If you loved last year’s seaside feast, get ready, because Kona Kai San Diego is bringing back its Clam Bake for another round. And this time, Executive Chef Ethan Brown is turning things up a notch with a family-style spread that’s equal parts indulgent and breezy SoCal.

A New England Classic With a California Twist

There’s something undeniably fun about a clam bake, and Kona Kai has figured out how to make it feel right at home in San Diego. The setup is family-style, which means the food just keeps coming – think sharing plates, good company, and that laid-back waterfront vibe we all love about this city.

Chef Brown and his team have put together a menu that covers all the bases, from fresh starts to sweet finishes.

What’s on the Table

From light bites and fresh starters to a full-on seafood spread and indulgent desserts, this menu is designed for grazing, sharing, and going back for seconds.

And just when you think it can’t get any better, dessert shows up with tarts, cupcakes, doughnuts, and eclairs to close things out on a sweet note. Safe to say, no one leaves hungry.

Dips and Spreads

• Spinach artichoke dip
• Smoked salmon spread
• Pimento cheese, crackers, and bread

Starters

• Crab cakes with homemade pickles and remoulade
• Ceviche with fresh tortilla chips
• Young lettuce salad with baby romaine, sliced almonds, shaved manchego, and sherry vinaigrette
• Macaroni salad
• Warm rolls and cornbread with honey butter

Seafood

• Raw oysters, lobster, crab legs, poached shrimp, and baked mussels and clams, served with sauces and mignonette

Sides

• Watermelon
• Grilled spicy Italian sausage
• Herb-roasted new potatoes
• Elote corn

Desserts

• Tarts, cupcakes, doughnuts, and eclairs

A Good Time With a Good Cause

A portion of proceeds goes to the Surfrider Foundation, an organization dedicated to protecting our oceans, waves, and beaches. So beyond the great food, there’s a real sense of community behind this event – one that feels very San Diego.

Tickets are $65 per adult and $35 for children ages 4 to 12, with taxes and service charges included at checkout.

See you there!

Whether you’re coming for the oysters, the crab legs, or just an excuse to eat outside by the water, this one’s worth putting on the calendar.

📆 Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
📍 1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego
🎟️ Get tickets here
ℹ️ Visit their website here for updates

See you there, San Diego!