Living in an area with much nearby water, it should not be a surprise that seafood is rather popular throughout the greater San Diego area.
Whether you live in La Mesa or visit the area for work or pleasure, getting a good bite of seafood may be on your menu. If so, look no further than Anthony’s Fish Grotto.
La Mesa Courier caught up recently with Anthony’s Fish Grotto Owner Craig Ghio for an email Q&A.
LMC: How did Anthony’s Fish Grotto come about, and what has made it successful with locals and visitors?
Ghio: Anthony’s Fish Grotto was founded in 1946 (80th anniversary next year) by Mama Catherine Ghio and sons Tod and Anthony and son-in-law Roy Weber. Though it started as a small diner, it was San Diego’s first true, fully seafood restaurant offering a wide array of menu items prepared with Mama Ghio’s secret sauces and dressings. This combination of the large variety of the freshest seafood, lovingly prepared and served with a friendly staff in scenic locations, has been the reason for our long and continuing success. Nearly 80 years since we opened, we still offer San Diego County’s largest selection of fresh seafood.
LMC: Given that some restaurants struggled and sadly went out of business during COVID, how did Anthony’s navigate such a trying time and remain resourceful?
Ghio: We had a few things in our favor during this trying period. First was a clientele that was incredibly loyal and supportive, and second, we had one of the largest and most scenic outdoor dining patios in East County. We did a tremendous take-out service to start, and then once outdoor seating was allowed, we did great. We also quickly retrofitted our dining room to allow for more spacious seating. Overall, it was the loyalty of our guests that got us through.
LMC: While great food is a necessity for any restaurant to succeed, talk a little bit about your staff and how important they have been to your success.
Ghio: We take great pride in the fact that we have so many long-term team members, with many working 40 years or more for us. That does two important things: creates great consistency in food and beverage service, plus a familiarity between our staff and servers. It is nice when somebody knows your name and how you like your drink. Our GMs, Valaree and Vicky, have been with us for 30-plus years, so continuity in management makes for smooth operations and less stress on the team. The fact that we are closed on most major holidays so the team can enjoy them with family is a major reason for team satisfaction.
LMC: Where do you see Anthony’s in the years to come, and what goals do you have for the business?
Ghio: We continue to make small changes to the menu to keep things fresh while holding on to the tried and true guest favorites. We have added a Sunday Brunch that makes dining al fresco along our pond even more wonderful. We are currently exploring with the City of La Mesa adding a large event pavilion on the back of our pond. La Mesa, as we all know, has no scenic venue with a beautiful setting for weddings and other special events. Other than that, we strive to continue our reign as San Diego County’s favorite seafood restaurant.
ANTHONY’S FISH GROTTO
Location: 9530 Murray Drive, La Mesa
Phone number: (619) 463-0368
Website: anthonysfishgrotto.com
Social media: facebook.com/GoFishAnthonys
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