Local legend Topa Topa’s two Ventura-area locations are great central hubs for craft beer fans, featuring a variety that spans from crushable IPAs to crisp lagers. Don’t forget to take advantage of seasonal beer offerings and the ample outdoor space with its rotating events and food trucks.

From patio seating to nestling up the oyster bar, Lure Fish House diners can choose from the multiple options that include anything from their grilled menu such as shrimp brochette and black cod to oysters on the half-shell to a plate of sand dabs. From there, enjoy a glass of something nice like house martinis or local Santa Barbara wine or craft beer.

Enjoy a taco or a shrimp cocktail at the Ventura Pier thanks to Beach Fish House & Tacos’s walk-up window and bar/fish marketplace hybrid space. After placing a food order, patrons can head upstairs to the Made West brewery space to sample their fine selection of craft brews. With stellar views on the water and the neighboring Channel Islands, this is an excellent space to relish in the delights of Ventura.

A good fish taco is something to seek out, and Spencer McKenzie’s is always worth making a stop, either in Camarillo or at their original location in Ventura. Tacos are either fried in panko batter or grilled, with the option to be served “Brooklyn-style” with their house-made mayo and chipotle-based hot sauce. Other options include the always-worth-it ahi tuna packets and parmesan-dusted hard shell tacos with either shrimp or carne asada inside.

The Jolly Oyster’s outdoor oceanside park setup almost makes for the quintessential California dining experience. Oysters are served either raw or grilled, made with fresh herbs and parmesan butter. Take advantage of fried oysters tacos or any ceviche tostadas made with bay scallops or uni.

This quaint, local coffee shop offers a curated list of coffees, espresso drinks, and more from a welcoming space that’s perfect for travelers or customers looking to linger. There’s ample seating inside, allowing diners to snack on pastries while soaking up the Ventura sun.

This charming breakfast spot has won the hearts of locals and out-of-towners alike. Its unique menu meanders from different pancake creations to whatever daily special the team might be serving that day, all done with a homey flair and comfort appeal.

“Genuine-Local-Causal” is the tagline of this Ventura harbor restaurant. Cozy up to the bar or secure a table overlooking the flotilla, with room to enjoy a seafood-focused, upscale but approachable menu. From fish and chips to divine cuts of swordfish, Brophy Bros. remains stacked with lots of choices for everyone to enjoy and take in the view.

Off the beaten path in sleepy Port Hueneme, Pho Saigon regularly turns some of Ventura’s most sought-after bowls of noodles and broken rice. The casual dining space, three decades strong, is known to draw crowds and a lively atmosphere keen to enjoy bánh xèo savory crepes and steamy bowls of pho.

Located in downtown Oxnard, Carnitas El Rey is here to satisfy Ventura’s porky carvings. The Michoacán style carnitas sold by the pound can also include delicious cuts of buche and cueritos. Customers in the know request “mixto” for a little bit of each cut for that maximum flavor.