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    The Fish House Cafe

    4.3 (359 reviews)
    ModerateSeafood
    Closed 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

    The Fish House Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    THE FISH HOUSE CAFE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Divey
    Dogs allowed
    Good for kids

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    Recommended Reviews - The Fish House Cafe

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    Andrea M.

    Ambiance is great for Tacoma Hilltop culture and diversity. Easy to locate street parking. Friendly customer service food is good but previously frozen nothing fresh but as soon as you walk in the grease smell is so overwhelming. The food is very greasy personally I'd question how often the grease is switched out. But if you have a good stomach to overlook the grease and a nose to handle the heavily burnt grease smell. Enjoy the food it's decent and not bad at all. Personally I'm calling it safe with the lemon cake my stomach can't handle all that grease. Maybe when I was younger but no gallbladder later my tummy ain't having it.

    Menu
    Fred W.

    The food here is incredible! If you are looking for good food at decent prices, you have found it here. They have multiple fish and chicken plates. However, they also do a fantastic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. There are a variety of dishes for you to choose from. I normally get a combination of their catfish, wings, and shrimp. All of their items are cooked to order. The food is fresh and hot. Additionally, they are really nice people. The service is always outstanding. They help the elderly and the disabled. The ambience is kinda cool. There are no tables. It is strictly takeout. There is always something good to eat here. It does get busy at lunch, and they do close in the early afternoon. So, it's best to be there when they open or just after the lunch rush. Enjoy this little gem steeped in the history of The Hilltop neighborhood.

    Fish and chips
    Anthony V.

    This is a hidden gem. It's been around since the 80's. I got the fish and chips and let me tell it's the sh*#. Generous portions and breaded and seasoned perfectly. The service was great. The young lady that greated me was very friendly and smiling. The building is small with limited parking but that's fine. Inside it's just great with photos on the walls of people from the neighborhood. Groing up in the Hilltop I recognized several faces. Do yourself a favor and stop in to enjoy some great food and support a black owned business. You can't go wrong.

    Alaskan whitefish in Cajun light batter and seasoned crinkle fries.
    Jim B.

    The Alaskan whitefish was primed in Cajun spices and served up as were the last to order. Authentic food with a light, flavorful coating and I was in heaven. A little spicy for some maybe bilat just right for me. Recently reopened I have been trying to remember they were just at the top end of the Tacoma Trolley line on MLK Jr way and finally slid in just under the wire. Ordered up fish for me and okra on the side. I'm going to get the Philly cheesesteak next time if I can convince myself not to get fish again. Only a few blocks from home, it was a reasonable dinner investment.

    Ordered fish and chicken wings.

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    1 month ago

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    3 months ago

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    28 days ago

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    7 months ago

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    8 months ago

    I always come back to this black-owned business. I love the decor, but the seafood is why we are here. Good food, great people!

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    11 months ago

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    11 months ago

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    2 months ago

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    3 months ago

    I used to go here regularly. It's affordable and flavorful. The vibes are chill and they got a good menu.

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    7 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    8 months ago

    The food is delicious. I have been eating here for 15 years. It only gets better with time.

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    1 year ago

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    1 year ago

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    6 months ago

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    7 months ago

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    1 year ago

    Parking sucks, not a place to sit down and eat. Pricey for fish and chips. Not any better than others here.

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    3 months ago

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    9 months ago

    Food was good but a little high priced but good must try the turkey leg stuffed and seafood with the fish and shrimp fried

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    10 months ago

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    5 months ago

    Great service and some great food! try there number 8. Comes with fish and shrimp also a side of fries taste wonderful.

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    1 year ago

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    11 months ago

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    10 months ago

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    10 months ago

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    2 months ago

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    10 months ago

    Food is amazing great customer service too. Awesome banana pudding with big portions of food!

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    1 year ago

    The food is quality! They take pride in their craft and it shows. 10/10 my fav local spot!

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    1 year ago

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    6 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    8 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    10 months ago

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    5 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    I am a regular customer and noticed that they have been closed since Memorial Day; are they permanently closed?

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    Page 1 of 9

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    The Fish Peddler - Seafood stew - cioppino

    The Fish Peddler

    4.1(914 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$

    My little brother wanted to come here for his birthday and he wanted our dogs to partake in his…read morebirthday festivities so we called to ask if the patio was open that day and luckily it was! We arrived around 4:30-40ish on a Sunday and we were seated quickly at the patio. They had plenty of seating in the patio and even had umbrellas in case the sun was too much. Luckily it was the perfect weather with a nice little breeze. The hostess offered us waters for our dogs and even asked if they needed one or two bowls. We opted for two bowls just in case as our male dog drinks a lot. We love that the menu was concise and that they had their specials on a little display on the table. I decided that I wanted to try out more of the menu and orders a strawberry lemonade, steamed clams, Bang Bang shrimp, bowl of clam chowder and a S'mores cheesecake to share with everyone. For the entrees, we ordered two of the smoked seafood fettuccine, kickin' chicken burger, and the Connecticut lobster roll. It did take some time for our entrees to arrive so I'm glad I bought the appetizers as we were hungry. However, the drinks were all refreshing and the food was perfectly seasoned and cooked. My only gripe is that the coleslaw was a bit off for me but at least I know to get fries or another substitute. The cheesecake was also a good size and I love that they toasted the marshmallows. Everyone, including the birthday boy left full and satisfied. I also was able to use their new Toast reward system with no issues. Our server Dallas was very professional and friendly with us. She would check in at appropriate times despite how busy the patio was getting. She even handled an extremely rude and entitled guest with precise professionalism.

