Greer's OC

Bear Flag Fish Co. is marking two decades in business in a big way, with its most elevated location yet now open in Costa Mesa. The restaurant and fish market has taken over the former Santa Monica Seafood space on East 17th Street. Each Bear Flag has its own character, but this one finally gives the team room to show everything they do.

The Costa Mesa location is the company’s fourth, joining two in Newport Beach, including one at Crystal Cove, and one in Huntington Beach. It is also the first stand-alone location. The company was founded by fisherman Thomas “Thos” Carson. Steve Jones, founder of the design firm bettershelter, has worked with the brand for years. He has designed the interior of each location with its own distinctive Bear Flag Fish Co. look: classic nautical details with a playful, retro twist. The new location has a full bar and offers indoor, counter and patio dining.

Sustainability is a priority for Bear Flag, which says protecting the fish supply is good for both the environment and the company’s future.

The menu is part fish market, part taco shop and part sushi bar. Fan favorites include the Bear Flag taco and burrito, made with panko-crusted white fish, plus poke bowls, ceviche and seafood salads sold by the pound. Diners can build their own seafood plate from the market case or choose a grilled seafood sandwich or a lobster roll. More exclusive menu items will be added to this location.

Starters include shrimp cocktail, calamari fries and sauteed clams and mussels. Chowder, cioppino and miso soup round out the menu.

The sushi bar offers nigiri, sashimi, signature rolls like the Bear Flag roll with Cajun seared tuna, and an omakase.

The seafood market carries more than 20 varieties, from halibut and swordfish to white sea bass and uni, along with premium picks like Chilean sea bass, black cod and toro.

Bear Flag Fish Co. is at 154 E. 17th St., Costa Mesa, and is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 949-396-2800.