We were originally going to go to Sam's Chowderhouse, but it was crazy busy and decided to come here. I think it was a sign, because their clam chowder is AMAZING. It has a soupy consistency which I love, and their portions are extremely generous. I felt so stuffed after and ready for a long nap. The workers were super nice too and very quick service! I'll definitely be returning when I'm in the neighborhood again. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Clam chowder - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

I did not like the Clam chowder at all. Tasted like starch & grainy mash potatoes. Nothing creamy, doesn't scream clam chowder. It was a mistake ordering this I'm quite disappointed. Everything else was mediocre. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

When planning to visit Half Moon bay everyone said we had to eat at Barbara's Fishtrap. And so we did! We ordered, fried clam strips, mini fish trap, cheese bread and clam chowder. The fried clam strips were divine. The mini fish trap was ok. Two scallops, two shrimps, two pieces of fish, fried calamari and two fried zucchini sticks. I Don't think I would order this again. The clam chowder was OK. It had a heavy celery taste and the clams were a little too chewy. The garlic cheese bread was awesome. I think overall there was too much fried food and I should've asked if there was a broiled option. I think I would've enjoyed that much more. Am I sad that I went there for dinner? Absolutely not. And if you're ever in Half Moon Bay give it a try for yourself! read more

We wanted a good classic fish and chips and came across this little place while out with family. Line was pretty long. Waited 40min. Price is kind of pricey. But the portions are worth it. This place is right on the beach. When you are done ordering, you can head down to the sand and enjoy your meal. I ordered the sampler for my son and I. Got to taste everything. Portion was so huge, we had to take the rest to go. Definitely coming back read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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This place is legendary! Totally worth the wait times. Maybe come early? I had the mini trap, and it was yummy. Of course the clam chowder is an essential part of the meal. read more

Crab Louie salad is a real winner. Good service and a coastal ambiance. The location is very special for those of us who enjoy the ocean views. read more

Service was great and so was the food. Fresh big oysters and cheaper than the other oyster bars too. The prawn ceviche was okay, the chowder in the bread bowl was good though. Would definitely come back read more

Yummy. Nice views and good quality seafood. They also change the frying oil after lunch, so you get a fresh delicious taste of their batter. Arrive early, because it's always crowded. read more

Melodie M. the restaurant owner wrote me back below: Melodie, thanks for the response. Sorry I mislabeled your "Fried Oyster Sandwich" as a PoBoy. My mistake. However, you Do serve an Oyster Sandwich in addition to a Crab Sandwich. Please note the daily beer special at $2.50 is a bright spot on the menu. While your food is fresh and there is a pretty good selection, I feel the price to eat there is more than I care to spend for a restaurant meal. Especially after the additional 4% credit card fee that is added. Just average food IMO. Very expensive, on the water, too long waiting to get a table for just expensive and average tasting fried seafood. I got broiled fish and chips. It was ok. I also had the clam chowder which I did not care for at all. Mostly gray water. Probably fish juice, clams and potatoes. Not great flavor. I'm a native New Englander. Would not get the chowder again. My wife got their Oyster PoBoy. Was very tasty but the bread was too big to eat as a sandwich so she took out the oysters and ate them without the bread. Everything on the menu is fried except for the broiled cod and chips. Glad we were able to try this historic restaurant but will pass on going back. ======= Business owner information Photo of Melodie M. Melodie M. Business Manager 6/11/2023 Leon S. Thank you for your review, I just want to make it clear we do not serve Oyster PoBoys. We serve Oysters on the half shell and a Crab Sandwich, but no Oyster PoBoys. Melodie Madsen Owner read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Great food always and in a perfect location! There's lots of seating and even a small area down below where you can dip your toes in the ocean! Highly recommend when you're in the area! Service is always great and friendly! read more

