California beach shack named one of America's best waterfront eats

Mersea’s, a laid-back seafood shack on Harford Pier in Avila Beach, California, was ranked No. 4 on Time Out’s newly released list of America’s best waterfront restaurants. The pier-side spot beat other seaside venues nationwide, with only restaurants in Rhode Island, South Carolina and Florida finishing higher. Time Out highlighted the restaurant’s casual, “come-as-you-are” atmosphere and views of fishing boats, sea otters and barking seals. The menu is equally unfussy, including clam chowder served New England or Manhattan style in a sourdough bread bowl, fish tacos, fish and chips, and other comfort-food seafood staples. Mersea’s frequently hosts live music and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.