Varly's Swiftwater Seafood Cafe

Formerly Cafe Orca but now known as Oceanfront Cafe. I stopped in for a late lunch here after a great morning out on the water. There was a lunch rush with probably about 10 tables seated. I was not in a rush but felt bad because the staff seems a bit overwhelmed. I placed my order for some salmon and halibut tacos, a bowl of seafood chowder to try and a drink, then went to find a nice outdoor spot on the deck with great view of the Passage Canal and waited patiently. Drinks were brought quickly by the efficient waitress, although I'd prefer it to be handed to customers at the counter so we don't have to wait. The foods didn't take long to come out. Tacos order were 2 per order ... a surprise to me as I was only expecting 1. Each order comes with chips and salsa. Overall the tacos were okay although it'd be better if the tortillas were home made...no big deal. The slaw was good and fresh with a great crunch. HOWEVER, a lot of the pickling juice and fish soaked to the bottom...so you'll have to eat pretty fast or they get quite soggy. Both the halibut and salmon were overcooked but the salmon was a bit tastier because the halibut was quite dry. The seafood soup was delicious but on the watery side. I think it was actually on the menu as chowder but I'd like my chowder a bit thicker...a matter of personal preference but overall good chowder that I'd order again and would recommend! Overall, people are great, the place is lovely and food is passable.

Now the Oceanfront Cafe, they have specialty coffees and food! Dirty Chai Latte is delicious, not too sweet and mocha is delicious! Nice little gem!

Their carrot cake is fabulous, and so is their coffee! They have handmade jewelry for sale with gemstones and minerals from Arizona(? where the owners are from. :

A quick, fun little spot for lunch. Clam Chowder is just delicious. The Calamari was well prepared as well and the Halibut Sandwich was fresh although not spectacular. The Fries were skinny and not my favorite. I would definitely recommend that you stop in for some Chowder!!

Nice refuge from the wind and rain, can't believe they stayed open in such bad weather. I was going to rate this place three stars, but they get an extra star for being open : The interior was cozy and cute, with a nautical theme (obviously . The portion sizes were ok for the price. Not the best shrimp basket (shrimps were small and slightly over cooked , but the fish on the fish and chips plate was great, nice thick chunks of perfectly fried fresh cod. I would prefer thicker cut french fries with fish and chips, the fires here were thin. The lady running the place was very nice and served everyone with a smile. Mainly bar stool seating inside with only one table with actual chairs.