LA Jolla's Best Seafood Restaurant [Updated 2024]

Hello there, fellow seafood lovers! I don't know about you, but when it comes to indulging in the wonders of the ocean, LA Jolla holds a special place in my heart.

As a proud local and someone who has sampled their fair share of seafood delights in this coastal paradise, I can confidently say that I have some insider knowledge on where to find the absolute best seafood restaurant in LA Jolla. With a total of 13 culinary adventures under my belt, it's time to spill the beans (or should I say seashells?

) and reveal the ultimate spot to satisfy your seafood cravings. So buckle up and get ready for a lighthearted journey through LA Jolla's finest catch!

Lobster West La Jolla

Highlights
Great lobster roll
Friendly and accommodating staff
Coleslaw was refreshing
Good beans

Let's dive right into it, shall we? Lobster West La Jolla is a hidden gem that serves up some seriously delectable seafood. Their lobster roll is in a league of its own - it's like a party in your mouth! Bursting with succulent chunks of fresh lobster, it's the kind of sandwich that dreams are made of. Trust me, you'll be licking your lips and begging for more.

But it's not just about the food at Lobster West La Jolla; their staff deserves a standing ovation. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by friendly smiles and warm welcomes. They were incredibly accommodating to my dietary preferences and even offered helpful suggestions on what to order. It's refreshing to encounter such exceptional service in this day and age.

Now, let's talk sides. The coleslaw at Lobster West La Jolla was light and refreshing - the perfect companion to the rich flavors of the lobster roll. And let me tell you about those beans...they were good! Not just "meh" or "alright," but genuinely good. They were cooked to perfection, tender yet still with a bit of bite.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood restaurant in LA Jolla, look no further than Lobster West La Jolla. With their great lobster roll, friendly staff, refreshing coleslaw, and good beans, they've got all the ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience. Don't miss out on this hidden gem - it's a seafood lover's paradise!

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

Poki One N Half

Highlights
Magical sauce and abundant add ons
Affordable option for various seafood
Professionalism in dealing with allergies
Wide selection of protein choices

Let me start by saying that Poki One N Half is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood in LA Jolla. From the moment I walked through the door, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my attention was their magical sauce. It had the perfect balance of tanginess and creaminess, elevating every bite to a whole new level. And speaking of bites, the amount of add ons they offer is truly impressive. From seaweed salad to avocado chunks, you can customize your bowl to your heart's content.

What really sets Poki One N Half apart from other seafood joints is their commitment to offering an affordable option without compromising on quality. You can indulge in fresh and delicious seafood without breaking the bank. It's like finding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow.

Another aspect that impressed me was their professionalism in dealing with allergies. They take every precaution to ensure that those with dietary restrictions can safely enjoy their meal. It's refreshing to see a restaurant go above and beyond to accommodate all diners.

Lastly, let's talk about their wide selection of protein choices. Whether you're a fan of classic tuna or want to try something more adventurous like octopus or scallops, Poki One N Half has got you covered.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a playful yet professional seafood experience in LA Jolla, Poki One N Half is the place to be. With its magical sauce, abundant add ons, affordability, and wide protein selection, it truly stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in town. So grab your friends and dive into a bowl of deliciousness at Poki One N Half!

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

Mermaids & Cowboys

Highlights
Oysters
Portuguese seafood soup
Bone marrow crab cakes
Outstanding staff
Great cocktails

Walking into Mermaids & Cowboys, I was immediately drawn to the lively atmosphere and the smell of the ocean. The menu was a treasure trove of culinary delights, featuring an array of seafood dishes that would make any seafood lover's heart flutter.

First up, the oysters. These succulent creatures from the depths of the sea were served on a bed of crushed ice, accompanied by a zesty mignonette sauce. With each slurp, I could taste the briny essence of the ocean, sending my taste buds into a frenzy.

Next, I ventured into uncharted territory with their Portuguese seafood soup. This bowl of goodness was filled to the brim with an assortment of fresh seafood, swimming in a flavorful broth that transported me straight to the shores of Portugal. Each spoonful was an adventure in itself, as I discovered different treasures hidden within.

But it was the bone marrow crab cakes that truly stole the show. These little bites of heaven were packed with chunks of succulent crab meat and topped with a decadent bone marrow sauce that added an extra layer of richness. They were so good that even cows would be envious!

What truly set Mermaids & Cowboys apart from other seafood joints was their outstanding staff. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and attentive service. The waitstaff not only had extensive knowledge about each dish but also took the time to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

To complement my meal, I indulged in one (or maybe two) of their creatively crafted cocktails. The mixologists here are true artists, concocting drinks that dance on your palate like synchronized swimmers.

In conclusion, Mermaids & Cowboys is a seafood haven that deserves its place among LA Jolla's finest restaurants. The combination of delectable dishes, exceptional service, and unforgettable cocktails makes this place a must-visit for any seafood aficionado. So, gather your sea-loving friends and dive into the ocean of flavors that await you at Mermaids & Cowboys!

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

El Pescador Fish Market

Highlights
Delicious seafood
Incredible variety
Fresh and flavorful
Perfectly cooked dishes
Great service and staff

Walking into El Pescador Fish Market was like stepping into a seafood lover's paradise. The aroma of the ocean filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation. The first thing that caught my eye was the incredible variety of seafood displayed on ice, glistening and inviting.

I started my culinary adventure with a plate of freshly shucked oysters. Each one was a briny burst of flavors that transported me straight to the coast. Moving on to the main course, I opted for their famous grilled swordfish. The fish was perfectly cooked, flaky and moist, with a hint of smokiness that elevated it to another level.

