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My friend and I chose this place because it sounded cool to eat on a barge. Our first view was the dirty water in the marina walking down ten dock to the restaurant. No a nice view. We get inside. We get seated. Look at the menus. Menu shows they had Diet Coke. My daughter and I both ordered one. When it arrived we both thought it tasted weird. I mention it to the server "that's because it's Coke Zero" Diet Coke and Coke Zero are not interchangeable, guests should be made aware of this especially when the menu says Diet Coke and that's what was asked for. Another note, fountain drinks only had one free refill. I ordered fish and chips, my daughter got the ham and grilled cheese sandwich with "fries", my friend ordered the clam chowder and her daughter got the shrimp basket. First, the "fries and chips" were not fries. They were potato wedges. Although potato wedges are fried potatoes they are not French fries. The fish part of my fish and chips wax good. The tartar sauce was sweet and that threw off my taste buds. My daughter and friend's daughter both enjoyed their orders. My friend said she'd give the clam chowder a 6/6.5. I tasted it. It wasn't bad, but tasted more bacon than clam. It was definitely an experience eating here. I forgot to mention when the check came it had a credit card fee on the check without knowing if I was paying with cash or card.
Located on an old barge the restaurant is small and well decorated the staff was very friendly and attentive. Food came quickly, was hot fresh and very flavorful. Chowder was full of clams, it was thick, rich and buttery. Cup $7, Bowl $10 well worth the drive to the marina.
First time here and definitely not our last. This place was so cute , the decor is very unique. Our server I believe her name was Victoria was very friendly and attentive:) very appreciated. My husband order a nice cold beer. Love that they have cold mugs. Hamburger was delicious. The clam chowder was hands down one of the best I've had. I had the chili cheese fries (not shown) yummmmy that chili has a spicy kick to it. Definitely will come back soon and bring our girls
I came to find some great chowder and I was a bit disappointed. The chowder taste like straight bacon. Don't get me wrong it was good but I was looking for clam chowder not bacon chowder. I also ordered the fish and chips and to make my chips extra crispy. I was a bit skeptical after tasting the chowder but the fish was juicy and fresh . The chips looks crunchy but were soggy with oil . I probably won't be coming back tbh. Staff was very friendly and service was quick
OMG His is what you dream of when you think about your local spot! So much fun! Tasty food and drinks. The chowder was amazing! Had the chowder burger, ridiculous! My wife had chowder and chili cheese fries, yum! Servers were great! The space was epic!
Found this by accident as we were looking for food in the area. What a cute floating restaurant. Don't let the "older" decor deter you from going, the food is delicious! It has a lot of a dive bar charm. It's in the boat dock. Friendly staff. I love the steam clam with garlic bread. It was their daily special.
Oh, how I wanted to rate this place higher but, there's good and bad. I always start with bad news first so, here goes... I ordered a bowl of clam chowder, and fish and chips. The "bowl" of clam chowder is served in a ceramic coffee CUP; I kid you not. (I'm guessing the "cup" of soup is served in a sewing thimble.) Anyway, an insufficient size for those looking forward to clam chowder, and a too-high price for the amount you get. The fish and chips was OK, but the fries were darker in-color than they should be. (Quite possibly due to frying oil not being replaced when it should be.) A definitely turn-off. Finally, there was the dreaded credit card surcharge. I'll continue to call-out those places that implement this very customer-unfriendly practice. Now, for the good. The atmosphere and service are terrific. It's a true barge, located in an area of boat docks. Location can be hard to find, but it's also hard to beat. Servers were friendly, and efficient; definitely the best part of The Chowder Barge. I'd love to come back again and again, just hope I can look past the negatives.
We made our way down to the marina to try the Chowder Barge. I'm from Seattle, where clam chowder is taken very seriously--it's a dish that's hard to get right and very easy to get wrong. Their clam chowder is delicious, but it isn't a traditional New England-style chowder. It's closer to a baked chowder, yet still incredibly flavorful and satisfying in its own way. I love places like this. The aesthetic is exactly what you'd hope for: gritty, vintage, and perfectly imperfect--a classic seafood dive right on the water. The staff was lovely, and the service was great. It's important to keep places like the Chowder Barge going. These unique, character-filled spots play an essential role in preserving culinary diversity.
First time here! This was the hubby choice, it was a pretty cool and a actual barge. Great for breakfast or date meal, it was interesting and different. Service was friendly, although she forgot to put our order in. She apologized and gave us a complimentary bowl of their award winning clam chowder to share Yummm! Accidents happen and we understand, Thank you for owning your mistake . We ordered the fisherman's plater fried fish, shrimp, clams and fries. It was delicious. We will definitely be back.
