The 20 best cheap eats in Avalon

Stopped in for breakfast during our three day weekend and even though the wait was extremely long to sit down and to be served, the food was pretty good. This place can get very popular depending on the time and day so be prepared to wait a bit. Inside was very crowded so we had to sit at the bar, but we were just a party of two so we didn’t have to wait as long as some of the larger groups. Inside is quite large, they have many different sized tables, but no outdoor seating. Our server was very polite, but it took at least 15 minutes for her to come over for the first time and take our drink/food order and all of our food items came out very slowly. When they did come, some of the items were missing, but the taste quality was there. For my first visit, I ordered the Crabcake Benedict with avocado, and they forgot the avocado when it first arrived as well as some other items from other members in our party. That being said, the crabcake was actually very good and this Benedict was the best of the three that I had on the island during my visit. Pricing is pretty fair and the menu does have a lot of good options. I would definitely recommend if you are in the area and would give it another try in the future next time I visit the island.

The host sat us in the very far left corner where it was very very cramped and the sun was beating down. There was many available tables but I don’t like how we were sat in the worst spot in when it was not busy. We saw other parties of 2 who were sat at bigger tables and with shade not in direct sunlight. However we asked a server and we moved to the bar instead. Katie and Angel were very nice and the food was delicious. The drinks were also amazing. The food did take long to come out but it was worth it. Overall the experience was fine but the host who sat us gave us a bad vibe.

A great place to catch some good seafood. Their ambience is great and their service is amicable. We got lobster roll, fish tacos, and clam chowder. The clam chowder was creamy and flavorful. The fish tacos was fresh and juicy and the lobster roll was fresh and juicy. It was hot lobster roll with sourdough with coleslaw. The coleslaw was also fresh and crunchy. The meat was soft and tender. Overall had a great time here.

This is a MUST stop if you visit Catalina! I have had blackened fish a lot in my life and The Lobster Traps blackened fish is the best! All their food is amazing, the atmosphere is fun, and the bathrooms are clean! Great job guys!

The food was amazing!! I had the macadamia nut crusted swordfish and my mom got the lobster. Everything was delicious!! We were joking as to why you even put veggies on the plate because there's so much other food options to eat! The service was very quick and kind!

Worst Calamari’s I've EVER had they are square flat and hard almost no calamari inside mostly breading. I don’t have a pic but I travel all over the world. The food is ok at best but the prices are ridiculous $96 for two people no drinks only water.

Our bartender, Katie, was great. We appreciate that she was attentive. Food was good - bar food vibes. Although - the fried appetizers were basically just freezer food heated up - like the jalapeno poppers were freezer section Trader Joe’s poppers, for sure. We also got the garlic cheese curds - and same thing. We felt like they were just freezer section quality. The lobster roll was actually really tasty - although we were confused by it being on a hamburger bun. We were expecting it to be served on a hoagie or something similar to keep lobster from falling out the one side - but to each their own. $100 (before tip) got us 2 margaritas, a lobster roll with fries, garlic cheese curds and jalapeno poppers.

Fun place to hang out with a lot of activities. A bar A big ground where a wedding was taking place. Clean rest rooms loungers Clean beach and a lot of people enjoying voters in serenity. Also a deer happened to come and became another attraction. Will reach it late and still enjoyed all the facilities at this magnificent club. A great place to be in Vince, you're never on. It's a little ahead of the tuna club. Number hundred, and both the walk on.This island for the scenic beauty.

Fake euro summer. This beach club rivals some of the beach clubs I’ve been to in the French Riviera. The service is awesome and friendly, the chaises are pretty big and the water is beautiful. They even have the rocky beaches like in Europe 😂 the public beach gets packed so it’s nice to have your own space and the option of shade under your own umbrella. The chairs are pretty well spaced out as well. The one difference between this beach club and European ones is the obnoxious music the DJ plays when she comes out at 1pm. Somehow he fits 3 songs into 1 min. I would choose any random wedding DJ over this guy. If you get to the beach club when they open at 10am, you’ll have a few hours of serenity and very few beachgoers. Oh the food and drinks are good too and very reasonably priced. Just go! It’s worth it

Such a nice place to stop and eat on the island. Good service, good food. Is near the water and I'm thinking you can rent chairs and eat on the beach if you want. Not sure so don't quote me on that. I ordered the Peruvian Ceviche, delicious!! I highly recommend it. It has a little kick so if you can't eat spicy, don't order this. The sword dish sandwich was also tasty. Never had sword fish. It was good. I highly recommend to come and enjoy the food and view at Descanso Beach Club.

My favorite part of my trip to Catalina, absolutely. Beach Clubs like this one offer unparalleled convenience and relaxation. These are getting hard to find, especially in the United States. Everything was excellent, including the food and services. Drinks were delicious although a little on the weak side.

Had a great birthday day trip to Avalon-Catalina Island, Descanso Beach Club is a must visit- a cozy small beach that you can do swimming, Kayaking, snorkeling, or just relaxing in a tropical setting. Bring your own beach chairs or rent a cabana. Good choices on drinks, foods. Clean restrooms and onsite showers.

One of the highlights of the island. It’s a private beach club, but it’s open to the public. The prices are very reasonable.

My wife and I had an awesome time at the club. It was my first time on the island. Our first day, she booked us a couple of beach chairs at the club. The service from Mitchel was top notch. He really made the experience elevated. Super friendly and professional. Our drinks never sat empty and he was always checking on us to make sure we had everything we needed. Day two was in a Cabana and again, had the great pleasure of having Mitchel. Great drinks, great service and great conversations. Couldn’t have been happier with our service. We will be returning to the club this summer because of the great experience we had with Mitchel and the entire staff.

Arrival: 12:30pm on a Sunday Wait time: basically none Service was decent. Food came out pretty fast. Bottled water for sale only, so bring your own water. Poke bowl with salmon. Half rice, half lettuce Rice was very hard. Not fully cooked. Salmon was minimally seasoned, but tasted pretty fresh. I added soy sauce and the rice ended up too salty. The masago, avocado, seaweed salad, and edamame were good. Spicy tuna burger It was good. Has a decent kick (coming from someone who had a spice tolerance). Fries were very salty. Shoe string. Very crunchy. Garlic bread was good.

