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Seafood restaurant in Half Moon Bay, California
What should I order at Barbara's Fishtrap?
What to order
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Clam Chowder
Frequently praised for its fresh, tasty, and unique non-dairy base that intensifies clam flavor and creates a rich texture. Multiple reviewers call it a must-try and the best they've had.
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Scallops Tempura
Highly recommended by several reviewers who highlight the scallops as the best tempura item, noting their incredible flavor and quality.
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Barbara's Fish Trap (Large Plate)
Mentioned as a fantastic dish that offers a good variety and large portions, making it ideal for sharing. It is considered the signature dish of the restaurant.
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4
Fish and Chips
Frequently enjoyed for its fresh, crispy fish and generous portions. Reviewers liked the quality and taste, often accompanied by well-made steak fries and tartar sauce.
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5
Seafood Pasta Combo Italiano
Recommended for its flavorful combination of seafood in a wine, garlic, herb, and butter sauce, praised for good portion size and taste.
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6
Crab Sandwich
Mentioned positively for its freshness and quality, alongside other seafood favorites.
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7
Ceviche
Called the best by a reviewer, noted for the perfect balance of onions and cilantro and served with pita chips.
Details
Hours
| Monday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 8:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 8:30 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 9 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 9 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 3 PM, 4 to 8:30 PM |
About Barbara's Fishtrap
Fish shack serving seafood standards in a no-frills spot overlooking Half Moon Bay.
Amenities
From the business
- Identifies as women-owned
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Historic
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Tourists
Planning
- Usually a wait
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Paid parking lot
- Paid street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked
What is Barbara's Fishtrap known for?
Barbara's Fishtrap is best known for fish and chips and clam chowder, especially the clam chowder bread bowl. Reviewers also call out the tempura-battered seafood, including scallops, fish, shrimp, and calamari, as a signature part of the menu.
What dishes are most recommended at Barbara's Fishtrap?
The most recommended items are the fish and chips, clam chowder in a bread bowl, scallops tempura, and calamari. Reviewers also mention the large fish trap, oysters, ceviche with pita chips, and a crab sandwich as standout orders.
What is the atmosphere like at Barbara's Fishtrap?
The vibe is casual, cozy, and historic, with a beach and harbor setting that works well for groups, families, tourists, and solo diners. People often mention eating at outdoor tables or picnic tables with an ocean or harbor view, which gives it a simple fish-shack feel rather than a polished dining room.
Is Barbara's Fishtrap good value, and what is the price range?
The price range is $20 to $30, and many reviewers say the portions are generous or shareable, which helps the value. A few note that some dishes, like the large fish trap or fish and chips, can easily feed two people, though one reviewer felt the oyster tempura sandwich was not worth the price for only three oysters.
How long is the wait at Barbara's Fishtrap?
A wait is common, especially at busy meal times, but reviewers say the line usually moves fast and food comes out quickly once ordered. Several people mention arriving near opening time to get a table, so early lunch or an off-peak visit is the best bet if you want to avoid the longest wait.
Is parking available at Barbara's Fishtrap?
Yes. Free parking lot, Free street parking, Paid parking lot, Paid street parking, Usually plenty of parking is available.
Is Barbara's Fishtrap kid-friendly?
Yes, Barbara's Fishtrap is good for kids.