Cute old school spot. Didn't take a photo but get the off menu: chili and chowder. Didn't disappoint! The fisherman's platter was ok. Come for the ambiance and seafood. Service was great. Everyone including the chef was really awesome. Chowder burger is a must just at least one time.
This is such a fun and iconic place. I almost hate to review it, because I don't want it to get overrun with crowds! I came for lunch today. Of course, when a restaurant is named for a food, you have to order that item. I must say that this Clam Chowder may be the best I have ever eaten! So creamy and delicious, and loaded with clams. Super yummy!!! I added the dinner salad to round out the meal ( veggies you know). All of the staff are very friendly and welcoming. The service is prompt. The ambiance is one of the things that makes the barge so special....it jam packed with all kinds of nautical knickknacks....very fun to explore and look at all the interesting objects. A little out of the way, you can arrive by car or boat . But definitely go!!
Service cordial but you knew you weren't wanted there. Food not so good. Salmon was dry, overcooked. Garlic bread was burnt. The chowder "bread bowl" was not what it sounds. It was a plate with bread, chowder spooned on top. Ambiance was cozy and casual. My husband said chili cup has no flavor, chowder was bland. I came many years ago when it WAS good, I will not be returning.
If you're in the Long Beach area and want some daily made clam chowder, be sure to check this place out! It's tucked in a very unassuming industrial area. I thought we had wrong directions! It's near the docks and rail system that loads and unloads near the water. The barge a permanent structure and floats on water. Coming in to the restaurant we were greeted by friendly staff. After sitting, I got a good look around the place. Very cute. A lot of antique nautical stuff. Fun decor. As for the clam chowder,,,, Delicious! It was loaded with clams and was thick, not watery. I also got the one piece fish n chips. It was good especially with steak fries. I really could have just had the chowder since it was very filling. The menu isn't large, but enough to get your fill. If you're looking for good clam chowder, it's worth the hunt to find! It really is a hidden charm.
2 months ago
1 year ago
I've been here with my family a handful of times and it never disappoints this time around. I tried the fried fish sandwich and it did not disappoint. I find myself craving it every once in a while the clam chowder here is very delicious and if you I really hungry, you should really try the chowder burger although it looks a little funny it is so delicious. Everything here is pretty good fish and chips fried calamari, french fries onion rings nothing out of the ordinary, but everything is quality and you can't forget about the ice cold beer mugs. Those are a must. Their service here is always great and always on point. The charter barge is a nice indoor seating venue right on the water. It's very unique and a great place to visit. read more
2 years ago
Very cool nostalgic ambience. Popular amongst the locals. We visited tonight for dinner. Our first time here. Plenty of parking and signage to find the Barge. Such a cool vibe with all the boats around. We walked in and were greeted by friendly staff. Of course had to try the clam chowder it was delicious packed with hearty clams, creamy and flavorful. Husband had the salmon plate and we shared the mussels in a delicious buttery sauce. We had a fabulous dinner. read more
Don't let the building fool you. Yes, it's out of way. Yes, it looks a bit shaggy. HOWEVER, the food is solid. Honestly, I've heard about this place for years. I did a drive by a few years ago. And...I drove away. Big mistake. IF you enjoy New England style clam chowder, you can enjoy it here, EVERYDAY! Since my mother-in-law's fav soup is NE clam chowder, decided to venture here. Solid 5/5. We enjoyed the chowder, the namesake of the restaurant. Thick & creamy. Not overly "starchy". Notes of bacon flavor hit first. Nice sized pieces of clam meat & potato chunks. This is really good. If you name a restaurant after your clam chowder, hey it's gotta be good, right? So we split the fisherman's platter as well. Nice sized cod(?) filet, 3 crumb coated shrimp-maybe frozen(?), & several clam strips. Thick potato fries (frozen) & house-made tartar sauce & cocktail sauce. Very satisfying. Killer sauces and especially the cocktail sauce with a kick of horseradish. Finely diced veggies in a mayo based tartar sauce. Although much of this was frozen, it's prepared well, not greasy & served hot. Solid 3.5/5. Interiors have a "charming" heavy timber nautical vibe. Ample parking with railed ramps leading to the restaurant. Waitresses were friendly & quick to respond to requests. Food was delivered quickly. Will return since it's my MIL's fav soup. The chowder is VERY good. read more
7 months ago
1 year ago
Went here about a month ago with another couple. We had clam chowder and it was soooo good. I had fried shrimp with fries. Very good. And someone else had fish and chips. He said it was really good. The service was great. Our server was awesome. Prices were really good. Loved the inside of the place. But don't get the michellada. It was basically really cold beer. Over all we will definitely be back. read more
3 years ago
