The Absolute Best Seafood Restaurant in Encinitas [Updated 2025]

And let me tell you, I've tried them all! With a whopping 13 seafood restaurants under my belt, I can confidently guide you to the absolute best spot for seafood in Encinitas.

So if you're craving a delectable seafood feast that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy, you've come to the right place. Get ready for a lighthearted culinary adventure as we dive deep into the world of Encinitas' finest seafood restaurants. Buckle up and let's embark on this mouthwatering journey together to find out which eatery reigns supreme as the best seafood restaurant in Encinitas!

Encinitas Fish Shop

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Variety of dishes
Kid-friendly
Good service
Tasty & fresh food

Upon entering Encinitas Fish Shop, I was immediately drawn to the enticing aroma of fresh seafood wafting through the air. The restaurant's cozy yet vibrant atmosphere set the stage for a delightful dining experience.

The menu at Encinitas Fish Shop offers a variety of dishes, ensuring there is something for everyone, even the pickiest eaters. From classic fish and chips to mouthwatering fish tacos, their selection is as diverse as the ocean itself. I decided to indulge in their famous lobster roll, and oh boy, was it a treat! The succulent lobster meat was perfectly cooked and generously piled high on a buttery toasted bun.

What impressed me most about Encinitas Fish Shop was their dedication to providing an enjoyable experience for all ages. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly options on the menu, ensuring that even the littlest seafood enthusiasts are satisfied.

The staff at Encinitas Fish Shop deserves a special mention for their exceptional service. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered helpful recommendations. Their warmth and attentiveness made me feel like a valued guest throughout my visit.

But let's not forget the star of the show – the food! Every bite I took was an explosion of flavors. Each dish showcased tasty & fresh food, making it evident that quality ingredients are at the heart of every creation.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an outstanding seafood dining experience in Encinitas, look no further than Encinitas Fish Shop. With its fresh seafood offerings, variety of dishes, kid-friendly options, good service, and consistently delicious fare, it truly stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Don't be shellfish – give it a try!

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

Lobster West

Highlights
Fresh ingredients
Delicious lobster rolls
Pure crab meat
Light and buttery rolls
New favorite seafood stop

Upon stepping into Lobster West, I was immediately struck by the aroma of fresh ingredients that filled the air. It was as if I had been transported straight to the coast, with the scent of the sea lingering tantalizingly in my nostrils.

Of course, being a seafood enthusiast, I couldn't resist ordering their famous lobster rolls. And boy, oh boy, let me tell you – they did not disappoint! Each bite was a burst of flavor, with succulent chunks of delicious lobster nestled within light and buttery rolls. The combination of textures and tastes was truly a symphony for my taste buds.

But it wasn't just about the lobster rolls at Lobster West. Oh no, they also offered a pure delight for any crab lover like myself. The crab meat at this establishment is nothing short of heavenly – pure and untainted by unnecessary fillers or distractions.

What truly sets Lobster West apart from other seafood joints in Encinitas is their commitment to quality. They source only the finest ingredients and take great care in crafting every dish. You can taste their dedication with each bite.

In conclusion, Lobster West has quickly become my new favorite seafood stop in Encinitas. With their fresh ingredients, delectable lobster rolls, and pure crab meat offerings, they have truly earned their spot as one of the best seafood restaurants in town. So if you're looking for a place to satisfy your seafood cravings amidst a playful yet professional atmosphere, look no further than Lobster West!

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

Pacific Coast Grill

Highlights
Strong cocktails
Lobster dumplings
Fried chicken sandwich
Beautiful venue
Great service

As I approached the restaurant, I was immediately struck by its beautiful venue. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and a stylish modern decor, Pacific Coast Grill truly sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

I started off my meal with one of their strong cocktails. The bartender's expert mixology skills were evident as I savored every sip of my perfectly balanced drink. It was like a symphony of flavors dancing on my taste buds.

Moving on to the appetizers, I couldn't resist ordering the lobster dumplings. These delicate morsels were bursting with succulent lobster meat, perfectly complemented by a tangy dipping sauce. Each bite transported me to seafood heaven.

For the main course, I opted for something slightly unexpected - the fried chicken sandwich. And let me tell you, this was no ordinary sandwich! The crispy fried chicken was juicy and flavorful, topped with fresh lettuce and a zesty aioli that took it to another level.

Throughout my dining experience at Pacific Coast Grill, the service was top-notch. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, making excellent recommendations.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best seafood restaurant in Encinitas, look no further than Pacific Coast Grill. With its stunning venue, strong cocktails, delectable dishes like lobster dumplings and even unconventional options like their outstanding fried chicken sandwich – this place has it all. Don't miss out on this hidden gem by the sea!

