San Diego's Best Clam Chowder [Updated 2024]

I've tasted my fair share of this creamy, savory concoction, and let me tell you, it's not an easy task. But hey, someone's got to do it, right?

In my quest for the ultimate clam chowder, I've scoured the streets of San Diego, visiting a whopping 13 different restaurants to find the hidden gems that serve up the best bowl of comfort. From upscale seafood joints to cozy local diners, I've left no clam unturned in my pursuit.

So join me on this lighthearted adventure as we dive into the world of San Diego's clam chowder scene to uncover the crème de la crème - because life is too short for subpar soup!

Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Excellent staff
Unique entrées
Delicious food
Great service
Chill and relaxed

Let me start by saying that the staff at Gaslamp Fish House is truly exceptional. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine willingness to assist. It's always refreshing to encounter a team that takes pride in providing excellent service.

Now, let's talk about the clam chowder. Gaslamp Fish House offers a unique twist on this classic dish, which sets them apart from other seafood establishments in town. The flavors are expertly balanced, with just the right amount of creaminess and an impressive medley of herbs and spices that dance on your palate with each spoonful.

The entrées here are nothing short of extraordinary. While my focus was on clam chowder, I couldn't resist sampling some of their other offerings as well. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed. The combination of fresh seafood and innovative ingredients left me wanting more.

In terms of ambiance, Gaslamp Fish House strikes the perfect balance between being chill and relaxed while still maintaining an air of sophistication. You can enjoy your bowl of chowder in peace without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by noise.

Overall, my experience at Gaslamp Fish House was delightful. Their clam chowder is undoubtedly one of the best in San Diego, thanks to its delicious flavors and unique twist. So if you're searching for a memorable dining experience with exceptional service and delectable food, make sure to pay a visit to Gaslamp Fish House. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great dining experience
Well lit and clean
Easy menu with good portions
Highly recommended

From the moment I stepped into Water Grill San Diego, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was elegant yet inviting, with a well-lit dining area that exuded class. The restaurant was impeccably clean, and the attentive staff made me feel like a VIP.

Now let's talk about the main event - their clam chowder. Oh boy, was it something to write home about! This creamy delight had just the right balance of flavors, with each spoonful revealing tender clams and perfectly cooked potatoes. The broth was rich, velvety, and seasoned to perfection. It was clear that every ingredient had been carefully chosen and expertly prepared.

The portion size at Water Grill San Diego is definitely something to mention. Unlike some other places where you need a magnifying glass to find the clams in your chowder, this establishment serves up generous portions that will leave even the heartiest of appetites satisfied.

What truly sets Water Grill San Diego apart is their commitment to quality. You can taste the freshness of the ingredients in every bite. It's no wonder this place comes highly recommended by locals and visitors alike.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for the best clam chowder in San Diego, make sure to put Water Grill San Diego at the top of your list. Your taste buds will thank you for it!

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Ironside Fish & Oyster

Highlights
$1 oysters
Clam chowder filled with clams
Outstanding service
Cool interior vibe
Cozy tables

Let me start by saying that Ironside Fish & Oyster is not your average seafood joint. Oh no, my friends, they take it to a whole new level.

First, let's talk about the atmosphere. The interior gives off a cool and trendy vibe, with its sleek design and stylish décor. It's the kind of place where you can feel classy while slurping down some clam chowder.

Now, on to the star of the show—the clam chowder itself. Let me tell you, this is no ordinary bowl of soup. It's a clam-packed extravaganza that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. Every spoonful is filled with tender clams swimming in a creamy broth that is both rich and flavorful.

And speaking of clams, let's just take a moment to appreciate how generous they are at Ironside Fish & Oyster. They don't skimp on those briny little creatures; oh no, they load up their chowder with an abundance of fresh clams that will make any seafood lover weak at the knees.

But it's not just about the chowder here. The service at Ironside Fish & Oyster is outstanding. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ready to answer any question you might have about their menu or help you navigate through their impressive selection of oysters (did I mention $1 oysters?).

Lastly, let's not forget about the cozy tables that add an intimate touch to your dining experience. Whether you're on a date or catching up with friends, these tables provide the perfect setting for enjoying a warm bowl of clam chowder.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an extraordinary clam chowder experience in San Diego, look no further than Ironside Fish & Oyster. With its deliciously packed chowder, outstanding service and trendy ambiance, it truly deserves its place among the best clam chowder spots in town. So grab a spoon, loosen your belt, and get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty seafood goodness!

