Culinary Gems in Avalon: 7 Standout Spots to Eat & Drink on Catalina Island
Discover the Best Local Flavors in Avalon Beyond the Tourist Traps With Drives & Detours—From Fresh Seafood To Craft Cocktails
As well as being a beautiful, relaxing destination, Avalon offers excellent food — KC Welch / Unsplash
Catalina Island’s Avalon is more than just a picturesque harbor town—it’s a culinary destination where local chefs, mixologists, and restaurateurs infuse island life with creativity and character.
While Crescent Avenue boasts its share of tourist-friendly eateries, a few standout spots offer authentic, flavorful experiences that locals and savvy travelers adore.
1. The Lobster Trap: Classic Seafood With a Nautical Twist
The Lobster Trap is renowned for its fresh, sustainable offerings — Erick Morales / Unsplash
The Lobster Trap is a beloved institution in Avalon, offering a casual yet vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of island dining.
Located just steps from the harbor, this seafood restaurant is renowned for its fresh, sustainable offerings and friendly service.
The Lobster Trap stands out for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Diners can enjoy dishes like bacon-wrapped scallops, cioppino, and a variety of fresh catches, all prepared with a focus on local ingredients.
The restaurant's nautical-themed decor adds to the charm, creating an inviting space for both locals and visitors.
2. The Naughty Fox: A Stylish Cocktail Lounge with a Speakeasy Vibe
Visit the Naughty Fox for a creative and unique nightcap after dinner — KC Welch / Unsplash
The Naughty Fox offers a sophisticated yet unpretentious setting for enjoying expertly crafted cocktails.
Situated in the heart of Avalon, this lounge combines modern elegance with a touch of old-world charm.
With a menu that changes seasonally, The Naughty Fox emphasizes fresh, local ingredients in its drinks.
The bartenders are known for their creativity and attention to detail, ensuring each cocktail is a unique experience. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening or a night out with friends, providing a refined alternative to the typical island bar scene.
3. M Restaurant: Coastal Italian Dining with Ocean Views
M Restaurant provides stunning views and Italian culinary traditions — Cathy Poland / Unsplash
M Restaurant offers an upscale dining experience that combines Italian culinary traditions with the freshest local seafood.
Located near the waterfront, the restaurant provides stunning views of the harbor, making it an ideal spot for a special evening out.
M Restaurant's menu features a variety of dishes that highlight the best of both Italian and Californian cuisine. From house-made pastas to locally sourced seafood, each dish is prepared with care and precision.
The wine list complements the menu perfectly, offering selections that enhance the dining experience. The elegant setting and attentive service make M Restaurant a top choice for those seeking a memorable meal in Avalon.
4. NDMK Fish House: Fresh Seafood With a Local Touch
Every item on the NDMK Fish House menu is prepared with an emphasis on quality and flavor — Michael McGarry / Pexels
NDMK Fish House is a hidden gem in Avalon, celebrated for its commitment to fresh, locally sourced seafood. The restaurant has earned a reputation among locals and visitors alike for serving dishes that highlight the island’s maritime heritage in a casual yet refined setting.
Every item on the menu is prepared with an emphasis on quality and flavor. The result is food that feels approachable yet sophisticated, perfectly reflecting Avalon’s laid-back but discerning culinary culture.
Beyond the food, the restaurant’s ambiance contributes to its appeal. The dining room is relaxed and inviting, with coastal-inspired décor and comfortable seating that encourages lingering over a meal.
The combination of exceptional seafood, thoughtful preparation, and a genuine local vibe makes NDMK Fish House a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience Avalon beyond its more touristy offerings.
5. El Galleon: A Classic Island Bar Experience
El Galleon offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere — Vidhan Modi / Pexels
El Galleon is Avalon’s quintessential bar, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere that has made it a mainstay for both locals and visitors.
Situated near the waterfront, this spot captures the energy of island nightlife while remaining approachable for all kinds of guests.
The bar is known for its extensive drink menu, including signature cocktails, classic mixed drinks, and a wide selection of beers. Bartenders bring both skill and personality to each pour, ensuring that every visit feels personal and enjoyable.
El Galleon’s interior and outdoor spaces both contribute to its popularity. The nautical-themed décor and comfortable seating create a casual and friendly environment, while the outdoor patio offers prime people-watching along the bustling waterfront.
The combination of quality drinks, a welcoming environment, and a genuine island vibe cements El Galleon as a must-visit for anyone seeking Avalon’s classic bar experience.
6. Luau Larry’s: Fun Vibes and Signature Cocktails
Luau Larry’s most famous cocktail is the Buffalo Milk — Austin Schmid / Unsplash
Luau Larry’s is the ultimate spot for visitors seeking a fun and festive drinking experience. Known for its iconic cocktails—most famously the Buffalo Milk—this bar captures the playful, tropical spirit of Catalina Island in both flavor and atmosphere.
The interior is a feast for the eyes, with bright, colorful décor, tiki-inspired accents, and whimsical touches that instantly set a celebratory mood. The bartenders are skilled, personable, and always ready to recommend a favorite cocktail or create a custom concoction.
Beyond the drinks, Luau Larry’s is known for fostering a social, friendly environment. Locals and tourists mingle easily, making it a great spot to meet new people or share a laugh with friends.
Whether stopping by for a signature cocktail or spending the evening in its lively atmosphere, Luau Larry’s delivers a uniquely Avalon-style experience that keeps visitors coming back.
7. Bluewater Grill: Elevated Seafood Dining
Bluewater Grill serves an upscale menu of fresh seafood and contemporary American cuisine — Steve Iverson / Unsplash
Bluewater Grill offers a more upscale take on Avalon’s seafood scene. Situated along the waterfront, this restaurant specializes in fresh, locally caught seafood and contemporary American cuisine with coastal influences.
The menu emphasizes seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. Guests can enjoy fresh oysters, seared scallops, lobster rolls, and other seafood classics, all elevated with modern culinary techniques. The chefs focus on presentation, flavor balance, and sourcing, ensuring each dish is both visually appealing and delicious.
In addition to the food, Bluewater Grill is known for its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service. The staff are knowledgeable, offering wine pairings and recommendations tailored to diners’ tastes. Large windows and a waterfront patio allow guests to enjoy sweeping views of Avalon Bay, making each meal a feast for the senses.
Go Far Beyond the Ordinary in Avalon
Visitors can experience Avalon through its flavors and ambiance — Mike Kitchen / Unsplash
Avalon offers a diverse range of dining and drinking options that cater to various tastes and preferences.
Whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, innovative cocktails, or Italian cuisine with a view, the establishments highlighted above provide exceptional experiences that go beyond the typical tourist fare.
Embrace the local flavors and ambiance of Avalon, and discover the hidden gems that make this island destination truly special.
By seeking out these standout spots, visitors can experience Avalon through its flavors and ambiance, discovering why the island continues to delight food lovers year after year. These restaurants and bars deliver memorable experiences that go far beyond the ordinary.
Explore Avalon at Your Own Pace With Drives & Detours
Uncover the local favorites, neighborhood treasures, and unique experiences of Avalon — Venti Views / Unpslash
Take control of your Avalon adventure with Drives & Detours’ self-guided tours. Built for flexibility and fully accessible offline, these tours let you discover the city on your own schedule, complete with insider tips and local insights.
Book your tour in advance or launch it through the app whenever it works best for you. Each route highlights both Avalon’s iconic sights and its hidden corners, offering a complete view of the city’s fascinating history and lively culture.
With Drives & Detours, uncover the local favorites, neighborhood treasures, and unique experiences that make Avalon a destination you’ll want to explore again and again.
