Sonoma Coast’s Best New Seafood Spot

Lucas Wharf has become a new dining hotspot in Bodega Bay, attracting both locals and visitors with its focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood and a full bar. The restaurant is led by Chef Jamilah Nixon of Jam’s Joy Bungalow fame, and offers a unique coastal dining experience that lives up to its promises. Owners Shona Guenther and Patrick Campbell, who also own Rocker Oysterfeller’s in Valley Ford, were drawn to Lucas Wharf's historic charm and decided to save it when it closed last year.

Historically known as Lazio Dock, Lucas Wharf has long been central to the local seafood industry, where freshly caught salmon, shrimp, crabs, and rockfish were processed. Guenther expressed their commitment to the community by revitalizing the space, stating that seeing it sit empty was frustrating and that their intention was always to bring it back for the community, despite giving up their favorite bar seats.

The menu, crafted by Guenther and Chef Nixon, offers classic wharf-side dishes with Southern influences. Signature items include the Captain’s Platter, a generous serving of fried fish, calamari, peel-and-eat shrimp, and chowder, alongside other highlights like New Orleans BBQ Shrimp, Pan Roasted Local Fish Fillet, and Rémoulade Louis Salad with Dungeness Crab. The dessert menu includes a memorable Banana Pudding with a twist.

The restaurant maintains much of its original character, including the brick-red exterior and traditional interior, with artistic additions like a metal kelp garden by Joe Szuecs. The bar remains a central attraction, offering window views and a lively atmosphere. Lucas Wharf has quickly garnered a loyal following from both long-time patrons and new visitors eager to experience its renewed charm.