Food & Drink

Tuna-tastic: 15 San Diego Spots for the Best Tuna Salad!

San Diego is known for its fantastic food scene, with a wide variety of cuisines to satisfy any craving. One popular dish that can be found at many restaurants is tuna salad.

Whether you prefer it with a creamy dressing, a tangy vinaigrette, or loaded with veggies, San Diego has plenty of options for this classic dish.

Tuna salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a sandwich, a salad, or even a dip. It's a great choice for a light lunch or a quick snack, and it's also a healthy option for those who want to watch their calorie intake.

With so many variations of tuna salad available in San Diego, it can be difficult to know where to start.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places in San Diego to find delicious tuna salad. From casual cafes to upscale restaurants, we will take a look at the different styles of tuna salad that can be found throughout the city.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, this guide will help you discover some of the best places to enjoy this classic dish in San Diego. So, let's dive in and explore the world of tuna salad!

1. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
3667 India St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill offers a delicious tuna salad that is definitely worth trying.

The seafood is fresh, and the portions are generous. The service is friendly and efficient, and the outdoor seating is clean and comfortable.

Prices are reasonable, and the menu offers a variety of options for seafood lovers.

This is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends or family.

2. Azuki Sushi Lounge

Azuki Sushi Lounge
2321 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Azuki Sushi Lounge is a must-visit for tuna salad lovers. Their high-quality fish is fresh and delicious, and the chefs are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their craft.

The sushi bar is the perfect spot to try their sashimi entrees, which are simply amazing. The restaurant may be small, but it offers a fantastic variety of sushi and rice wine, served by the bottle or carafe.

The service is great, and the location is cool and modern. Prices are fair for the quality of food and service.

Make sure to book a table in advance, as the restaurant can get busy. Azuki Sushi Lounge is definitely worth a visit for anyone looking for top-notch tuna salad.

3. Swami's Cafe North Park

Swami's Cafe North Park
3794 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Swami's Cafe North Park is a casual eatery that serves delicious tuna salad.

The menu offers a great selection of food and beer on tap, with breakfast and lunch options that are amazing.

The cafe has a nice location, but parking can be challenging at times. The staff is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable.

If you are a fan of tuna salad, this is definitely a place you should visit.

4. Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant
1790 W Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant is a must-visit place for tuna salad lovers. They offer a great selection of fresh and delicious tuna salad dishes that will satisfy your cravings.

The restaurant has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with attentive staff ready to serve you.

The menu has a lot of variety, and you can be sure to find something you like. Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant is a perfect spot for a quick lunch or a dinner date with friends.

So, if you're looking for a place to enjoy a tasty tuna salad, Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant is the place to be!

5. Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant

Tobeys 19Th Hole Restaurant
2600 Golf Course Dr, San Diego, CA 92102 (Google Maps)

Tobeys 19th Hole Restaurant offers great food and stunning views of the golf course and city skyline.

The menu features classic American dishes, including a delicious tuna salad.

The service is friendly and professional, and the atmosphere is cozy and comfortable.

Although nothing fancy, the food is of high quality and reasonably priced. This hidden gem is a perfect spot for breakfast or lunch.

6. Dock House Grill

Dock House Grill
1840 Quivira Way, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

Dock House Grill is a great place for tuna salad. The freshly made sandwiches are delicious and reasonably priced at around $7.50 each.

The outdoor picnic tables provide a nice atmosphere with a great view of the harbor.

The marina grinder sandwich is a must-try, with a creamy balsamic dressing that adds a unique flavor.

However, be aware that it is cash only. While the staff may not be the friendliest, it doesn't take away from the great food and experience.

7. Appetite

Appetite
401 W A St, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Looking for a quick bite to eat that won't disappoint the taste buds, Appetite is the place to go.

This simple cafe offers classic snacks like steak, burgers, and sandwiches, but their tuna salad is a standout dish.

