This West Coast Seafood House Is Making Waves With a New LA Location
Pacific Catch, a celebrated seafood restaurant born in the Bay Area, is making waves in Santa Monica after opening its doors this January. Positioned just steps from the ocean on Wilshire Boulevard, this marks the restaurant group’s first foray into Los Angeles. Known for its fusion of fresh, sustainable seafood and vibrant Pacific-inspired flavors, Pacific Catch arrives with an expansive menu, an inviting coastal design and a mission rooted in sustainability.
This isn’t Pacific Catch’s first venture into Southern California, however. With locations also in Tustin and La Jolla, the brand has already garnered a following outside its Northern California origins. Co-founded in 2003 by Keith Cox and Aaron Noveshen, Pacific Catch has grown to 15 locations, each offering an approachable yet elevated dining experience that combines West Coast vibes with the diverse culinary influences of the Pacific Rim.
A Wave-to-Table Menu
Under the guidance of culinary director Rowena Rillo and Santa Monica’s head chef Richard Luu, Pacific Catch’s scratch-made menu features an array of dishes designed to transport diners across the Pacific. Staples like Hawaiian poke bowls, sushi tacos and ceviche reflect the restaurant’s flair for fresh, bold flavors. The seasonal menu is packed with mouthwatering, must-try dishes. Choose from lobster rolls, tarragon-dill or butter-warmed, or enjoy surf and turf with grilled lobster tail and skirt steak. Savor sticky pork ribs in a sweet sesame glaze. Or try the spicy green curry bowl with grilled salmon.
In addition to its signature dishes, the bar program at this new restaurant in Los Angeles serves tropical-inspired cocktails that’ll set your watch to island time. Think caramelized piña coladas with Bacardi coconut rum and tiki old fashioneds made with aged rum, tiki bitters and charred pineapple. The bar menu also includes local craft beers, Pacific-influenced wines and hard kombucha for a refreshing twist.
Supporting a Community in Crisis
Like many, the team at Pacific Catch has been deeply heartbroken by the devastation caused by the recent wildfires. As the new location celebrates its opening, the restaurant is also stepping up to help the community recover.
“We’ve been working hard to support and serve both our new neighbors who have been displaced from their homes and the incredible volunteers who are providing on-the-ground assistance,” says Cox.
The loss from these fires goes beyond residential damage. Many local restaurants in the hardest-hit areas have been destroyed. This has left food and beverage workers without jobs and communities without gathering places. Recognizing the profound impact on the hospitality industry, the Santa Monica restaurant is donating $10,000 to the LA Fire Relief Fund. This fund was created by Restaurants Care, part of the California Restaurant Foundation. Furthermore, it provides emergency financial aid to hospitality workers, helping them and their families.
“The restaurants and their teams were an integral part of the fabric of the neighborhoods they served, and their loss will be felt deeply,” adds Cox. “We hope some of our guests will join us in supporting this organization.”
This act of generosity aligns with Pacific Catch’s commitment to supporting sustainable practices and also the communities it serves. By aiding in the recovery efforts, Pacific Catch is proving that its mission goes beyond creating exceptional dining experiences. It’s about being a responsible and caring member of the community.
Sustainability at Its Core
Pacific Catch isn’t just about great food; it’s about protecting the oceans that inspire it. Under the leadership of sustainability director Jennifer Bushman, the restaurant has prioritized ethical sourcing for over 20 years. All seafood is responsibly procured, and the use of 100% compostable takeout packaging demonstrates the brand’s commitment to the Ocean Friendly Restaurant program.
In line with its eco-conscious mission, Pacific Catch Santa Monica has partnered with the Surfrider Foundation and Life Rolls On for pre-opening charity events, giving back to local communities while monitoring environmental and social impact.
Coastal Vibes in Every Detail
Spanning 5,500 square feet, the Santa Monica location was designed with the neighborhood’s relaxed beachside charm in mind. Created in collaboration with Ignisio Studios, the space features coastal blues, natural wood accents and lush greenery. In addition, the 200-seat restaurant includes a 20-seat bar. Meanwhile, the private patio and a covered outdoor dining area are perfect for catching an ocean breeze.
“We wanted to create a space that blends seamlessly into the coastal environment,” says Pacific Catch Co-Founder and CEO Keith Cox. “The garage door-style windows open up, connecting the main dining room to the expansive patio, providing a breezy indoor-outdoor feel. The venue also features our contemporary take on a horseshoe bar. This gives guests a more casual and informal space to socialize and dine.”
Unique to the Santa Monica location, LA-based artist Paul Rice crafted bespoke murals and sculptures that pay homage to the Pacific Ocean’s beauty. These artistic touches add another layer of local flavor.
Making Waves in Santa Monica
With its arrival in Santa Monica, Pacific Catch brings more than just a menu. It brings a dedication to sustainability and an inviting space for people to gather, celebrate and savor.
“Santa Monica is a special place. It’s such a vibrant and creative neighborhood. We can’t think of a better place to make our introduction to the LA market,” says Cox.
Whether you’re indulging in a Rising Sun sushi roll or sipping on a Hawaiian Butterfly cocktail, this Santa Monica seafood restaurant offers a dining experience that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious.
Pacific Catch in Santa Monica
120 Wilshire Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90401
@pacificcatch
