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At California Fish Grill we believe it should be easy to enjoy healthy, delicious seafood, at a great price, as often as you want. Since 1998 we have been grilling and crafting delicious, healthy, seafood favorites for our growing family of loyal guests. Pledged to have respect for the ocean, we promise that our seafood can be enjoyed for years to come by partnering with reputable fisheries that provide the freshest wild-caught and responsibly farm-raised fish.
Relaxed chain serving fried & charbroiled seafood, plus chicken & fish tacos, beer & wine.
Hours
| Saturday | 11 AM–9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Monday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–9:30 PM |
| Friday | 10 AM–9:30 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 11048 Main St, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (703) 831-3622
Website: https://www.cafishgrill.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Order: Order online
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California Fish Grille in Fairfax City – Facebook
Multiple types of fish and seafood available, served grilled, as sandwiches, tacos, bowls, or fish & chips. Tasty food, good variety, and nice …
Today I decided to check out the new California Fish Grill in Fairfax …
I’d go back here if I was looking to eat healthier and I didn’t feel like going the extra two exits to Whole Foods. #fastcasual #fairfaxva # …
Reviews
Heather Shaffer
First Look: California Fish Grill, Fairfax
Stepping into the newly opened California Fish Grill on a random Thursday with my mother felt like walking into a culinary hot spot; the word is clearly out, and Fairfax is lining up to see what all the fresh fuss is about.
The concept—what feels like a cross between upscale, healthier fast-casual and a sit-down spot—is immediately appealing. The staff is genuinely friendly, offering warm greetings despite the understandable chaos of a grand opening. That said, if you’re looking for fast fast food, be prepared to practice patience; the service is operating at a leisurely, perhaps more “California time” pace.
The menu is robust, featuring an impressive array of sides, and the quality of the ingredients is immediately apparent—everything tasted wonderfully fresh. The fried catfish was a definitive highlight, perfectly prepared with a beautiful crunch. On the other end of the spectrum, the lobster roll failed to impress; a disappointing detour on an otherwise promising menu. We also had a minor mix-up with the kids’ meal, where the stated fish wasn’t in fact that kind of fish, and, alas, a shrimp skewer I ordered went missing entirely.
Here’s where the logistics earn their own star: a quick review of the receipt before leaving confirmed the skewer was never charged, saving me the awkward conversation. But the true game-changer was the exceptional intervention. A gentleman, who was the CEO, observed that my mother wasn’t thrilled with her dish. He promptly introduced himself, listened, and without hesitation, offered her a gift card to return and try something new.
That gesture was not just kind; it was a masterful display of business acumen. It shows a genuine commitment to the customer experience, turning a few opening-week stumbles into a resounding win. While not every dish was a home run on this first visit, that level of proactive service ensures I will be giving California Fish Grill a “do-over” much sooner than later. They are certainly leaning in the right direction.
… moreStepping into the newly opened California Fish Grill on a random Thursday with my mother felt like walking into a culinary hot spot; the word is clearly out, and Fairfax is lining up to see what all the fresh fuss is about.
The concept—what feels like a cross between upscale, healthier fast-casual and a sit-down spot—is immediately appealing. The staff is genuinely friendly, offering warm greetings despite the understandable chaos of a grand opening. That said, if you’re looking for fast fast food, be prepared to practice patience; the service is operating at a leisurely, perhaps more “California time” pace.
The menu is robust, featuring an impressive array of sides, and the quality of the ingredients is immediately apparent—everything tasted wonderfully fresh. The fried catfish was a definitive highlight, perfectly prepared with a beautiful crunch. On the other end of the spectrum, the lobster roll failed to impress; a disappointing detour on an otherwise promising menu. We also had a minor mix-up with the kids’ meal, where the stated fish wasn’t in fact that kind of fish, and, alas, a shrimp skewer I ordered went missing entirely.
Here’s where the logistics earn their own star: a quick review of the receipt before leaving confirmed the skewer was never charged, saving me the awkward conversation. But the true game-changer was the exceptional intervention. A gentleman, who was the CEO, observed that my mother wasn’t thrilled with her dish. He promptly introduced himself, listened, and without hesitation, offered her a gift card to return and try something new.
That gesture was not just kind; it was a masterful display of business acumen. It shows a genuine commitment to the customer experience, turning a few opening-week stumbles into a resounding win. While not every dish was a home run on this first visit, that level of proactive service ensures I will be giving California Fish Grill a “do-over” much sooner than later. They are certainly leaning in the right direction.
Thu-Nga Ortega, DDS, MAGD
This fast food fish restaurant serves up pretty tasty bowls. You can select your fish selection, the sauce and a side. Or you can order the combo bowls. The price is the reasonable and similar to cava or Chipotle. But they have healthy sustainable seafood. They serve wild caught fish as well as farmed fish. The protein bowl is loaded with shrimp, salmon, swai, grilled chicken. It is pretty flavorful. The salmon burrito bowl is pretty tasty as well. We also tried the rockfish on rice and it was delicious. The chicken on rice is pretty dry so I don’t suggest it. The price is really reasonable for healthy seafood fast.
