MOSS LANDING—Phil’s Fish Market & Eatery, the iconic harborside Moss Landing restaurant that has garnered international fame with its seafood dishes and laid-back California vibe, will close and relocate soon.
The move is necessary because Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), which owns the property, plans to expand, the restaurant stated in a Facebook post.
Those plans include the demolition of the building.
It is not yet clear when the closure will occur, as the plans are in the beginning stage.
“We are working with MBARI and we will find an alternate location in time to move. We will not be closing and we are grateful for the concern and are especially appreciative for the support and dedication of our community and those that enjoy the best (and freshest!) seafood on the Monterey Bay,” the company posted on social media.
Representatives from Phil’s and MBARI did not respond to a request for comment.
Diana Gonzalez of Watsonville said she has been eating at the restaurant since the 1980s when her husband brought her there. She said the restaurant’s iconic cioppino has brought her back, as has the greek salad. She says that the news of the move has saddened her.
“I love the atmosphere, and they are really friendly folks,” she said. “I can’t even say a bad thing about them.”
