San Diego's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

And let me tell you, I've had my fair share of delicious dishes! From the freshest fish tacos to succulent shrimp scampi, San Diego is a seafood lover's paradise.

With 13 different places reviewed, I can confidently say that I've explored all corners of the city in search of the most delectable catches. So if you're craving some mouthwatering seafood and want to know the crème de la crème in San Diego, look no further.

Sit back, relax, and let me take you on a lighthearted journey through the best seafood spots this sunny city has to offer!

Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great place to dine
Well lit and clean
Good portions
Highly recommended
Excellent service

First things first, let me tell you that this place is a great spot to indulge in some delectable seafood dishes. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a well-lit and clean ambiance that instantly set the mood for an enjoyable dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the food. The portions at Water Grill San Diego are satisfying to say the least. Each dish I tried was packed with flavors that made my taste buds dance with joy. The freshness of the seafood was evident in every bite, proving that they truly live up to their reputation as one of the best seafood restaurants in San Diego.

But what truly sets Water Grill apart from the rest is their excellent service. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that you have a memorable dining experience. They are knowledgeable about the menu and provide insightful recommendations based on your preferences.

I must say, I left Water Grill San Diego feeling completely satisfied and impressed. This place comes highly recommended for seafood enthusiasts who appreciate quality and attention to detail.

So if you're looking for a place where you can enjoy some delightful seafood while being treated like royalty, make sure to pay a visit to Water Grill San Diego. You won't be disappointed!

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

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Highlights
$1 oysters
Clam chowder abundance
Yummy fish tacos
Outstanding service
Cool vibe for the interior

Walking into Ironside Fish & Oyster, I was immediately struck by its cool vibe. The interior is a perfect blend of modern and rustic, with exposed brick walls, vintage light fixtures, and a sleek oyster bar that stole the spotlight. It was like stepping into a maritime dream.

But enough about the ambiance; let's talk about the real reason we're here – the seafood! And boy, did Ironside deliver. First off, they had $1 oysters during happy hour! Yes, you heard me right – one dollar oysters! As a seafood lover on a budget, this made my heart skip a beat.

The menu boasted an abundance of options, but I couldn't resist ordering their famous clam chowder. Each spoonful was like diving into a sea of creamy goodness packed with tender clams and hearty potatoes. It was so good that I wanted to take a bath in it! Okay, maybe that's going too far, but you get my drift.

Next up were the yummy fish tacos. Bursting with flavor, these tacos were stuffed with perfectly grilled fish, tangy slaw, and drizzled with a zesty sauce. Each bite transported me to a beachside taco stand where the sun kissed my skin and seagulls fought over my leftovers.

Now let's talk about the service at Ironside Fish & Oyster – outstanding! The staff not only knew their seafood inside out but also went above and beyond to ensure our dining experience was top-notch. They were attentive without being intrusive and genuinely enthusiastic about recommending their favorites from the menu.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable seafood experience in San Diego, do yourself a favor and head straight to Ironside Fish & Oyster. With its inviting atmosphere, delightful $1 oysters deal during happy hour, mouthwatering clam chowder abundance, delectable fish tacos, and exceptional service, this place is a seafood lover's paradise. Just be prepared to have your taste buds blown away!

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

Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Excellent staff
Unique entrées
Macadamia calamari
Fish n' chips
Delicious salmon

Upon entering the restaurant, I was greeted by the excellent staff who were as welcoming and friendly as a pod of dolphins frolicking in the ocean. They guided me through the menu with expertise, highlighting their unique entrées that would make any seafood lover's heart flutter with excitement.

One standout dish that I couldn't resist ordering was their Macadamia Calamari. This culinary masterpiece combined the delicate texture of calamari with the crunch of macadamia nuts, creating a flavor explosion in my mouth that left me speechless. It was like a symphony of flavors performing a serenade on my taste buds.

Of course, no seafood adventure is complete without indulging in some classic favorites. The Fish n' Chips at Gaslamp Fish House were simply divine. The crispy golden batter encased tender flakes of fish that melted on my tongue like butter on a hot skillet. It was so good that I couldn't resist exclaiming, "Holy mackerel!"

And let's not forget about their delicious salmon. Cooked to perfection, it had a buttery texture and was bursting with flavor. Each bite transported me to the shores of Alaska, where the salmon swim freely in icy waters.