The sign said they close at 8:30 PM. We arrived at 7:45 PM and placed our order immediately. We ordered the kids’ salmon with the sauce on the side, but it still came with the sauce on it. We ordered sushi rolls, and they came out with no ginger or wasabi—we had to ask for it separately. The Mexican server looked visibly unhappy and even threw a tantrum. By 8:35 PM, the bearded server started stacking chairs loudly, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. Please check your cameras, owner. I asked for the bill because the vibe was already so negative, and then I found out they automatically charged us a 20% gratuity. Tips should be earned through good service. Honestly, they’re the only place selling sushi on this island, so if you’re not desperately craving sushi, you’re better off going somewhere else. Their sushi is not bad, but the service is horrible.

I did a pickup order and it was quick to come out. The person on the phone was nice and answered all my questions, but that’s the only positive point. Hence a 2 star. The rice was so hard in my nigiri it would get stuck in my teeth, I couldn’t stomach eating it. My husband had a difficult time with his poke bowl too and had to throw it away. Just not good, unfortunately. The fish was mediocre at best. I had high hopes, what a waste of $60.

We got seated pretty quickly and the food was really good, the fried fish collar were really good but the shrimp cost a bit too much for 5 of them

NDMC Fish House .... A hole in the wall restaurant on Catalina Island that carries a huge stick. I was out here celebrating a friends birthday. After a day of walking around the island it was time to eat. All we saw on the sign outside was "Sushi". We were before the lunch crowd and were immediately sat at a booth. The ambiance and vibe was that of my favorite Sushi house in Kihei, Maui. Kenneth was out waiter... Cool vibe emoting from him. After reading the previous reviews. We followed suit and ordered the halibut fish and chips, ceviche, Fender Hand Roll and Ripper Roll. (You Google reviewers... YOU DID NOT DISAPPOINT.) NDMK Fish House you came in clutch. The food presentation, quality and taste was FEAKING AWESOME. Kenneth you're BADASS!! Thank you for taking care of us. Even though you were mannered by the afternoon crow you still kept you cool and did not waiver on your vibe. NDMK Fish House you've gained a new customer. Mahalos plenty. Mahalos lots.

Do you like fish? Do you have taste buds? We started with awesome sashimi. Then we went to a fish collar that reminded me of the best "end of a fishing day" grill up. And then it was time for the Catalina Cioppino. This soup will not be found anywhere else in Southern California. There may be similar takes; there may be others with the name; but this, this was divine.

We had the tuna poke bowl and ceviche. Both were delicious and the ceviche was the best we had on the island. We'll definitely eat here when we visit Catalina Island again.

I saw this place in a YouTube video. We didn’t realize it opened after 11 a.m., but luckily we made it just in time for a late lunch or early dinner , and it was worth the wait! The food was fantastic, the vibe was cozy and relaxed, and the staff were incredibly kind and accommodating. Although it’s a small spot, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming. It’s a Mexican and seafood restaurant, and we tried the chicken nachos , the chicken was packed with flavor. We also had the calamari with fries, which was fresh and perfectly cooked. The creamy white dipping sauce they served on the side was so delicious we asked for more! We also sampled a few cocktails, and the staff was super flexible. I initially ordered a Bahama Mama but didn’t enjoy it, so they kindly let me switch to the local specialty, Buffalo Milk , and it was amazing. Located right across from the ferry terminal, this place is the perfect final stop before heading back home with good memories and a full stomach. Highly recommended!

We were not disappointed for waiting 30 minutes for a table at all. It was well worth the wait!!! The ambiance in the restaurant is so Vibrant! They have the best music playing. Fish and Chips is a great option! If you order a certain drink.You get a straw hat for free.

We had dinner at Luau Larry’s and we must admit: service was great, drinks were amazing. We ordered a Clam Chowder and it was loaded with potatoes, so many that there was no soup at all. we also ordered a mixed platter and it was ok. Food was nothing extraordinary. Music and location were awesome. It’s a great spot t stop for drinks.

Very welcoming and the food and drinks were A+!! 👌🏾❤️ We will definitely come back again! The overall theme for the bar is pretty cool!

Bright and colorful with a laid-back, beachy vibe — tiki style. It’s a great spot to grab casual drinks with friends and soak in its unique character. The drinks are definitely the highlight — strong, creative, and really well made. The whole place just felt really good — the kind of spot where the drinks hit right and the vibe makes you want to stay a little longer.

Ambiance: 4/5 Service: 5/5 Food: Drinks: 4/5 Price: 4/5 Parking: Cute, local, tiki inspired bar in Catalina. Didn't have any food so didn't rate anything there. The whole area is walkable so no rating there either. Service was fast and the bartenders were great!

It seemed to me as one of the more popular Bars on the island. Always packed and full of people even at closing. Still with the volume of people the bar tenders readily get you your drinks. Im not sure how you get one, but people are there for the Hats. Goodplace for a lively Vibe. I had a mezcal Jamaica which tastes great!

Stopped in twice during our stay on Catalina - breakfast both times. Very cute little place, friendly service, and fairly quick on serving. Outdoor seating. -White Chocolate Mocha Frozen Drink -Blackberry Coffee -Breakfast Burrito with Vegan Sausage + Salsa Verde on the side -Bagel with Turkey Sausage -Jalapeno pretzel Everything was delicious and prices decent for area. Would highly recommend for your morning/lunch casual meal or drink.

A great place to catch up for coffee and breakfast. Firstly the line was long and wait was a bit tedious. It’s better to go for online order and pickup but I felt a few dishes were not available online. The wait was worth it. I got white mocha which was must try. We also got to build our own burrito, avocado toast and almond croissant. The coffee was fresh and soothing. The croissant had a flaky crust and a soft and spongy inside with Almond filling which was not too sweet. The avocado toast was amazing, with sour dough. The burrito was also great. Overall it was an amazing breakfast.

