Captain Kidd’s has been serving seafood in the King Harbor Marina for just over 40 years. The secret to their longevity is simple: serve great seafood in a fun, casual atmosphere. While some might think Captain Kidd’s is just a fish market, they’re also a restaurant with a tradition of serving the freshest catch that guests can take home or enjoy on site.
Like any other fish market, Captain Kidd’s has the requisite ice-filled counter, displaying the selections for the day. Unlike other shops, Kidd’s may have more than 20 types of fresh each day in addition to multiple types of crab, lobster, oysters, and other shellfish.
Just on the other side of the fish market is the restaurant counter. The wall has menus with different options for sandwiches, tacos, and seafood plates. They also have a nice selection of beers on tap, at least 20 or more. I was pleasantly surprised to find they also have three cocktails on tap: mojito, Moscow mule, and margarita. I know the craft cocktail scene is all the rage right now but a strong, quickly-made beverage is just as good.
The dining room is another one of the cool features at Captain Kidd’s. It’s covered but open to the marina with windows that offer a great view of the South Bay sunset. There are plenty of tables for groups as large as eight. But if you’re in a smaller group and swinging a crab hammer, you’ll appreciate the extra room at the oversized tables. Be sure to get a sheet of paper to cover your table as well to keep things tidy. When you’re done you can just wrap everything up in the paper and throw it away shells and all.
As for me, no crabs were cracked on this visit. As much as I love shellfish, I’m also a big fan of fish sandwiches. With so many types of fish to choose from, Captain Kidd’s is the perfect spot for my fish sandwich craving. After choosing a type of fish, they prepare it by grilling, frying, or broiling. They also offer several types of seasoning including cajun, old bay, and garlic pepper.
If they have it, I highly recommend the shark sandwich. Of course, the selection depends on the catch of the day and unfortunately, there wasn’t any shark to be chosen when I stopped by. Call ahead if you really want it! After I asked for shark, the helpful staff let me know a few other options that would make good substitutes.
I opted for the swordfish which worked out nicely. I selected for it to be grilled along with the cajun seasoning. Two sides come with sandwich plates so I went with coleslaw and french fries for the complete “fish on Friday” experience.
My guests opted for fish and shrimp plates — with a side of hush puppies — and also a serving of lobster bisque. The hush puppies were great; nicely fried but not greasy at all which complimented the texture. They were crunchy on the outside with a soft, fluffy interior. The lobster bisque was good with a full flavor of lobster and butter.
After this visit, I was reminded why Captain Kidd’s has been a fixture in the South Bay for four decades. They serve fresh seafood in a welcoming atmosphere with friendly, helpful service. It doesn’t hurt that their fish sandwiches are great too.
Captain Kidd’s fish market is open daily from 9 AM until 9 PM. The restaurant opens daily at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM as well. Parking in the King Harbor lot can be validated and is very reasonably priced (around $3 for a lengthy dinner visit). Bring cash though as parking is cash only.
- Captain Kidd’s Fish Market and Restaurant
- http://www.captainkidds.com/
- 209 N. Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277; 310-372-7703
- Fish Market open daily, 9 AM – 9 PM
- Restaurant open daily, 10 AM – 9 PM
- https://www.facebook.com/CaptainKidds
- https://twitter.com/captkidds
* Some of the items mentioned in this article were provided on a complimentary basis for the purpose of this review. This story was accurate when it was published and reflects the uninfluenced opinion of the reviewer.