Sea Fresh of Ojai: Our Story

We are certain you will enjoy our fresh fish market, restaurant and Sushi & Oyster Bar as well as our hospitality.

In August of 1985 we opened our doors in Ojai, California, September of 1998, In Thousand Oaks, California, and Channel Island Harbor July of 2000. But our story began long before this.

In 1963 when Bill Sutton, one of the owners, was only seven,, his Dad took him on a fishing trip. From that day forward he was "hooked". Bill as a small boy would have his Mom drop him off, and pick him up from the pier, where he fished all of his spare time. Bill brought his small catch home, and with red wagon in tow, marketed his catch to the local neighbors. This was the beginning of it all. Bill then worked on sport fishing boats part time while in school and after graduating from high school in 1972, went to work on commercial fishing boats that fished up and down the Pacific Coast.

In 1978 Bill and his wife Mayra, with the help of her parents, built and launched their own 42' fishing vessel the "Aurelia". From 1978 until Sea Fresh opened its doors in 1985, all of Bill's fish was marketed to wholesalers. Today with Sea Fresh serving the best of his catch, you can enjoy some of your favorites brought in from "Our boat to you". Some of our primary catches include swordfish, halibut, white seabass, salmon, shark, and snapper.

Our restaurant is family owned and operated. Gus Garcia, Bill's brother-in-law and long time friend, opened and operated the Ojai restaurant pretty much by themselves. Today with a full crew that includes Bill's and Mayra's children, Chris and Janelle, the operation continues to grow.

Sea Fresh features a full selection of entrees that are prepared and cooked to your liking. You may choose to have your fish steamed, charbroiled on an open flame or fried and topped with your choice of our delicious homemade sauces. You can also enjoy a wide selection of delectable items from our Sushi & Oyster Bar.