    I had such a good experience at The Fish Peddler that I came back two days in a row! The staff were…read moreextremely friendly, attentive, and made both visits really enjoyable. On day one, I had the blackened mahi mahi, which had a ton of flavor. I especially loved the pineapple salsa that came with it--it was a great complement to the fish. On day two, I went with the coconut prawns and was honestly surprised by how flavorful they were. Given the price point, I wasn't expecting to be blown away, but they were really good and definitely exceeded my expectations. Fries were a tad soggy. Great service, flavorful food, and a place I'd happily come back to again.

    Photos
    The Fish Peddler
    The Fish Peddler - Clams

    Clams

    The Fish Peddler

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    Lobster Shop - French onion soup

    Lobster Shop

    3.8(1.1k reviews)
    3.5 mi
    $$$

    The Lobster Shop is such a great spot for waterfront dining in Tacoma. It feels like an elevated…read moredining experience without being stuffy, and the views are fantastic. Easy parking is always a huge plus, and there is plenty of seating both outside over the water and inside with beautiful views. We started with the calamari and French onion soup, and both were excellent. The appetizers were actually some of my favorite things we ordered! They had bay shrimp available as part of a salad, but my husband was really craving a shrimp cocktail. The chef was happy to accommodate the request, and my husband was so happy! The shrimp were incredibly fresh and delicious. We also tried the scallop special and the halibut, and both were very good. The bar is extensive, and they were happy to make us a few off-menu drinks, which we really appreciated. A wonderful experience with great food, beautiful waterfront views, excellent service, and a really nice atmosphere. Definitely a place we'll be back to!

    I have lived in Tacoma almost all my life and for whatever reason, it took me this long to finally…read moretry the Lobster Shop. I will get right to it. The restaurant itself if beautiful and has wonderful views! Such a perfect spot for Summer Happy Hour. Everything we ordered was absolutely delicious! The portions are just right and the flavors and quality are outstanding! I couldn't wait to leave just so we could come back again! I would also like to mention (I wish I could remember her name), our waitress was so knowledgeable and helpful! Obviously we wanted to try a little bit of everything and she definitely steered us in the right direction. I will be coming back over and over again!

    Photos
    Lobster Shop - Dining area

    Dining area

    Lobster Shop - Connecticut Lobster Roll

    Connecticut Lobster Roll

    Lobster Shop

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    Crab and More - Jumbo Snow Crab

    Crab and More

    4.5(128 reviews)
    8.2 mi
    Locally owned & operated
    Family-owned & operated

    My wife and I have dined at Crab & More many times, and we have been impressed every time we visit…read more Katrina assisted us while we waited to be seated and was incredibly friendly and attentive. Throughout the evening, she checked on us several times to make sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed. Her warm hospitality made us feel right at home. The food is absolutely fantastic. We love the seafood fried rice, which is packed with flavor, and one of our favorite dishes is the crawfish boil with head-on shrimp, tossed in the 2-star house sauce. The spice level is just right, and the lemon pepper adds a delicious kick. Since our first visit, we have returned many times and have also ordered takeout on numerous occasions. Every meal has been consistently fresh, flavorful, and satisfying. Crab & More has quickly become one of our favorite seafood spots. The prices vary depending on what you order. The seafood fried rice is around $20 and is a great value. When we go all out and order a four-item seafood boil, it can be around $225 for two people. Dungeness crab is currently around $65 per pound, while snow crab and king crab are typically more expensive. Even with the higher cost of premium seafood, the quality, portions, flavors, and service make it worth the visit.

    Pricey, first and last time here because of it more so cuz I was missing part of what I said for…read more Thankfully prices on seafood varies depending on the market! Fingers crossed it goes down! I loved that I was quickly created and offered tiny samples of the sauce to try since I'd never been here before. Came midday on a Friday and it wasn't busy! Multiple TVs with sports, current music playing (not too loud, enough to drown others conversations!). Greatful for the sauce on the side for my to go order! Love how the sausage is sliced so it holds the flavors! After coming home with my order I noticed 2/3 of a leg and claw never made it in my order- very disappointed. Not sure what happened there. Worth the cash if you get your full meal and can afford $100 per person.

    Photos
    Crab and More - Shrimp Cocktail

    Shrimp Cocktail

    Crab and More - New Fried rice

    New Fried rice

    Crab and More - Seafood boil

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    Seafood boil

    WildFin American Grill - My husband got fish and chips, surprise, surprise.