Overall, my experience at Gaslamp Fish House was like sailing on a sea of culinary delights. With its excellent staff, unique entrées, and dishes like Macadamia Calamari and Fish n' Chips that will make you want to do a happy dance, this place definitely deserves its spot among San Diego's best seafood restaurants. So grab your anchor and set sail for Gaslamp Fish House – your taste buds will thank you!

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

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Highlights
Fresh and delectable salmon sashimi
Exceptional seafood soup
Award-winning tacos that live up to the hype
Wide variety of menu options
Cozy and inviting ambiance

Upon entering the charming establishment, I was immediately struck by its cozy and inviting ambiance. The friendly staff greeted me with smiles as I perused their extensive menu, which promised a wide variety of delectable seafood options.

My taste buds were truly tantalized when I had the pleasure of indulging in their fresh and flawlessly prepared salmon sashimi. Each bite melted in my mouth, leaving behind a delicate burst of oceanic goodness that can only be described as heavenly. It was clear that Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill takes great pride in sourcing the freshest ingredients for their dishes.

Next on my culinary journey was their seafood soup, which proved to be nothing short of exceptional. The rich broth was teeming with succulent morsels of shrimp, clams, and tender chunks of fish. Every spoonful provided a delightful symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. It's safe to say this soup would make even Poseidon himself weak in the knees.

Of course, no visit to Blue Water would be complete without trying their award-winning tacos. And let me tell you, they absolutely live up to the hype! The perfectly grilled seafood nestled within warm tortillas was a symphony of textures and flavors that left me wanting more. I couldn't help but crack a joke about needing gills instead of lungs so I could eat these tacos every day without interruption.

In conclusion, Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is an absolute gem in the San Diego seafood scene. With their commitment to freshness and an array of delightful menu options, they have secured their spot among the best seafood establishments in town. So dive right in and experience the oceanic delights they have to offer - your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best seafood market in Escondido.

Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant

Highlights
Quick service
Large portion sizes
Recommended dishes
Amazing food
Great deal

Let me just start by saying, the quick service at Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant is absolutely top-notch. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted with a warm smile and promptly seated. No waiting around here!

Now let's talk about the portion sizes. They are truly colossal! If you're looking for a meal that will leave you feeling like you've conquered the sea itself, this is the place to be. Don't worry about leaving hungry because at Marion's, they believe in feeding their customers like kings and queens.

The recommended dishes are nothing short of spectacular. From their succulent grilled swordfish to their mouthwatering lobster bisque, every bite is an explosion of flavors that will have your taste buds doing a happy dance. And let me tell you, it's quite the party in there!

But what really sets Marion's apart from the rest is their commitment to quality seafood. Every dish is prepared with care and precision, ensuring that each bite is perfection on a plate.

And here's the best part: it's not going to break the bank! Marion's offers exceptional value for money, giving you an incredible seafood experience without emptying your wallet.

So if you're looking for an amazing seafood adventure, head on over to Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant in San Diego. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!

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

King's Fish House

Highlights
Fantastic dining
Excellent service
Amazing seafood
Great drinks
Kid-friendly

From the moment I stepped into King's Fish House, I knew I was in for a fantastic dining experience. The atmosphere was lively yet sophisticated, with a nautical theme that made me feel like I was dining underwater (minus the gills and scales, of course).

The service at King's Fish House was nothing short of excellent. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, offering recommendations and answering all my seafood-related questions with ease. Their passion for seafood shone through their genuine smiles.

Let's talk about the star of the show – the seafood. Oh my Neptune! The selection at King's Fish House is truly amazing. From succulent lobster tails to tender scallops, each bite transported me to an underwater paradise of flavors. The freshness of their fish is unparalleled, making every dish a true piscatorial masterpiece.

To complement the extraordinary seafood, King's Fish House offers a variety of great drinks. Whether you're in the mood for a crisp white wine or a tangy cocktail, their extensive drink menu will quench your thirst like a mermaid sipping from a seashell.

One thing that impressed me about King's Fish House is how they cater to families with children. They have created an environment that is both elegant and kid-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their meal without compromising on quality or taste.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable seafood experience in San Diego, look no further than King's Fish House. With its fantastic dining atmosphere, excellent service, amazing seafood selection, great drinks, and kid-friendly environment, it's sure to make waves among seafood enthusiasts and sea creatures alike!

