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Fishing With DynamiteAMust Try

Name: Fishing With Dynamite
Address: 1148 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, Manhattan Beach, United States
Rating: 4.7

1148 Manhattan Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 · Seafood restaurant, Oyster bar restaurant, Restaurant · 4.7/5 Google (1108 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

A tiny, lively raw bar with creative, impeccably fresh seafood and polished service; reservations essential and prices reflect premium sourcing.

Why it gets an A for overall quality

Fishing With Dynamite stands among the region's finest seafood destinations through exceptional food quality—particularly remarkable oyster freshness and creative preparations like misoyaki black cod and silky key lime pie—paired with warm, knowledgeable service and prime oceanside setting. Minor constraints from tight quarters and occasional consistency variations prevent higher distinction, but the overall execution exemplifies what makes coastal seafood dining exceptional.

Restaurant Summary

Steps from the pier, this tiny room hums with lively raw bar energy—oyster trays glinting on ice, bartenders shaking coastal cocktails, and servers who seem genuinely excited to guide you. One diner summed it up: "Freshness like this makes you plan the rest of your day around a second round." Seating is tight and it can get pleasantly buzzy, but that beach-adjacent glow feels worth the squeeze. In the kitchen, the cooking leans creative and produce-driven rather than showy. Think hamachi with apple ponzu, misoyaki black cod, and an indulgent koshihikari rice layered with shellfish umami. The raw bar is a draw—oysters, pre-cut crab legs, and seafood towers—while desserts like the silky key lime pie often steal the finale. Prices are premium, but the ingredients and finesse largely justify the spend. Families can make this work thanks to accessible favorites like clam chowder, fries, fish tacos, and a crispy fish sandwich. There is no kids menu, portions trend refined, and some dishes are adventurous, so choose simpler items for cautious eaters. For a smooth visit, book ahead for inside seating and consider the bar for a quick, easygoing meal with older kids or teens.

At a Glance

Remarkably fresh oysters and raw bar with skilled shucking
Creative seafood with thoughtful sauces and standout desserts
Very small, loud room with tight tables
Premium pricing; a few dishes feel light for cost
Reservations strongly advised; walk-ins best at bar

What Sets It Apart

intimate_raw_bar_experience
top-tier_oyster_program
creative_seafood_with_global_accents

What People Love

Exuberant, knowledgeable service that guides choices
Sea bass and hamachi that taste dialed-in
Key lime pie that finishes meals on a high note
Seafood towers that feel celebratory
Cocktails that match the coastal vibe

Points of Concern

Space is tight and can be loud at peak hours; outside tables lack heaters per city rules
Some inconsistency on busy holidays or late seatings (small oysters, soggy crab cake, pacing gaps)
Premium pricing can feel steep for smaller portions or the rice dish
Door interactions occasionally feel curt, leading to a few fairness complaints

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$72-98 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Start with hamachi or tuna tartare, share an SS Minnow, split a sea bass or misoyaki cod, finish with key lime pie; budget $72-98 per person before drinks

Perfect For

Date night near the beach
Seafood lovers chasing pristine oysters
Solo bar dining after a bike ride or beach walk
Special occasions without white-tablecloth fuss

Location Insights

Area: Upscale beach town center with boutique shopping, bars, and high foot traffic; draws locals and visitors alike.

Safety: Well-lit and busy; perceived as safe and well maintained even at night.

Nearby: One block from the ocean and pier; surrounded by cafes, bars, and retail; near hotels and LAX corridor.

Manhattan BeachManhattan Beach offers a relaxed yet upscale dining environment with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and casual fine dining. The community is family-friendly and attracts visitors looking for a coastal dining experience with a mix of trendy and classic venues.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:30–21:00 Tuesday11:30–21:00 Wednesday11:30–21:00 Thursday11:30–21:00 Friday11:30–21:30 Saturday11:30–21:30 Sunday11:30–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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