North County San Diego's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

Growing up surrounded by beaches and fishing communities, I've had my fair share of seafood dishes. From succulent shrimp to delectable lobster, my taste buds have been spoiled by the ocean's bounty.

With my extensive experience and love for all things seafood, I set out on a mouthwatering adventure to find the best spots in North County San Diego. After reviewing thirteen incredible eateries, I'm excited to share my top picks with you.

So grab your bib and join me as we dive into the world of the best seafood in North County San Diego!

Pacific Coast Grill

Highlights
Strong drinks
Lobster Dumplings
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Beautiful venue
Fresh and delicious food

Let me start by saying that Pacific Coast Grill is a seafood lover's paradise. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by a breathtaking view of the ocean and a beautifully designed venue that sets the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.

The menu at Pacific Coast Grill is a treasure trove of fresh and delicious seafood options. I started my culinary journey with their Lobster Dumplings, which were nothing short of extraordinary. The delicate dumpling wrappers were filled with succulent lobster meat, creating a burst of flavors in every bite. It was like having a party in my mouth!

If you're not in the mood for seafood (although why would you be here?), fear not! Pacific Coast Grill also offers some non-seafood options that are equally delightful. The Fried Chicken Sandwich, for example, was crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and served with a tangy aioli sauce that elevated it to new heights. It was so good that I momentarily forgot I was here for seafood.

One thing worth mentioning is the strength of their drinks. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, Pacific Coast Grill has got you covered. Their mixologists know how to whip up some seriously strong concoctions that will leave you feeling pleasantly buzzed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood in North County San Diego, look no further than Pacific Coast Grill. With its stunning location, fresh and delicious food, and playful yet professional atmosphere, this place is truly a gem. So grab your friends or loved ones and head over to Pacific Coast Grill for an unforgettable seafood extravaganza!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in San Diego.

Fish House Vera Cruz

Highlights
Fresh and cooked excellently
Extensive seafood menu
Excellent customer service
Warm and crusty sourdough rolls
Good cocktails

Let me tell you, my taste buds were in for a treat! The seafood at Fish House Vera Cruz is so fresh that it practically jumped off the plate and into my mouth. Each dish was cooked to perfection, showcasing the skill and expertise of the chefs.

The menu at Fish House Vera Cruz is a seafood lover's dream come true. From shrimp to oysters, and everything in between, they offer an extensive selection of ocean delights. Trust me when I say that you'll be spoiled for choice!

What really impressed me was the exceptional customer service. The staff at Fish House Vera Cruz were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about their offerings. They even went above and beyond to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.

As I bit into one of their warm and crusty sourdough rolls, I couldn't help but marvel at how well it complemented the seafood dishes. It was like a match made in culinary heaven.

And let's not forget about the cocktails! Fish House Vera Cruz knows how to mix up a mean drink. Whether you're in the mood for something fruity or something with a little more kick, they've got you covered.

In conclusion, if you're looking for top-notch seafood in North County San Diego, look no further than Fish House Vera Cruz. With their commitment to freshness, excellent customer service, and delectable menu offerings, they truly deserve a spot on any list of the best seafood joints in town. Don't just take my word for it – give them a try and see for yourself!

You might also want to check out the best tacos in San Diego.

Pacifica Del Mar

Highlights
Consistently delicious dishes
Captivating sunset views
Friendly service and staff
Exceptional ocean view
Relaxed but upscale ambiance

Let me start by saying that Pacifica Del Mar consistently delivers some of the most delicious seafood dishes in North County San Diego. From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the breathtaking sunset views over the ocean, setting the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.

The service at Pacifica Del Mar is top-notch, with a friendly and attentive staff who go above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction. Their knowledge and passion for seafood is evident in their recommendations and willingness to answer any questions you may have.

But let's talk about the food. Oh my, where do I even begin? Each dish I tried was an explosion of flavors, showcasing the freshness and quality of their ingredients. From succulent lobster tails to perfectly seared scallops, every bite was a delight to my taste buds.

What truly sets Pacifica Del Mar apart is its exceptional ocean view. As I enjoyed my meal, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the sight of waves crashing against the shore. It truly added a touch of magic to my dining experience.

The ambiance at Pacifica Del Mar strikes a perfect balance between relaxed and upscale. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or simply want to enjoy a meal with friends or family, this restaurant caters to all occasions.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an unforgettable seafood experience in North County San Diego, look no further than Pacifica Del Mar. With consistently delicious dishes, captivating sunset views, friendly service, exceptional ocean view, and relaxed but upscale ambiance - it's certainly among the best seafood restaurants in town!

You might also want to check out the best sushi in San Diego.