Whether it's for a date night or maybe you just simply have a craving for some good fish n chips, The Chowder Barge is your best bet! It's technically within the border of Wilmington and Long beach, hidden away within the industrial buildings in the area making it a great lowkey spot to dine. Not to mention the view is beautiful as it's located on a dock near a bunch of small boats making it a simple yet unique dining experience! The atmosphere is very cozy and cute inside, they have windows facing the water so you can gaze at the sunset while you dine. Regarding the service I have no complaints, our server that night was attentive and served our food and drinks to us in a timely manner. Onto the food, i've never had fish n chips before this night and I was honestly quite delighted with my meal. Steak fries were good, fish was nice and fresh and the tartar sauce paired well with my food. Not to mention they have alcohol as well! My boyfriend and I opted for a pitcher of beer while we enjoyed our meal. Affordable, lowkey and delicious?! I'll definitely be bringing my business back to this local establishment and I suggest you try it out as well. read more
This is in the most random location and hard to find, but the food was really good. The clam chowder was thick and creamy with great flavor. The fish was so crispy on the outside but cooked beautifully on the inside. Loved the seasoning on the fries, too. We sat outside because we had our dog, and their outdoor seating area could definitely be improved. read more
8 months ago
3 months ago
Food and service is amazing every time please check hours they do close early on slow days. Ambiance is cool because your on the water on a floating restaurant. Always look inside to find the new decor item always look for the long beach yacht club flag. Thanks to Chris from Henry Schein for introducing me here. read more
1 year ago
I love this place food was amazing and just realized it was on I know what you did last summer so cool ! only thing I was sad about is you have all them nice tables outside with a beautiful view how come you guys don't buy chairs so we could enjoy the outside dining? I came here to sit outside, but was forced to sit inside. Can you guys please get chairs? read more
Business owner information
Nyla O.
We have chairs out there now. It was just a few hours that we didn't,…
2 years ago
This was a delightful work lunch. The place is small and very cute. It gives off a we are an establishment with "regulars " vibe" and the food was so good that you want to be counted as a regular. The servers were excellent, and the decor made this rainy day all the more bearable. Its nautical theme is tasteful. It's kind of like the nautical theme version of the shabby chic design theme. The fire place is roasting skulls for crying out loud, y'all! The chowder was the best I've had in a long time( I recently bought some from Costco. - I was desperate! Don't judge!). The creamy was just the right creamy and there were actual clams overloading the chowder. The wings were a good table share along with the seafood sampler appetizer. I'll definitely be back, and it's worth the trip to experience this if you're in the area! read more
1 year ago
What a wonderful surprise. The journey there from Long Beach is lined through an industrial landscape and not very picturesque but once you arrive, everything changes. Plenty of parking available in a lot at the marina and begin your walk to the Barge. When you enter the Barge, the experience changes. I was greeted by the servers and told to sit wherever I wanted. The decor is all sea-fairing garb and it makes you feel like you're on a boat from olde. I ordered a cup of Chowder & the Fried Shrimp Boat which came with fries and Cole slaw. The Chowder was some of the best I've had in a long time. Plenty of clams and flavored with bacon. The shrimp were jumbo and fried crispy. I could taste the horseradish in the cocktail sauce, which I love. The Cole slaw was also tasty but I added lemon and black pepper to my liking. Despite the outside scenery, I will return for the food and great service. read more
3 years ago
Placed an order over the phone. It was ready pretty quickly. -Fisherman's platter. 3.5/5 -Fried cod fish sandwich and fries. 3.5/5 -Fried clams. Nice and crispy but didn't feel overly breaded. 4/5 -Double clam chowder. Clam chowder doesn't taste like your normal clam chowder. It was more potato-y. It was very flavorful though, and it was delicious with the fried clams. 4/5 -Tuna melt. Pepperjack and American. 3/5 -Fish and chips. Nice and crispy. Tartar sauce was good. 5/5 They charge a 3.5% fee for using a card. I wish they said something because I had cash. Overall, it was tasty, but it was also quite expensive. read more
1 year ago
2 years ago
We came in Saturday around 11am finding parking in the marina was a little difficult but we finally did! It was busy so we signed in and they had some seating outside so we waited like 10min Once we got seated our waitress came by immediately and she was super nice and friendly. It was my first time so I was amazed and looking around at everything on the walls. This place is really cool! We ordered 16oz clam chowder for us to share,the fisherman platter and a burger with a side of onion rings. The chowder came out first and OMGGGG it was absolutely delicious. Thicker than I've had it usually but omg it was so good! Honestly wish I hadn't ordered the burger bc I was so full after the chowder The portions are really big! The fisherman's platter was really good, it was perfectly crispy. The fish was soft on the inside, shrimps were really yummy and the clams were good too! (First timer here, trying fried clams!) The coleslaw was delicious. The burger was huge but I didn't even take a bite because I was so full decided to take it home. The patty looked juice and home made, but the onion rings my goodness They were freaking delicious. Decently priced, definitely worth it!! Looking forward to coming back! read more