Great coffee and breakfast options! I found this place had better ratings than other places, and it had delicious looking options for our early morning arrival on Catalina island. There are options for online ordering, which I recommend if it’s busy, or you can order at the counter. The staff is so friendly! They have cute merchandise too. We added the fire roasted corn medley to our egg sandwich - it was great! I highly recommend, and I’ll be back for more great breakfast next time I visit Catalina Island.

Traveling from Carnival Cruises with one day in Catalina Island. Looking for a cozy atmosphere with music and cold coffee drinks. This fit our search. Nice, friendly staff with lots of seating outside and a 2 piece band singing our jams. Loving it 😊

We hit this up on our food tour and the cookie, and the dark chocolate pistachio was really good. The strawberry hibiscus tea was also really flavorful and not too sweet. You could taste that. It was actually fresh and they make their own syrups.

Catalina Coffee & Cookie Co. is such a great little spot. The coffee was really good and the cookies and pastries were super tasty. It has a chill vibe and feels like the perfect place to hang out for a bit. The staff was really nice and made us feel welcome. Everything we had tasted fresh. Definitely a 5-star spot and I’d come back every time I’m in Catalina.

Great little spot to grab some coffee and a breakfast sandwich only place that we found open early on the island. The breakfast sandwiches were very delicious. The cibatta sandwich is big enough for two people .

We loved this Cafe! We ate here for Breakfast and Lunch every day we were in Catalina because it was perfect, quick service and delicious clean meals. I got the Chicken Bacon Avocado sandwich with sweet potato fries and it was delicious Definitely would recommend!

Stayed on the island for several days and this was our favorite spot for a quick bite! Everything was so fresh and had so many healthy options! We had the BL+A with sweet potato fries, tuna sandwich, Mediterranean salad, and the raspberry tropics smoothie. Everything was amazing! One of the best tuna sandwiches I’ve ever had! The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. Food was always quick and hot!

I appreciate the smoothies and fresh juices. I have tried the green machine and the raspberry one. Both solid taste. It's one of a few places, where you can get a nice smoothie, so highly appreciated!

I had a delicious bacon Metropole burrito (breakfast) and it was generous portion. For coffee, they only have hot black coffee (real coffee) but you can add cream and sugar if you want. Their prices are compatible with the rest of the island. I definitely will eat there again!

Had to wait very long multiple times to get my food, even on non busy days. Food is expensive especially considering the small portions, but the quality of the food seems to be good. No wifi and few places to sit inside.

Our go-to spot during our vacation! We went here twice, once for lunch and again for breakfast. The breakfast burrito with sausage is absolutely delicious! Great menu options and lots of outdoor seating. I wish I had this place back home

We were looking for a local restaurant which served pressed juices, smoothies and sandwiches! The locals go here as they know delish food! I had the tuna sandwich and the cold pressed green juice and it made me so happy that I located this restaurant on Google based on great reviews. I am another one giving a 5 STAR to this little impressive take out restaurant! You order, pay, your food is brought out to you as you sit around tables in the small patio next door! Very charming!

Coney Island West offers solid fast food with some outdoor seating. I tried the fish & chips and clam & chips—both were crunchy and satisfying. Perfect for a quick bite if you’re craving something fried and tasty. Great casual spot!

If you want fish and chips don’t go here. If you want a burger and a hot dog, it’s seems like a decent spot to eat at a very reasonable price. I got two orders if the fish and chips and it was rather gross. The breading was very thick and chewy and wasn’t crispy at all. It was chunks of white fish with a white bread like batter. I wish I got the burger.

Get the fish and chips! It was hot and fresh. Other reviews are right, the batter isn't very crispy which is why I removed one star. But still worth trying, especially for the price. The portions are generous (3 people shared 2 meals) and there's plenty of outside seating.

Shared the berry salad and catalina burger with my husband. So good. Juan, our server, had to ask him to talk slower several times. He was attentive though and speedy!! Highly recommend!!

Good spot for a quick bite. I ordered the hot dog with cheese, not realizing it came with so much of it. It was tasty, but a bit difficult to eat. The fries were fresh and crispy, bonus points!

BEST 1/4# hotdogs ! We ALWAYS make sure to come for lunch whenever we are in Avalon. Seating is small tables at the street with a good view of the shops, pier, foot & golf cart traffic. A little noisy but a good view.

Exactly what you want a snack shack to be. Good fish and chips, great burgers, chili fries, and more. Something for everyone and with really good prices. Sit outside right on the water and enjoy the view as well. Can't miss stop if you're in Avalon.

A solid breakfast diner in the heart of Avalon. Stopped in for my first time this morning and overall we had a nice breakfast. It’s not quite as good as a lot of spots on the mainland, but given its location I feel they did a good job. It was quite busy on a Thursday morning, so I’m sure it can get even crazier on weekends. They have a very large menu filled with all sorts of classic dishes so choosing some thing was a bit of a challenge given how many options there were. Our server was polite, although we just saw him at the very beginning of our meal and not again. Our dishes arrived actually pretty slowly, but given that I’m sure the kitchen is smaller than a lot of mainland kitchens I won’t fault them too much for that. Pricing is also pretty fair given that it’s island food and feel it would be a good stop if you’re in the area and looking for breakfast. For my breakfast I chose the Dungeness Crab Eggs, Benedict and thought it was pretty good. The sauce was more watery than I prefer, and the Dungeness Crab was very chopped, almost like burger meat, so I wish it would’ve been more in chunk form like you see in a Dungeness Crab Cocktail. Also the hashbrowns could have been a bit crispy but overall not a bad meal. They do have Kona Coffee so the coffee was very strong and tasty, which may have been my favorite part of the meal. I would suggest if you are in Avalon and looking for a nice place to have breakfast.

Visited on a Wednesday morning with a group of 10 - seated 1 group indoor and outdoor. Restaurant was quite busy - service was a little slow and a few things forgotten/had to remind and ask to bring out. -Fries -Vanilla Milkshake (asked for it/wasn't om the menu) -Pancakes -Kids Benedict Everything was pretty good. Would recommend for a casual breakfast or lunch.

