San Diego is known for its breathtaking beaches, perfect weather, and of course, delicious seafood. And when it comes to seafood, clam chowder is a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
This creamy soup is a San Diego staple, and you can find it in almost every seafood restaurant in town. But where can you find the best clam chowder in San Diego?
With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to decide where to go. Some restaurants serve it with a modern twist, while others stick to the traditional recipe.
Some use fresh clams, while others use canned clams. And then there are those that add unique ingredients to make their clam chowder stand out from the rest.
As a local, I have tried countless bowls of clam chowder in San Diego, and I can tell you that there are some places that are worth the visit.
Whether you prefer a classic New England-style chowder or a creamy and spicy Manhattan-style, there is something for everyone in San Diego. So, if you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, keep reading to discover the best places for clam chowder in San Diego.
1. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious bowl of clam chowder.
The chowder is rich and packed with flavorful ingredients. Along with the chowder, the seafood is always fresh and reasonably priced.
The staff is friendly and efficient, making for a great dining experience.
The only downside is the long wait during peak hours. However, it's worth the wait for the amazing seafood and chowder.
2. Mitch's Seafood
Mitch's Seafood is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The clam chowder is creamy and loaded with clams and potatoes.
The seafood salad is fresh and tasty, with delicious and tender shrimp and crab.
The restaurant offers a scenic view of the bay and has both indoor and outdoor seating options.
The service is fast and friendly, and the seafood-focused menu features mostly locally caught fish. If you're in the area, make sure to stop by and try their famous clam chowder.
3. Ironside Fish & Oyster
Ironside Fish & Oyster is a seafood restaurant that serves some of the best clam chowder around.
With a menu that changes daily based on what's caught locally, the seafood is always fresh. The restaurant has a fun and quirky nautical decor that adds to the dining experience.
The service is good, although it can get busy. The restaurant offers heat lamps for outdoor dining, which is a nice touch.
If you're looking for a great spot for clam chowder, Ironside Fish & Oyster is definitely worth checking out.
4. Tom Ham's Lighthouse
Tom Ham's Lighthouse is a landmark seafood restaurant that offers epic views of the bay and skyline. The functioning lighthouse adds a unique touch to the dining experience.
While the menu is seafood-driven, their clam chowder is a standout dish. The chowder is creamy, full of clams, and seasoned to perfection.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with the outdoor balcony being a popular choice for its stunning views.
The service is top-notch, adding to the overall dining experience. Tom Ham's Lighthouse is a must-visit for seafood lovers who want to enjoy delicious clam chowder and breathtaking views.
5. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach
Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is a seafood restaurant that serves some of the best clam chowder in town.
The restaurant is always busy, so expect a wait. The food is fresh, well-cooked, and reasonably priced.
The views are spectacular, making it a great place to enjoy a meal. The staff is friendly and the service is quick.
If you're looking for a casual seafood restaurant with great clam chowder and ocean views, Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is the place to go.
6. Bay Park Fish Company
Bay Park Fish Company is a seafood restaurant that offers a wide range of seafood dishes including clam chowder.
The restaurant has a great atmosphere and friendly service.
The menu has a variety of seafood options ranging from sushi to traditional seafood dinners.
The prices are reasonable and the portions are generous. The restaurant is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood with family and friends.
7. Point Loma Fish Shop
Point Loma Fish Shop is a casual seafood spot that offers delicious clam chowder in a bread bowl.
The chowder is a must-try, and the fish tacos and fish and chips are also recommended. The atmosphere is laid-back and the service is friendly.
The menu is a bit pricey, but the quality of the food makes it worth it. The selection of craft beers and cocktails is impressive too.
The outdoor patio is a great spot to enjoy a meal and soak up the San Diego vibe.
8. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is a high-end seafood restaurant that offers a stunning view of the bay.
The clam chowder, along with other dishes, is well-prepared and flavorful.
The service is attentive, friendly, and efficient.
The restaurant is a bit pricey, but it is worth it for a special occasion or a fine dining experience. Reservations are recommended.
9. Crab Town
Crab Town is a must-visit seafood restaurant for anyone looking for a delicious clam chowder. The Louisiana-style cuisine is served in a fun environment, with friendly staff and excellent customer service.
The clam chowder is one of the highlights of the menu, with a rich and creamy texture and a perfect balance of flavors.
The seafood is served in a steamy plastic bag, adding to the overall experience of getting your hands dirty.
Crab Town is a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal with friends and family, with plenty of options for all tastes buds.
10. King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant
King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant offers some of the best clam chowder in town.
The restaurant's seafood is fresh, and the staff is friendly and helpful. The prices are reasonable, and the portion sizes are generous.
The combination of the juicy special mix sauce, garlic butter, cajun, lemon pepper, and house sauce makes the food even more delicious.
The restaurant has a great atmosphere, and the service is quick and efficient.
11. Mr. Fish & Chips
If you're looking for a spot that serves great clam chowder, Mr. Fish & Chips is worth checking out.
They have a small but varied menu that includes seafood combos, sandwiches, salads, and of course, clam chowder soup. The fried seafood is crispy and not overly greasy, and the customer service is exceptional.
The packaging is eco-friendly, and they provide plenty of condiments. The restaurant is unassuming and located in a strip mall.
The food is cooked to order, fresh, and reasonably priced. All in all, it's a great spot for a quick and satisfying meal.
12. Submarine Crab
Submarine Crab is a seafood restaurant that offers delicious clam chowder.
The chowder is creamy and packed with fresh clams that are cooked to perfection. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. The menu also offers a variety of seafood dishes that are worth trying.
If you're in the mood for some great clam chowder, Submarine Crab is definitely worth checking out.
13. Crab City
Looking for the best clam chowder in town that won't break the bank and is served in a clean and friendly atmosphere with great customer service to boot, then look no further than Crab City.
This seafood restaurant and crab house has been receiving rave reviews for its delicious and well-seasoned clam chowder that is a must-try for seafood lovers.
The restaurant also offers a variety of seafood dishes, including crab, mussels, and crawfish, all of which are fresh and flavorful.
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a great seafood experience in town.
14. Fiddler's Green
Fiddler's Green is a nautical-themed restaurant serving up delicious clam chowder.
Along with the chowder, they offer a variety of seafood and steak options.
The decor is unique and adds to the overall experience. Service is friendly and accommodating.
It's a great spot for a casual meal with friends or family.
15. Water Grill San Diego
Water Grill San Diego is a high-end seafood restaurant that serves an excellent clam chowder.
The soup is not traditional, but it is delicious nonetheless. The potatoes are sliced thinly, and the soup is not as thick as a New England clam chowder.
The taste is not bland, but rich and flavorful. The restaurant has an extensive menu, and the service is excellent.
If you are looking for a place to enjoy a delicious clam chowder, Water Grill San Diego is a great option.
