Dining at Enterprise Fish Co. Is Pricey, But Worth It

One of the best local fish restaurants is just north of Venice over the Santa Monica line, the Enterprise Fish Company. It’s set in a historic 1917 building near the beach, with convenient metered parking across Kinney Street.

There is outdoor patio dining and a full bar. The happy hour offers appetizer specials including $1 oysters. The décor is funky casual, but the drinks and dishes aren’t cheap, so bring a credit card. For dinner for two plus a bottle of wine expect to spend in the neighborhood of $100.

As a native of Boston, I love good New England clam chowder, and the bowls served here would stand up to anything in my home town.  In Enterprise's Manhattan version the tomatoes don’t overwhelm the fish.

The fish I’ve tried there has always been well prepared. The Alaskan halibut is tasty and the Miso glazed sea bass is flavorful.  The lobster bisque is excellent.  The vegetables range from good to merely OK.

My favorite reason for visiting is a mid-week celebration. Nearly any excuse will do, because Monday through Thursday, the restaurant offers diners a two-pound Maine lobster with two sides for just $29.95.  As you walk in, there’s a large tank filled with lobsters, so you can pick your dinner. If you go on a busy night like Valentine’s Day, be prepared to see the tank emptied early.

The Enterprise Fish Company is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. The staff welcomes groups and kids. It’s worth a visit.