Posted in Northern California Dining April 29, 2022 by

For The Best Clam Chowder Of Your Life, Head To This Hole-In-The-Wall Seafood Restaurant In Northern California

Here in Northern California, we take our seafood very seriously. That’s why we often head to hole-in-the-wall seafood restaurants to find some of the best seafood dishes in the state. That’s certainly the case with Barbara’s Fishtrap. This seafood restaurant is quite unassuming and doesn’t look like much, but it serves some of the best seafood around — especially its clam chowder.

Barbara’s Fishtrap is an oceanfront restaurant in Half Moon Bay. This restaurant opened its doors in 1971 and has been welcoming locals and tourists ever since.
Barbara's Fishtrap/Facebook
This restaurant certainly doesn’t have many frills and you may even pass it by if you weren’t looking for it. However, this restaurant is one place you don't want to miss. It overlooks the ocean and has spectacular beach views.
Judy S/Google
In fact, the atmosphere at Barbara's Fishtrap is just one reason you will want to sit down and enjoy a meal.
Otar Lezhava/Google
The other reason? The clam chowder! Many seafood lovers come to this restaurant to devour the beloved chowder. Some guests have even referred to it as the best clam chowder they’ve ever eaten.
David Rim/Google
You can order the clam chowder in a cup, bowl, or even in a Big O’ Bowl. We recommend enjoying it in a sourdough bread bowl for even more incredible flavor.
Michelle Cruz/Google
If you aren’t in the mood for a bowl of clam chowder, don’t worry! Barbara’s Fishtrap has quite an extensive menu with pasta, salads, and sandwiches.
Barbara's Fishtrap/Facebook
You won’t be disappointed with the fish and chips or even the Dungeness crab sandwich.
Steven Yin/Google
Regardless of what you order, you can be assured that your seafood will be served fresh. This seafood restaurant closes its kitchen at 3 p.m. for 30 minutes each day to change the oil in the fryers.
Don't forget to order a sweet treat like a slice of key lime pie or chocolate cake. Now, doesn’t that sound like the perfect meal?
Olivier Js/Google

Be aware that the hours at Barbara’s Fishtrap in Northern California are weather permitting. However, the restaurant will not close if there is a line. You can learn more about the current hours and view the full menu on its website.

Have you ever eaten at this seafood restaurant in Half Moon Bay? Did you try the clam chowder? We’d love to hear all about your experience in the comments!

After you have filled your stomach, how about going on a hike? Check out this mysterious woodland trail just south of Half Moon Bay that takes you to some pretty remarkable ruins.

Address: 281 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019, USA