If you are visiting Catalina or have recently moved to the community, then you will be interested to know where the best restaurants are located. Let’s start by saying that the food here is highly diversified. Despite being an “exotic” island, Santa Catalina is very close to the West Coast. Therefore, you can expect to see all your favorites like Taco Bell, KFC and McDonalds. (But hey, you could probably find McDonald’s in the Congo) Coney Island West at the Metropole Marketplace is a better quality joint that still serves up fast food.
Instead of spending your money on fast food, why not visit some real dining delights? If you want Mexican food, then check out Mi Casita on Claressa and Coyote Joe’s on Catalina Avenue. If the scenic view is the most important feature, then you can’t go wrong with Busy Bee, as it gives you not only a view of the bay but also of the nearby casino. Coney Island West at the Metropolis Marketplace also offers a nice view with pigeon friends walking by looking for crumbs.
Channel House is an elegant restaurant, decorated with crystal and candlelight. Channel House serves German food, steaks as well as gourmet quality desserts. If you are in the mood for Italian food, then check out Ristorante Villa Portofino. This establishment is open all year round and offers a cocktail bar, and Northern Italian style fishes. The Prego is also very atmospheric and delicious. The Blue Parrot offers something different, American food with a Caribbean style. The Descanso Beach Club offers a unique experience, since it lets guests cook their own barbecue.
Even if you head out of town, you can still find restaurants and local eateries to keep you full and happy. The Buffalo Nickel serves food at the heliport in Pebbly Beach. This is your chance to sample real buffalo chili and buffalo steaks! If you are heading out to Two Harbors then look for a good meal at Doug’s Harbor Reef. Finally, keep your sweet tooth aching with delicious sweets and desserts from CC Gallaghers, the Sweet Shoppe, Big Olafs and Lloyd’s. Lloyd’s lets you watch taffy being made before you eat it!
Come taste the magnificent island of Catalina!