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

Le Papagayo

Highlights
Awesome service
Tasty food
Good beer selection
Huge chicken wings
Juicy bison burger

Let me start by saying that the service at Le Papagayo was absolutely awesome. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel like a VIP. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and had a genuine love for what they do.

Now let's talk about the food. The menu at Le Papagayo offers a variety of options, but as this is a seafood article, let me focus on their seafood offerings. The dishes were not only visually appealing but also incredibly tasty. Each bite was bursting with flavor and left me craving for more.

While seafood was my main focus, I couldn't help but notice their impressive beer selection. It complemented the dishes perfectly and added another layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

But wait, there's more! As I glanced at the menu, something caught my eye - huge chicken wings. Now you may be wondering why I'm mentioning chicken wings in a seafood review, but trust me when I say that these wings were out of this world! They were crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and simply irresistible.

If you're not in the mood for seafood or wings (although I highly recommend them), fear not! Le Papagayo also offers a juicy bison burger, which is an absolute delight for meat lovers.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood restaurant that provides awesome service, tasty food, a good beer selection, and even some surprises like huge chicken wings and juicy bison burgers, then Le Papagayo is your go-to spot in Encinitas.

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

Kai Ola Sushi

Highlights
Great service
Fast food delivery
Vegan/vegetarian options
Delicious fresh fish

Let me start by saying that Kai Ola Sushi truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best seafood restaurants in Encinitas. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with exceptional service. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and made me feel like a valued customer throughout my entire visit.

One thing that really stood out to me about Kai Ola Sushi was their fast food delivery. As someone who appreciates efficiency, I was impressed by how quickly my food arrived, without compromising on quality. It's perfect for those days when you're craving a delicious seafood meal but don't have the time or energy to cook.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? Kai Ola Sushi offers an extensive menu that caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're a seafood lover or a vegan/vegetarian looking for options, they've got you covered. Their selection of fresh fish is simply mouthwatering. Each bite was bursting with flavor and left me wanting more.

I also appreciated their commitment to using sustainable ingredients. They source their seafood responsibly, ensuring that every dish is not only delicious but also environmentally friendly.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best seafood restaurant in Encinitas, look no further than Kai Ola Sushi. With great service, fast food delivery, a variety of options for all dietary preferences, and incredible flavors in every bite, this place truly has it all. Don't just take my word for it – give it a try and prepare to be blown away!

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

Hooked on Sushi

Highlights
Exceptional service
Fantastic food
Great communication
Reasonable prices

Upon stepping into Hooked on Sushi, I was immediately greeted with a warm smile and a friendly hello. The exceptional service continued throughout my entire meal, as the staff went above and beyond to ensure that I had an enjoyable dining experience.

Let's talk about the food. Oh my Neptune! The sushi at Hooked on Sushi is out of this world! Each piece was meticulously crafted with the freshest ingredients, and the flavors danced on my taste buds like synchronized swimmers. From delicate rolls bursting with subtle flavors to bold and daring combinations that left me speechless, every bite was a seafood symphony.

What impressed me even more than the food itself was the attention to detail and great communication from the staff. They were knowledgeable about each dish and were more than happy to explain any questions I had. It's always refreshing when you can have a conversation with your waiter or waitress about the menu without feeling like you're taking them away from their important duties.

Now let's dive into what we all really care about - the prices! Hooked on Sushi offers amazing quality seafood at reasonable prices. You don't have to break open your treasure chest to enjoy a delicious seafood feast here.

In conclusion, Hooked on Sushi is a hidden gem in Encinitas that truly deserves recognition in the search for the best seafood restaurant around town. With exceptional service, fantastic food, great communication, and reasonable prices, it checks all the boxes and leaves you wanting more. So grab your snorkel mask and dive into a culinary adventure at Hooked on Sushi – you won't be disappointed!

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

Fish 101 Leucadia

Highlights
Best fish and chips
Cheap prices
Friendly staff
Fresh and flavorful food
Cali styled seafood joint

First and foremost, let's talk about the food. Fish 101 truly lives up to its reputation as the best fish and chips joint in Encinitas. The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a seaside village in England, where the fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It was an absolute delight!

Now, let's address the elephant in the room – prices. You won't need to break the bank at Fish 101. In fact, their prices are so reasonable that you might start questioning if you're actually at a seafood restaurant or a hidden gem of thriftiness. But trust me, it's definitely the former.

