Outside

Captain Kidd’s Fish Market and Restaurant is located in the picturesque King Harbor Marina in Redondo Beach. One thing that many people don’t know is that they offer their customers a validation-free hassle free parking right next to their restaurant.

Seafood case in the fish market
Seafood case in the fish market

The property is divided into three sections. The fish market portion of their retail operation is impressive. They offer both wild caught and farm raised fish from different parts of the country: Maine Lobster, Alaskan King Crab Legs, Alaskan Halibut, etc. The glass seawater tanks containing live lobsters and crabs is great entertainment for children.

Oysters on the half shell
Oysters on the half shell

On the other side is their restaurant. Unlike most restaurants, you simply order from a listing on the menu. At Captain Kidd’s, you can visit the fish market section, look and ask questions about the various seafood for sale (e.g., swordfish, yellowtail, salmon, tilapia) and decide what you wish to eat. In fact, you can go so far as to select the actual piece of fish you wish to enjoy.

Owner Jack Rubio  behind the counter.
Plenty of items on the menu and on tap!

If you select surf vs. turf, you then decide on the method of preparation: charbroiled, sauteed or tempura-style. After that the exterior seasoning is selected: cajun, garlic pepper or breaded. If seafood doesn’t suit your fancy, you can select a New York steak, steak or chicken sandwich, or a hamburger. There is even an extensive kid’s menu.

Captain Kidd’s offers an impressive mix of 20 different types of beer on tap. In addition to beer, they offer a number of different wines by the bottle or glass.

My wife and I were guided through the entire selection process by “Jack”. His knowledge of seafood and the restaurant was extremely obvious. We also observed how proud he was of Captain Kidd’s and what they have accomplished as a business.

We had a seat on a picnic bench in their indoor patio and tried a number of items on their menu:

Seafood cioppino
Seafood cioppino

While I’ve enjoyed their fish cioppino many times, I’ve never had their seafood cioppino; it reminded me of the dish Siete Mares (Seven Seas) as it was loaded with fresh shellfish and fish. The seafood was tender as I flaked away each bite with my fork and the tomato based broth was absolutely delicious!

Lobster Bisque
Lobster Bisque

My wife selected her go to favorite – lobster bisque. It was thick, delicious and creamy.

Charbroiled swordfish, hush puppies, steamed veggies
Charbroiled swordfish, hush puppies, steamed veggies

I had a charbroiled swordfish filet with their lemon pepper seasoning. For the sides, I had hush puppies and steamed veggies.

Charbroiled salmon with macaroni salad
Charbroiled salmon with macaroni salad

My wife enjoyed her charbroiled salmon, also with lemon pepper seasoning.

Whether it is sunset dining with your significant other or spending time with your family on the weekend, consider visiting Captain Kidd’s for a delicious meal in a casual setting.