    WildFin American Grill

    3.4(1.2k reviews)
    4.6 mi
    $$

    Full disclosure: we went to this restaurant because it's the favorite of the person whose birthday…read morewe were celebrating. We knew it wasn't going to be "our thing". There was nothing on the menu that was vegan aside from (maybe) a green salad. That made things difficult for me, but I made do. My daughter who is a young teenager, ordered off the children's menu because none of the fancier meals appealed to her. She thoroughly enjoyed her seasonal fruit. However, that spaghetti was not typical spaghetti marinara--and she did not enjoy it. I think she took about three bites before giving up. On the other hand, the birthday girl ordered the fish tacos and loved them. It was clear she really really enjoyed them. The waiter was quite nice and it was a beautiful day to sit out on the patio. The location really can't be beat. I recommend surveying the menu and making certain that you can find something you'll enjoy prior to heading to the restaurant. It's definitely a nice place. It's just that its food might appeal to some much more than others.

    We stopped at WildFin American Grill on a Sunday while exploring Point Ruston in Tacoma, and we…read morewere able to get a table right away. We were super hungry, and thankfully the food absolutely hit the spot! I ordered the Grilled Chicken & Beet Salad, and the combination was SO good. The dressing, marinated kale, beets, pepitas, and grilled chicken all worked perfectly together. It was fresh, flavorful, and filling without feeling heavy. My husband had the Grilled Romaine Steak Salad. It was our first time trying grilled lettuce, and we were pleasantly surprised by how good it was! Definitely not your typical salad. I also really liked their kids' menu. My daughter's meal came with a fruit cup and ice cream, which was such a nice touch for families. We were seated outside with a beautiful view of the water, which made the whole lunch even better. Between the waterfront setting and how much we enjoyed our dishes, I'm genuinely surprised this place isn't rated higher. We had a great experience and would happily come back when we're in Point Ruston again!

    Photos
    WildFin American Grill - Restroom

    Restroom

    WildFin American Grill - I got the Pacific Northwest Pasta

    I got the Pacific Northwest Pasta

    WildFin American Grill - Smoked Salmon Dip

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    Smoked Salmon Dip

    Harbor Lights - Bar Flowers...Nice.

    Harbor Lights

    3.4(560 reviews)
    2.7 mi
    $$

    I love the $35 dollar deal! Great bang for your buck. Great quality. Seasoned well. Absolutely…read moredelicious. Shout out SCOTT for being the best server we have had to date!!!! He went above and beyond. Can't wait to come back!

    I've been coming to Harbor Lights for years--mainly for what used to be my all-time favorite shrimp…read morecocktail and to check out their special fruit drinks. Today was supposed to be a quick, light stop after work: shrimp cocktail, a couple drinks, and some time in the old Harbor Lights bar. Walking in, I was immediately reminded of one of my biggest frustrations with this space. Yes, it's small--but the outdated tables and chairs make it far too easy for people to block the walkways. And when those walkways are filled with loud, inappropriate, "stuck-in-1976" commentary from intoxicated older men acting like they're still in their 20s, it makes navigating the room even more uncomfortable. At one point, we were stuck sitting there listening to them loudly joke about having female urologists and proctologists--one word: GROSS. Speaking up doesn't feel like a safe or worthwhile option--it just escalates things. The bar could absolutely keep its charm while still evolving into a more comfortable, modern, and inclusive space. Then there's the menu situation--multiple menus stacked in front of you like a paper shuffle. It's unnecessary and could easily be streamlined. Now, the drinks... this is where things really fell off. Harbor Lights used to be known for strong drinks--that reputation feels long gone. I ordered a vodka-based drink and it went down like juice--no taste, no kick, nothing. When I asked for a double on the second round, the bartender laughed and said all their drinks are doubles and that they don't measure, claiming there was 2 1/2 oz of liquor in it. We watched him make it: no measuring, just a free pour over ice, stopping well short of the top, then filling it with rhubarb-strawberry purée. When it arrived, it felt more dropped on the table than served. I gave it a fair shot--a big sip--and again... no vodka taste whatsoever. No burn, no effect. I know my liquor, and this didn't add up. It really makes you question what's actually being poured. And then... the shrimp cocktail. How do you mess this up? This was the one thing I could always count on. It's always been unique and consistently good--but this time? Way too much horseradish. Completely threw off the balance. I still ate it, but it was not the same experience at all. Overall, this visit was disappointing. Between the uncomfortable atmosphere, lackluster drinks, and a once-reliable favorite falling short, Harbor Lights just isn't what it used to be.

    Photos
    Harbor Lights
    Harbor Lights - Manila Clams $15 HH Price!

    Manila Clams $15 HH Price!

    Harbor Lights - Very generous pour of their house white, and Alaskan Amber. $5.5 each HH price!

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    Very generous pour of their house white, and Alaskan Amber. $5.5 each HH price!

    The Fish House Cafe - seafood - Updated September 2026

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