We arrived for brunch around 9:30am on a Saturday and the place was packed. Luckily, they were able to seat us quickly. I ordered the Catalina veggie omelette, which came with hollandaise sauce, pancakes, and fresh fruit, my friend ordered the Belgian waffle with strawberries, and my other friend ordered orange juice and chicken fried steak, which came with hashbrowns and biscuits and gravy. Service was very quick and the food came out fast. While not the best food I've ever had, it helped fuel us for the rest of our day kayaking and touring the island.

We visited here for dinner though. It's very popular breakfast place. We were very happy to be escorted to a nice table. Esmeralda took the orders and helped guide us through the availability of Italian dishes. I took the salad and the minestron soup. They were excellent. Noodles with meatballs and well cooked. Rub yeoli dish with spinach. Everything tasted, yummy drinks were available. We went in for simple Coke and water. The service was very good and being a birthday. They gave a complimentary tiramisu, which was icing on the cake. Excellent place. We enjoyed all the hospitality and great service. Very reasonable prices and made evelyn, even more memorable

Breakfast was busy but they managed to get the food out pretty quickly. Whatever they order the food on, I guess sends it straight to the kitchen so it didn't take long. Drinks were great. Food was even better.

Nothing fancy about this place, a bit dated if I say so myself. But I’m sure that’s where the discount is coming from. The soda pop cups are more European sized, with just a refill; with the exception of coffee. The food is delicious, I had the eggs Benedict which for some reason most restaurants butcher. My whole family enjoyed their viddles as well. Too many to list. Cons: the Helppp, my, my this sir with no hair seemed to be bothered. I felt like at any second he would say hurry up and byeee. Regardless, good food bad service.

Great food! Small space, definitely felt a family vibe there. This place is felt unreal, just 50 feet away you got the beach and other shops. I will definitely come back!

If you want a real Mexican dining and food experience, you must try this place! The staff were incredibly welcoming and provided the best hospitality. The environment was lovely. Very spacious, relaxing, and scenic. This is a hidden gem away from the tourist spots. Worth the walk to here. Thank you to the staff and cooks for serving my daughter the mojarra she has been craving ❤️

The Sandtrap – Catalina’s Hidden Taco Treasure (No Sand in Your Chips, Promise) I visit Catalina Island at least twice a year & The Sandtrap is always on the must do list. Eat, watch t.v. (only one), relax, & chill. Tucked a scenic 15-30 minute walk from the bustling town center (or a breezy 7-minute joyride by golf cart—don’t forget: sip, don’t drive!), this spot is a legit hidden gem for locals, students, and cruisers alike. And guess what? They get you. Specials for cruise-goers? Check. Student deals for the nearby school crowd? Double check. Happy hour? Triple taco check. Let’s taco ‘bout the food. I only sampled the fish taco and chips & salsa, but wow—¡qué auténtico! The fish taco had a good flavor within the Baja expected. The chips? Fresh-made daily, a rare flex. They were thicker than I usually like, but still hit the spot when dunked in that zesty, made-from-scratch salsa. The aroma of grilled carne asada was absent so I didn't try the tacos. I'm from San Diego so it's hard to try meat tacos from other places unless I know for certain. I chatted with friendly customers and they too delighted in their meal choices with accolades. The vibe? Open-air beauty. Shaded by trees or sheltered by actual structures, it’s a spot where your margarita gets a little extra glow from the Catalina sun. Seating choices abound: bar, table, or those high-top seats that let you sip and spy on passing golf carts. Full bar, clean restrooms, mobile-accessible, and full of the kind of warm service that makes you feel like you’ve been coming here for years—even if it’s your first time. INSIDER KNOWLEDGE: Catalina’s got a couple other Mexican joints near the center, I’d steer you away from them with a firm flick of my tortilla. The Sandtrap? This eatery is solid—no gimmicks and no regrets, generally. Whether you're a curious tourist, hungry hiker, golf cart adventurer, or just someone who knows a good taco when they see one—The Sandtrap is your Catalina calling.

Decent stop on our e-bike tour. $2 happy hour tacos starting at 2pm but be forewarned: there's only one order taker, and the line gets LONG.

Really tasty. If we had come here earlier in our trip I know we would have visited more than once. We were there at an odd time and it was empty. I imagine this is quite a lively place when it's busy.

One of the best places to eat & / drink in town. Good to see a long term family business still in Avalon, Santa Catalina Island, California. Tacos are yummy.

This place is a vibe. You stroll in post hike or after wandering around Avalon and it somehow welcomes you like it’s been waiting there just for you. Portions are generous, your wallet doesn’t collapse when you pay, and that fish and chips basket was so crispy and satisfying I briefly considered building a shrine to it. We split a bacon cheeseburger, fries, and fish and chips basket and still debated which was the real MVP. Full confession: I’m a die hard burger guy, and yet that fish had me second guessing life choices. Staff were super nice, making you feel like you weren’t just buying food, you were feeding your soul. The setting is great too. You’ve got that indoor outdoor dining deal going, birds and squirrels eyeing your table like they’re ready for a snack heist, and you can’t help but feel like you stumbled into some secret Puerto inspired breakfast nook but with tacos and margaritas replacing churros. Honestly, if you wander in here and don’t walk out thinking “this was well worth the detour,” check your taste buds. Sand Trap is the kind of hidden spot that makes Catalina Island feel like more than just a postcard scene, it makes it feel delicious too. You owe it to your stomach to give it a go.

Optional covered or umbrella patio seating outside. Can be chilly in evening hours. Beautiful view of golf course, mountains, school, hospital, street and horse stables. Always great food, fast and friendly service, best prices in town. I highly recommend. They have many items to choose from menu for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner. Give the Sandtrap 10 stars

We made a reservation for dinner here on the first night of our vacation. The staff was so hospitable and attentive. We were a family of 5 (myself, husband, 3 sons) and there was plenty of seating for large groups. The restaurant was quiet in a nice way - it felt slightly more upscale than many of the other restaurants in Avalon. Everything was delicious (crispy ravioli appetizer was a hit!) We’d definitely eat here and recommend it to anyone looking for delicious Italian food and great service.

Stayed on Catalina for three nights and this was our favorite meal! We had the meatball appetizer, our entrees were chicken parmesan and manicotti, then for dessert we had tiramisu and chocolate cake. The black raspberry margarita was very light and refreshing! Everything was exceptional! The views were breathtaking as we sat outside watching the sunset over the water. Would definitely go back.

