about the legendary clam chowder at Splash Cafe so many times that it felt like a crime to skip it. The line outside was a dead giveaway that we were in for something special. My kid, who’s just starting to discover the magic of soups, took one spoonful of their creamy, buttery chowder and gave me that wide-eyed, “Where has this been all my life?” look. They serve it in a sourdough bread bowl that was the perfect mix of soft and crusty—my little foodie was more excited about eating the bowl than the soup by the end! For me, it was a nostalgic experience, bringing back my own childhood trips to the Central Coast.
After Splash Cafe, we wandered over to The Cracked Crab. Here, it’s all about hands-on eating. They serve seafood by the bucket—literally. Watching my kid’s face light up as the server dumped crab, shrimp, and mussels straight onto our table was priceless. Armed with a little wooden mallet, they tried cracking open their first crab claw, giggling every time the shell resisted. It was messy, chaotic, and exactly what summer eating should be.
A Little Luxury in Morro Bay
The next stop on our seafood crusade was Morro Bay. I wanted to show my kid the iconic Morro Rock, but I also had a hidden agenda—seafood, of course. We opted for a more upscale experience at The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar. From the moment we walked in, I could tell it was going to be special. The ambiance was calm and coastal, the perfect contrast to the lively spots we’d been to earlier.
I ordered their grilled sea bass, which was cooked to perfection—light, flaky, and seasoned just enough to let the fish shine. My little one went for the fish tacos, which came with a generous helping of mango salsa. It wasn’t long before my plate was raided, and I was left defending my sea bass. What really stood out here, though, was the view. Sitting by the window, we could see the sun reflecting off the water, boats swaying gently in the bay. It was one of those moments wherethe food, the atmosphere, and the company all came together in harmony.
Casual Vibes in Avila Beach
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that kids love casual settings. So we headed to Avila Beach for a laid-back meal at Custom House. This place is the perfect blend of beachy and family-friendly. After a morning of building sandcastles and splashing in the waves, we were ready to refuel, and Custom House did not disappoint.
While I indulged in their crab-stuffed salmon, my little one stuck to the classic fish and chips. The portions were generous, and I was impressed with the quality. The salmon was everything I could’ve hoped for—moist, flavorful, and paired with a creamy dill sauce that I’d happily eat by the spoonful. Meanwhile, the fish and chips were golden, crispy, and just the right amount of salty, paired with a tangy tartar sauce that had my kid double-dipping with every bite. We ended the meal with a slice of key lime pie, which was the perfect way to cool off from the summer heat.
Exploring the Pier in Santa Barbara
Our final stop took us a little further south to Santa Barbara, where we visited the famous Santa Barbara Shellfish Company on Stearns Wharf. This spot has been an institution for years, and it’s easy to see why. Perched right on the pier, it offers some of the freshest seafood you can imagine. You can even watch fishing boats pulling in their catches as you eat.
We kept things simple here—an order of fresh oysters for me and some buttery lobster rolls for both of us to share. My kid was hesitant about the oysters at first, but after some coaxing and a little lemon juice, they gave it a try. Their reaction? “It’s like the ocean in my mouth!” (I’m taking that as a win.) The lobster rolls, on the other hand, were an instant hit. Packed with sweet, tender lobster meat and drizzled with just the right amount of butter, they were gone in minutes.
After our meal, we strolled along the pier, watching seagulls swoop down and fishermen reel in their catches. It was the perfect way to end our seafood adventure—full, happy, and surrounded by the beauty of the Central Coast.
Lessons from a Seafood Summer
This little summer journey taught me a lot. First, kids are more adventurous eaters than we often give them credit for. Sure, there were a few moments of hesitation (oysters aren’t exactly love at first sight), but for the most part, my little one dove headfirst into the experience. Second, there’s something magical about sharing a meal in a place as beautiful as the Central Coast. It’s not just about the food—it’s about the memories you create along the way.
If you’re a fellow parent looking to bond with your kids over good food, I can’t recommend this seafood tour enough.From the casual charm of Pismo Beach to the luxury of Morro Bay, there’s something for everyone. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite spot while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
