When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
CBS Seafood
Why CBS Seafood is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
CBS Seafood, located in Portland, Maine, offers a unique and authentic seafood experience that makes it a great place for friends to meet up and enjoy fresh, high-quality catches. With more than three decades of business history, CBS Lobster, Inc. has built a reputation for providing an array of seafood options, from lobsters to other shellfish, sourced locally to ensure freshness. The setting on Union Wharf also gives it an inviting and authentic maritime atmosphere, ideal for enjoying seafood in a casual yet memorable environment. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving freshly-prepared seafood, CBS Seafood provides a distinctive Maine coastal charm that enhances any social gathering. The presence of knowledgeable staff and the legacy under the leadership of President Ronald Chadbourne add a personal touch to the experience, making it more than just a meal but a true taste of Portland’s rich seafood heritage.
Here's what people think of CBS Seafood
As of recent, CBS Seafood holds a 3.9-star rating based on 928 reviews.
Reviews of CBS Seafood reveal a mixed reception from its customers. Many appreciate the freshness and quality of the seafood offerings along with the iconic waterfront location that enhances the dining experience. Positive reviews often highlight the authentic lobster dishes, the friendly and helpful staff, and the welcoming ambiance that invites patrons to relax and enjoy. Customers also value the longstanding presence of the business in the Portland seafood scene, considering it a staple for fresh Maine seafood. However, some negative reviews point to inconsistencies in service and wait times as well as occasional issues with order accuracy, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the fact that CBS Lobster, Inc. is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau and holds a moderate rating of 3.9 stars out of nearly a thousand reviews indicates some room for improvement in customer satisfaction and operational aspects. Despite these critiques, many visitors still find CBS Seafood a worthwhile destination for seafood lovers, appreciating the quality product and traditional ambiance it offers. In summary, while CBS Seafood delivers an authentic seafood experience beloved by many, it has recognized areas where it can enhance its service and customer engagement to achieve higher satisfaction levels.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sue Martin
Open early in the morning for breakfast. In Chinatown, an easy 5-8 minute walk from Union Station where we had a 1.5 layover. Not enough time to do the sit down dim sum cart breakfast, but plenty of time to order takeout and get back to the station. The pork steamed bun was the best I’ve ever had. The filling was a slightly sweet smoky pork.
Demitrius Gilbert
I don't believe I have anything bad to say about CBS Seafood Restaurant. Visiting Los Angeles and thought this would be the perfect place to go. The price per items were very good compared to other places I have visited in my home town. I ordered (2) Steamed BBQ Pork Buns, Egg Rolls, Orange Chicken, Shrimp and Leek Dumplings, Beef Noodle, and Fried Shrimp Rolls. ALL the food that was ordered is delicious. The services was fast. Staff members were very kind and friends. Food was hot and fresh. I have provided pictures of most of the items I ordered. If anyone is in the area, would recommend stopping here. Great food at great prices.
S Mayeda
We had Dim Sum on a Sunday at 9:30am. We were seated immediately. We received our dim sum very quickly. We enjoyed the the the large baked bbq pork buns the most. Freshly made still warm and the buns were soft. Not the best dim sum but good enough.
Cris Pantz
CBS Seafood Restaurant The only thing I miss when I worked day shift is having dim sum after work. And our go to place is CBS. We go for the great food or else the cr@ppy attitude of the workers will surely turn you off. Love their siomai, short ribs in black bean sauce, and yang chow fried rice. We're all set. The complimentary hot tea makes a meal. Sometimes we get a canned soda. Parking can be tight. Hey this is Chinatown in DTLA. We're over it. Do not go during noon time you will pass out from hunger, coz they like to pile on the food on tables of locals who are already stuffing their faces silly, then leave other customers craning our necks for the next food cart to come by. There’s also fast food options and bakery beside it. I love their red bean bun, pork bbq bun, and steamed rice cakes. Although they sell most of the items in the restaurant, it’s not allowed to buy from the fast food section then eat at the dining area, it’s strictly “to-go” orders. Restroom can be a hit or a miss. Use at your own risk.
