San Diego is a coastal city that boasts a plethora of seafood restaurants with mouth-watering menus. For seafood lovers, finding the best fried shrimp in San Diego can be a challenge.
The city is home to various restaurants that serve different versions of the popular dish, from classic to creative twists.
Fried shrimp is a classic seafood dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple yet delicious dish that requires fresh and succulent shrimp coated in a crispy batter and deep-fried to perfection.
Many restaurants in San Diego serve this dish, but not all of them get it right. Finding the best place for fried shrimp can be daunting, especially if you are new to the city.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places for fried shrimp in San Diego. We will review restaurants that serve classic fried shrimp dishes as well as those that offer unique and creative twists.
Whether you are a seafood lover or just looking for a tasty meal, we have got you covered. So, sit back and get ready to discover some of the best places for fried shrimp in San Diego.
1. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a casual seafood spot known for their delicious fish tacos.
They offer authentic Mexican-style seafood tacos with a special sauce that's served on housemade tortillas.
The fried shrimp appetizer is fresh, crispy and delicious, and the calamari appetizer and grilled snapper fish sandwich are also good options.
The seafood is fresh and of high quality, making it a great value for portion size and quality. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the service is fast. It's a popular place, so be prepared for a long line.
2. Pete's Seafood and Sandwich
Pete's Seafood and Sandwich is a casual East Coast-style sandwich shop that serves delicious fried shrimp.
The shrimp is firm and perfectly cooked, with just the right amount of seasoning. The batter is light and crispy, and the shrimp is served with tasty remoulade sauce on the side.
The restaurant also offers a wide variety of other seafood dishes, including lobster rolls and clam chowder. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating options.
Pete's Seafood and Sandwich is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for delicious seafood in a comfortable setting.
3. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach
Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is a seafood restaurant that offers fried shrimp and other seafood dishes.
The restaurant is located close to the beach, providing a great view of the ocean.
The food is fresh and delicious, and the service is outstanding. The lines can be long, but the wait is worth it.
If you're looking for a casual seafood restaurant with a great view, Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is the place to go.
4. The Fishery
The Fishery is a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of ocean-to-table dishes. Their fried shrimp is a must-try for seafood lovers.
The shrimp is cooked to perfection and has a delicious flavor that is sure to satisfy. The restaurant also has a seafood market inside where guests can purchase fresh seafood to take home.
The ambiance is simple yet elegant, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a casual meal with friends.
The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. If you're in the mood for some delicious fried shrimp, The Fishery is the place to go.
5. California Fish Grill
California Fish Grill is a relaxed chain that serves up delicious fried and charbroiled seafood.
The menu offers a good variety of fresh fish cooked to perfection, and the portions are generous.
The shrimp is a must-try, and the Cajun seasoning adds a nice kick of flavor. The staff is professional and friendly, and the service is fast.
With reasonable prices and a great selection of complementary sauces, California Fish Grill is a great spot for seafood lovers.
6. Point Loma Fish Shop
Point Loma Fish Shop is a seafood lover's paradise with a variety of dishes to choose from. The shrimp is a must-try and is cooked to perfection.
The chowder with sausage and fish lumpia are also highly recommended. The restaurant has a casual ambiance and friendly staff.
The beer selection is impressive with options from local breweries. Prices are a bit on the high side but the quality of the food justifies it.
The restaurant also offers a large outdoor patio for dining. If you're in the mood for fresh seafood, Point Loma Fish Shop is definitely worth a visit.
7. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is a high-end seafood restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with bay views.
They serve amazing fried shrimp that are huge like baby lobster tails. The seafood is fresh and well-prepared, and the views across the harbor are stunning day or night.
The atmosphere is elegant, and the service is attentive and friendly. It is a bit pricey, but worth it for the quality of food and service.
If you want to enjoy a memorable dining experience with delicious fried shrimp, Top of the Market is the place to go.
8. The Fancy Fish
The Fancy Fish is a seafood restaurant that offers delicious fried shrimp. They have a build-your-own seafood plate option and a variety of sauces to choose from.
The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable. The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is casual.
The crispy shrimp tastes great and is a must-try for seafood lovers. The restaurant also offers other seafood options, such as grilled and steamed fish.
If you are in the mood for seafood, The Fancy Fish is definitely worth a visit.
9. Crab Town
Looking for a seafood spot that serves up some delicious fried shrimp in a no-frills atmosphere, Crab Town is the place to go.
With friendly staff and generous portions, Crab Town offers a variety of seafood options, including fresh oysters and crab legs.
The shrimp is served in bags on the table, so be prepared to get a little messy. The medium spice level is just right for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Prices are reasonable, and the service is fast and efficient. If you're looking for a laid-back seafood joint that offers great food, Crab Town is definitely worth checking out.
10. King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant
King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant is a must-visit place for seafood lovers. They serve up some of the best fried shrimp in town, perfectly cooked and smothered in a delicious Cajun sauce.