Very nice place. Linguine pesto scallop pasta was amazing!!! Staff was very friendly and professional. View was beautiful and music was great! My husband has ordered a steak and it was super yummy! Also they got us a high chair right away and coloring book for our daughter:) highly recommend!

Our experience at M was a mixed bag. To begin: the service was very good and the views from the patio are nice. The restaurant looked clean but the bathroom was a bit dingy. As for the food - we began with the fried ravioli, which were amazing; I could have eaten that alone for dinner. For entrees, my companion had the swordfish and I had the filet. The swordfish was a bit overcooked and dry, but the flavor was good. However, my filet mignon, which I ordered medium, came to me well done - the steak was completely grey. I sent it back, and the waitress was friendly about it. When the new steak came to me, it was VERY rare - I'm talking black and blue. I kind of nibbled around the edges but ultimately left it uneaten. I just didn't want to send it back a second time. The filet was served with mashed potatoes, which were not great - they were too peppery and stiff/dry. The asparagus was a bit stringy - which is to be expected, given the season - but well seasoned. The standout was the bleu cheese sauce - it was absolutely delicious. I may end up going back, in spite of the middling experience, because Catalina dining options are few. However, if and when I return, I'll be sticking to appetizers and/or pasta items.

The food was absolutely amazing. The clam chowder here is easily the best clam chowder we’ve ever had. The waiter we had was very attentive and nice. Very twinkley and romantic at night.

For was great. Probably some of the best we had on the island. Service was a little dull but that's OK. Completely understandable. Not a single complaint honestly. Would certainly go back.

The M Restaurant... Welcome to the island. I came out here for a friends birthday. This was my first time eating here. We originally had our sights and appetites set for the Blue water Avalon. However we were rudely advised by the lady cleaning the door windows that they were closed. So we went to the M instead. The "M" (lucky #13) was a God send. Our waitress was Stepania. She was ABSOLUTELY AMAZINGLY AWESOME. She is literally Jonnie on the spot. I even took her suggestion for my meal. She recommended the Steak and Eggs. She did not disappoint. The meal in it's entirety was very good. I highly recommend it. As for the ambiance... The outdoor patio is very relaxing. If you plan on visiting Catalina Island in the near future please, PLEASE, PLEASE eat at the M. You will not be disappointed. P.s. Bluewater if you read this. Please talk to your staff. What they say in Spanish can easily be interpreted by someone who knows the same language. NOT COOL what she said. Bluewater you just lost a customer. M you just gained one.

Service was great. Went around 11am and was able to sit outside. Got the grilled fish tacos with Mexican rice. The beans did not have much flavor. They gave me a lemon instead of a lime to squirt on the tacos which I thought was odd. They tasted a bit dry. I removed the tortilla from the second and it tasted better but I wouldn't get them again. They were just okay.

Wow! Stopped in on a Tuesday evening with 10 guests (celebrating our parents' 37th anniversary). It was quite a wait/busy, but they put tables together for us right on the sand in front of the water within minutes. Very kind, friendly greeter. Ordered several drinks and dishes, and everyone loved their choices! Prices were as expected for the area. Like most of the restaurants, they do not offer tap water in glasses. You have to order bottled water. But they did allow us to bring our own tumblers of water. -Potato Tacos + Salsa Verde on the side (delicious!) -Lazy enchilada (folded in half) with red sauce wad so good (almost an Italian flavored red sauce) -Bahama Mama Cocktail -Pomegranate Daquiri (little too sour/sweet) -Lava Flow frozen Cocktail -Crab Enchilada Everyone raved about their dishes and drinks. Would highly recommend for a nicer meal with a group. Restrooms inside, and interior decor and atmosphere was very nice as well.

We stopped here for lunch. The service was great and the staff was attentive to our needs. The vibe and music were chill, perfectly matching the sunny day and blue water around. I wish the tacos were more flavorful and didn't just taste like grilled chicken with plain tortillas.

The food was good, but the rice and beans didn’t have much flavor. The salsa, chips, and nachos were delicious.

We stopped in Maggie’s Blue Rose for some lunch while on Catalina Island. We ordered the Seafood Enchilada Combination. It came with a lobster, crab, and shrimp enchilada. (along with rice and beans). They were all good, but the lobster enchilada was phenomenal. Additionally, the sauce was amazing. I think my husband would have licked the plate if he could have. The service was prompt and friendly. The view was peaceful and serene. It was a great lunch in an incredible location.

Awesome place! Great drinks awesome presentation and great flavors ! A must stop for sure 👍

The hot salsa was to much lime and the regular salsa had no flavor, all tomatoe. The perfect Manhattan was not great, to much cherry. The service was slow on getting just bottle of cokes. Its an okay place.

They don't do samples but I asked the girls opinion of three and she said Salted Chocolate Pretzel was her favorite so that's what I got and I was glad I did! It was unique and delicious! I tried Sailors for ice cream and Scoops gelato (also really good). Reddit said to skip Lloyd's. I looked it up and it's just dreyers ice cream. Sailors and scoops are made in house! (Sailors I had the iced latte da which I also recommend)

I’m sure the ice cream is great but this is about the Starbucks inside. It took them 10 minutes to make an iced white mocha with no drinks in line before me. I understand people were training but espresso shots quite literally pull at less than 30 seconds, and the trainer should take over if it’s taking that long. Here’s the routine for the baristas there since they seem to have forgotten: pull shot, add white mocha and catch the shot, add milk and ice. I’ve been a Starbucks barista for 7 years and can make 4 drinks in a minute 30. No reason why 1 white mocha should take six times as long. The shop is also pretty small so it was awkward standing and waiting. To make matters worse, the white mocha is sitting at the bottom, and it should be stirred before the milk goes in. Cutting corners and still taking far too long is a good sign to not return.

Popular spot here on the main dining area in Avalon. While the gelato is good, it is a little stringy, which makes it a little messy. Service is fine, but I don't like an ice cream shop that is not willing to offer samples, so they lose a star for that. Four scoops for $30 seems a bit expensive for what it is. There are many other ice cream shop options nearby.

