Killer Shrimp in Marina del Rey: A Boater’s Dream Dining Experience
Marina del Rey, a bustling coastal hub, offers a treasure trove of experiences for boaters and waterfront enthusiasts. But among the harbor’s many attractions, few places blend dining and the marina lifestyle as seamlessly as Killer Shrimp. For those who love both the open water and great food, Killer Shrimp has something truly unique – a dock-and-dine experience that allows boaters to pull right up to the restaurant, dock their vessel and enjoy a meal without ever stepping far from the water. This seamless transition from sea to table has made Killer Shrimp a beloved destination for boaters and foodies alike.
One of the coolest aspects of Killer Shrimp is the convenience it offers to boaters. Whether you’ve spent the day cruising along the coast or simply taking in the sights of Marina del Rey, Killer Shrimp allows you to pull right up to their dock, park your boat and walk into the restaurant. The ability to moor your boat directly outside gives the dining experience an adventurous edge, perfect for those who want to maximize their time on the water without sacrificing a great dining experience.
This feature makes Killer Shrimp a go-to spot not only for local boaters but also for those cruising up and down the Southern California coast. There’s something incredibly satisfying about stepping off your boat and into a restaurant where the maritime atmosphere flows seamlessly into the dining room.
For those who don’t own a boat, Killer Shrimp’s premium fleet of fully loaded e-boats offers an unforgettable experience for up to 12 passengers. Whether it’s a family celebration, a special gathering with friends, or simply a day on the water, the 2024 ElectraCraft e-boat provides the perfect setting for creating lasting memories. Each boat features plush leather seats and adjustable window options for open or closed configurations, ensuring comfort in any weather. Equipped with a high-quality Bluetooth sound system for a personalized soundtrack and an onboard fridge to keep food and drinks cool, these boats are designed for convenience. Killer Shrimp also includes complimentary sodas and water in every e-boat charter. For more information, please visit https://killeroceanadventures.com/.
However, Killer Shrimp is more than just a waterside restaurant with a clever dock-and-dine feature. It’s also a place steeped in culinary tradition. The restaurant opened its doors in the 1980s, the brainchild of founder Lee Michaels, a music industry veteran with a passion for good food and family recipes. What started as a small venture serving a single dish, Killer Shrimp, their signature spicy shrimp stew, has blossomed into a Marina del Rey institution known for its bold flavors and laid-back vibe.
Over the years, Killer Shrimp expanded to include a variety of offerings including Killer Yacht Club, a speakeasy, and Killer Café, a classic diner. However, one menu item remains in its original form—the original shrimp dish. As the centerpiece, the recipe was handed down through the Michaels family, and is a closely guarded secret, but its essence – a spicy broth filled with succulent shrimp and served with bread for dipping – is what keeps locals and visitors coming back. The restaurant’s expansion also saw the opening of sister establishments.
Killer Yacht Club, a hidden speakeasy tucked behind a moving wall of wine racks, is one of Marina del Rey’s best-kept secrets. Since its debut in 2019, the venue has offered a VIP atmosphere with plush booths and oversized Timothy Oulton Chesterfield leather sofas.
Featuring a state-of-the-art sound system and exceptional acoustics, Killer Yacht Club has attracted impromptu performances from artists in bands like Pink Floyd and Jane’s Addiction, as well as private events for legendary groups like Rush.
This intimate venue, with a capacity of up to 99 guests, is perfect for private events, date nights, or after-dinner cocktails with friends. Live music is featured Thursday through Saturday.
For more details, visit Killehttps://killershrimpyachtclub.com/.
Killer Cafe is a beloved neighborhood diner known for its stunning waterfront views. It offers a classic diner experience with a mix of old favorites and new menu items; it’s a good spot for the whole family. Guests can enjoy spacious booths and the newly renovated patio, all with the same beautiful waterfront views, available daily from 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Killer Cafe serves its signature Killer Shrimp dishes and individual culinary favorites. Guests can choose from over a dozen towering burgers, sandwiches, and their famous all-day breakfast.
For more information, please visit https://killershrimpcafe.com/.
Believe it or not, Killer Shrimp isn’t just about the food or the waterfront accessibility—it’s about the vibe. The restaurant strikes a balance between casual and cool, with a dining room that opens to the waterfront, offering stunning views of the marina. The décor is a mix of nautical charm and modern flair, with outdoor seating that puts you right on the edge of the harbor. There’s a palpable energy, especially on sunny afternoons when the dock is lined with boats and the restaurant fills with hungry sailors and locals looking to unwind.
Inside, the ambiance is relaxed yet refined, with an emphasis on creating a welcoming environment for all guests, whether they’ve just stepped off a boat or are stopping by for a casual night out. The waterfront views and warm, California sunshine provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable meal.
While the restaurant’s name hints at its star dish, the menu at Killer Shrimp offers much more than its famous shrimp stew. For seafood lovers, the options are plentiful, from classic fish and chips to fresh oysters and lobster mac and cheese. The menu draws inspiration from both California coastal cuisine and New Orleans-style flavors, making it an eclectic mix of bold, savory dishes that satisfy any craving.
Signature items include:
- Killer Shrimp Original – The famous dish that started it all, with shrimp simmered in a spicy broth, served with French bread.
- Lobster Roll – A fresh take on the East Coast favorite, served with a side of fries or salad.
- Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos – A lighter, but equally flavorful option.
For those looking for something other than seafood, Killer Shrimp also offers a variety of steaks, burgers, and vegetarian options ensuring that every guest finds something to enjoy.
For boaters, food lovers and anyone seeking a quintessential Marina del Rey experience, Killer Shrimp delivers on all fronts. Combining a rich history, a colorful atmosphere and a menu that celebrates bold flavors, Killer Shrimp has rightfully earned its place as a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re stopping by after a day on the water or coming for a relaxed evening meal, Killer Shrimp offers something special – the perfect blend of coastal dining and boating lifestyle.
For more information on the restaurant’s menu, hours and dock policies, visit their official website: https://killershrimp.com/.