Hannah
Great dim sum place in downtown LA. Service was fast and food was hot and steamy. We ordered a little too much for two people but it was worth it :) They have a menu to order from but also traditional push carts.
How to reach CBS Seafood
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Why CBS Seafood may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at CBS Seafood with your friends? Because this iconic Chinatown restaurant offers a uniquely authentic and bustling vibe that brings people together over some of the best Chinese seafood and dim sum in Los Angeles. With a history that spans decades, CBS Seafood combines tradition with the excitement of shared dining experiences, making it a perfect spot to gather, catch up, and celebrate. The restaurant’s large dining room, seating nearly 200 guests, means it can comfortably accommodate groups of friends or family without feeling cramped. The lively environment, where servers push dim sum carts through the aisles, sparks interaction and adds a communal aspect to the meal. Beyond the food, the space’s elegant Art Deco design, characterized by brass columns and vibrant red tapestries, creates an atmosphere that feels both festive and welcoming. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh Peking duck or classic bite-sized dim sum, CBS Seafood makes it easy to enjoy a shared culinary adventure, creating memories and full bellies alike.
What activities are available at CBS Seafood, and why is it perfect for group meetups? CBS Seafood is best known for its diverse dim sum offerings delivered straight to your table on traditional carts, allowing groups to sample a wide range of dishes without the hassle of ordering individually. This style of dining naturally encourages conversation and sharing, which is ideal when you want to connect with friends. The menu extends beyond dim sum into a robust selection of seafood dishes, such as fresh shrimp, roasted Peking duck, and various BBQ meats that provide plenty of options to satisfy different tastes. Because of its location in the heart of Chinatown, guests can easily combine their meal with a stroll through the vibrant neighborhood, exploring shops and cultural landmarks, adding an outing feel to the gathering. The restaurant’s size and efficiency make it well-suited for larger groups, ensuring prompt seating and service even during busy times like weekend brunch. The range of dishes and the energetic yet welcoming atmosphere create the perfect backdrop for lengthy conversations and celebrations.
Why is CBS Seafood’s food a draw for reunions and celebrations? For friends and families keen on authentic Chinese cuisine, the freshness and quality of CBS Seafood’s menu items stand out. Many reviewers praise the freshness of the shrimp and the variety of dim sum, citing the tender, flavorful shumai and sticky rice among their favorites. The dim sum carts introduce tactile excitement, as diners can see different dishes and make choices on the fly, heightening group engagement. Beyond dim sum, the roasted meats—especially the Peking duck displayed in a window at the front—are revered for their rich flavors and enticing presentation. The menu’s balance between comforting classics and more adventurous items means that every diner, from the novice to the connoisseur, can find something enjoyable. The relatively fair pricing also allows groups to order a diverse selection without breaking the bank, making it especially attractive for casual gatherings and weekly meetups alike.
What should groups expect about CBS Seafood’s service and atmosphere during their visit? Service at CBS Seafood is generally reported as quick and efficient, with servers adept at handling large groups and helping guests navigate the extensive menu. While some reviewers have mentioned a language barrier and a less warm welcome for non-Chinese-speaking patrons, many others highlight friendly and helpful service, especially when servers offer explanations of less familiar items or bring extra dishes requested by the table. The bustling yet clean dining room offers a classic Chinatown restaurant feel with its rich decor and large capacity perfect for a lively group experience. The environment is loud and fast-paced, typical of dim sum eateries, so groups seeking a relaxed, quiet meal may need to prepare for the energetic atmosphere. However, for those who thrive on this type of dining rhythm, the combination of dazzling food selection and the rhythm of the dim sum carts enhances the whole social experience.