Bad service. There was a big languange barrier and the man taking our order really struggled to understand what was on their menu. Then two other people started making the drinks and, unfortunately, made the wrong drinks entirely. After a couple tries of asking for someone to help with a refund (we didnt want to keep having drinking remade), another man came over with a rude attitude and said they had no idea what we ordered (even though their computer system printed it onto a sticker for the cup).

If you find yourself on Santa Catalina Island on a scorching hot day, look no further than Scoops Ice Cream for a delightful and refreshing treat. This charming ice cream parlor offers homemade delights that are sure to cool you down and satisfy your sweet tooth. Although lines are long, from the moment you step inside Scoops Ice Cream, you're greeted with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The colorful and playful decor creates a cheerful ambiance, perfect for enjoying a cool treat with friends or family. The friendly staff behind the counter adds to the overall positive experience, making you feel right at home. Scoops Ice Cream prides itself on offering delicious homemade flavors that are made with love and care. Each scoop is a delightful burst of flavor that will leave you craving for more. From classics like chocolate and vanilla to unique and inventive combinations, there's something for everyone here. What sets Scoops Ice Cream apart is the quality of their ingredients. You can taste the freshness in every bite, and they use premium ingredients to create their delectable flavors. Whether you prefer a smooth and creamy texture or crave the crunch of nuts and candies mixed in, Scoops has got you covered. They also offer dairy-free and vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their frozen delights. One of the highlights of Scoops Ice Cream is the range of serving options available. You can choose to have your ice cream in a cup or a cone, and they even offer various sizes to accommodate different appetites. They also have a wide selection of toppings and sauces, allowing you to customize your treat to your liking. Another aspect that makes Scoops Ice Cream special is its location. Situated on Santa Catalina Island, it provides a welcome respite from the island's heat and serves as a gathering spot for locals and tourists alike. You can take your ice cream and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or relax at one of the nearby parks, savoring the flavors while taking in the picturesque views. I have to say, Scoops Ice Cream is a hidden gem on Santa Catalina Island, offering top-notch homemade ice cream that is simply delightful. The friendly atmosphere, quality ingredients, and range of flavors make it a must-visit spot for anyone seeking a refreshing treat on a hot day. So, the next time you find yourself on the island, don't forget to stop by Scoops Ice Cream and indulge in their delectable creations. You won't be disappointed!

Visited this place every day during our recent stay at Catalina Island. Scoops has the BEST home made ice cream on this island. I saw signs about their French Brioche and had to try that. If you do trust me you wont be disappointed. I ordered the French Brioche with a scoop of Triple Chocolate and frozen strawberries + Oreo crumbles + chocolate syrup and this was the best thing I ever had. It was delicious. I still crave for it and cant find it anywhere I live in WA. This place can have a long wait time so be prepared if you plan to grab one before boarding your ferry. The staff is friendly and there is a Starbucks in the same spot if you want to grab some coffee with your ice cream. All in all I loved their French brioche and would highly recommend this place for anyone who visits Catalina.

Excellent employees that were all very helpful and nice. The coffees were great. The ice cream flavors were great. The amount you get is a good amount. We bought one medium sized one and it was perfect for us 2. Price is pretty good for what you get. You will have to walk to get here. There is street parking just a few feet away. Overall, a great place to get your ice cream and Starbucks coffee.

Visiting Catalina for a long weekend and of the three breakfast places that we tried this was our favorite of the three. It has a beautiful location right across from Avalon Bay so you have a great view of the water while dining. It was quite busy when we arrived for our 9:30 Friday morning breakfast but we didn’t have to wait very long. They have a pretty large menu filled with a lot of great options and the other diners around us seemed like they were enjoying their meal as well. Pricing is fair and our server was very polite. The restaurant is actually larger on the inside than it looks on the outside so there are plenty of seating options. The food was pretty good, not quite as good as the breakfast you will get over in the mainland, but for a little island breakfast spot it was really enjoyable. For my meal I ordered the Chorizo Sizzler and enjoyed it. I wish there would have been more chorizo and a little bit less onions but still overall it was a really nice meal. I also got a coffee and thought it was strong and tasty. I would recommend to anyone visiting the island and I would stop in again next time I visit Catalina.

This place is cute. The wait wasn't long considering we went on a nice August Saturday. Our waitress in the left side bar area of place was not very friendly. Had to hunt her down for refills and butter for pancake. Plus she said oh we only have 1 knife clean so you'll have to share. It's kinda pricey so I expected better quality and better service. The food was meh. I wouldn't return again . The view is cute though.

Pancake Cottage is a VERY popular place for breakfast. If you get there early (before the ferry’s start coming in) you have a better chance of getting a table. The line outside gets long. Prices are ok. Staff are nice and can be quick with service. We split a pancake combo (2 pancakes, 3 slices of bacon and scrambled eggs. It was good. They don’t serve booze

Great place for brunch. Close to the ferry terminal. Usually they’ve long wait as they are super busy. But the service is pretty quick and everyone is so nice and helpful. Food is tasty. Pancakes are the softest!!!! If you’re visiting Avalon, must go to place!!!

Breakfast here was delicious and services were great as well. I ordered the French toast combo and it was honestly delightful.

Great staff and food was delicious. We got there just in time before the cruise folks. This place was recommended by the locals.

For fellow tourists: there is another breakfast place 3min away called Jacks or Jake’s. I think that place is better Food was very mid to low quality, i got an omelette with only egg whites and maple syrup tasted so fake and the corned beef hash was not okay. This is so weird.

We had such a great experience at Buffalo Nickel on Catalina Island! The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, and our server, Ricardo, was fantastic - friendly, attentive, and made us feel right at home. I ordered the Mexican pizza, and it was absolutely delicious… fresh, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying. Highly recommend stopping by if you’re in the area, and ask for Ricardo, he’ll take great care of you!

Perfect day on the island. BN was recommended by the bike rental lady. Fantastic ceviche. Mexican shrimp cocktail with octopus is amazing. Good beer selection. Free shuttle back to the ferry, too!

