Go Fish

You might know Elysian Valley as the nifty backdoor entrance to Dodger Stadium. But since Franky & Johnny's Fisherman's Seafood Outlet opened last fall, it's now a non-seaside stop for fresh seafood.

Owners Franky Atallah and Johnny Nalbandian have more than 35 years of wholesale seafood experience between them. They're so dedicated to seafood that Nalbandian swears saltwater courses through his veins.

Although 19 miles from the ocean, this former gas station has been transformed into a faux wharf, complete with a dock and a grill for daily fish cookouts.

Nalbandian and Atallah source fish and shellfish from just about every corner of the globe. Brought in almost daily, you'll find everything from Pacific petrale sole to Hawaiian swordfish, and SoCal's Carlsbad Aqua Farm's littleneck clams and oysters. Everything is vacuum-packed in-house and sold at wholesale prices, ensuring both quality and value.

Just like at those big-budget warehouses, when you're feeling hungry, you can stop out front for a snack. But instead of Costco hot dogs, here you'll find Nalbandian grilling thick pieces of fresh Arctic char, Catalina swordfish or black cod (depending on the season and day). Get two pieces with a side of red cabbage slaw or pasta salad, plus a warm cut of crusty baguette, for only $12.

If you're looking for advice on home grilling, Nalbandian is your man--he's always doling out tips.

1633 Riverside Dr., Elysian Valley; 323-223-4740 or fjseafoodoutlet.com