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Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Wide variety
Cozy ambiance
Attentive staff
Great prices

Upon entering Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, I was immediately struck by the cozy ambiance. The warm lighting and nautical-themed decor created a relaxed and inviting atmosphere that made me feel like I was dining at a seaside shack. It was the perfect setting to enjoy a bowl of clam chowder.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't help but be impressed by the wide variety of seafood options available. From shrimp to scallops, they seemed to have it all. But my focus, of course, was on their clam chowder. After placing my order, I eagerly awaited its arrival.

When the piping hot bowl was placed in front of me, I could immediately smell the enticing aroma of fresh seafood. The chowder had a rich and creamy texture that coated my spoon with every bite. The clams were tender and plentiful, providing bursts of briny flavor that danced on my palate.

What truly set Blue Water apart from other establishments was their use of fresh ingredients. Each spoonful of chowder burst with the taste of sea-salted perfection. It felt as if Neptune himself had personally blessed this delightful concoction.

The staff at Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill were not only attentive but also knowledgeable about their offerings. They happily answered all my inquiries about their sourcing practices and even shared some interesting tidbits about local fishing spots.

One aspect that cannot be overlooked is their great prices. Despite using top-quality ingredients and offering generous portions, Blue Water manages to keep its prices reasonable - a rarity in this day and age.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an exceptional clam chowder experience in San Diego, look no further than Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill. Its cozy ambiance, wide variety of fresh seafood options, attentive staff, and great prices make it a standout choice for any clam chowder enthusiast like myself.

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King's Fish House

Highlights
Fantastic dining experience
Excellent food preparation
Great service
Kid-friendly atmosphere
Reservation recommended

Let me start by saying, King's Fish House truly lives up to its reputation as a seafood lover's paradise. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and whisked away to a table overlooking the bustling dining area. The ambiance was fantastic, with nautical-themed decor and a lively atmosphere.

Now, let's talk about their clam chowder. Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary journey because this bowl of goodness is nothing short of exceptional. The chowder had a creamy texture that was perfectly balanced, neither too thick nor too watery. Each spoonful was bursting with the flavors of the sea, complemented by delicate hints of herbs and spices. They didn't skimp on the clams either; every bite contained generous chunks of tender mollusks.

The food preparation at King's Fish House is excellent, with attention to detail evident in every dish they serve. The ingredients were fresh and cooked to perfection. The rich flavors were expertly combined, creating a symphony of taste that left me craving for more.

To top it all off, the service was top-notch. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable about their menu, recommending dishes that would satisfy even the most discerning palates. They made sure our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

One thing worth mentioning is that King's Fish House is also kid-friendly. So if you're looking for a place to enjoy some clam chowder with your little ones in tow, this is definitely an excellent choice.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best clam chowder in San Diego, look no further than King's Fish House. Make sure to call ahead and make a reservation because this place gets busy – and trust me when I say it's worth it!

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Point Loma Seafoods

Highlights
Fresh seafood options
Delicious clam chowder
Stunning harbor views

Let me start by saying that Point Loma Seafoods is a hidden gem for anyone looking to indulge in the best clam chowder in San Diego. Nestled near the harbor, this seafood spot offers an experience that is both delicious and visually stunning.

As I entered, the first thing that caught my eye was their wide selection of fresh seafood options. From succulent shrimp to plump oysters, Point Loma Seafoods prides itself on serving only the finest catches from the ocean. Note to self: come back for a seafood feast!

But let's talk about what we're really here for - their clam chowder. Oh boy, was it a treat! The creamy texture, perfectly seasoned broth, and generous amount of tender clams made each spoonful a delight. It truly hit all the right notes.

What sets Point Loma Seafoods apart from other establishments is not only the quality of their chowder but also the breathtaking views of the harbor. Seriously, enjoying a bowl of their clam chowder while gazing at boats sailing by is an experience worth treasuring.

To sum it up, if you're searching for an unforgettable clam chowder experience in San Diego, look no further than Point Loma Seafoods. With its fresh seafood options, mouthwatering clam chowder, and stunning harbor views, this place checks all the boxes.

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Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant

Highlights
Great service under busy times
Large portion sizes
Loved the salmon bowl
Relaxing outdoor seating
Family Combo is a great deal

As I stepped into Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant, a delightful aroma of seafood filled the air, instantly whetting my appetite. The attentive staff greeted me with warm smiles and promptly ushered me to a cozy table on their relaxing outdoor seating area.