ETA: A tour guide reported that they have a shuttle that will pick you up in Avalon for free! We loved our walk, but for those who can’t do it, just call them! A 30 minute walk from Avalon is so worth it. The ceviche is magical and the service was excellent. We even got to watch a helicopter take off. Seriously, though, GET THE CEVICHE. The potato tacos were also very tasty!

My visit to Buffalo Nickel was fantastic. The place has great views, making it perfect for a relaxing meal. The selection of food and drink was impressive, and they even offer a free shuttle to pick you up. We tried the ceviche, which was amazing, and the tacos were delicious too. The atmosphere and service were excellent. Highly recommend checking it out!

Buffalo Nickel was so yummy! The shrimp ceviche was delicious and the portion was so big! The fish tacos were delicious. They even have a shuttle that can take you and bring you back so you don’t even have to walk!

The best food experience I had on my trip the white sea bass ceviche best I ever had in my life the staff was super awesome I can't wait to go back

We stopped in on our last night in Catalina. Wished we had come here sooner. Orders potato skins and chicken fajitas. Both items were huge and probably could feed 3 people each. Could not take home leftovers since we were leaving the next morning. Please stop in and sit in the patio! Great food!

Came to grab some food during our recent cruise ship stop. Nice clean store, wide variety of deli items. Decent prices on stuff you would otherwise pay more for on a cruise ship. Has self-check-out. Would highly suggest if your picking up foods/snacks for your cruise cabin. Easy to find

Great place for all needs..simply amazing variety..reasonable prices. Walking distance from wherever you stay..billing lines are long..Veronica was not very helpful. I had signed up but she insisted on a number..hence unable to get member rates.

Large selection of goods, cool. Everything is great, prices are reasonable.

Came in to gather some items for a BBQ we were having while visiting the island, found all the necessities here. Nice clean store however minus 2 stars for our cashier Batina who was acting inappropriately during check out. She asked us if we wanted to donate a lunch bag or something and we polity said not today, she then got very loud and repeated back while making a funny face You don’t want to donate? She seemed angry after that and it really made us feel uncomfortable. None of the other cashiers during our stay on the island acted like this so we thought this women was very strange, also noticed she was behaving this way to the man ahead of us and he appeared uncomfortable too. Other than that experience the store had all we needed for our stay.

Very understaffed, particularly the deli, meat and bakery departments. They have a great selection and a great option if you are in Catalina and want to pick up items for breakfast and lunch vs eating out all the time. But zero staff to help in these departments. I was waiting for a long time at the deli counter and finally asked the employee in the sandwich bar if there was anybody in the deli section. He was kind of rude, but the bottomline is no, there wasn’t. And he was busy helping the long sandwich line.

Nice clean well stocked store. People working here not friendly at all, hate tourists, so it seemed. Service is acceptable but rude and ignoring customers in front of their nose. No eye contact, move on, nothing here to see.

Great location walking distance from the beach and hotels, their wine selection was better then anticipated for a small store. But we had a very loud and unprofessional cashier named Batinna. She was holding up the line making loud and inappropriate comments. She was rude to us; Raising her voice and acting strange People were starring at her and she seems have no common sense or filter. Really surprised they would have someone acting like this in the store, we were told by a local he said she has a list of complaints but they keep paying to have her brought over. Anyways we got wine and snacks and are overall the selection was just as good as the other stores.

Just hung out for drinks but what a place the history is cool! If those walls could talk. The bartender was great and he had plenty of advice! Could not recommend a better place.

Not on the main drag, but definitely a don’t miss spot. Ardis was helpful and made fantastic drinks. Beers are definitely reasonably priced. Shocked it wasn’t packed to the gills in here. Come here when you stumble off a cruise or come to the island. You will NOT be disappointed. Also, the bathroom was super clean.

The atmosphere is so neat! I love that the locals go here and they seem pretty nice!! The bartender was nice and direct, but fun! I would love to return.

This place is really fun was told that it was one of the oldest bars on Catalina.

Had fun in the beginning because of Savannah the bartender but ERIN the other bartender was horrible she was very drunk on the job being messy with customers. Didn't want to serve us water lol. She also threaten to fight me when i called her out for being very rude. Also locals said she's always like this don't know how the owner hasn't fired her embarrassing! She also lied telling people she was the owner lol locals said keith owns the place.

A nice cozy local bar, very casual, friendly bartenders. A local "Cheers' like hangout where every local knows each other. Best of all...good tasty drinks, inexpensive well & call drinks ($5-$7), needless to say we had a few, met some great visitors like us, as well as locals, and had a great time!! Will definitely come back here on the next trip to Catalina.

Nice little bar, has 1 pool table and 1 foosball table. Service was nice, the music wasn’t our vibe but other than that it was cool.

Wanted to play a game of bowling, it said 36 credits, we paid to play… but it only allowed one person to play bowling. I wanted a refund & they would only refund me credit. I said, it should be labeled as 36 credits per person, and the brunette girl worked was very rude & argumentative & said I should’ve asked & refused to refund me my money. But I would’ve never spent that money, had I known that the bowling cost that much. Terrible experience, did not want to stay & play the credits after such a nasty host asking me what’s the problem, when the problem was obviously I wanted my money back, when it’s ridiculous to think that an arcade would think one person would want to bowl alone… SCAM

Black and bleu burger was bomb.com !! Fries were delicious 🤤 Happy to come across this yummy spot!!

The food is so amazing...we had lunch there and returned for dinner! Shared crispy green beans while he had chilaquiles adding egg and I enjoyed the baja fish tacos (plain). There was a lot of fish on those tacos. I preferred the chipotle aioli sauce with tacos. For dinner, we had pesto pizza and calamari. (side note, these green beans are 100% better than the ones at The Habit)

Wonderful place to bring the kids after a long day of tourist activities! They were able to enjoy themselves with the variety of games here including air hockey, giant shooting games, and even bowling! It's nice that Avalon has this here for families traveling with children since so much of the island is geared towards adults relaxing and enjoying the view. This place uses point cards that kids use for playing the games and storing their tickets that they win from the games.