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

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Delicious food
Friendly service
Unique sushi and seafood
Vegetarian options

Let me start by saying that the atmosphere at Lionfish is absolutely fantastic. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a lively and vibrant ambiance that instantly put me in the mood for some seafood indulgence. The sleek and modern decor combined with warm lighting created a welcoming environment that made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, was it delicious! Every bite was a burst of flavors that danced on my palate. From their exquisite sushi rolls to their succulent seafood dishes, Lionfish truly knows how to elevate seafood to a whole new level. The freshness of the ingredients was evident in every single dish, and the presentation was nothing short of art.

What impressed me even more was the friendly and attentive service provided by the staff. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations based on my preferences. It's always refreshing to have a staff that genuinely cares about your dining experience.

I also appreciated that Lionfish caters to everyone's dietary needs by offering vegetarian options as well. It's not often you find a seafood restaurant that can satisfy both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable seafood experience in San Diego, look no further than Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego. With its great atmosphere, delicious food, friendly service, unique sushi and seafood creations, and vegetarian options, this place is truly a gem in the city's culinary scene. So go ahead and dive into this underwater paradise of flavors - you won't be disappointed!

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

Point Loma Seafoods

Highlights
Must go
Delicious
Fresh seafood
Best views

Let me start by saying that a visit to Point Loma Seafoods is an absolute must for any seafood lover in San Diego. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted with the enticing aroma of fresh seafood and the bustling energy of hungry patrons eager to indulge.

The menu at Point Loma Seafoods offers a wide array of delectable options that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. I couldn't resist trying their famous clam chowder, and boy, was it a wise decision! The creamy broth was rich in flavor, and each spoonful was filled with tender clams and perfectly cooked potatoes. It truly was a bowl of heaven.

What sets Point Loma Seafoods apart from other seafood joints in San Diego is not only the delicious fare but also the stunning views it offers. Situated right on the water's edge, diners can enjoy their meal while taking in breathtaking vistas of boats sailing by and seagulls soaring above. It's like dining in a postcard!

The freshness of the seafood at Point Loma Seafoods is unparalleled. Every bite bursts with flavor, testament to their commitment to sourcing only the finest ingredients. Whether you're craving shrimp tacos or grilled swordfish, you can rest assured that you'll be served nothing but top-notch quality.

In conclusion, if you find yourself in San Diego craving some exceptional seafood, make your way to Point Loma Seafoods. With its combination of mouthwatering dishes, stunning views, and commitment to freshness, it's not hard to see why it's one of the best seafood destinations in town.

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

The Fish Market - San Diego

Highlights
Beautiful bay view
Great service and laughs
Tasty and perfectly cooked swordfish
Fresh fish and amazing views
Creamy decadent clam chowder

As soon as I entered the restaurant, I was mesmerized by the beautiful bay view. The sight of sailboats gently gliding across the water provided a picturesque backdrop to my seafood adventure.

The staff at The Fish Market greeted me with warm smiles and a contagious enthusiasm. Their great service and laughs created an atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. It felt like dining among friends, making the experience all the more enjoyable.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the food! I ordered their swordfish, and boy was it a treat for my taste buds. The fish was tasty and perfectly cooked, with a succulent texture that melted in my mouth. Each bite transported me to seafood heaven.

The freshness of the fish at The Fish Market is undeniable. It's no wonder they are renowned for their commitment to sourcing only the best ingredients. Every dish showcased fresh fish at its finest, leaving me craving more after each bite.

And how could I forget to mention their clam chowder? Creamy and decadent, it was a bowl of pure bliss. The flavors danced on my palate, leaving me wanting to savor every spoonful.

As I indulged in my seafood feast, I couldn't help but appreciate the amazing views surrounding me. It truly enhanced my dining experience, making it one for the books.

If you're looking for top-notch seafood in San Diego, make sure to visit The Fish Market - San Diego. With its stunning views, great service, and mouthwatering dishes like their perfectly cooked swordfish and creamy clam chowder, it's a seafood lover's paradise.

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

Crab Hut

Highlights
Epic seafood boil
Wonderful service
Large portions
Pricey but worth it
Best place to eat

Let me start by saying that the seafood boil at Crab Hut was nothing short of epic. The flavors were explosive, like a party in my mouth that I didn't want to end. With every bite, I could taste the freshness and quality of the seafood they served.

The service at Crab Hut was also top-notch. The staff was attentive and friendly, making sure that my dining experience was nothing short of wonderful. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered great recommendations based on my preferences.

