Mel's Fish Shack Celebrates 38 Years

BY TAMARA PALMER

Happy Anniversary to Mel’s Fish Shack, which marks 38 years in business in June. Started by the late Mel Powell in 1982, the South Los Angeles restaurant has been operated since his 2001 passing by his daughter Georgette Powell. She offers grilled and fried seafood plates, with most side dishes made from scratch.

My friend Richard (who knows many of the best gems in Los Angeles) and I spent a few hours dining, listening to music and chatting with Ms. Georgette at the Shack counter in December. I wish I could congratulate her on this milestone in person, but I hope anyone within reasonable distance of the restaurant will take this post as a hearty recommendation to try her food.

Mel’s Fish Shack owner Georgette Powell

Grilled shrimp and catfish

Mel’s Fish Shack, 4026 W. Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles