San Diego, with its stunning coastline and warm weather, is a mecca for waterfront dining.
Whether you're looking for a romantic night out or a fun family dinner, the city has an array of options for you to choose from.
The best waterfront restaurants in San Diego offer more than just great food. They provide a unique atmosphere that is perfect for taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
From seafood to steaks, these restaurants cater to all kinds of cravings and budgets.
In this blog post, we'll be exploring the top waterfront restaurants in San Diego that you should add to your must-visit list.
We've scoured the city to find the most picturesque and delicious spots for you to enjoy. So, sit back and let us take you on a culinary journey through the best waterfront restaurants in San Diego.
1. Mitch's Seafood
Mitch's Seafood is a seafood-focused restaurant that sits on the marina.
The restaurant offers a variety of locally caught fish, including grilled halibut, tuna tacos, and seafood platters.
The atmosphere is relaxed, and diners can choose to sit inside or outside while enjoying the view of the bay.
The staff is friendly and provides fast service. Mitch's Seafood is a must-visit for seafood lovers who want to enjoy delicious food and endless bay views.
2. Tom Ham's Lighthouse
Tom Ham's Lighthouse is a seafood restaurant located on the waterfront.
The restaurant features a functioning lighthouse and offers epic views of the San Diego Bay and skyline. The menu is seafood-driven and offers a good selection of dishes.
The service is excellent and the staff is attentive and welcoming. The restaurant is perfect for special occasions and romantic dates due to its beautiful setting.
The prices are on the higher side, but the experience is worth it.
3. Portside Pier
Portside Pier is a waterfront restaurant that offers amazing views of the water. The food is tasty and brought out quickly.
The menu offers a variety of options, although some may find that there are too many fried items.
The service is friendly and accommodating, making for a pleasant dining experience.
The restaurant can get pricey, but it's worth it for the stunning views and ambiance. The establishment is new, so it's a great spot to check out if you're in the area.
4. Bali Hai Restaurant
Bali Hai Restaurant is a sprawling Polynesian eatery known for its mai tai cocktails, seafood dishes, and enchanting bay views.
The restaurant has an upscale island theme going on, and its dishes are well plated. The atmosphere and views are what sell the place, making it a must-go place when in the area.
The restaurant offers outside dining, dining rooms, and areas for weddings. The customer service is fantastic, and the staff is professional and friendly.
Bali Hai Restaurant is a great place to enjoy delicious food while taking in the stunning view of San Diego bay.
5. Miguel's Cocina
Miguel's Cocina is a bustling Mexican cantina serving up California-inspired Mexican eats and margaritas. With a stunning waterfront location, this restaurant is a must-visit for its delicious food and friendly staff.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including Shrimp Quesadilla, Miguel's Platter, and Faldo 7 Mares soup, all of which are highly recommended.
The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks, including the ultimate margaritas, which are sure to hit the spot.
Whether you're looking for a quick solo lunch or a romantic anniversary dinner, Miguel's Cocina is the perfect place to enjoy great food and stunning views.
6. Brockton Villa
Brockton Villa offers a beautiful view of the ocean, making it a great spot for breakfast or a meal.
The staff is friendly and accommodating, and the food is delicious.
The French toast is a must-try, as well as the Baja shrimp salad and lobster roll. Prices are reasonable for the area.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a relaxing meal by the water.
7. Coasterra
Coasterra is a stunning waterfront restaurant with panoramic bay views. The modern Mexican plates and creative cocktails are a must-try.
The outdoor atmosphere is casual yet classy, perfect for group gatherings.
The service is outstanding and the staff is attentive. The vegetarian options are limited, but the portions make up for it.
The ambience and bar are gorgeous with a huge drinks menu. Coasterra is a fine dining seafood restaurant with a unique and delicious menu.
8. Ketch Grill & Taps
Ketch Grill & Taps is a waterfront restaurant that offers great food and an amazing view of the harbor.
The Brussels sprouts and shrimp risotto are particularly noteworthy.
The service is welcoming and attentive. The selection of drinks is extensive, with a fantastic beer flight option.
The restaurant is highly recommended for a romantic dinner.
9. Tidal
Tidal is a must-visit waterfront restaurant with a stunning view of the bay. The restaurant offers Californian-inspired seafood and meat dishes that are truly exceptional.
The staff is friendly and attentive, making sure you have a great dining experience.
The outdoor seating is perfect for a romantic dinner or a brunch with friends. The ambience is rustic and relaxed with communal tables that add to the charm of the place.
Tidal is a great spot to enjoy delicious food and drinks while taking in the beautiful scenery.
10. Sally's Fish House & Bar
Sally's Fish House & Bar is a modern and elegant waterfront restaurant that offers sustainable sushi and seafood.
The menu is not too expansive, but it has a great variety of dishes that are presented well and taste great. The ambiance is lively and vibrant, making it a great spot for group meals or dinner parties.
The staff is quick and attentive, providing excellent service without being overbearing. The outdoor and indoor dining options next to the docks offer stunning views of the marina, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or to soak up the sun.
Although the prices are a bit steep, it is worth the splurge for the quality of food and service.
11. Roy's Restaurant
Roy's Restaurant offers a high-end dining experience with a beautiful waterfront view.
The staff is knowledgeable and accommodating, and the food is well-executed with a Hawaiian fusion twist.
The outdoor seating is a great option during nice weather, and the service is attentive. The wine list is extensive and includes some great options.
The restaurant is part of a hotel, but it still manages to maintain a unique and upscale atmosphere.
12. Louisiana Charlie's
Louisiana Charlie's is a Mardi Gras-themed restaurant that offers BBQ and Cajun-style dishes.
This waterfront eatery has a beautiful view and a lively atmosphere. The food is delicious and well-portioned, with the gumbo being a standout dish.
The staff is friendly and welcoming, making for a pleasant dining experience. While the ordering process may be a bit confusing, it does not detract from the overall quality of the food and service.
If you're looking for a flavorful meal and a fun atmosphere, Louisiana Charlie's is the place to be.
13. Joe's Crab Shack
Joe's Crab Shack is a casual seafood chain that offers a cozy atmosphere and a great view of the surrounding bay.
The restaurant serves crab buckets, stuffed shrimp, and American comfort dishes, making it a perfect spot for families. The staff is friendly and efficient, and the price point is reasonable for the location.
The seafood is fresh and tasty, and the portions are generous. The restaurant is fully accessible and has van parking, ramps, and other amenities.
Whether you arrive by foot or by boat, Joe's Crab Shack is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood and a great view.
14. Edgewater Grill
Edgewater Grill is a seafood-centric American restaurant located on the waterfront. The restaurant offers indoor-outdoor seating with stunning views of the bay.
The menu is seafood-focused, but there are also American dishes available. The restaurant has a casual and welcoming atmosphere.
The service is attentive, and the staff is friendly. The food is well-prepared and delicious. The drinks are well-crafted.
The prices are on the expensive side, but the location and atmosphere are worth it. If you're looking for a waterfront dining experience with great food and drinks, Edgewater Grill is worth a visit.