This is such a lovely place. Came to visit the Bay Area from Colorado. Living in a state which ur land locked is pretty frustrating when you can't get fresh seafood. Needed a place like this spot where they served fresh seafood, somewhere near the beach in a great city. We came a few minutes before they opened and there was already a line of people. We waited about 45 minutes which was worth it. We got ocean view and the food was amazing. My mom and I got the same thing, mini Fishtrap tempura which consist of scallops, shrimp, calamari, zucchini, and fish. It was disappointing for my mom because she didn't receive any scallops in her tempura lunch. It was a bummer because that's the best part. I shared mine with her because she didn't want to be a pain in the butt and complain. Clam chowder is a must when visiting the Bay Area. It was delicious. Our server was friendly and enjoyed her service. read more

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Been coming here for over 2 decades and will continue to come for the nostalgia. Super expensive, but worth it. I'd recommend the rice over the fries if you don't want to feel like a fried fish yourself. read more

There's going to be a wait but let me tell you this...it's definitely worth it! It's one of the best spots in the area to visit, scenic with some tables by the water. If you are waiting you can head over to the bar across the way for a drink or two. We ordered the clam chowder and it was great. The fish and chips were perfect. We got the half of oysters and they tasted fresh. Ringy dingy calamari, Crab Cakes, and the Dungeness Crab Sandwich! Everything was just soo good! Wish this place was a bit bigger because then they'd be able to accommodate more ppl but otherwise definitely worth the try! read more

Been wanting to check out this popular place for a while. Came here on a nice Saturday afternoon around 4:30. Surprised there were hardly any people in line. Last time I passed by the line was LOOOONG. Anyway, ordered crab cakes and a bowl of clam chowder to go. Food came out about 10 min later. Grabbed a seat at one of the nearby tables and dug in. Crab cakes were decent, but was disappointed with the clam chowder. It was grayish color which means they probably don't use much cream. There were no clam chunks inside it either. It was very plain. Don't think I'll come back again. read more

please prioritize cleaning the bathrooms.. smell like a gas station urinal.. is a walk out gross out..

Still a regular and still leave with a smile. Last time going there I hit a pothole and my tire blew. Then I found out some genius decided cars don't need spares. It took me over half a day to get everything situated and my car was in shop till next day. Luckily I managed to eat at Barbara's Fishtrap first so I was smiling even through my being pissed at life. So Still Yummy and possibly a temporary cure for anything that makes you feel negative and taken advantage of. read more

We were in the area hiking and my friend recommended we come here post-hike. We were hoping to finish the hike sooner, before noon but that didn't happen and we didn't make it here to closer till 1. It was sooo busy, which I guess is pretty common on weekends. They have a parking lot but maybe only 10 spots so those were hard to come by. I was able to find parking way down the street so it wasn't horrible. They have two lines - one for inside dining and one for to-go or outside dining. There are some tables outside and they are first come first serve. We waited in the to-go line and it was a limited men. Mostly fried things, appetizers, soups, and sandwiches. I think we waited about 45 min to an hour. So hungry, we just ended up sitting on the beach and devouring our food. Barbara's is just off the beach, just walk a few steps and you're there. We shared the fish and chips and each got a bowl of chowder. It was quite tasty. Not sure worth waiting an hour for my food tasty but it was good. Fish was freshly fried and hot and crispy. Batter had some flavor and fish was flaky. The chips were the thick steak fries and were also nice and hot and fresh. Mmmm. I really liked the chowder too. It was a bit more watery in texture than I like but had good flavor as well. Seems like some of their other items were pretty popular too. So it would be nice to go back and try some things. Hopefully when the line isn't as long. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Fish and chips - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