This place was good , affordable prices and the service was fast. I’m from L.A and working here for the summer so it’s difficult at times finding affordable good food on the island . I ordered the carne asada quesadilla, the red chili /salsa was good and not too spicy . The food tasted fresh it had pico the gallo and avocado. I’m excited to try the rest of the menu .

This place is a lot of fun if you have some kids who like to play arcade games. It has video games, Skee-Ball, and all sorts of things you can do to earn tickets. The tickets can be redeemed for different prizes, it gets expensive quickly and as all of these arcades you would probably be better off just buying a toy if that is what you want but the fun of this arcade is using and playing all of machines. None of the machines take quarters you put money I card that can be used to activate the game.

Fun idea, but overall a fail. More than half the games in the arcade were "out of order". The basket balls for the Connect4 (fun game!) were torn & super old. Entire arcade was quite dirty & could use a bit of attention.

I really enjoyed the pizza here, and after a weekend in Avalon, I’d say this was definitely one of my favorite spots. We had the antipasto salad, some hot wings, and a turkey bacon club sandwich, and everything was a hit — no complaints at all! If you’re looking for a quick and tasty bite, this is definitely a place to try.

Visited on a Monday night with a group of 10. Were about to be seated right away but was some mixup with another customer who had seemingly been waiting 20 minutes for a table (they must've forgotten). Split our group up between a few tables inside and outside. Service was a little strange/not smooth. Food was good - pepperoni pizza, garlic cheese bread, and small antipasto salad to split amongst 3 people. Plenty of food, took home leftovers. Prices to be expected for area. Would recommend for a simple pizza/Italian meal. They also had slices to go.

This is a cozy little pizzeria on the island, full of charm, with lots of fun historic decor hanging all over the walls and even the ceiling. You have two options: dine in or grab a slice. I chose to dine in and it did not disappoint me. My waiter was a lovely kind lady who made my short stay very pleasant. I ordered a small pizza with mushrooms and a garden salad. The salad was very basic yet fresh and I enjoyed it, however, I wish there were more mushrooms on the pizza. As the photo says it all, there are a few canned mushroom pieces sporadically spread on the pizza. The crust was very much to my liking, neither thick nor thin, perfect thickness. The sauce was fresh and the cheese was very fresh and delicious. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience and highly recommend giving this place a try.

I absolutely loved this place! The pizza was delicious, and the service from Katy made the whole experience even better — she’s the best! Highly recommend this spot.

The establishment had a stylish interior, and the service was exceptional. The pizza was especially enjoyable, with a crisp and well-prepared crust that we truly appreciated.

Want one of the best pizza's ever made....PERIOD? Get a chicken, garlic, and roasted red pepper with alfredo sauce. Hands down the best pizza I have ever eaten. YUMMY

Best pizza i’ve ever had in my life. Number one. You have to try it😍, friendly people. They all smile in your face.

I really think the ladies were just having a bad day, but don’t bring that into work. We went into get coffee and granted we came in on the 7am ferry so we are there super early. The service was slow, had a bit of an attitude and EXPENSIVE. I knew we should have gone somewhere else. It was NOT it.

Great pizza. Plentiful cheese. The beers were fine, but nothing special. I really enjoyed supporting a local business and brewery!

Great coffee, nice view! Before heading back to the mainland, we stopped here to chill and have a late afternoon coffee. The team member working was friendly. The logo is pretty. We got an iced coffee and a hot decaf. There’s space for sitting inside and outside. You can see the water from inside or outside the coffee shop. I really liked this place, and recommend. It was a nice spot to visit during our wonderful time on Catalina Island. Next time I’m on Catalina Island, I’ll definitely stop by. I recommend!

I always love the idea of both a Coffee House and Brewery together. Latte (Hot) was on point with flavor, temperature and foam (i love foam)!! Cheesecake was very rich, I would recommend sharing because of the richness and portion size. It was delicious! Top it off with a beer sampler was a plus BUT the beers were okay. Very light for the most part and not a lot of flavors. We went back the next day to try a cold Latte which was still good but the hot had more bold flavor topped with the yummy foam. Got some pastries that were warm and fresh. Definitely a place to add to your daily coffee grab if you visit Catalina for the weekend.

I've gotten the latte here several times. The coffee is bitter and burnt. Even with lots of sugar, you can taste the bitterness in the coffee. If you like your coffee that way this place is fine. If not go to one of the other places.

We came here early in the morning and it was really crowded with people. The place is good decorated and serve a great coffee to be honest as they grind, pour fresh roasted, hand crafted dancing goats coffee ☕️(as they described it). They have a good collection of desserts 🧁, sandwiches 🥪 and other snacks . Not to mention their pizza 🍕. They also serve Hand picked selection of craft beer 🍺 and microbrews. And more to be discovered next visit;) the only thing is that the staff were really busy to make sure that their tables are clean and ready for customers

I recently visited the Catalina Island Brew House and had a fantastic time. The location is great, right near the water, and the coffee is really good. One of the best parts was the amazing views of the ocean. We also enjoyed the food; the good coffee was a perfect start to the day, and the vegetarian egg bites were delicious. Overall, it’s a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy some quality refreshments. Highly recommend!

One of the few places open late. Good music, pool tables & night caps. A good way to end the evening. A definite place for adults to check out.

Bartender was nice, offered us free billiards game. Pretty dead on a Tuesday night around 8 pm

Sweet staff, well priced drinks. Music selection could be more diverse but we still have a good time. Don't know how many patrons are regulars/locals or tourists but maybe that's a good thing? Thursday was pretty slow but Friday was popping!

Nice bar. Also a club dance floor pretty big. Was a good turn out on a Tuesday with people keeping the songs going on the jukebox. Real party start little after 10 when must of the places close

Had such a blast at this club. Bartenders are friendly and the atmosphere is great! You can choose the music through an app which can be funny at times since the people at the club probably never heard of it but dance to it anyway since they’re wasted and just want to have fun! Will definitely be coming again when I visit the island next time.

Fun, fun, fun on Catalina! Place doesn't get going til after 10pm but then hang on! LOL!

It’s a great spot to dance and spend time with your girl a fun mature place to hang out have some drinks good music