San Diego is known for its stunning beaches, perfect weather, and delicious seafood.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, you won't want to miss out on the city's best seafood restaurants.
San Diego's seafood scene is diverse and exciting, with options ranging from casual fish taco stands to upscale seafood restaurants with ocean views.
No matter what your budget or taste preferences, you're sure to find a seafood spot that suits your needs.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to dine.
That's why we've compiled a list of San Diego's best seafood restaurants to help you make the most of your dining experience. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the city's freshest catches.
1. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a seafood restaurant and market that offers fresh seafood and a variety of dishes.
Customers can choose from grilled fish plates, sashimi, and seafood tacos, all of which are made with high-quality ingredients. The service is fast and friendly, and the atmosphere is casual and welcoming.
The restaurant is known for its fish tacos, which are made with authentic Mexican-style seafood and served on housemade tortillas.
Prices are reasonable for the quality and portion size of the dishes. All in all, Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood in a casual setting.
2. Mitch's Seafood
Mitch's Seafood is a seafood restaurant that offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes. Located by the marina, it boasts stunning bay views that add to the dining experience.
The restaurant's specialty is locally caught fish, which is evident in the quality of the dishes. The staff is attentive and friendly, making the dining experience enjoyable.
The menu offers a vast selection of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, fish tacos, and clam chowder, all of which are well worth trying.
The restaurant also has a great selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. If you're looking for a great seafood restaurant that offers fresh dishes, Mitch's Seafood is definitely worth a visit.
3. Eddie V's Prime Seafood
Eddie V's Prime Seafood offers an upscale dining experience with a diverse seafood and steak menu.
The restaurant features elegant decor and a cocktail lounge with live jazz.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff provide excellent service, making for a memorable dining experience.
Highly recommended for those looking for a fine dining option with quality seafood and steak dishes.
4. Tom Ham's Lighthouse
Tom Ham's Lighthouse is a seafood restaurant that offers a spectacular view of the San Diego Bay and skyline.
The menu is seafood-driven, and the dishes are packed with flavor. The service is top-notch, and the staff is attentive without being intrusive.
The restaurant is housed in a landmark building that features a functioning lighthouse, adding to the ambiance of the dining experience.
Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a family-friendly atmosphere, Tom Ham's Lighthouse has something for everyone.
5. Ironside Fish & Oyster
Ironside Fish & Oyster is a seafood restaurant that offers a great selection of oysters and fresh catches.
The restaurant has a unique and quirky nautical design that adds to the dining experience. The cocktails are well-mixed and the wine selection complements the food.
The service is attentive and the staff is knowledgeable about the menu. The crispy sweet potatoes and bone marrow are must-tries.
The atmosphere is lively and the happy hour offers great deals. Highly recommended for seafood lovers looking for a fun and delicious dining experience.
6. Oscars Mexican Seafood
Oscars Mexican Seafood is a popular seafood restaurant known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
The restaurant offers a variety of tacos, tortas, and ceviche at a great price point. The smoked fish tacos and spicy shrimp tacos are highly recommended by customers.
The restaurant has limited seating, but the quality of the food is worth the wait. The service is friendly and efficient.
Oscars Mexican Seafood is a must-visit for anyone looking for tasty seafood dishes in the area.
7. Pacific Beach Fish Shop
Pacific Beach Fish Shop is the go-to destination for fresh seafood in a casual atmosphere.
With an extensive menu featuring a variety of fish and seafood dishes, customers can choose from tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more.
The outdoor seating area adds to the relaxed feel of the restaurant. The customer service is quick and efficient, and the prices are reasonable.
Highly recommended for seafood lovers looking for a laid-back dining experience.
8. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach
Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is the go-to spot for seafood lovers. With generous portions of fresh seafood, this restaurant offers a variety of dishes including plates, sandwiches, tacos, and salads.
The blackened halibut sandwich and the local mahi tacos are highly recommended. The restaurant has a casual and informal atmosphere with a lovely patio offering ocean views.
The staff is young and friendly, and the service is excellent. The prices are reasonable, and the value for money is great.
Although the restaurant can get crowded, the wait is worthwhile. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is definitely worth a visit for a delicious seafood lunch or dinner.
9. Seafood Kiko's Place
Seafood Kiko's Place is a must-visit seafood restaurant for anyone who loves fresh Baja seafood. The menu is loaded with delicious mixed ceviche, oysters, clam, and shrimp.
The fish tacos and burritos are incredibly loaded and the Governor burrito is a show stealer. The portions are generous, and the prices are very fair.
