Blue Seafood & Grill — Restaurant in Arroyo Grande

We came here the Friday before Easter, and wow—it was chaos (through no fault of theirs). We called ahead and were quoted a 45-minute wait, but by the time we arrived around 6:30 PM, the place was packed. A power outage in downtown Pismo had rerouted the hungry masses to nearby restaurants, and this spot got hit hard.

We ended up waiting nearly two hours to be seated. I’m not docking points for that because the situation was out of their control—but the host staff kept saying “20 more minutes” multiple times when it clearly wasn’t true, which made it feel more frustrating. There were quite a few open tables on the patio, too, so I’m guessing the staff just wasn’t prepared for that level of crowd. Totally understandable… but still, rough.

Once we were seated, the food came out surprisingly fast—and it was delicious. I’m a fry fanatic, and theirs were fresh, crispy perfection. I tried the “dirty fries,” but probably wouldn’t get them that way again—not enough garlic punch for all those visible garlic bits. The fried spicy shrimp? Massive, lightly breaded, and so good. But the real winner? The shrimp ceviche. It was more raw than I’m used to, but hands down the best-tasting ceviche I’ve ever had. Super fresh with an amazing balance of flavors.

I wanted dessert, but by then it was already after 9 PM and we were toast.

The inside of the restaurant is small and cozy, while the patio is a little roomier and beautifully decorated. I’d absolutely come back—preferably not during a holiday weekend apocalypse—to try more...

This place is an absolute gem! Everything our party of 6 ordered was absolute fire! Lobster roll was on point, fish and chips, amazing! We ordered 2 dozen oysters and were blown away! Even the Caesar salad was among the best I’ve ever had. This place is a must!

7 month follow-up...unfortunately today's lunch was completely off-point...perhaps they were just having an off day. The shrimp po-boy (which was amazing) is now sadly off the menu. Ordered the ceviche tostada, which, the last time I had it was created with a lovingly crafted tortilla shell that was warm and crispy with beautifully fresh ceviche on top of it. Today a store bought tostada shell and gray ceviche...couldn't even eat it. Ordered crab cakes as an entree. Wish I hadn't...if you've ever made crab cakes then you know that it's nearly impossible to make perfectly round and of a perfect thickness, unless you are a machine. I'm 99% sure that I was served frozen crab cakes which I would expect from a chain restaurant, but not at a seafood joint. I hate leaving bad reviews, but after deliberating internally I decided that I needed to update my 5-star review and tell the truth both to other diners, but especially to the owner in hopes that he can make corrections and save...

My self and my grandparents went to try this place out about a week ago since it was new. The food was alright and tasted fine but the prices are absolutely ridiculous for what you get. I had gotten the lobster roll and was incredibly disappointed due to how little lobster there was on it for $30. I was expecting a lot more with this particular type of sandwich since I am familiar with its origins and this particular version is nowhere close to what an authentic lobster roll should be. When you go to open up the roll the amount of lobster that is in it only covers about a quarter of the piece of bread. In my opinion if this place wants to survive they will need to seriously consider reducing their prices and making the portions an appropriate size to go along with said price. At this point in time I would say this place is simply a gimmick and sadly I personally won't be going back anytime soon unfortunately. Not trying to be harsh but just...