… moreDaniel Poyerd
Excellent!! I’ve been waiting a long time to post this review lol. I first went to California Fish Grill in Palm Desert CA two years ago and was hooked (pun intended). The next time I was in LA I was sure to visit. I wrote a review saying I wished it was a national chain and two years later they open their first east coast store right where I live! So, you’re welcome Virginia .
The food here tasted exactly as I remembered. The salmon was perfectly cooked . The garlic butter is my favorite sauce (I usually ask for extra), especially mixed in with the salmon and the rice . The roasted corn is delicious , well worth the upgrade! The coconut shrimp on the side are a necessity as well ! No real negatives I can think of from this visit!
There are not many good seafood spots that I know of in the DMV, and CFG fills that void perfectly! The prices are very reasonable , the staff are welcoming and nice , and the restaurant itself is pleasant and well designed. I can’t wait to eat here again and I highly, highly recommend you try it as well!!!
… moreThe food here tasted exactly as I remembered. The salmon was perfectly cooked . The garlic butter is my favorite sauce (I usually ask for extra), especially mixed in with the salmon and the rice . The roasted corn is delicious , well worth the upgrade! The coconut shrimp on the side are a necessity as well ! No real negatives I can think of from this visit!
There are not many good seafood spots that I know of in the DMV, and CFG fills that void perfectly! The prices are very reasonable , the staff are welcoming and nice , and the restaurant itself is pleasant and well designed. I can’t wait to eat here again and I highly, highly recommend you try it as well!!!
Brandon Cooper
Another day of waddling back to my vehicle after promising myself im not going to over eat again! Easy order process, and the cashier was super cool and helpful.
Branzino/salmon with rice and corn, side of Brussels sprouts.
Fish was delicious corn was really good and rice was mid, but nothing ever really compares to homemade rice does it? Portions were huge, I was definitely past full when finished! The Brussels sprouts were so fire u almost ate them all before touching my main plate!
Wife and daughter got the salmon bowl and teriyaki branzino bowl which were both delicious as well!
Strawberry margaritas to start were a good touch also while waiting for my food! I’ll definitely be back and ready to try new menu items which I also scoped out that looked really good while waiting today!
Def a new go to & would recommend everyone to try ASAP!
… moreBranzino/salmon with rice and corn, side of Brussels sprouts.
Fish was delicious corn was really good and rice was mid, but nothing ever really compares to homemade rice does it? Portions were huge, I was definitely past full when finished! The Brussels sprouts were so fire u almost ate them all before touching my main plate!
Wife and daughter got the salmon bowl and teriyaki branzino bowl which were both delicious as well!
Strawberry margaritas to start were a good touch also while waiting for my food! I’ll definitely be back and ready to try new menu items which I also scoped out that looked really good while waiting today!
Def a new go to & would recommend everyone to try ASAP!
Patrick Min
California Fish Grill’s new Fairfax, VA location, situated in the Kemp Washington shopping plaza, offers fresh, 100% sustainably sourced seafood, as well as a variety of grilled, fried, and baked options, including bowls, tacos, salads, and kids’ menu items. This clean and inviting casual spot features customizable sauces, such as garlic butter and Cajun, friendly service, and good value, making it a popular addition.
We tried grilled branzino with cauliflower rice and asparagus, which was a healthy, tasty, and perfectly grilled dish. The clam chowder was a creamy soup with a satisfying seafood flavor from the clams, and the dynamite shrimp bowl was delicious — the shrimp was well-cooked, and the sesame soy sauce added a delightful taste. I will definitely go back to try other menu options soon.
… moreWe tried grilled branzino with cauliflower rice and asparagus, which was a healthy, tasty, and perfectly grilled dish. The clam chowder was a creamy soup with a satisfying seafood flavor from the clams, and the dynamite shrimp bowl was delicious — the shrimp was well-cooked, and the sesame soy sauce added a delightful taste. I will definitely go back to try other menu options soon.
Vishal Mistry
So happy they opened up here in Fairfax, I go to GMU so it’s the perfect lunch spot with classmates! The bowls are packed with protein and I priced really well. The staff is super friendly in the ambience is kind of fancy, but still has that casual aspect to it. Definitely gonna be coming back on the weekly basis.
… moreThe Munch Travelogue
About 90% of the menu consists of 100% sustainable seafood options that range from rock fish to lobster. The protein is generously incorporated to every dish whether it’s a taco or grilled plate.
My order consisted of:
– Crispy Wild Cod Sandwich
– Salmon Burrito Bowl
– Shrimp Skewer
Everything was delicious and I definitely need to go back and try the tacos and lobster rolls.
Make sure to download the restaurants app because they offer deals on a regular basis.
… moreMy order consisted of:
– Crispy Wild Cod Sandwich
– Salmon Burrito Bowl
– Shrimp Skewer
Everything was delicious and I definitely need to go back and try the tacos and lobster rolls.
Make sure to download the restaurants app because they offer deals on a regular basis.