6 months ago
The vibe is cool the food is great the service is good and outside view is so relaxing I will come back perfect for cold day read more
2 years ago
This place is really cool! Maybe I've watched too many movies, or tv shows, but eating here, I felt like a fisherman, just stopping by at a restaurant for some food after a long day. This is a cool, nautical themed, lowkey spot to get great clam chowder. You order food and chill; they even have a nice outdoor seating area. Overall, a really pleasant experience. read more
10 months ago
2 years ago
Stopped in here after a quick local soup search. And I'm so glad I did. The ambience is nice chill old school pirate vibes as the restaurant is on the water. The inside is clean and well kept. The food was amazing hands down best chowder I have ever had. But what made this visit so great is the service. Karley was my server and she is so on top of things. Always coming back to check on us. Quick With the refills and her recommendations were great. She's got a great personality and awesome smile best server I have had in a long time. Thanks Karley I'll definitely be back. 10/10 this is a must try you won't regret it. Don't forget to ask for Karley! read more
This review is going to be short and to the point. Clam chowder was creamy and delicious as usual. The Cod fish sandwich on brioche bun was good. The fish was piping hot and tasty, I would've preferred the fish to cover the entire bread verse just the middle half. I felt i ate half bun and half fish BUT it was good. Service was friendly and prices were fair. read more
2 years ago
Nice staff. Good food. Laid back ambiance. Huge beers. I would go back and recommend everyone check it out. read more
1 year ago
Great ambiance with a fun nautical theme. Beer was ice cold. Services was great and most importantly, the food was excellent. Very tasty and fresh. read more
3 years ago
Really love this place. The chowder is awesome, and super rich. Onion rings are great. And the beer is *cold*! You are most definitely on a barge. Lots of nautical or tiki related kitsch but it all adds to the ambiance. Service can be a little spotty if they are busy but still attentive. The barge lists slightly so after a Captain's Pacifico stumbling seemed "normal". At least that's the story I'm sticking too...! read more
Checked this spot off the list and it surely didn't disappoint. As a first timer, the clam chowder is a must. For the full experience, it's all about it being served in a bread bowl. Ok, it's huge and the bread is swimming in a bowl of chowder. Yes!!! Not only a unique presentation, but from first bite, I was sold. One of the best (maybe the best) clam chowder I've ever had. Just for variety, we also shared a basket of fish. When it comes to fried fish, this is the spot. Perfectly crisp outside, but overall very light batter, and buttery soft fish inside, yum. Served with fries and coleslaw plus dipping sauce. It was so much food, but leftovers heated up nicely. Located on the water, it's very unique. Kinda hidden and hard to find, but GPS nailed the location. Free parking a major plus. Service was great. Felt like we had a the staff helping us at one point. Definitely returning here. It can get very crowded with over an hour wait. Plan accordingly! read more
2 years ago
If you're in the mood for some clam chowder ... the Chowder Barge is a must try! The location is very cool located at one of the marinas near the ports. The place is filled with mostly locals and workers from the port. Service is prompt And friendly and did I mentioned the chowder bowl is filled with clams ! The grilled cheese on sourdough was on point and definitely compliments the chowder bowl ... I opted for grilled cheese instead of bread bowl , so I'll have to try bread bowl next time ! The ambiance is very fitting of the location Next time I'll try the bread bowl read more
What a cute little restaurant this is! I walked in and was so surprised by the decor! I loved it! It's a very small restaurant but big enough. You also have an option to eat outside but it was too hot for me. Food here was so delicious! The server was so nice and attentive! Our food was served within 10 minutes. Which I was glad because we were hungry. I will be coming here regularly! read more
1 year ago
Let's start with the location, it's in the Wilmington area, kinda unassuming working area. It's literally a barge and the dock and ramp to the entrance rocks a lot. No biggie, it can add to the charm, but if you're not steady on your feet bring a friend, walker or cane. We went on a Sunday and had to wait on the dock in the SUN . It was not comfortable. Once we went in we were seated next to a fan which was nice. The busgirl was so nice she was all over so no unbussed tables which is nice. The decor was really cute, what you want from a floating restaurant. The bar was central, seating is limited and it's busy. Wait staff was good, however do expect to wait for your food. Kitchen is small. The chowder was good. It was everything you want from chowder and well priced. We ordered chili fries, fish n chips, fried clams and salad. The fried fish was good, but the tartar sauce was nasty, the fried foods were yucky. Everything tasted the same with an old oily after taste. The cocktail sauce had way too much horseradish and also not appetizing at all. My daughter did not like the chili fries and said not even ketchup could fix it. Salad was ok. Overall, I don't understand the hype about the food. It's about the ambiance. If you haven't had the experience, I think you should, but if you're looking for fabulous food it might not be that great. read more
Business owner information
Nyla O.
