San Diego is a coastal city that is well-known for its seafood cuisine. One of the most popular seafood delicacies in San Diego is octopus.
Octopus is a versatile ingredient that can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, frying, and boiling. A good octopus dish should have a tender texture, a pleasant taste, and a visually appealing presentation.
If you are a fan of octopus, you are in luck because San Diego has some of the best places to enjoy this delicacy. Whether you prefer a fine dining experience or a casual seafood joint, there is a place for everyone.
Some restaurants specialize in traditional octopus dishes, while others offer fusion cuisine that incorporates octopus in unique ways.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best places to enjoy octopus in San Diego. We will look at the different types of octopus dishes available, the preparation methods used, and the overall dining experience.
Whether you are a local or a tourist, this guide will help you discover new places to satisfy your octopus cravings. So, let's dive in and explore the best places for octopus in San Diego.
1. Oscars Mexican Seafood
Oscars Mexican Seafood is a seafood restaurant that offers an authentic Mexican cuisine.
The restaurant is known for its flavorful ceviche and seafood tacos. The octopus taco is a must-try, perfectly seared and juicy.
The battered fish tacos and fish stew also stand out. The salsa bar offers a variety of sauces that add flavor to the tacos.
The restaurant has ample seating and parking. Oscars Mexican Seafood is a great place to experience fresh and delicious seafood.
2. Seafood Kiko's Place
Seafood Kiko's Place is a hidden gem for seafood lovers. This taco and seafood restaurant is known for its generous portions and fresh ingredients.
The must-try dish here is the octopus taco, which is spicy and full of flavor. The grilled marlin taco is also a great choice.
The small cup of seafood is perfect for cold days. The service is polite and quick, and the prices are reasonable.
The sauces, both fresh and assortment of hot sauces, are amazing too. If you're in the area, Seafood Kiko's Place is a must-visit for a delicious and satisfying meal.
3. Top of the Market
Top of the Market is an upscale seafood restaurant that offers a fine dining experience. The highlight of their menu is the octopus, which is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The restaurant also offers a stunning view of the bay, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
The prices are high, but the quality of the food and the service make it worth it.
If you're a seafood lover looking for a memorable dining experience, Top of the Market is definitely worth a visit.
4. EL Puerto Seafood By the Park
EL Puerto Seafood By the Park is a must-visit for seafood lovers. This relaxed counter-serve venue offers Mexican staples and a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
The standout dish is the octopus, which is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The staff is friendly and provides exceptional customer service. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous.
Don't forget to try their delicious sauces and the ice-cold bucket of Tecate. EL Puerto Seafood By the Park is the perfect place to enjoy authentic mariscos in a casual setting.
5. El Viejon Seafood
El Viejon Seafood is a must-try for seafood lovers. Their octopus tacos are cooked to perfection and full of flavor.
The Birria tacos with broth are also highly recommended.
The casual atmosphere and self-serve setup make for a laid-back dining experience.
Don't miss out on their tower, which is packed with a variety of fresh seafood. Parking can be a challenge, but the delicious food is well worth it.
6. Water Grill San Diego
Water Grill San Diego is a sophisticated seafood restaurant that offers an extensive raw bar and daily updated menu. The restaurant is known for its high-end seafood and excellent service. If you are looking for a place to enjoy some delicious octopus, this is the right place to be.
The rustic-chic decor and ample space create a pleasant atmosphere for dining. The scallops and steak are beautifully presented and tasty, but the highlight of the menu is the wild Spanish octopus.
The dish comes with slices of fingerling potatoes, olives, and roasted tomato slices, making it a perfect combination of flavors. The oyster sampler is also a must-try, served with four sauces that complement the flavors of the seafood.
The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service justify it. Water Grill San Diego is a great place for seafood lovers who appreciate a fine dining experience.
7. Seafood La 57
Seafood La 57 is a must-visit for anyone who loves seafood. Their grilled octopus tacos are a standout dish, with delicious sauces and onions on top.
The ceviche and fish tacos are also excellent, with generous portions.
The restaurant is located in a convenient spot and offers reasonable prices.
The warm cup of consomé handed out during colder weather is a nice touch. Highly recommended for seafood lovers in the area.
8. Coasterra
Coasterra is a modern Mexican restaurant that offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. The restaurant's specialty is octopus, which is cooked to perfection and served with a variety of flavorful sauces.
In addition to octopus, Coasterra also offers a range of other seafood dishes, including ceviche and fish tacos.
The service is attentive and the atmosphere is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy delicious seafood with a breathtaking view, Coasterra is definitely worth a visit.
9. Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine
Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine is a luxurious restaurant that specializes in modern coastal cuisine.
They offer a variety of small plates, sushi, and seafood dishes that are simply amazing. Their octopus dish is a must-try, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
The ambiance is sophisticated and upscale, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic night out. The service is top-notch, with well-trained and attentive staff who are always ready to help.
If you're looking for a high-end seafood restaurant with great food and service, Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine is definitely worth checking out.
10. Sally's Fish House & Bar
Sally's Fish House & Bar is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves octopus. Their grilled octopus appetizer is perfectly prepared and full of flavor.
The restaurant also offers a variety of other delicious seafood dishes, including clam chowder and swordfish.
The service is attentive and professional, making the dining experience all the more enjoyable.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Sally's Fish House & Bar is definitely worth checking out.
11. Rockin' Baja Lobster – Old Town
Rockin' Baja Lobster – Old Town is a lively seafood restaurant that serves up Baja-style dishes. The menu offers a variety of seafood options, including delicious octopus.
The atmosphere is fun and festive, with colorful lights and wooden plaques decorating the walls.
The service is attentive and polite, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
If you're looking for a place to enjoy some fresh and tasty seafood, Rockin' Baja Lobster – Old Town is definitely worth a visit.
12. Gaslamp Fish House
Gaslamp Fish House is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The menu offers a variety of options, including delicious octopus dishes.
The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends.
The service is top-notch, with friendly staff who are knowledgeable about the menu. The restaurant also offers a great selection of drinks, including tasty cocktails.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to try the amazing seafood at Gaslamp Fish House.