Being the clam chowder aficionado that I am, I couldn't resist ordering their renowned bowl of creamy goodness. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The chowder was hearty and brimming with plump clams, perfectly cooked potatoes, and a medley of aromatic herbs that danced on my taste buds.

What truly impressed me about Marion's was their exceptional service even during busy times. Despite the crowd, the staff remained composed and efficient, ensuring that every customer received prompt attention. It's like they had mastered the art of juggling orders with grace and finesse.

Another notable aspect of Marion's was their generous portion sizes. Seriously, they don't skimp on serving sizes here! As I savored each spoonful of chowder, I couldn't help but appreciate the value for money they offered.

Now, as much as I adore clam chowder, it would be remiss if I didn't mention another standout dish at Marion's – the salmon bowl. This delectable creation featured succulent pieces of grilled salmon atop a bed of flavorful rice and accompanied by vibrant vegetables. Trust me when I say that this dish is an absolute winner!

In summary, Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant is more than just a go-to spot for seafood enthusiasts – it's a clam chowder haven worth exploring! With its delightful ambiance, great service even under pressure, and mouthwatering dishes such as their famous salmon bowl, Marion's has certainly earned its place among San Diego's top culinary destinations.

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Bay Park Fish Company

Highlights
Amazing Thursday special
Fresh and small oysters
Excellent service
Lively bar atmosphere
Huge portions

Let me start by saying that this place knows how to do clam chowder justice! Bay Park Fish Company offers a Thursday special that is nothing short of amazing. Imagine getting a bowl of their creamy, flavorful clam chowder at a discounted price! It's like finding a pearl in your soup!

One thing that really impressed me was the freshness of their oysters. They were so small and delicate, practically swimming in the sea just moments before landing on my plate. Talk about a taste of the ocean! The attention to detail in sourcing high-quality ingredients truly shines through.

The service at Bay Park Fish Company was top-notch. The staff members were attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about their food. They made sure I felt like the captain of my own dining experience, guiding me through the menu with expertise.

The bar atmosphere added an extra touch of liveliness to my visit. It felt like I had stumbled upon a hidden treasure chest filled with laughter and good times. Plus, let's not forget about the portions – they were HUGE! You won't leave this place feeling like you're swimming with the minnows.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for some seriously delicious clam chowder in San Diego, Bay Park Fish Company is definitely worth a visit. With its amazing Thursday special, fresh oysters, excellent service, lively bar atmosphere, and generous portions, it's no wonder this place is making waves among locals and tourists alike!

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Crab Hut

Highlights
Delicious Seafood
Wonderful Service
Generous Portions
Pricey but Worth it
Beignets are Amazing

Crab Hut, oh Crab Hut! A delightful seafood haven tucked away in beautiful San Diego. My taste buds were tingling with anticipation as I stepped inside this seafood paradise.

Let me begin by extolling the virtues of their clam chowder. This creamy concoction is a symphony of flavors, with tender clams dancing on my palate. The broth, rich and velvety, is a testament to the chef's culinary prowess. Every spoonful was like a warm hug on a chilly day.

But let's not stop at just the chowder. Oh no, my friend! Crab Hut offers an array of delectable seafood dishes that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. From succulent crab legs to plump shrimp, each bite is a burst of oceanic ecstasy.

The service at Crab Hut deserves special mention. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, guiding me through the menu with expert recommendations. They made me feel like royalty, which was quite impressive considering I was covered in chowder splatters.

Now, I must warn you that dining at Crab Hut can be a bit heavy on the wallet. But fear not! The generous portions more than justify the price tag. Plus, their beignets are simply divine. Light and fluffy pillows dusted with powdered sugar - they're worth every penny!

So if you find yourself craving some exceptional clam chowder in San Diego (and who wouldn't?), head on over to Crab Hut. Dive into their sea of deliciousness and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey. Bon appétit!

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Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich

Highlights
Delicious seafood
Authentic New England flavors
Generous portions

First and foremost, let's talk about the star of the show: the clam chowder. At Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich, they serve up a bowl of pure delight. The chowder is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor that will transport you straight to the shores of New England. Each spoonful is like a warm hug from a clam-loving mermaid.

The seafood at Pete’s is truly something to behold. It's as fresh as a sea breeze on a summer day. From succulent shrimp to tender chunks of fish, every bite is an explosion of oceanic goodness. And let's not forget about those plump, juicy clams that are nestled in the velvety soup. They're so delicious, they could make Poseidon himself shed a tear of joy.

What sets Pete’s apart from the competition is their commitment to authenticity. They don't skimp on ingredients or take shortcuts when it comes to delivering that classic New England taste. It's like having a little piece of Cape Cod right here in sunny San Diego.

