San Diego is a coastal city known for its delicious seafood cuisine. One of the most popular dishes in the area is the crab cake.
Made with fresh crab meat, herbs, spices, and other ingredients, crab cakes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are served as appetizers or main courses and can be accompanied by different sauces and side dishes.
Finding the best place for crab cakes in San Diego can be a daunting task, as there are many restaurants, cafes, and food trucks that claim to have the most delicious crab cakes in town.
However, not all crab cakes are created equal. Some are too dry, too greasy, or too bland, while others stand out for their flavor, texture, and presentation.
In this blog post, we will explore the best places for crab cakes in San Diego. We will highlight the restaurants that offer the most authentic, fresh, and mouth-watering crab cakes in the city. Whether you are a local or a tourist, you will find something to satisfy your cravings for this classic seafood dish.
From fine dining establishments to casual eateries, we will cover a range of options that cater to different tastes and budgets. So, get ready to indulge in some of the best crab cakes in San Diego and discover new culinary gems along the way.
1. Eddie V's
Eddie V's is a fine dining restaurant that serves some of the best crab cakes in town. The lump crab meat is generously seasoned with spices and herbs and fried to perfection.
The exterior is crispy, while the interior is soft and juicy. The dish is served with a side salad or fries and tartar sauce.
The ambiance of the restaurant is elegant and upscale, perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The service is exceptional, with knowledgeable and friendly staff.
The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and the experience is worth it. Eddie V's is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best crab cakes in town.
2. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach
Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is a must-visit for crab cake lovers. Their crab cakes are simply delicious and packed with flavor.
The restaurant offers a variety of seafood options, including tacos, sandwiches, and salads. The staff is friendly and the service is excellent.
The ambiance is casual and perfect for a laid-back dining experience. The outdoor seating area provides a great view of the ocean.
Prices are reasonable for the quality and quantity of food served. If you're in the mood for some fresh seafood, Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach is the place to go.
3. Bay Park Fish Company
Bay Park Fish Company is a must-visit for all seafood lovers. Their crab cakes are simply divine and are a must-try.
The restaurant has a great ambiance and the staff is friendly and attentive.
They offer a wide range of seafood dishes and their fresh catch of the day is always delicious. The menu can get a bit pricey, but it's worth it for the quality of the food.
The restaurant is also pet-friendly, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with your furry friend.
4. California Fish Grill
California Fish Grill is a great place to try crab cakes. The seafood is fresh and well-cooked, and the prices are reasonable.
The menu also offers a variety of other fish dishes, and the portions are generous.
The staff is friendly and the service is fast.
The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a good option for a casual meal.
5. Point Loma Fish Shop
Point Loma Fish Shop is a counter-service seafood specialist that serves up some of the best crab cakes in town.
The shop has a laid-back atmosphere and a large patio area where customers can enjoy their meals.
In addition to the delicious crab cakes, the menu also features a variety of fish dishes and local craft brews. The staff is friendly and the service is fast.
If you're looking for a great place to enjoy some fresh seafood, Point Loma Fish Shop is definitely worth a visit.
6. Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill is a hidden gem that serves up delicious crab cakes.
The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including fish and chips, sandwiches, and tacos. The crab cakes are perfectly seasoned and come with a side of fries.
The staff is friendly and the service is excellent. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it a great spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
If you're in the mood for some tasty crab cakes, be sure to check out Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill.
7. Crab Town
Crab Town is a must-visit place for crab cakes. Their snow crab is crispy and easy to crack, making it stand out from other seafood boil restaurants.
The service is great, and the staff is attentive and helpful.
While the prices may be on the higher side, the food is absolutely delicious, and the decor is super cute.
The mini combo is a must-try, and the house seasoning adds the perfect amount of salt and garlic. If you're a seafood lover, Crab Town is the place to be.
8. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is a seafood restaurant that offers high-end dishes and breathtaking views of the harbor.