I highly recommend Barbara's Fishtrap for fresh seafood, great customer service, and an amazing view. My partner and I decided to take a trip up to Half Moon Bay and enjoy some fresh seafood. When we arrived the sign stated that it was cash only and to use the ATM before, this made me think there was no ATM on site so I traveled down the road to the convenient store to use their ATM. Be advised there is an ATM on site but it is accessible through the exit and you have to use it before you place your order. What we Ordered: 1. Fish & Chips 2. Coast side Calamari 3. Clam Chowder The food was amazing! The fish and chips were so fresh, the fish was large and flaky, the chips were steak fries and made to perfection. I really enjoyed the calamari and the chewiness mixed with the right amount of fried. My partner really enjoyed the clam chowder because it is made without milk, it tasted really fresh with a hint of celery. I personally prefer a New England style clam chowder, but this was definitely freshly made with great ingredients. The customer service was outstanding, the gentleman at the register was helpful. I requested extra tartar sauce from the lady who gave me my order and she was more than happy to give me extra. Ask for extra tartar sauce, it is so good! This place is conveniently located amongst breweries so you can always pop and grab a glass of wine or a ice cold beer to go along with your mea. If you decide to eat it out of the bed of your SUV like we did, or on the beach. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Coastside Calamari, Fresh Made Clam Chowder, Fish & Chips - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Amazing! Food, service and ambiance were ALL amazing. Sautéed scallops and artichoke tempura were melt in your mouth delicious!!

Yuck. Higher expectations after all the positive feed back. I was extremely disappointed. For starters they are not pet friendly. The food is extremely expensive. $32 for mussels. The mussels were nasty. They were slimy not springy. They were covered in fish oil and fish oil substance for dipping. We didn't eat it. Sickening. Very fishy. The clam chowder was yuck. It wasn't creamy but rather starchy. It came out looking like pea soup. Greenish in color, and thick like gel. Not cream. Didn't eat it. The fish was in small pieces and not crispy but more like the smooth beer batter. Nothing special at all. Booooooo.... The table bread was the best. Chewy and flavorful. The calamari was good. I liked that. The chowder in bread bowl is like $12 so that would attract those on a budget. That's it. Skip it. Not worth it. (We went across the street and the fish looked 10times better there.... I love the Britannia Arms fish n chips, so I guess I'll stick to The Brit. And Double D's in Los Gatos for mussels.) The lime pie was soso. I don't like coconut so it didn't really work for me. I didn't know lime pie had coconut... oh well. Sadly after waiting 1.5 hours we were sat at a little table which was missing a chair but the waitress was quick to get us one. The table was too small for our plates so we were crammed and felt rushed. The bill was over $100. read more

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Always love coming here to dine. Had the fish and chips which never disappoints. Portions are generous. Service was fast. It's a quaint little restaurant. Loved the decor with the fishnets and a beautiful view. Will always return here when visiting. read more

A local staple,everyone knows this place.I love the fish trap basket.I would highly recommend this place for people who are new to trying fried seafood,the kids love it very reasonable price,you can dine in or order at the window to.My family loves this place read more

Everything looked so good!! We got the Fishtrap tempura and the fish and chips which were so good and filling. The line gets long, but it is pretty quick the chef cooks like a G. There were people picnicking on the beach next to the place. We walked a little and sat on some rocks to look at the water and sea lions read more

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It's definitely busy. They have a to go set up pretty well set up, but the employee who took my order was pretty short with myself and every customer after. We got fish and chips, scallops and shrimp tempera, a bowl of clam chowder and some oysters everything to go because we had our dog so we ate in the car in the parking lot. They have a condiment station outside and just have the plastic silverware in bags and piles, same for the condiment cup holders and lids for anyone to grab, which just seems little gross. The fish and chips mybhusband said was terrible, my prawns and scallops were fairly good but obviously soggy from getting to go and them sitting covered (it happens with to go). Both of us didn't eat the fries, also soggy and zero salt or Seasoning. The soup was good. The oysters didn't come with a minionette which sort of sucked but did have horseradish and lemon and cocktail sauce. The oysters are also huge, and I'm sure some people do enjoy that but I prefer medium to small, and some large but these were gigantic and I had a hard time getting them down. About 4 hours after we ate I had some intense stomach cramps and vomited, I was sick the rest of the night with cramps but not much else thankfully. My husband ate everything I had eaten in the previous 24 hours except the oysters and tempera seafood so idk, I can't say it was for sure this meal, but it could have been. Overall not impressed and not good enough to warrant a dine experience next time we are around. It's sad since it's the highest rated seafood place in the area. read more