The tuna is fresh and perfectly seasoned, and the accompanying vegetables are crisp and flavorful.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for a sandwich or a salad, Appetite has got you covered.

8. Provisional Kitchen

Provisional Kitchen
425 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Provisional Kitchen is a stylish and modern restaurant that serves elevated New American cuisine. While their menu offers a variety of dishes, their tuna salad is a standout.

The salad is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and dressed with a tangy vinaigrette that complements the tuna perfectly.

The portion size is generous and the presentation is visually appealing. The attentive service and chic ambiance make for a memorable dining experience.

If you're in the mood for a delicious and satisfying tuna salad, Provisional Kitchen is the place to go.

9. Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar

Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar
1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is a fine seafood establishment that specializes in seafood and meat dishes. The waterfront venue offers a beautiful view of the bay.

The tuna salad is a must try, and is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The dish is well-seasoned and the tuna is perfectly cooked.

The service is excellent, with attentive and informative staff. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, making it a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner.

Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is a must-visit for seafood lovers and those looking for a great tuna salad.

10. Ike's Love & Sandwiches

Ike's Love & Sandwiches
1010 University Ave #101, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Ike's Love & Sandwiches is a bustling sandwich shop that serves creative sandwiches, including vegan options.

They have a wide variety of sandwiches with cool names and quirky ingredients. The tuna salad is a must-try for seafood lovers.

The portions are large enough to share or enjoy the next day for lunch. The staff is attentive and friendly, making the experience even better.

With ample seating space and designated parking, Ike's Love & Sandwiches is a great place to eat and people watch.

11. Vessel Restaurant

Vessel Restaurant
1551 Shelter Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Vessel Restaurant is a chic New American restaurant located at a waterside resort. They serve a delicious tuna salad that is worth trying.

The salad is fresh and flavorful, with a good mix of greens and perfectly cooked tuna.

The portion size is generous and the presentation is visually appealing. The service is friendly and attentive, and the ambiance is stylish and contemporary.

The restaurant also offers a good selection of cocktails and other dishes, making it a great place to dine with friends or family.

12. Albert's Restaurant

Albert's Restaurant
2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Albert's Restaurant is a hidden gem located within a popular attraction.

The restaurant offers a variety of healthy and tasty options, including their delicious tuna salad. The atmosphere is relaxing and perfect for a break from the crowds.

While the prices may be higher than standard zoo fare, the quality of the food and experience make it worth it. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends or holidays.

If you want to enjoy a nice dining experience and some great food while visiting this attraction, make sure to give Albert's a try.

13. The Fish Market – San Diego

The Fish Market - San Diego
750 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

The Fish Market – San Diego is a seafood restaurant with a great selection of fresh catch. The menu boasts a variety of dishes, including the popular tuna salad.

The restaurant offers outdoor seating with a view of the bay, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal.

The service is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.

If you're in the mood for seafood and a great view, The Fish Market – San Diego is definitely worth a visit.

14. Panera Bread

Panera Bread
225 Broadway Cir Suite 160, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Panera Bread is a counter-serve bakery/cafe chain that serves delicious tuna salad.

Along with sandwiches, salads, and sides, they offer a variety of baked goods for those with a sweet tooth.

The restaurant is well-kept, and the staff provides consistently great customer service.

They also offer online ordering for fast pick-ups. Panera Bread is a great place to grab a quick and tasty tuna salad.

15. World Famous

World Famous
711 Pacific Beach Dr, San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

World Famous is a beachfront restaurant that offers a mix of surf, turf, and pub grub. The Californian restaurant provides an inventive twist to coastal fare, serving tuna salad that is worth trying.

The restaurant has a simple, wood-paneled interior and an oceanfront patio where you can enjoy your meal with a view of the sea.

The staff is accommodating and attentive, ensuring that customers have a great dining experience.

World Famous is a must-visit for those who want to enjoy a delicious tuna salad while taking in the stunning beach scenery.