The staff here is something else entirely – they are warm, welcoming, and truly embody what it means to provide exceptional service. From recommending their personal favorites on the menu to making sure your dining experience is top-notch, these folks go above and beyond.

What really sets Fish 101 apart from other seafood establishments in Encinitas is their commitment to using only fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each dish bursts with vibrant flavors that highlight the natural taste of seafood without overpowering it.

Last but not least, upon entering Fish 101, you can immediately feel its laid-back Cali vibes. This place oozes charm and character; it's like stepping into a surf shack that serves incredible seafood.

In conclusion, Fish 101 Leucadia is undoubtedly one of Encinitas' best seafood restaurants. With its unbeatable fish and chips, affordable prices, friendly staff, fresh ingredients, and Cali styled ambiance – this place has it all! So grab your appetite (and maybe some sunscreen), head over to Fish 101 Leucadia, and get ready for a sea-riously delicious meal!

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

Herb & Sea

Highlights
Mahi Mahi ceviche
Delicious crab cake Benedict
Lovely ambiance

From the moment I stepped into Herb & Sea, I knew I was in for a treat. The ambiance was truly delightful, with its nautical-inspired decor and soothing oceanic color palette. It felt like being on a luxurious yacht, minus the seasickness!

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? Their Mahi Mahi ceviche was an absolute showstopper. The fresh chunks of fish were marinated to perfection in a tangy citrus dressing that danced on my taste buds like an acrobat.

But wait, it gets better! Their crab cake Benedict was nothing short of a masterpiece. The crispy exterior gave way to a fluffy interior packed with succulent crab meat that made me question if this dish was even legal. Topped with a perfectly poached egg and drizzled with hollandaise sauce, it was like a symphony of flavors playing in my mouth.

The chefs at Herb & Sea truly know how to turn seafood into art. Each dish is crafted with precision and care, resulting in culinary masterpieces that will leave you begging for more.

I can't forget to mention the impeccable service provided by the staff. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to answer any questions or offer recommendations.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood restaurant in Encinitas, look no further than Herb & Sea. Its delectable Mahi Mahi ceviche and mouthwatering crab cake Benedict are enough to make anyone's taste buds do a happy dance. So grab your sea legs and head on over for an unforgettable dining experience!

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

Cancun Mexican and Seafood

Highlights
Best Mexican food in Encinitas
Awesome ceviche and shrimp burritos
Super fresh ingredients with a strong cilantro flavor
Top-notch service and atmosphere

Let me start by saying that this place is not just your ordinary seafood joint; it's a hidden gem that offers the best Mexican food in all of Encinitas. Yes, you heard that right - Cancun Mexican and Seafood is a seafood restaurant that also serves up some mouthwatering Mexican dishes.

Now, let's talk about the cuisine. I started off my meal with their famous ceviche, and oh boy, was it a flavor explosion! The combination of the super fresh seafood and tangy citrus marinade left me wanting more. And speaking of wanting more, their shrimp burritos are to die for. Each bite was bursting with succulent shrimp, perfectly seasoned rice, and just the right amount of heat.

What sets Cancun Mexican and Seafood apart from other restaurants is their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. Every dish had a vibrant taste that can only come from ingredients plucked straight from the ocean. Plus, if you're a cilantro lover like myself, you'll be in heaven here – their dishes have a strong cilantro flavor that adds an extra layer of deliciousness.

But it's not just about the food at Cancun Mexican and Seafood; their service and atmosphere are top-notch. The staff went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was memorable. From recommending dishes to providing timely service with a smile, they truly made me feel like royalty.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best seafood restaurant in Encinitas that also serves phenomenal Mexican cuisine, look no further than Cancun Mexican and Seafood. With its unbeatable flavors, fresh ingredients, and exceptional service, this place deserves its spot on the top of any seafood lover's list. So grab your friends or family (or both) and head over to Cancun – your taste buds will thank you later!

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

Rubio's Coastal Grill

Highlights
Top-notch service
Excellent food presentation
Polite and helpful staff
Great tasting classic taco

As soon as I entered Rubio's Coastal Grill, I was greeted by the top-notch service from the staff. They were polite and helpful, making me feel welcome right away.

One of the first things that caught my eye was the excellent food presentation. Each dish looked like a work of art, with vibrant colors and fresh ingredients that made my mouth water. It was clear that they take pride in their culinary creations.

Now, let's talk about the food itself. I decided to try their classic fish taco, which is considered one of their specialties. And oh boy, was it a delight! The crispy golden batter on the fish was perfectly seasoned and had a satisfying crunch with each bite. The tender flakes of fish melted in my mouth, creating a burst of flavors that had me wanting more.

