Whiskey Red's - Marina del Rey

Whisky Red’s, located in the scenic Fisherman’s Village of Marina del Rey, has long been a cherished destination for those seeking a waterfront dining experience that combines great food with stunning views. Originally opened as Shanghai Red’s in the early 1980s, the restaurant became an instant hit due to its prime location overlooking the marina, its vibrant atmosphere, and a menu that offered a variety of seafood-centric dishes and classic American favorites.

In 2013, the restaurant underwent a significant transformation, reemerging as Whisky Red’s. The name change was more than just cosmetic; it marked a new chapter for the establishment, one that sought to honor the history of the beloved Shanghai Red’s while introducing a more contemporary gastropub-inspired concept. The “Whisky” in Whisky Red’s nods to the restaurant’s extensive whiskey and cocktail program, designed to complement its innovative menu and appeal to a broader, more diverse clientele. Their menu offers fresh, high-quality ingredients and bold flavors, featuring a mix of comfort food classics and innovative seafood dishes that highlight the best of coastal California cuisine. Here are some of the standout dishes that capture the essence of Whisky Red’s offerings.

Favorite MarinaDelRey.com Dishes

Firecracker Shrimp: A perfect combination of heat and crunch, the Firecracker Shrimp at Whisky Red’s is a crowd-pleaser that packs a flavorful punch. The shrimp are hand-battered in a house-made beer batter, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy shrimp inside. Tossed in a tangy Thai chili sauce and drizzled with sriracha aioli, each bite delivers a satisfying kick of spice balanced by the cool, crisp coleslaw that accompanies the dish. This appetizer is perfect for sharing, but you might want to keep it all to yourself once you’ve had a taste.

Fried Calamari: The Fried Calamari at Whisky Red’s is a delightful twist on a classic seafood favorite. The calamari rings are lightly battered and fried to a delicate crisp, served with tempura-battered peppers and onions for an added burst of flavor and texture. The dish is paired with a unique citrus buffalo aioli, which combines the tangy heat of buffalo sauce with a refreshing citrusy undertone, making each bite both vibrant and delicious. This dish is perfect for those who love their calamari with a bit of a spicy, zesty kick.

Chilled Seasonal Oysters: For oyster enthusiasts, the Chilled Seasonal Oysters are a must-try. Served half a dozen on the half shell, these oysters are pristinely fresh, offering a taste of the ocean with every slurp. They are accompanied by an ancho chili cocktail sauce, which adds a smoky, slightly spicy depth, and a pink peppercorn & champagne mignonette, providing a delicate balance of tartness and aromatic notes. The combination of flavors enhances the natural brininess of the oysters, making for a refreshing and sophisticated appetizer.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts: A favorite among those who enjoy a bit of sweetness with their savory, the Crispy Brussels Sprouts are a standout side dish that pairs well with just about any entrée. The Brussels sprouts are fried to a perfect crisp and tossed in a Thai chili glaze that adds a sweet and spicy kick. Finished with shreds of young coconut, fresh basil, and mint, the dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, offering a refreshing twist on a traditional vegetable side.

The Wedge: The Wedge Salad at Whisky Red’s takes a classic and elevates it with a few modern touches. Crisp wedges of iceberg lettuce provide a cool, crunchy base for the creamy blue cheese dressing, which is generously drizzled over the top. The salad is adorned with radish slices, cherry tomatoes, pickled shallots, and crispy applewood bacon, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The tanginess from the pickled shallots and the smoky richness of the bacon perfectly complements the creaminess of the blue cheese, making this salad a refreshing yet indulgent choice.

Butter Poached Lobster Roll: A quintessential taste of the East Coast with a West Coast twist, the Butter Poached Lobster Roll at Whisky Red’s is a luxurious and indulgent choice. Herb-poached lobster and shrimp are combined with a lime and celery aioli that adds a refreshing zest, enhancing the natural sweetness of the seafood. Served in a soft, buttery roll and accompanied by crispy fries, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a must-have for anyone craving a bit of seaside comfort.

Atlantic Salmon: The Atlantic Salmon at Whisky Red’s is a beautifully executed dish that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, high-quality seafood. The salmon is perfectly seared, achieving a crispy skin while maintaining a moist, flaky interior. Served with a luscious garlic caper butter sauce, which adds a rich and tangy layer of flavor, the dish is complemented by creamy 50/50 mashed potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables. This entrée is both elegant and satisfying, making it a great option for seafood lovers.

Beyond the food and drinks, Whisky Red’s has continued to be a vibrant social hub, hosting live music events, themed parties, and special occasions that draw in a lively crowd. Its location in Fisherman’s Village, a replica of a New England fishing town, further adds to its appeal, providing guests with a charming waterfront escape just minutes from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.