The portion sizes are generous, and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and the service is top-notch.
They also offer a variety of other seafood dishes, including crab, mussels, and crawfish, all cooked to perfection. The garlic wings are a must-try, and the special sauce is incredible.
Whether you're a local or just passing through, King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
11. Oscars Mexican Seafood
Oscars Mexican Seafood is a seafood restaurant that specializes in tacos and tortas.
They offer classic and modern dishes, including fried shrimp. The restaurant has a chill vibe and is a branch of a Mexican seafood chain.
The prices are low and the portions are generous. The fried shrimp is delicious and comes with three dipping sauces.
The restaurant is a great option for those who want to enjoy affordable and tasty seafood in a casual setting.
12. The Fish Market – San Diego
The Fish Market in San Diego is a seafood restaurant with a great view of the bay.
They have a wide selection of fresh fish and seafood dishes, including fried shrimp. The service is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is relaxed.
Outdoor seating is available, which is perfect for enjoying the view. The prices are reasonable for the area, and the portions are generous.
If you're in the mood for some delicious fried shrimp, The Fish Market is definitely worth a visit.
13. Shrimp Heads
Shrimp Heads is a seafood and Cajun restaurant that serves delicious fried shrimp. The portions are generous and the sauces are tasty.
The menu also includes other seafood options like crab legs, crawdads, and catfish.
The service is great and the atmosphere is cozy. The prices are reasonable and the parking is convenient.
If you're in the mood for some tasty fried shrimp, Shrimp Heads is definitely worth checking out.
14. Crab Hut
Looking for the best seafood in town with a Cajun twist and a nautical vibe to match the cuisine, Crab Hut is the place to be.
They offer buckets of seafood, including fried shrimp that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The spices inside the shrimp and crawfish are a taste one would not forget.
The prices are a bit expensive, but the portions are big enough to share. The service is excellent and attentive, making the dining experience worth it.
The atmosphere is casual, and the drinks are well-made and strong. Crab Hut is a perfect place for seafood lovers and a must-visit spot for anyone looking to try something new.
15. Submarine Crab
Submarine Crab is a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including fried shrimp. Customers can choose from different combos of shrimp, crawfish, and clams.
The restaurant also serves pasta, fried rice, and appetizers. The food is fresh and delicious, and the service is good.
The restaurant has a casual ambiance, and customers can enjoy their meals while watching TV or listening to music.
The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. Submarine Crab is a great place to enjoy some tasty fried shrimp and other seafood dishes.
16. Crab City
Looking for some delicious fried shrimp in town that won't break the bank?
Look no further than Crab City! This seafood restaurant offers a variety of flavors that will satisfy any seafood lover's cravings.
Not only is the food delicious, but the customer service is top-notch.
The friendly staff will make you feel right at home while you enjoy your meal. The restaurant is clean and aesthetically pleasing, making it a great spot to dine with friends or family.
Don't miss out on this gem – Crab City is a must-try for seafood lovers in the area.
17. Brigantine Seafood Restaurant
Brigantine Seafood Restaurant is a great place for fried shrimp. The food is delicious and well-prepared, with beautiful presentation.
The service is outstanding, with attentive wait staff who go out of their way to make your experience enjoyable.
The restaurant has a relaxed, clubby atmosphere, perfect for a nice dinner out. They also have a great gluten-free menu.
If you're in the mood for seafood or surf 'n' turf, Brigantine is definitely worth checking out.
18. Rockin' Baja Lobster – Old Town
Rockin' Baja Lobster – Old Town is a lively seafood restaurant that offers Baja-style dishes.
The restaurant is known for its delicious fried shrimp, which is crispy and flavorful. The atmosphere is fun and festive, with colorful lights and wooden plaques.
The service is friendly and efficient, and the portions are generous. The restaurant is a bit pricey, but the quality of the food is worth it.
If you're in the mood for some tasty fried shrimp, Rockin' Baja Lobster – Old Town is definitely worth a visit.
19. King's Fish House
King's Fish House is a seafood lover's dream. With a wide variety of fresh, wild-caught selections, it's hard to choose just one dish.
The fried shrimp, however, is a must-try. Perfectly sized and cooked to perfection, it's a delicious addition to any meal.
The customer service is excellent, with attentive and friendly staff. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, making it a great spot for a night out with friends or a family dinner.
Whether you're a pescatarian or just love seafood, King's Fish House is definitely worth checking out.
20. Roy's Restaurant
Roy's Restaurant is an upscale chain that serves Hawaiian fusion cuisine in a contemporary setting.
They offer a variety of dishes, including fried shrimp. While the price point may be high, the service is excellent, and the staff is attentive and courteous.
The food is fresh and delicious, but some dishes may be overdone. The atmosphere is beautiful, and the patio overlooking the harbor is a great place to enjoy the perfect weather while dining on Asian-inspired cuisine.
If you are looking for a fancy place to savor some fried shrimp, Roy's Restaurant is worth a visit.