Lobster West

Highlights
Fresh ingredients
Delicious lobster rolls
Pure crab meat
Amazing rolls
Nice crust

Let me start by saying, if you're a fan of fresh ingredients and mouthwatering lobster rolls, then Lobster West is the place for you. From the moment I stepped inside, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my attention was the aroma of freshly cooked lobster wafting through the air. It was as if the ocean itself had decided to pay a visit to this little seafood haven. As I approached the counter, I couldn't help but marvel at the display of pure crab meat, glistening like pearls in their pristine shells.

I decided to try their famous lobster roll, and boy, am I glad I did. The roll was packed with succulent pieces of lobster, so tender and juicy that they practically melted in my mouth. Each bite was a flavor explosion - a perfect balance of sweetness and brininess that left me craving more.

But let's not forget about their other offerings. The crab rolls were equally as delightful, showcasing the pure essence of crab meat without any unnecessary fillers or distractions. And oh boy, those rolls! Lightly toasted with a nice crust that added just the right amount of crunch.

The staff at Lobster West were friendly and knowledgeable, taking pride in their craft and ensuring that every customer left satisfied. The attention to detail and commitment to quality truly set this place apart.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an amazing seafood experience in North County San Diego, look no further than Lobster West. With its fresh ingredients and delicious rolls, it's no wonder why this place is considered one of the best seafood spots in town. So grab your bibs and get ready for a seafood feast like no other!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in LA Jolla.

Encinitas Fish Shop

Highlights
Fresh fish
Tasty & fresh
Quick service
Kid-friendly
Attentive staff

Let me start by saying, this place is a seafood lover's dream! The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the inviting aroma of fresh fish. It was as if Poseidon himself had sprinkled his sea-scented magic in the air.

The menu at Encinitas Fish Shop boasts an impressive selection of seafood delicacies. From succulent shrimp to flaky halibut, they have it all. Each dish is prepared with utmost care, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.

I must commend the staff for their quick service. They swiftly took my order and before I knew it, my plate was filled with a tantalizing seafood extravaganza. And boy, did it taste as good as it looked! Every morsel was a testament to the freshness and quality of their ingredients.

What sets Encinitas Fish Shop apart from other seafood joints is its kid-friendly atmosphere. The staff went above and beyond to make sure my little ones were well taken care of. They even provided them with coloring books and crayons, allowing me to enjoy my meal without any distractions.

The attentive staff truly adds that extra touch to the dining experience. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations based on my preferences.

All in all, Encinitas Fish Shop is a hidden gem in North County San Diego. Their commitment to serving tasty & fresh seafood combined with their quick service and attention to detail make it a must-visit spot for any seafood aficionado.

So grab your bibs and get ready for a seafood feast fit for Neptune himself at Encinitas Fish Shop!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in San Diego.

King's Fish House

Highlights
Good food
Great atmosphere
Attentive staff
Wide variety

First off, let me start by saying that the seafood at King's Fish House is nothing short of divine. From the moment I stepped foot into the restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat. The aroma of freshly cooked fish and the sound of gentle waves crashing in the background set the stage for an exceptional dining experience.

The menu at King's Fish House offers a wide variety of options, from classic favorites like clam chowder and fish and chips to more adventurous dishes like grilled octopus. Each dish is expertly prepared with meticulous attention to detail.

One of the highlights of my visit was the attentive staff. They were not only knowledgeable about the menu but also went out of their way to make sure every guest felt comfortable and well taken care of. It's rare to find such genuine hospitality these days, and it truly added to the overall dining experience.

The atmosphere at King's Fish House is also worth mentioning. The restaurant captures a coastal vibe with its nautical-themed decor and subtle hints of ocean-inspired artwork. Whether you're seated indoors or on their outdoor patio, you'll feel like you've been transported to a seaside paradise.

In conclusion, if you're craving some top-notch seafood in North County San Diego, look no further than King's Fish House. With its good food, great atmosphere, attentive staff, and wide variety of options, it's an absolute must-visit for seafood enthusiasts like me. Trust me when I say that a visit to King's Fish House will leave your taste buds dancing with delight!

You might also want to check out the best burger in San Diego.

The Fish Market - Solana Beach

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Delicious menu
Great flavor
Nice and crispy fish
Fresh fish market

Let me start by saying that if you're looking for a place with fresh seafood and a delicious menu, look no further than The Fish Market - Solana Beach. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of the ocean hit my nostrils, instantly making my mouth water.

I started off my meal with their famous clam chowder. Oh boy, was it creamy and packed with flavor! It had just the right amount of clams to satisfy any seafood lover's cravings. And don't even get me started on their shrimp cocktail. The plump and juicy shrimp paired perfectly with their tangy cocktail sauce.

