Ventura Restaurants

What makes this coffeehouse rather unique is the surroundings. This does not have the typical sterile Starbucks surrounding. In here, comfortable couches are surrounded by antiques and unique art. Very laidback vibe, where you can sit inside or out. A nice variety of people here, not your typical wannabe writer with a bitter look and a labtop.

Love me some Dargans- great place to stop in and grab some Guiness. This place has quite a heartbeat on the weekends, I'd almost classify this under nightlife in Ventura because the crowd gets decent in here at times!

Favorite Dish: I'vve never eaten food in here, but I can recommen the Guiness or a nice Black and Tan

"Horrible ambience (lighting, acoustics) made it impossible to read the menu easily or to have a simple conversation over "dinner". Most disconcerting and disappointing of all, the service was atrocious! I had to ask for a specific item 3 times...and STILL the server NEVER brought me the item! The food was just average...definitely nothing to rave about. Make sure, if you MUST eat there, that you double check your bill. I will NEVER eat there again, and will be proactive in dissuading anyone who asks my opinion. I eat out often, and have eaten Italian food all my life. This place is an INSULT!"

This walk-up Mexican food place is the best around. There are a few tables outside for you to sit and enjoy the beach weather. I know people from all around come into town and Corrales is the first place they hit!

Favorite Dish: Bean Rice and Cheese Burrito and taquitos

Cafe Zack is my absolute favorite place to dine in Ventura. It is a nice restaurant, so I find that we only go there for special occasions but each time Ive gone has been perfect. It is located in what seems to be an old house so it is very small and you would hardly notice it if driving by.

The dress is fairly casual (although, I wouldnt stroll in from a day at the beach without changing first-but you definitely dont have to get all dolled up). The waitstaff is always the same and so kind!

Defiantly a must try when you are in town!

Favorite Dish: They have a menu that always includes fresh scallops, steak, roasted chicken, etc. However, I always try to get something from their daily specials menu and have never been disappointed. Everything on the menu is incredible!

Their Brie baked in a puff pastery appetizer is a must try!

Also, if you like mussels-their scallop and mussel dish is amazing-but is a bit spicy so be ready for that!

An institution in town and located on the Northwest corner of Main Street and Palm is the TOP HAT. The building itself, described as an "8 by 22 foot shack" has been there since the 40's. Established in 1966, owner Charlotte Bell has fed generations with her "greasy grub" which includes their famous chili cheese dogs, double cheeseburgers and fries which you can also have covered in chili. Not surprisingly the locals have an emotional attachment to the joint. I thought it was so cute and nostalgic. Bought a large root beer for $1.30. Folks were lined up to order their favourite dogs or burger.

Scotch and Sirloin was chosen as the site for my company Christmas party. As with any large group, a few times the service lagged a bit, but overall they did a very good job keeping up with some of my co-workers demands. The food here was very good, very filling, and I'm sure many trips to the elliptical in the gym were due to my one afternoon here. Scotch and Sirloin serves only dinner, so unless you pre-book for a large lunch party, make reservations for after 4PM. Very good food with great waterfront dining!

Favorite Dish: The Onion Rings were HUGE and delicious, as was the sirloin and the cheesecake.

Eric Erickson's Fish Co. has a perfect location on the Ventura Pier that provides a priceless addition to any plate you order. I had the Ahi-Tuna and the meal wasn't to die for, but the company at the bar and the ocean waves and Pacific view while I ate made up for it. I came back to this place for drinks at sunset a few times, while not recommended for the best food, it does have the best view in Ventura.

Favorite Dish: The Black and Tan lol