Their crab cakes are a must-try for seafood lovers, as they are made with fresh and flavorful ingredients. The atmosphere is elegant and perfect for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
The service is top-notch, and the staff is attentive to every detail. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and the experience are worth it.
If you're looking for a place to indulge in delicious seafood and enjoy stunning views, Top of the Market is the perfect choice.
9. King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant
If you're looking for delicious crab cakes, King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant is worth checking out.
The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, but their crab cakes are a standout item on the menu.
The cakes are made with fresh crab meat and have a crispy exterior with a soft and flavorful center.
The restaurant's friendly staff and reasonable prices make it a great spot for a casual meal. If you're a fan of seafood, give King Crab Cajun Seafood Boil Restaurant a try.
10. Water Grill San Diego
Water Grill San Diego is a high-end seafood restaurant that offers a sophisticated dining experience. With an extensive raw-bar selection and a menu that is updated daily, the restaurant is a veteran in the seafood industry.
The crab cakes are a must-try, made with fresh and high-quality ingredients that make them stand out.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff provide excellent service, creating a memorable dining experience.
The restaurant's beautiful interior and comfortable seating make it an ideal place for a special occasion or a night out with friends. For those looking for the best crab cakes in town, Water Grill San Diego is a top contender.
11. Fiddler's Green
Fiddler's Green is a nautical-themed restaurant that serves delicious crab cakes.
The decor is unique with model sailboats lining the walls.
The service is friendly and attentive. The menu offers a variety of seafood and steak options.
The crab cakes are a must-try and are definitely worth the visit.
12. Humphreys Restaurant
Humphreys Restaurant is a seafood-focused Californian cuisine establishment that also serves as a performance venue.
While the menu is limited, the crab cakes are a standout dish. The restaurant offers a beautiful view of the marina and the Bay, making it a great spot for a meal or brunch.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, making the dining experience a pleasant one.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy some delicious crab cakes, Humphreys Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.
13. Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar
Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is a top seafood restaurant that specializes in crab cakes.
The restaurant offers stunning views of the bay, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
The crab cakes are simply delicious and definitely worth trying. The service is outstanding, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.
If you are a seafood lover, Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is a must-visit place.
14. Saltwater Seafood & Steak
Saltwater Seafood & Steak is a top-notch restaurant for seafood and steak lovers. The crab cakes here are a must-try, as they are prepared with sincerity and pride.
The quality of the food is unmatched and reasonably priced. The atmosphere is great, and the service is excellent.
The extensive seafood selection and prime beef cuts will leave you spoilt for choice. The restaurant also offers craft cocktails and outstanding service.
If you are looking for a fancy dining experience with delicious seafood, Saltwater Seafood & Steak is the place to be.
15. Red Marlin
Red Marlin is a seafood and American restaurant that serves creative surf and turf dishes with stunning views of the marina.
The menu has a good variety of options, including delicious crab cakes that are a must-try. The restaurant's service is attentive and friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience.
The outdoor and indoor dining areas offer a great ambiance, perfect for a special occasion or a nice evening out.
The prices are a little steep, but the quality of the food and service make it worth it. Don't miss the happy hour deals for $5 cocktails and $5 small plates.
16. Sally's Fish House & Bar
Sally's Fish House & Bar is a top-notch seafood restaurant that serves some of the best crab cakes in town.
The crab cakes are made with fresh ingredients and come with a tasty sauce that complements the dish perfectly.
The restaurant is located by the water, providing a great view and a fun atmosphere for diners.
The service is excellent, with attentive staff who are always ready to assist. Sally's Fish House & Bar is the perfect place for anyone looking for a great seafood experience.
17. The Fish Market – San Diego
The Fish Market in San Diego is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Their crab cakes are simply delicious, and the grilled fish and seafood plates are equally impressive.
The bayfront location provides stunning views, and the outdoor seating is perfect for a relaxing meal.
The service is friendly and attentive, and the prices are reasonable for the area. Don't miss out on this seafood stalwart!