For my main course, I couldn't resist ordering their crispy fish. Let me tell you, it was nice and crispy, just as advertised. Each bite brought a delightful crunch followed by tender flakes of perfectly cooked fish. The seasoning was spot on, enhancing the natural flavors of the seafood.

One thing that stood out to me about The Fish Market - Solana Beach is their commitment to providing fresh seafood. Not only do they have a restaurant, but they also have a fish market where you can purchase your own catch of the day. Talk about convenient!

In conclusion, if you're in North County San Diego and craving some top-notch seafood, make sure to check out The Fish Market - Solana Beach. With its fresh catches, delicious flavors, and crispy fish that would make any seagull jealous, it's definitely one of the best spots for seafood enthusiasts like myself.

Note: No seagulls were harmed in the making of this review.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in San Diego.

Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Highly recommend
Outstanding food
Amazing service
Great value

Let me start by saying that I highly recommend this place. From the moment I walked in, I could tell that my taste buds were in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my attention was the outstanding food. Each dish was a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The menu was a seafood lover's dream, offering everything from fresh oysters to succulent lobster tails. As an avid seafood connoisseur, I must say that Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar did not disappoint.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was also amazing. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch. They were knowledgeable about the menu and made excellent recommendations. Their attentiveness and friendly demeanor added an extra layer of enjoyment to my meal.

Now let's talk about value - something we all appreciate when dining out. At Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, you get great value for your money. The portion sizes were generous, leaving me feeling satisfied without emptying my wallet.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood in North County San Diego, look no further than Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar. With their outstanding food, amazing service, and great value, it's a dining experience you won't want to miss. So grab your appetite and head over there soon – your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best brunch in San Diego.

Fish 101 Leucadia

Highlights
Fish and chips
Cheap prices
Friendly staff
Baja shrimp burrito
Fresh and flavorful food

As soon as I walked into Fish 101 Leucadia, I knew I was in for a treat. The smell of the ocean wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a seaside paradise. The menu was filled with tantalizing options, but one dish in particular caught my eye - their famous fish and chips.

Let me tell you, this dish was a true masterpiece. The crispy batter encased the flaky white fish, creating a delightful crunch with every bite. And the fries? Well, they were perfection - golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside. It was like eating a little piece of heaven.

One aspect that truly stood out at Fish 101 Leucadia was their commitment to affordable prices. In an era where seafood can sometimes break the bank, it was refreshing to find a place that didn't sacrifice quality for cost. They truly understand that good seafood should be accessible to everyone.

The staff at Fish 101 Leucadia were beyond friendly and welcoming. From the moment I stepped foot into the restaurant, they treated me like family. They were knowledgeable about their menu and eager to answer any questions I had.

If you're looking for something a little different, I highly recommend trying their Baja shrimp burrito. Bursting with flavor, each bite transported me straight to Mexico's sandy beaches. It was a fiesta of flavors in my mouth!

Overall, my experience at Fish 101 Leucadia was nothing short of exceptional. The food was fresh and flavorful, the prices were reasonable, and the staff made me feel right at home. Whether you're a seafood connoisseur or just looking for some delicious grub, this place is definitely worth checking out!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Downtown San Diego.

FISH DISTRICT

Highlights
Delicious & fresh
Best soda machine
Always clean
Great service
Chunky delicious

Let me start by saying, the seafood at FISH DISTRICT is absolutely delicious. Every bite was bursting with flavor and freshness. It's evident that they take great pride in sourcing only the best ingredients for their dishes.

One thing that really stood out to me during my visit was their soda machine. Now, you might be thinking, what does a soda machine have to do with seafood? Well, let me tell you, this was no ordinary soda machine. It had every flavor imaginable, from classic cola to exotic fruit blends. It was like a playground for soda enthusiasts!

Another aspect that impressed me about FISH DISTRICT was how clean and well-maintained the restaurant was. The staff made sure every surface sparkled, creating a pleasant dining environment.

Speaking of the staff, the service at FISH DISTRICT was top-notch. The waitstaff were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. They were more than happy to offer recommendations and answer any questions I had.

Now, let's talk about one of my favorite dishes - the chunky delicious seafood stew. This hearty bowl of goodness contained an assortment of fresh fish and shellfish in a flavorful broth. Each spoonful was a taste explosion that left me wanting more.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place with delicious seafood, an amazing soda selection, cleanliness galore, friendly service, and dishes that are pure chunky deliciousness, then FISH DISTRICT in North County San Diego should be your go-to spot! Don't just take my word for it - go experience it yourself!