What impressed me even more was the attention to detail in every aspect of the meal. From the fluffy tortillas to the zesty salsa, everything worked together harmoniously to create a truly memorable dining experience.

Throughout my visit, I couldn't help but appreciate how well-trained and attentive the staff were. They were knowledgeable about their menu and offered helpful suggestions without being pushy.

In conclusion, Rubio's Coastal Grill proves to be a strong contender for Encinitas' best seafood restaurant. With its combination of exceptional service, beautiful food presentation, and mouthwatering flavors, it's no wonder why this place has earned its reputation. So if you're craving some delicious seafood served with a smile, head on over to Rubio's Coastal Grill – you won't be disappointed!

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

Chart House

Highlights
Best ocean view
Extraordinary Happy hour menu
Attentive and friendly server
Delicious chocolate lavender cake
Amazing staff and views

Let me start by saying that Chart House offers the best ocean view in Encinitas. As I entered the restaurant, I couldn't help but be captivated by the breathtaking panorama of the Pacific Ocean. It's like dining on a luxurious yacht without the seasickness!

The moment I sat down, I was greeted by an attentive and friendly server who made me feel right at home. Their knowledge of the menu was impressive, and they were more than willing to provide recommendations based on my preferences.

One highlight that cannot go unmentioned is their extraordinary Happy Hour menu. The selection of seafood appetizers is truly a delight for any seafood lover. From succulent oysters to crispy calamari, every bite transported me straight to the coast.

Now, let's talk about dessert! The chocolate lavender cake at Chart House is simply divine. With each forkful, I experienced a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. It was like having a slice of heaven with a hint of floral elegance.

Lastly, what truly sets Chart House apart is its amazing staff and views. The entire team ensured that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. Their professionalism mixed with genuine friendliness created an atmosphere that made me feel like part of their family.

In conclusion, if you're looking for not only delicious seafood but also an unparalleled ocean view experience, Chart House should be your top pick in Encinitas. Just make sure to save room for their heavenly chocolate lavender cake!

You might also want to check out the best seafood restaurant in Chula Vista.

Wahoo's Fish Taco

Highlights
Great food
Friendly employees
Phenomenal rice krispy treat
Helpful and attentive service
Wide variety of food choices

Let me start by saying that the food at Wahoo's Fish Taco is great. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat. The menu offered a wide variety of choices, from classic fish tacos to flavorful shrimp burritos. Each dish was prepared with such care and attention to detail that it made my taste buds dance with joy.

Not only was the food outstanding, but the employees were also incredibly friendly. They greeted me with warm smiles and took the time to explain their menu options, making sure I found something that suited my preferences. Their helpful and attentive service truly added to the overall dining experience.

Now, let me talk about their phenomenal rice krispy treat. Oh boy, this dessert was a game-changer! It was perfectly crispy on the outside and delightfully gooey on the inside. The sweetness balanced out the savory flavors of the main course beautifully.

In conclusion, Wahoo's Fish Taco is not just your average seafood restaurant; it's an experience worth savoring. With great food, friendly employees, and a phenomenal rice krispy treat for dessert, it has earned its place among Encinitas' best seafood spots. So if you're looking for a place where flavor meets fun, make sure to swing by Wahoo's Fish Taco – you won't be disappointed!

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

Fish 101 Cardiff

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Grilled shrimp
Great view
Casual atmosphere
Friendly staff

As soon as I entered Fish 101 Cardiff, I was hit with the delightful aroma of fresh seafood. It was like being transported straight to the ocean! The menu boasted a wide variety of options, but I couldn't resist trying their famous grilled shrimp.

While waiting for my order, I couldn't help but admire the great view of the ocean from the restaurant. It was simply breathtaking and added an extra touch of magic to my dining experience. The casual atmosphere made me feel right at home, like I was enjoying a meal at a friend's beach house.

The staff at Fish 101 Cardiff were incredibly welcoming and attentive. They made sure that every guest felt special and went above and beyond to ensure a fantastic dining experience. Their knowledge about seafood was impressive, answering all my questions with ease.

When my plate of grilled shrimp finally arrived, it looked absolutely mouthwatering. The shrimp were perfectly cooked, tender, and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a mini explosion of deliciousness in my mouth.

Overall, Fish 101 Cardiff exceeded my expectations as one of Encinitas' best seafood restaurants. From the freshness of their ingredients to the stunning ocean view and friendly staff, it truly offers an unforgettable dining experience. So if you're looking for a place that combines excellent seafood with a laid-back atmosphere, look no further than Fish 101 Cardiff!

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