Sometimes dinner sneaks up on you and suddenly you’re sprinting out the door like you’re late for a concert. When that happens, we land at Santa Monica Seafood, because nothing says “responsible adulting” like eating fish that was swimming happily yesterday.

The fish market side is basically Whole Foods’ cooler cousin—if you’ve got the energy to cook. If not, pull up a chair and let them feed you. Pro tip: order the clam chowder. This bowl is so packed with ocean clams, onions, celery, potatoes, and cream it could double as a weighted blanket. Honestly, it’s almost a full meal—unless you “accidentally” order something else too (zero judgment).

For salads, I go for the Grilled Wild Mexican Panzanella with shrimp the size of toddlers. It comes stacked with avocado, capers, radishes, tomatoes, and crostini, all drizzled in a white vinaigrette that makes you forget you’re eating something technically healthy. My husband swears by the Caesar—classic, crunchy, cheesy.

Craving poke? The Wild Hawaiian Big Eye Tuna Bowl is so fresh it should come with a warning label. It’s got avocado, cucumber, sushi rice, sesame seeds, and tobiko caviar. Basically, a hug in bowl form.

Entrées? The Chilean Seabass Tenderloin is melt-in-your-mouth perfect, while the Fish and Chips with Line Caught Wild Alaskan Cod will have you considering a second order “for the table” (translation: for yourself).

Bottom line: Santa Monica Seafood is that rare unicorn—equal parts fish market, restaurant, and weeknight hero. We love it, and I bet you will too.