Pacific Fish Center & Restaurant

Situated right at 131 Fishermans Wharf in scenic Redondo Beach, Pacific Fish Center & Restaurant offers a remarkable seafood dining experience that embodies the freshness and vibrancy of the ocean. This Korean seafood destination stands out for its exceptional selection of live and freshly prepared dishes, inviting seafood lovers to indulge in the authentic tastes of the sea with an East Asian twist.

The charm of Pacific Fish Center & Restaurant is immediately felt in its lively, no-frills atmosphere where the focus is purely on quality seafood. This is not a place for delicate dining rituals or endless interruptions — here, you're welcomed with straightforward hospitality and the freshest catch, often served live right to your table. The lively cracking of mallets on succulent crab legs and the clean, briny aroma of fresh oysters set the mood for an invigorating and honest ocean-to-table feast.

The menu is a treasure trove for those craving a memorable seafood adventure. Standouts include the Live Dungeness Crab, renowned for its sweet, tender meat that melts delightfully on the tongue, especially when dipped in their signature gochujang sauce — a spicy, fermented chili paste that elevates the flavor to sublime heights. The Live Lobster Sashimi offers a luxurious sashimi experience, fresh and delicate, while the Seasonal Large Sashimi Plate presents a vibrant assortment of the day’s finest catches, sliced with precision and artful balance.

For lovers of comforting warmth with a spicy kick, the Korean Spicy Fish Soup and the Chilean Sea Bass Spicy Soup deliver layered flavors with hearty seafood morsels swimming in rich, savory broth — a dish that stays with you long after the last spoonful. The Sashimi Salad refreshes the palate with crisp textures and bright flavors, balancing the heavier, more indulgent offerings. And don't miss the 생새우 머리튀겨줌 — fried shrimp heads that offer a crunchy, umami-packed treat highly praised by aficionados.

Beyond food, the experience here is about connection — connecting to the sea, to Korean culinary heritage, and to fellow diners sharing in these communal plates. While the interior is straightforward and practical, some diners do note its simplicity, with practical packaging and the sounds of crab cracking adding to the lively ambiance rather than detracting from it. For many, this genuine, bustling environment enhances the authenticity.

Michael Lee-Chang’s review perfectly captures the essence: if you want fresh, live or cooked seafood, this is the go-to spot, especially for those seeking a Korean dining experience without fuss. Gabriela Alfaro Eulogio appreciated the generous portions and quality service, making it clear that every visit promises a satisfying meal. Alyssa Kang’s vivid description of dipping crab meat into gochujang and mixing it with rice conveys just how deeply flavorful and satisfying this place can be. Even with some practical notes about interior and packaging, Liza Lim acknowledges the exceptional taste and variety, from spicy soups to live lobsters and crabs, with an affection for the lively ambiance. Jason T. Chun’s insights about seasonal pricing and fresh cooking method reassure guests of the consistent quality they can expect.

Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or simply eager to explore vibrant Korean-style seafood cuisine by the coast, Pacific Fish Center & Restaurant delivers an engaging, sensory feast that’s both heartfelt and unforgettable. It’s the kind of place where the freshness of the ocean meets bold flavors and generous hospitality, all served up with an unpretentious spirit that invites you to dive in and savor every bite.