Avalon has a diversity of restaurants – most overlooking the bay or within several blocks of the water.
The following are select restaurants in Avalon.
As with hotels, the prices for food can be significantly lower during the off/winter season.
Prices subject to change without notice.
Unless otherwise noted all phone numbers are in the 310 area code
Avalon Grille is located in the central part of Avalon overlooking the harbor. We have enjoyed several meals here over the years – this is our go to spot on the island for fine dining and certainly one of Avalon’s finest restaurants. Both indoor and semi indoor seating are available. A large bar sits in the center of the restaurant and adds a “hip” aspect to the scene here. Excellent wine list – both old and new world including one from the only vineyard on the island. The Grille capitalizes on the fact that you are on an island – with a number of their dinner items from the sea including the delicious, tender and perfectly prepared scallops. Also excellent octopus and tuna tartare appetizes. Seasonal seafood is also available. Finish up with a variety of tasty desserts including the seasonal fruits and ice cream.
The Grille has a unique system for providing their guests with water that a number of well known restaurants around the world have started using including the French Laundry in the Napa Valley. A Nordaq water filter on site allows the Grille to filter and carbonate tap water. The result is a lively fresh tasting water that eliminates plastic waste from normal bottled water – the Nordaq water is served in elegant re-useable glass bottles. To make reservations, visit: www.visitcatalinaisland.com/dining-nightlife/avalon/avalon-grille
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Bluewater Avalon is located directly on the waterfront in Avalon. Part of the Bluewater Grill, they also have restaurants in select Southern California locations as well as one restaurant in Phoenix. Their original restaurant in Newport Beach was founded over 20 years ago. The focus here is on fresh sustainable caught seafood – they even operate their own swordfish harpoon boat.
While you come here for the seafood, the sizable bar isn’t half bad either! Dining is either indoor or outdoors. Simply show up – no reservations are needed except for parties of 10 or more. Visit: www.bluewatergrill.com/locations/catalina-island
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Descanso Beach Club is located on one of our favorite tucked away parts of the island – about a 10-15 minute walk from the Green Pier in Avalon. This idyllic and picturesque spot is perfectly suited for enjoying lunch outdoors overlooking the rocky beach with the Casino as a backdrop in the distance. Private beach but with access open for the public.
Features a diversity of drinks and foods. The shrimp tacos are highly recommended as is the clam chowder and prickly pear marinated shrimp salad. Great place to relax with a tropical drink in hand.
The club is also a meeting point for a number of nearby adventure activities including Zip Lining, the Climbing Wall and various ocean sports. Visit: www.visitcatalinaisland.com/activities-adventures/descanso-beach-club
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Lobster Trap is the go to restaurant for both locals and visitors alike for affordable and tasty seafood. Can’t miss seeing this restaurant – its corner location building is at Catlina and 3rd Streets; the exterior is painted in warm bright colors. Inside the atmosphere is cozy and casual with a popular bar. The lines that often snake out the door are a testament to it’s popularity. Good size portions – service was fairly quick despite being crowded during our latest visit.
They stay open late – the kitchen never closes before 10pm and often stays open past this time. True to their name they have a number of lobster options including local, Maine and Atlantic lobster. Fish is often locally caught. While seafood is their specialty they also serve a variety of other dishes. Lots of cocktails and beers available. Visit: www.catalinalobstertrap.com
Mr. Nings Chinese Garden is located at 127 Sumner St – this is one of Avalon’s affordable old standbys. This family owned restaurant has been here for 30+ years. They specialize in tasty, reasonably priced Chinese food.
Good choices are the Hot and Sour Soup and the Kung Pao Chicken. We order these two dishes every time we come here for lunch. Very friendly staff, good food for the price. Tap water not served in a glass, rather you have to order bottled water.- Steve’s Steakhouse is located at 417 Crescent Ave in Avalon. Open for lunch and dinner with great views overlooking the harbor. Also a top notch bar. Visit: www.stevessteakhouse.com
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