You might also want to check out the best mexican restaurant in San Diego.

Solana Beach Fish House

Highlights
Grilled fish tacos
Delicious clam chowder
Responsive service
Standout paella
Worth it calamari appetizer

Walking into Solana Beach Fish House, I was immediately greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fresh seafood. With a playful skip in my step, I eagerly made my way to a table and perused the menu, already salivating at the thought of experiencing some of North County San Diego's finest seafood.

First up, the grilled fish tacos. These little bundles of joy were a perfect combination of tender fish, tangy slaw, and just the right amount of spice. Each bite transported me to a sunny beach, where the waves crash and tacos reign supreme.

Next on the list was their renowned clam chowder. Creamy, flavorful, and brimming with succulent clams - it was like diving into a bowl of liquid gold. The rich broth warmed my soul as I savored each spoonful.

The service at Solana Beach Fish House was as responsive as a fish to water. The staff attentively catered to my every need, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

But what truly stole the show was their standout dish - the paella. Bursting with flavors from land and sea, this Spanish masterpiece showcased an impeccable blend of saffron-infused rice, plump shrimp, tender chicken, and smoky chorizo. It was like an exotic dance party for my taste buds!

Oh! And let's not forget about the calamari appetizer – it was crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside – so worth it!

In conclusion, Solana Beach Fish House is a haven for seafood enthusiasts in North County San Diego. With its delectable grilled fish tacos, mouthwatering clam chowder, attentive service, outstanding paella, and must-try calamari appetizer - it's a treasure trove for anyone seeking an unforgettable seafood experience. So come on down and let your taste buds take a dip in seafood paradise!

Poseidon Restaurant Del Mar

Highlights
Incredible ocean view
Outstanding and generous portions
Romantic and relaxing atmosphere
Unique seafood dishes
Homemade tasting dressings

Upon entering Poseidon, I was immediately captivated by the incredible ocean view. The panoramic scene of crashing waves and majestic sunsets provided the perfect backdrop for a seafood feast.

The menu at Poseidon offers a plethora of options, but what truly stood out were the unique seafood dishes. From their succulent lobster tails to their perfectly seared scallops, each bite transported me to an underwater paradise. The chefs at Poseidon truly know how to showcase the natural flavors of the sea without overpowering them.

One thing that sets Poseidon apart from other seafood restaurants in North County San Diego is their outstanding and generous portions. Each plate was a work of art, piled high with delectable treasures from the deep. It's safe to say that no one leaves this establishment feeling hungry.

The atmosphere at Poseidon is both romantic and relaxing. Whether you're enjoying a candlelit dinner with your significant other or unwinding with friends, the ambiance of this restaurant is sure to enhance your dining experience.

To top it all off, the dressings at Poseidon are nothing short of extraordinary. They have mastered the art of making dressings taste homemade, elevating every dish they accompany. I found myself savoring every bite just to ensure I didn't miss a single drop.

In conclusion, if you're searching for an unforgettable seafood experience in North County San Diego, look no further than Poseidon Restaurant Del Mar. With its breathtaking view, exceptional cuisine, and inviting atmosphere, this establishment truly deserves its spot among the best seafood restaurants in the area.

Chart House

Highlights
Best ocean view
Happy hour menu
Attentive and friendly service
Delicious chocolate lavender cake
Favorite place to eat

Let me start by saying that the ocean view from Chart House is simply breathtaking. As I indulged in their delectable seafood offerings, I couldn't help but gaze out at the vast expanse of blue, feeling as if I were dining right on the water. It truly is a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

The moment I arrived, I was greeted with attentive and friendly service. The staff made me feel right at home, offering recommendations and ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to cater to individual preferences truly impressed me.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the seafood. Every bite was a revelation. From succulent shrimp to perfectly grilled salmon, Chart House knows how to elevate seafood to new heights. Each dish showcased fresh flavors that danced on my taste buds, leaving me craving more.

And let's not forget about their happy hour menu. This hidden gem offers a delightful selection of discounted appetizers and drinks. It's a great opportunity to sample some of their culinary delights without breaking the bank.

To end my meal on a sweet note, I couldn't resist trying their famous chocolate lavender cake. The combination may sound unconventional, but trust me when I say it's a match made in dessert heaven. The rich chocolate paired with subtle hints of lavender created a harmonious symphony of flavors that left me speechless.

In conclusion, Chart House has firmly secured its spot as my favorite place to eat seafood in North County San Diego. With its unparalleled ocean view, attentive service, and mouthwatering dishes, it's a must-visit for any seafood lover. So grab your appetite and prepare for an unforgettable dining experience at Chart House!