What practical considerations make CBS Seafood an ideal meetup spot? CBS Seafood is located conveniently in downtown Los Angeles’ Chinatown district, an area well serviced by public transit and with ample parking options nearby, including a dedicated parking lot. This accessibility helps groups avoid the stress of difficult parking and contributes to easier planning. The restaurant’s hours, typically from 8 AM to 9 PM daily, provide flexibility for brunch, lunch, or dinner meetups, accommodating varying schedules of different friend circles or families. Because the venue is well-known for its dim sum service primarily in the mornings and early afternoons, visiting at those times can maximize the variety of dishes available. Its large space means reservations or walk-ins are manageable for groups, reducing the frustration of waiting. Plus, CBS Seafood’s presence in a vibrant neighborhood opens up possibilities for post-meal exploration, such as visiting nearby attractions or enjoying some cultural sightseeing, extending the social experience beyond the dining table.
How does CBS Seafood accommodate different preferences within a group? One of CBS Seafood’s strengths lies in its wide-ranging menu that caters to various palates and dietary preferences. On the dim sum side, there are options ranging from traditional pork buns and shrimp dumplings to vegetarian choices like braised bean curd. For those focused on seafood, fresh shrimp dishes and roasted fish items provide flavorful, satisfying options. The combination of BBQ meats, baked custard desserts, and classic Chinese egg tarts offers sweet and savory endings for every taste. This diversity allows groups to order freely without worrying about excluding someone’s preferences or dietary restrictions. The dim sum carts promote sampling several small dishes, making it easy to try many flavors without committing to a large portion, enhancing the communal experience. This inclusivity enriches the social bonding that mealtime facilitates in group gatherings.
What’s the best time to visit CBS Seafood with a group? CBS Seafood is popular and often busy, notably on weekends when locals and tourists flock to Chinatown for brunch. Visiting earlier in the day, especially on weekdays or Sunday mornings, tends to be less hectic and offers the best chance to enjoy freshly prepared items. Dim sum is best experienced in the mornings to mid-afternoon, so group meetups planned around those hours will encounter the full spectrum of traditional offerings. For larger groups, arriving early can also ensure seating together without long waits, as the restaurant accommodates about 200 diners but does fill quickly during peak hours. Planning ahead by checking the restaurant’s current hours and potentially making reservations can help groups avoid any inconvenience. Evening visits may have quieter ambient conditions but could offer a narrower dim sum selection for those primarily interested in that meal.
Why trust CBS Seafood for a memorable group dining experience despite mixed reviews? While CBS Seafood’s overall rating hovers around 3.9 stars out of nearly 1,000 reviews, much of the feedback praises the food quality, value, and authentic dim sum experience. Some critiques focus on service and communication barriers, but these are often outweighed by the faithful ambiance, abundant menu, and the charm of eating dim sum in a classic Chinatown setting. Many seasoned diners consider CBS Seafood a hidden gem, especially for those who appreciate traditional dishes presented in a no-frills but lively environment. The fact that the restaurant is frequently packed speaks to its enduring appeal. For groups willing to embrace a bit of local flavor and a dynamic dining atmosphere, CBS Seafood delivers a fulfilling, culturally rich experience that’s difficult to match elsewhere in Los Angeles.
What can groups expect after dining at CBS Seafood? After a satisfying meal filled with flavorful seafood, savory dim sum, and sweet Chinese pastries, groups often leave CBS Seafood feeling both pleasantly full and socially connected. The lively bustle of the restaurant sets the tone for a joyful gathering, encouraging sharing, laughter, and discovery of new tastes. Many visitors choose to extend their outing by walking through Chinatown, visiting shops, or enjoying cultural attractions nearby, turning the meetup into a fuller day’s adventure. The value for money at CBS Seafood means groups don’t have to worry about expense and can focus on the pleasure of good company and good food. The experience of dining here can become a talked-about highlight in group circles, a dependable spot for future meetups or celebrations rooted in tradition, authenticity, and communal joy.