Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle

All the beer lovers know about Fathom, but the average out-of-townie or even local San Diegan might not have even heard of Fathom which sits on a quiet fisherman's pier in Shelter Island. Do mind the parking lot when you seek this spot out as there are signs that warn against reversed parking (even though this is the safest way to park, imo). Fathom operates the bistro and a small bait and tackle store next door. The bistro, serving the food and beer, be as quant as can be one with maybe two 6-seaters inside and the remaining tables outside on the pier. Order inside from the small window where an often surly worker will assist you right and quick. Their specialty be that classic sausage/ brat and hotdog and 20 taps often occupied primarily by IPA's. Honestly, I've never eaten their food, haha; only popped in for them easy pickings of PTY during that annual tapping (limit 2 16oz pours). Views are always outstanding outside, staring out into the bay to watch the boats rumble by or simply to snoop on the fisher people's happenings. I reckon this could also be the perfect sunset party out on the pier to drink in all the classic SD sights. Whatever the reason for your visit ends up being, know that you won't be disappointed at this no frills unique SD eatery.

I frequent this cozy little pier often because I like to go fishing here sometimes. They have a wide array of beers on tap and sell some quick bites.However, their hot dogs are tiny! You can finish it in 4 bites. I wish they did a little more with their hot dogs such as a bigger toasted bun or added some type of side to make the meal more filling. I think next time I get food here I would probably opt for something else.The service was awesome though and the vibes are immaculate with the view of downtown SD. Plenty of seating as well.

Held off reviewing Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle for a long time, mostly out of fear that word would spread and somehow jinx this joyous little gem located on a public fishing pier in the middle of north San Diego Bay. With views of the downtown skyline and mountains in the distance, as well as huge naval ships and other boats entering and leaving port, there is no better place with a view to grab a beer and a bite in all of San Diego. Fathom has a stellar selection of craft beers on tap and the highest quality specialty casual foods (try their explodo dog or lumpia and thank me later). Other than being busy, and maybe the fact that you have to use the public bathrooms on shore (which while safe and clean, don't always have doors for privacy in the ladies, lol)...Fathom kicks ass. The owner is passionate about what he does and it shows. Dennis gives back to the community and his staff never disappoints. Fathom provides a consistently cool vibe without attitude or pretension, and it's easy to meet people if sharing an outdoor table. LOVE LOVE LOVE Fathom Bistro Bait & Tackle...a unique joyous gem that satisfies the senses. I don't know many bistros, bars, or restaurants that can do that, and none as well as Fathom.

I dropped my brother off at the airport and didn't want to deal with rush hour traffic. I felt like getting food at a place away from said traffic and remembered this gem of a spot on Shelter Island. I haven't eaten here in a long time, so it was nice to be back to enjoy the indoor and outdoor ambience while I waited for my order (takeout). The lady who helped me was really nice and honest, telling me my order would take about 15 minutes to prepare, which was not a problem.There's lots to look at here from the nautical decor to the calmness of San Diego Bay. Great place to eat for locals and visitors alike. No alcohol for me today, but they have a wide selection of beer.I ordered the Bratwurst for myself and the Spicy Italian sausage for my boyfriend, who was at home. Our food was still hot by the time I got there and we enjoyed our meal very much. We'll eat there next time! I look forward to trying their other menu items.

Fathom Bistro bait & tackle is a lovely spot on Shelter Island offering ice cold draft beers on tap and a whole menu of gourmet food ranging from sausages, burgers, and there famous Loco moco!I decided to come here after a morning run to enjoy some great beer and food, and that's exactly what I got! Fathom is located on the fishing pier off Shelter Island, where you can see many fishermen cast their lines praying for their next big catch. As we enter inside, we notice a beautiful colorful menu of the draft beers on tap and a sign informing us that the menu does change. A good friend recommended the Pliny Elder, which is an IPA by Russian River, and is 8% ABV. I also went ahead and ordered the Loco moco with Japanese curry.The seating arrangements are open, and they have plenty of chairs and tables alongside the pier to enjoy your time in the great outdoors and, most of all, soak up that fine San Diego Sun! The beer was yet crisp and smooth and very flavorful and ice cold. On the other hand, the Loco moco was looking magnificent and stellar. The beef patty was hand formed and grilled to perfection, releasing all juicyness from the fat and protein inside the patty. It was nestled upon a lightly scrambled fluffy egg laying over a bed of white rice. The star of the show was the Japanese curry smothered along top of the beef patty all the way down to eggs and rice. I really enjoyed combining all 3 ingredients together and taking a super bite while washing it down with my scrumptious IPA.Customer service was second to none and provided service with a huge generous smile! The staff seemed to enjoy working here, and their pride could definitely be seen while entering this fine establishment. Please come check this place out for their amazing breakfast plates and lunch specials, but most of all, there variety for draft beers on the tap they offer because I guarantee this place will not disappoint!

Very fun spot to grab a beer and a bite! Right on the little fishing pier on Shelter Island, across from the Best Western Island Palms. Local beers and basic but yummy eats. Not a ton of seating but was not a problem getting a table outside after a short wait. Order at the counter and sit wherever you want. There is a small amount of inside seating. Very small place! Dog friendly! Service excellent! They did run out of a few beer selections, but our visit was late in the day. Fun visit! Would recommend. VERY casual! Great views!

Great little find, with an amazing location, good eats, and an awesome selection of drinks! Definitely worth a visit to enjoy the San Diego Bay!Located on the pier along Shelter Island, this little eatery has a few inside and outside seats. Their menu is a little on the limited side for eats, but they have a great selection of beverages, great for just enjoying the day along the water. The hot dogs aren't the biggest but they are flavor-packed and if you order it just right - will punch you with the right amount of spice. The dish was excellent, the kids absolutely enjoyed it... they season them so it's not just salty.Overall, great place to visit if you make your way down to Shelter Island. There's a park nearby for the kids to run around and you can enjoy watching the fishers' try to bring in the big one!

Service was abrasive and unwelcoming. Though it didn't seem that crowded, and there was no one else in line, the staff seemed overwhelmed and they took it out on the customers. We were told our orders would take 1/2 an hour and it felt like we were being discouraged from ordering. We ordered anyway as we didn't mind a wait. Our food was ready in less than 20 minutes. Hamburger was well beyond charred and the lumpia were overcooked. Food was dropped on table without a word and a major side of attitude. This place used to have better service and better food. If you don't want to run a restaurant, with the normal challenges that come with it, choose another career.

This is my favorite not so secret bait & tackle shop / amazing beer bar with house made sausages and the best views of the city and the Coronado islands and the bay, in the land. It's ON the pier on Shelter Island. The beer list is sick. Pliny the Elder is on all the time and there are excellent sours too. Order at the counter and get the lumpia and a TJ dog, or a one of the incredible sausages OR the Greek burger. Seating is very limited but a kind man in full Pirate gear will help you find a spot. Use the restroom at home or you can use the park service public restrooms before you walk out on the pier. They are very rustic and privacy is somewhat limited. Bring a friend to the rest room with you if you need to go there.

I've always enjoyed this place. Wish the menu was diversified during the week (as I might come more often)