Super cute spot right on the water. No outside seating on the water unfortunately but nobody's perfect Friendly staff and there was a wait but not too long and the food came quickly after I was sat and ordered. I got the fish and coleslaw which said three pieces. I got four. Not complaining! I usually can't eat that much though but their batter and fish were so light, nothing was left. So good! Their tartar was on the sweet side and I prefer the tart/dill kind but even with that it was still so good and everyone has their own style. I'd go back and try the fish tacos and many many more things. Highly recommend. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap has perfect fish and chips. Light batter and fresh fish. it doesn't get better. we have eaten fish and chips from San Diego through Oregon and this place has some of the best. This restaurant sits right on the water for a perfect view. Feels like you are right on the dock. I recommend giving it a try. read more

Came here for lunch on a Thursday and ordered two Cajun fish sandwiches to go. While the price tags are steep, the portions are solid! We thoroughly enjoyed our sandwiches. While the service isn't necessarily super helpful/nice, they don't really have to be because this place is so popular! read more

Great taste and price.... There was a long line even before the place was open. Quick service and delicious food with a great view read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Mini fish trap, delicious - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

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i've been coming here with my family for as long as i can remember for some fresh and delicious seafood! sometimes we would drive from sj to half moon bay just to get an order of fish and chips! with a to-go window with quick service and a small shore right next to the shop, you can definitely grab some seafood and sit on the rocks for a casual meal! when my friends and i came here, we decided to sit indoors which was around a 45 minute wait on a sunday around 1pm. the shop was small but filled with ocean-inspired decorations making it such a cute spot! the waiters were friendly and they even had a parking lot dedicated to customers which was appreciated because of the lack of parking elsewhere:) -- -- -- pictured: " fish and chips ($15.95) // truly the best the bay has to offerwith soft and delicate rock fish coated in a light and crispy beer batter, every bite was heaven‍also came with some fries! " mini fishtrap tempura ($22.95) " sourdough bread bowl clam chowder ($10.95) -- -- -- if you're wanting some of the freshest seafood the bay has to offer, definitely give it a try! read more

Love them... it is pricey, they are always busy especially on the weekends but don't deter that away from trying them out. Staff is quick and efficient. The batter on the fish is always amazing. You can't go wrong when a lot of the food is fried, lol. And it isn't super greasy either. Clam chowder is really good; thick and creamy without too much cream compared to other places. I didn't take pictures this time around, but I'll be back. There is outdoor seating. People are always coming and going so don't be afraid to try and find a spot before even putting in an order. read more

There is a parking lot right across from this restaurant. It has a nice view of the water and seating in the back, by the water, seating in the front of the restaurant and outside. We ordered one item off the special which was a grilled shrimp with rice and tempura zucchini. It was delicious. We also ordered their fish fry mixture. It was fried cod and calamari with fries. The cod was very fresh and it all came out hot. The calamari was good but it would have been better crispier. It also comes with sauces. Most restaurants in this area are expensive. For lunch the shrimp dish was 26.00 and the tempura fish was 25.00. Not sure if it was worth the money but fun to try a new spot and a beautiful location near the water to take a walk before or after. read more

This place did not disappoint. Even with COVID going on this place was super busy and this was a weekday. Outside seating along the street was plentiful and there was plenty of parking across the street. We rode here on our bikes from our hotel and locked our bikes to the railing in front of the restaurant. People were very friendly and very careful with COVID cleaning. Lots of hand sanitizer stations and they clean the tables well after each customer. Everything comes to the table in a paper bag and tray and condiments are in a separate plastic bag with utensils. Everyone was wearing masks except when they were eating. We came hungry after biking and not eating breakfast. Portions were huge. I got the fish of the day sandwich and fries and the sandwich was very big and lots of steak fries. sandwich comes with lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, onions, hot sauce, vinegar and tarter sauce. The fries came with ketchup. The fish was rock cod. My wife got the fish and chips and it came with 4 large pieces of fish and steak fries. Both were really good. If you are really hungry get the fish sandwich. This place was really clean outside and you can tell they are very careful with the food and cleaning the tables. Definitely coming back here again. read more