The service is quick and friendly, and the hot sauces are a great addition to the fresh seafood. The restaurant is casual, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Taco Tuesday is a great day to visit, with three fish tacos for just $5.
The restaurant does not accept cards, so make sure to have cash on hand. Seafood Kiko's Place is a San Diego gem that lives up to the hype and is definitely worth a visit.
10. The Fishery
The Fishery is a seafood restaurant that serves up exceptional food and top-notch service. The menu is simple but well-thought-out, with fresh seafood prepared to perfection.
The oysters and carpaccio are delicious starters, while the fish and chips are a must-try for the main course.
The desserts are also a delight, with options like panna cotta and lemon passionfruit cake. The ambiance is nice, and the staff is friendly and attentive.
The restaurant also has a seafood market inside a midcentury brick-and-mortar warehouse, adding to its charm. If you're in the area, The Fishery is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
11. Hawaiian Fresh Seafood, Inc
Hawaiian Fresh Seafood, Inc is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. Their poke bowls are a must-try, made with fresh and delicious fish.
The grilled fish options are also a great choice. The garlic shrimp is a standout dish, but be warned that it's very garlicky.
The portions are generous and the quality of the seafood is top-notch. The restaurant can get busy during peak hours, so it's best to come early or be prepared to wait.
With picnic tables recently added outside, it's a great spot for a casual seafood lunch.
12. Bay Park Fish Company
Bay Park Fish Company is a seafood lover's paradise. With a menu full of fresh catches, from chowders to sushi, there's something for everyone.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making for a comfortable atmosphere.
The standout dishes include the halibut picatta and the ceviche. However, the takeout experience could use some improvement.
Despite this, Bay Park Fish Company is a must-try for anyone in search of delicious seafood.
13. Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill
If you're looking for a seafood restaurant with exceptional service and delicious food, look no further than Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill.
This hidden gem offers fresh seafood dishes that are reasonably priced and made with quality ingredients.
The popcorn shrimp, fish and chips, and grilled shrimp salad are all highly recommended.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making your dining experience even more enjoyable. Don't miss out on this amazing restaurant!
14. California Fish Grill
California Fish Grill is a seafood restaurant that offers a wide variety of fresh fish and ocean critters.
The menu can be customized with several side dishes and sauces, making it a great option for those who want to try different flavors.
The staff members are professional and friendly, providing excellent service. The restaurant also serves beer and wine, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed night out.
With its delicious food and great value, California Fish Grill is a must-try for seafood lovers.
15. EL Puerto Seafood By the Park
EL Puerto Seafood By the Park is a seafood and Mexican restaurant that offers fresh and flavorful dishes with outstanding customer service.
The restaurant is located near Petco Park and is perfect for a quick bite before or after a game.
The ceviche sampler and shrimp quesadilla are highly recommended, as well as the daily specials like $2 fish tacos on Tuesdays.
While the prices may be a little high, the quality of the seafood is not compromised. The restaurant also offers a relaxed and casual atmosphere with a terrace for outdoor seating.
16. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is a seafood restaurant that offers high-end dining and stunning bay views.
The restaurant is located upstairs from the Fish Market and presents a white-tablecloth setting that exudes elegance.
The menu boasts a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are expertly prepared and presented. The staff is attentive and friendly, providing excellent service to patrons.
Top of the Market is a must-visit for seafood lovers who are looking for a luxurious dining experience with a view.
17. JRDN Restaurant
Located in a stunning beachfront setting, JRDN Restaurant is a must-visit for seafood lovers. With refined takes on surf 'n' turf, the menu offers a variety of dishes that are well-prepared and portioned.
The restaurant's ambiance is fantastic, with breathtaking views of the ocean and Pacific Beach.
The staff is friendly and courteous, providing excellent service throughout the meal. While the pricing is on the higher side, it's worth it for the quality of the food and the view.
JRDN Restaurant is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience by the beach.
18. King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant
If you're in the mood for some fresh and tasty seafood, King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant is the place to go.
With an extensive menu and friendly staff, this seafood restaurant won't disappoint.
Their seafood boils are a must-try and the portions are generous. The restaurant also offers Po' Boys and other delicious options at affordable prices.
The atmosphere is clean and inviting, making it a great place to dine with friends and family.
19. The Fancy Fish
The Fancy Fish is a seafood restaurant that offers fresh and delicious dishes.
Customers can choose from a variety of preparation methods such as fried, steamed, or grilled. The staff is friendly and provides excellent customer service.
The portions are large and the prices are reasonable. The restaurant also offers build-your-own seafood plates and salads.
The atmosphere is casual and spacious. The Fancy Fish is a hidden gem that is worth checking out.