And did I mention the portions? They are as generous as the heart of a sailor who just found out it's happy hour at his favorite dockside tavern. You won't leave Pete’s feeling hungry, that's for sure.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable clam chowder experience in San Diego, look no further than Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich. With their delicious seafood, authentic flavors, and portions fit for even the hungriest seafarer, this place truly deserves its spot among the best clam chowders in town.

So grab your bib and head on over to Pete’s for some chowder that will make your taste buds do a little jig!

Note: No clams were harmed during the writing of this review.

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Mitch's Seafood

Highlights
Fresh fish
Plentiful shrimp
Good portions
Beautiful view
Friendly atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Mitch's Seafood is a hidden gem when it comes to clam chowder in San Diego. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and friendly atmosphere. The staff was incredibly knowledgeable about their seafood offerings, making me feel like I was in good hands.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show - the clam chowder. Mitch's Seafood certainly lives up to its reputation for serving up some of the freshest fish in town. The chowder had a rich and creamy base that was perfectly seasoned, allowing the flavors of the clams to shine through. Each spoonful was a delight, as I savored the tender pieces of clams that were generously scattered throughout.

One thing that stood out to me was their generous use of shrimp. It seemed like every bite had a plump and juicy shrimp swimming alongside the clams. This added an extra layer of richness and depth to the overall flavor profile.

Portion sizes at Mitch's Seafood are definitely something worth mentioning. They don't skimp on serving sizes here! Each bowl of clam chowder came with a hearty portion that left me feeling fully satisfied.

To top it all off, Mitch's Seafood offers a beautiful view of the waterfront, making it an ideal spot for enjoying your meal while soaking in some San Diego sunshine. The combination of great food and picturesque scenery is hard to beat.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for an exceptional clam chowder experience in San Diego, look no further than Mitch's Seafood. With their fresh ingredients, plentiful shrimp, good portions, beautiful view, and friendly atmosphere, they have truly earned their place among the best clam chowders in town!

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Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Nice interior
Wonderful young lady
Enjoyed our meal
Breathtaking view
Magnificent flavors

Let me start by saying that the interior of Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is truly nice. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a wonderful young lady who guided me to my table with a warm smile.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the clam chowder. I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed my meal at Brigantine. The clam chowder they serve here is nothing short of delightful. Each spoonful was like taking a bite out of heaven. The flavors were so magnificent that they danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving for more.

But that's not all! While savoring this delectable dish, I couldn't help but be distracted by the breathtaking view. The restaurant is strategically located overlooking the ocean, providing a picturesque backdrop to enhance your dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best clam chowder in San Diego, look no further than Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar. With its nice interior, wonderful service from their staff, and an unforgettable blend of flavors in their clam chowder, this place truly deserves its spot on the list of San Diego's finest seafood establishments.

So why wait? Grab your appetite and head over to Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar for a bowl of clam chowder that will leave you wanting more.

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Sally's Fish House & Bar

Highlights
Incredible seafood dishes
Great service
Reasonable prices
Friendly and helpful staff

Let me start by saying that Sally's Fish House & Bar is a hidden gem when it comes to finding the best clam chowder in San Diego. From the moment I stepped inside, I could tell that this place was special.

First of all, let's talk about their incredible seafood dishes. Not only do they offer a wide selection of fresh catches from the ocean, but their clam chowder is truly a masterpiece. The rich and creamy broth was packed with chunks of tender clams and perfectly cooked potatoes. Every spoonful was like a taste of heaven.

But what really stood out for me was the great service at Sally's Fish House & Bar. The staff were friendly and attentive, always ready to answer any questions or make recommendations. They made sure that every customer felt welcome and taken care of.

Now, I know what you're thinking - great food and excellent service must come with a hefty price tag, right? Well, not at Sally's! Their prices are more than reasonable for the quality of food and service you receive. You can enjoy a bowl of their famous clam chowder without breaking the bank.

And let's not forget about the friendly and helpful staff at Sally's Fish House & Bar. They go above and beyond to ensure that your dining experience is nothing short of amazing. Whether you need assistance with your order or simply want to chat about their delicious seafood options, they are there to make your visit memorable.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best clam chowder in San Diego, look no further than Sally's Fish House & Bar. With incredible seafood dishes, great service, reasonable prices, and a friendly staff, this place has everything you need for an unforgettable dining experience. Trust me, once you try their clam chowder, you'll be hooked!

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