Now let's talk about portion sizes. If you're looking for a place that serves generous portions, look no further than Crab Hut. Their servings were so large that I had to take some leftovers home, which made for an extra treat the next day.

I must warn you though, this place is not for penny-pinchers. The prices at Crab Hut can be a bit steep, but trust me when I say it's worth every penny. The quality of the seafood and the overall experience justify the higher price tag.

If you're looking for the best place to indulge in some delicious seafood in San Diego, Crab Hut should be your go-to spot. Trust me, you won't regret it. Just make sure to come hungry and with a willingness to splurge a little.

In conclusion, Crab Hut exceeded all my expectations with their incredible seafood boil, outstanding service, and generous portions. So if you're on the hunt for some seriously good eats in San Diego, look no further than this gem of a restaurant.

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

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious food
Beautiful atmosphere
Live music
Memorable experience

From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with a warm smile and impeccable service. The staff at Eddie V's Prime Seafood truly know how to make you feel like royalty. They are attentive, knowledgeable, and ensure that every aspect of your dining experience is perfect.

Now let's talk about the food. Oh my sea creatures! The seafood at Eddie V's is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. Each dish is bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked to perfection. Whether you're in the mood for a succulent lobster tail or some mouthwatering seared scallops, their menu has something for everyone.

Not only is the food exceptional, but the atmosphere at Eddie V's is also breathtaking. With its elegant decor and stunning views of the city, this place is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. And if that wasn't enough, they even have live music playing in the background, adding a touch of sophistication to your dining experience.

My evening at Eddie V's Prime Seafood was truly one to remember. It was like being transported into a seafood lover's paradise. From start to finish, every bite was an explosion of flavors that danced on my palate.

If you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience with top-notch service, delicious food, and a beautiful atmosphere, then look no further than Eddie V's Prime Seafood. Trust me, it will be an experience you won't soon forget!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Oceanside.

Sally's Fish House & Bar

Highlights
Incredible seafood
Great service
Reasonable prices
Delicious drinks
Friendly waitstaff

Let me start by saying, the seafood at Sally's Fish House & Bar is truly incredible. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly waitstaff who made me feel right at home. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered helpful recommendations.

The highlight of my dining experience was undoubtedly the seafood. Each dish was expertly prepared with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky on the inside and delightfully crispy on the outside. The shrimp were plump and succulent, while the oysters were a true delicacy.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was also top-notch. The waitstaff went above and beyond to ensure that every aspect of my meal was enjoyable. They were attentive without being intrusive, making me feel like a valued guest.

One thing I particularly appreciated about Sally's Fish House & Bar was their reasonable prices. Despite offering high-quality seafood, they managed to keep their menu items affordable for all seafood enthusiasts. It's refreshing to find a place that doesn't break the bank while still providing an indulgent culinary experience.

To complement their delicious dishes, Sally's Fish House & Bar serves up an impressive selection of drinks. Whether you're in the mood for a classic cocktail or a refreshing mocktail, their drink menu has something for everyone.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable seafood experience in San Diego, look no further than Sally's Fish House & Bar. With its incredible seafood options, great service, reasonable prices, delicious drinks, and friendly waitstaff, it truly stands out as one of the best seafood establishments in town. Trust me when I say that your taste buds will be thanking you after a visit to this delightful eatery!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Coronado.

Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Nice interior
Wonderful service
Delicious seafood
Breathtaking view

Walking into Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, I couldn't help but be impressed by its nice interior. The nautical-themed decor and cozy ambiance made me feel like I was stepping onto a luxurious yacht. As if the stunning interior wasn't enough, the restaurant also boasts a breathtaking view of the ocean. Who needs a tablecloth when you can dine with the waves as your backdrop?

But let's move on to what really matters: the food. The service at Brigantine is truly something to behold. The staff were attentive, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of wonderful.

And now for the main event: the seafood. Oh boy, where do I begin? From succulent lobster tails to perfectly seared scallops, each bite was an explosion of flavor in my mouth. The menu offers a wide variety of options prepared with finesse by their talented chefs.

I must give a special shoutout to their oysters; they were absolutely divine! Each delicate morsel transported me straight to seafood heaven.

Whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking for a memorable dining experience, Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar should be at the top of your list. With its delicious seafood, breathtaking view, and impeccable service, it's no wonder why this place is considered one of San Diego's best.

So grab your appetite and prepare for an unforgettable feast at Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar - your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurants in Point Loma.