Ahnaf An Nafee
California Fried Grill offers a charming, rustic plate that brings a touch of Southern comfort to the table. The presentation is appealing, with the golden-brown fried catfish taking center stage alongside vibrant kaleslaw and what appears to be a hearty side of beans. However, my recent experience left me with mixed impressions, highlighting both commendable aspects and areas ripe for improvement.
The undeniable star of the meal was the fried catfish. Visually, it looked perfectly cooked, with a promising crisp coating, and indeed, it delivered on flavor. The fish itself was flaky and tender, and the seasoning was well-balanced, making each bite enjoyable. It’s clear that the kitchen has a good hand with frying fish, and this is certainly a strong point for the establishment.
Turning to the accompaniments, the kaleslaw provided a fresh and crunchy counterpoint to the fried fish. Its vibrant colors were inviting, and the texture was pleasant, adding a welcome crispness to the meal. While not revolutionary, it served its purpose as a refreshing side.
My main area for constructive feedback would be directed towards the beans and the overall portion sizing. While the bowl of beans looked substantial in the picture, in practice, their consistency was quite watery and thin, which unfortunately detracted from their potential flavor. A richer, more robust texture would greatly enhance this classic side. Additionally, for the price point, I felt the portion of catfish, though delicious, could have been more generous to provide a more satisfying and complete meal.
California Fried Grill has a solid foundation with its delicious fried catfish and a visually appealing presentation. Addressing the consistency of the beans and re-evaluating portion sizes to offer greater value would undoubtedly elevate the dining experience significantly. It’s a spot with good intentions and the potential to truly shine with a few thoughtful adjustments.
… moreThe undeniable star of the meal was the fried catfish. Visually, it looked perfectly cooked, with a promising crisp coating, and indeed, it delivered on flavor. The fish itself was flaky and tender, and the seasoning was well-balanced, making each bite enjoyable. It’s clear that the kitchen has a good hand with frying fish, and this is certainly a strong point for the establishment.
Turning to the accompaniments, the kaleslaw provided a fresh and crunchy counterpoint to the fried fish. Its vibrant colors were inviting, and the texture was pleasant, adding a welcome crispness to the meal. While not revolutionary, it served its purpose as a refreshing side.
My main area for constructive feedback would be directed towards the beans and the overall portion sizing. While the bowl of beans looked substantial in the picture, in practice, their consistency was quite watery and thin, which unfortunately detracted from their potential flavor. A richer, more robust texture would greatly enhance this classic side. Additionally, for the price point, I felt the portion of catfish, though delicious, could have been more generous to provide a more satisfying and complete meal.
California Fried Grill has a solid foundation with its delicious fried catfish and a visually appealing presentation. Addressing the consistency of the beans and re-evaluating portion sizes to offer greater value would undoubtedly elevate the dining experience significantly. It’s a spot with good intentions and the potential to truly shine with a few thoughtful adjustments.
Zainab Mirzaie
I was excited to try a new spot and I really wanted to give it 5 stars but I think they just need to iron out a few things. The ordering process is great and easy w both register and self serve screen options. The menu has quite a few items that both look and sound delicious. I was in a fresh fish mood so I went w a rockfish platter w white rice and zucchini. My bf got branzino w the same sides. We also ordered the Parmesan bread appetizer and because we joined their rewards program we took advantage of the promo which was a free shrimp skewer. You can also pick your fish topping sauce from 5-7 options. I opted for half butter garlic and half Jamaican (?) jerk and my bf got sweet chili. We also picked two fountain drinks. The total was $44. We took our ticket and waited. And waited. And waited. Approx 20 mins later they called our name to pick up our trays. They looked fantastic! Unfortunately the first bite for us both was zucchini and the amount of dry rosemary pretty much blew out our paletes for the rest of the meal. So. Much. Rosemary. And the zucchini was nearly raw and cold. Move onto the fish. Luckily for me the rockfish was wild caught but my bf had the “sustainable” branzino which means farm raised and as such the main taste was the chili sauce. The fish itself was bland and tasteless. I def recommend the rockfish or any other wild caught option. The Parmesan bread was probably the best item we ordered which is saying a lot. The half and half sauce I got was also bland and whoever is in charge of rosemary should probably switch and use that heavy hand for any other herb or spice on the rack.
Now the service? 5+ stars. The cleanliness also amazing and the vibe was nice like a Mezah or Cava. I will def try again after a few months and I hope they iron out some of the wrinkles because it’s a great concept and has lots of potential.
Until next time, California Rosemary, err Fish Grill.
… moreNow the service? 5+ stars. The cleanliness also amazing and the vibe was nice like a Mezah or Cava. I will def try again after a few months and I hope they iron out some of the wrinkles because it’s a great concept and has lots of potential.
Until next time, California Rosemary, err Fish Grill.
Simon Wu
Finally, a fast-casual seafood spot! They serve sustainable seafood with plenty of great options. We tried the lobster roll, fish and chips, and the grilled fish combo — everything was delicious, and the side selections were excellent!
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