We are a barge, hence the name. As such, we can only hold so many…
Got BLOAT on the FLOAT! ...by the BOAT! Work brought me to the Port of Long Beach, and this floating restaurant was nearby for lunch. It was a little difficult to find at first, since you drive through industrial streets + railroads and not through shopping/restaurant/commercial areas, but we eventually followed a sign to take us down by the water. Standard fast food. We ordered fish and chips, and you can pick how many fish you want in your dish. Felt a tad pricey so we opted to one fish, BUT it came out like potatoes with a side of fish LOL Next time I'd opt for two fish to balance out the ratio. Even though it was toasty outside... I HAD to try the chowder for the name. It was a little too thick & chunky for my taste, but overall the food got me nice and bloat.. (and pst pst a lil zzz food coma before returning to work LOL) Fun atmosphere and cool decor. Restaurant was a bit warm, even with fans. We ate around noon and folks around us were already enjoying nice cool beers :) Service was chill, friendly, and quick. Overall, I liked the boat and water view for a unique experience! read more
1 year ago
11 months ago
Updated review from today; Monday, 10/13: Took my mom here for lunch today and had the grumpiest, most unfriendly, straight out rude waitress ( think soup nazi from seinfield). Older, dark hair, thin, never told us her name, and seriously ruined our visit. The food was awesome, as usual, and we also got a meal to go, but the waitress ruined the whole time for us. She didn't even crack a smile or say thank you when I handed her the tip... just miserable. Service makes a difference, folks!!! read more
11 months ago
This restaurant is so fun! The building is actually on the water and the decor inside makes you want to look in every corner! Our server was so helpful. Our drinks were refilled immediately and our food arrived hot, fresh and fantastic. 10/10 would come back! read more
5-stars for being LA's only floating (and cool!) restaurant! The Chowder Barge is definitely off the beaten path in a tucked away dock in Wilmington. When you make your way on board, you'll sway a bit and hear the creaking wood beneath you, but the barge seems pretty darn sturdy! It's super casual...think, funky sailor's diner on a fishing boat. You'll get a kick out of the eclectic maritime decor and photos. Everything I've had here has been delicious: Triple Chowder - fried clams in a bread bowl with clam chowder Steamed Mussels- 1 lb. cooked in a yummy, buttery white wine sauce with garlic bread Seafood Platter - fried calamari, fried clams and breaded fried shrimp I wouldn't come here if you're looking for healthy and light, although they do have salads. They're just not as fun as all the fried and smothered dishes! Plenty of parking, great service, and surprisingly no long waits to be seated! read more
11 months ago
8 months ago
1 year ago
Super chill place Love the decor different than any other restaurant settingyou would go to. definitely a must-go I highly recommend you try the triple clam chowder! read more
More info about The Chowder Barge
611 N Henry Ford Ave
Wilmington, CA 90744
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(310) 830-7937
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http://www.thechowderbarge.com
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Ask the Community - The Chowder Barge
Looking to dine in August on a Sunday. Are reservations taken?
No reservation system but probably not an issue.
Is the veggie burger vegan? Is it homemade? I am allergic to beyond and impossible brands. Thank you?
No. The fries perhaps (fried in same oil as fish, etc), but no. They have a bar though. That looked…
How's the parking? Is there room for a larger van? Valet or lot or street parking?
There is an open parking lot. No valet. Saw some vans there.
Do you guys sell like a party size chowder like for the holidays?
A quart is our largest.
Is it truly wheelchair accessible? Would a person confined to wheelchair be able to get across the parking lot and up the entrance ramp?
We are accessible. However, depending on the tide, it's tougher when it's low.
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The Chowder Barge - seafood - Updated August 2026
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