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CORONA Update for this place. Yes still really busy, best time to go there is week days afternoon. There are an hour line for to go on weekends. Be aware and mask is mandatory to place an order. Thank you for serving us nice food still, but, cash only? Umm honey pay your taxes tho. I can smell something here. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Always a must when in Half Moon Bay! Barbara's Fishtrap has the best fish and chips, the fish is cooked perfectly and they are big pieces of fish. The clam chowder is also very delicious, served hot and fresh, also not as creamy so it brings out all the good flavors, I'm lactose so it was perfect! Lines are usually long especially on weekends but so worth it! read more

I have been wanting to try this place for a while but it is a bit of a far drive coming from the East Bay. It's hard to find a legit fish & chips spot in my area. I came here on a weekday and this place was busy but the lines moved pretty quickly. There was a parking lot across the street which was very convenient. There were markings on the floor to ensure that everyone was staying 6 ft apart. Orders were placed on one side and pick up was on the other. There were some outdoor seatings along the sidewalk too. We ordered fish & chips, corn fritters, and a cup of chowder. The foods were decently priced. However, this place is CASH ONLY so remember to bring cash but they do have an ATM machine if you need to use it. I had been to other places that their cods were dry and the batter were extremely thick. This place has nailed their fish & chips!! The cods were so delicious!! I would be coming here every week if I have lived closer!! The corn fritters and chowder were great too. I am so glad that I finally have came here!! I would love to come back to try other items on the menu! read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Holy yum!! This place is so delicious and SO kid friendly!! First the food- The fish and chips were by far the best we have ever had. I loved my scallops and the crab cakes were great. The only real miss for me was the thick potato like clam chowder. Next kid friendly- our server was a "grandma herself". Within moments of sitting down we had crackers for each of the kids to hold them over. Then they were given crayons and paper to color on. After that we were given water cups with lids and extra napkins. I appreciate how accommodating and just amazing our server was. Lastly the view- Inside and out this location is perfect. In their dining area there is water views and they are perfect. The ceiling has a net with fish, mermaids and other decorations. Overall it was absolutely amazing and we can't wait to come back! read more

We had fish n chips. The batter was plain and the fish was decent. The chips were over to burnt. Clam chowder was decent. The best was the service. Great service and so so food. read more

The food here is amazing! Had the clam chowder. Not creamy which was good but kinda missed that at the same time. Still I would eat and order it again. Also shared the fried calamari and fish with chips platter. Very good and would also order and eat it again. I will definitely come back when I'm in town again. read more

Barbara's Fishtrap - Fresh Made Clam Chowder - Seafood Near Me - Half Moon Bay, California

Yummy fish and chips and a nice view. The service is fast and the food came out quickly.

I visited this place recently. I ordered the "award winning" Fish & Chips. This was listed in a group of dishes which came with the customer's choice of one free side dish. I ordered the Coleslaw side but was charged for it, almost $7 if I remember correctly. The reason was that Fish & Chips already has French fries (chips) and as that was listed as one of the sides offered then any other side was extra. Surely then the entree should have been listed as "Fish" rather than "Fish & Chips". The food was OK, I don't see how it won an award. I had one beer and my total bill was about $50. Neither the food nor the ambiance/location justified that sort of price. The service wasn't bad. If you're looking for good seafood in this area then I would recommend The Ketch Harbor Pub. That has a great atmosphere, attentive and professional service and a wonderful menu. https://www.ketchhmb.com read more