Ada’s Fish House – Coastal Cuisine in a Casual Setting

If you live in or have visited Pismo Beach then you have been to Rosa’s Ristorante Italiano. This cornerstone of the city restaurant scene has been at the southern entrance of Pismo for 30 years. Chef Doug MacMillan’s parents opened the restaurant – a homage to his mother, Rosa, who was born in Bonito, Italy. Why do I open with all of this information about Rosa’s when I am supposed to be talking about the new hot spot Ada’s Fish House? Well, Chef Doug has tipped his hat to his father’s East Coast heritage in this latest addition to the family business – a New England take on seafood.

Kitty corner to Rosa’s Ristorante Italiano, Ada’s Fish House gives a spin on what you might say Pismo has had in abundance for years – fresh seafood. However, visitors and locals alike have developed a taste for something that goes beyond your average Fish and Chips – but won’t break the bank. Ada’s has answered that call.

Daily specials showcase the local fresh-caught fare, like the salmon I had on my first and second visit. Also on the menu, delectable items like Sand Dabs – a mild fish – expertly pan sautéed in lemon, wine and capers. The scallops are delicious, cooked perfectly in a lemon and white wine butter sauce. Even though the menu similar to other California Seafood Restaurants featuring New England dishes – steamers, lobster rolls, and key lime pie to name just three, the care and attention to each dish brings your taste-buds to the East Coast.

A highlight, of course, are the local oysters from Morro Bay prepared light and fresh with choices of traditional cocktail sauce and horse radish or mignonette. Don’t forget to try the Lobster Roll served on a traditional New England roll buttered or dressed. If you’ve never had one you are definitely in for a treat. If Lobster Rolls are your favorite, you will not be disappointed!

Don’t miss the full bar, including craft-made cocktails, local beer and wine. If you come for Happy Hour there is plenty of seating and specials to enjoy.

Doug’s wife, Shannon, has done an expert job with the décor, keeping it simple, fresh and modern. You’ll feel welcome and enjoy more than the food with the large format photos on the walls, beautiful fish basket lights hanging from the ceiling, and a view to the kitchen with plenty of bar seating.

This has already been added to our family’s favorite restaurant rotation. We can tell with each visit that everyone around us feels the same – stop in and try for yourself — we can assure you that it won’t be your last visit.