What impressed me most about El Pescador Fish Market was the commitment to freshness and flavor. Every bite exploded with the essence of the sea, as if I had just caught the fish myself moments before. It was evident that only the finest ingredients were used in their dishes.

But it wasn't just the food that stood out; it was also the great service and friendly staff. The waitstaff were attentive and knowledgeable, offering recommendations and answering all my questions with a genuine smile.

El Pescador Fish Market truly deserves its reputation as one of LA Jolla's best seafood restaurants. With its delicious seafood, incredible variety, and fresh flavors, it is a must-visit for any seafood aficionado. So if you're in town and craving an unforgettable dining experience by the sea, make sure to swing by El Pescador Fish Market - your taste buds will thank you!

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

Mediterranean Room

Highlights
Octopus appetizer
Ocean view
Excellent service
Pot De Creme dessert

Walking into the Mediterranean Room, I was immediately captivated by the breathtaking ocean view. The sight of the waves crashing against the shore created an ambiance that perfectly complemented the seafood-focused menu.

To start my culinary adventure, I ordered their famous Octopus appetizer. It arrived beautifully plated with tender pieces of octopus accompanied by a tangy lemon dressing. The balance of flavors was impeccable and left me craving for more.

The staff at Mediterranean Room truly understands what excellent service means. They were attentive without being overbearing, ensuring that my dining experience was smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. Their knowledge about the menu and willingness to offer suggestions made me feel like a valued guest.

As I moved on to the main course, I couldn't resist trying their signature seafood dish. Each bite burst with freshness and flavor, showcasing the quality of ingredients used. The combination of perfectly cooked fish with delicate herbs and spices created a symphony in my mouth.

To top off this exceptional meal, I indulged in their Pot De Creme dessert. This silky-smooth delight melted in my mouth, leaving behind a rich chocolaty aftertaste that made me wish for an endless supply.

In conclusion, Mediterranean Room is more than just another seafood restaurant; it's an experience worth savoring. From their delectable octopus appetizer to their divine Pot De Creme dessert, every aspect of this dining establishment exudes excellence. With its stunning ocean view and exemplary service, Mediterranean Room has undoubtedly secured its place among LA Jolla's finest seafood restaurants.

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

Brockton Villa

Highlights
Phenomenal Coast Toast
Amazing view
Great lobster rolls
Friendly staff

Let's start with the star of the show, their Phenomenal Coast Toast. This dish is a delicious blend of rich avocado, creamy goat cheese, and perfectly poached eggs on top of a crispy slice of sourdough bread. The flavors were like a symphony in my mouth, each bite revealing new layers of taste. It was truly a breakfast masterpiece that left me wanting more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me at Brockton Villa; the view was absolutely amazing. Perched on a cliff overlooking the stunning La Jolla Cove, every table offered breathtaking ocean vistas. I couldn't help but feel like I was dining in paradise while enjoying my meal.

Of course, seafood is the main attraction here, and their lobster rolls did not disappoint. The succulent lobster meat was perfectly cooked and generously portioned, nestled in a buttery brioche bun. Each bite was pure seafood bliss.

What truly sets Brockton Villa apart is its staff. The friendly and attentive team made me feel welcomed from the moment I stepped through the door. Their knowledge about the menu and genuine passion for providing excellent service added to the overall enjoyable experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood restaurant that offers phenomenal dishes like their famous Coast Toast, boasts an incredible view, serves great lobster rolls, and has a friendly staff to top it all off, then look no further than Brockton Villa in LA Jolla. It's an absolute must-visit for any seafood lover in search of culinary excellence with an ocean view.

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

The Fishery

Highlights
Exceptional Atmosphere
Impeccable Food
Friendly and Easy-going Service
Vibrant yet Relaxed Vibe

As I stepped into The Fishery, I was immediately captivated by its exceptional atmosphere. The restaurant boasts a charming maritime theme, with nautical decorations adorning the walls and a soothing color palette that transports you to an underwater wonderland.

Now, let's talk about the food! Oh my, the food! The Fishery offers an exquisite selection of seafood dishes that are simply impeccable. From succulent seared scallops to buttery lobster tails, each bite is a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The freshness of the ingredients is evident in every dish, leaving you craving for more.

What truly sets The Fishery apart from other seafood restaurants is their friendly and easy-going service. The staff genuinely cares about your experience and goes above and beyond to ensure your satisfaction. They are knowledgeable about the menu and are always ready to provide recommendations tailored to your preferences.

The vibrant yet relaxed vibe at The Fishery adds another layer of charm to this already delightful dining experience. Whether you're enjoying a romantic dinner or catching up with friends over drinks, the ambiance effortlessly creates a welcoming atmosphere that you won't want to leave.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood restaurant in LA Jolla, look no further than The Fishery. Its exceptional atmosphere, impeccable food, friendly service, and vibrant yet relaxed vibe make it a standout choice. So dive in and indulge yourself in this aquatic paradise - trust me; it's an experience you won't regret!

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

James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi

Highlights
Quality of the Food
Welcoming Staff
Reasonable Prices

Let me start by saying that the quality of the food at James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi is simply outstanding. Each bite transported me to seafood heaven, where flavors danced on my taste buds like synchronized swimmers. From the succulent lobster to the melt-in-your-mouth sashimi, every dish was a masterpiece.

But it's not just about the food; the staff at James' Place deserve a standing ovation for their warm and welcoming demeanor. From the moment I walked through the door, I felt like a long-lost friend who had finally returned home (with an appetite). Their knowledge of seafood was impressive, and they were more than happy to offer suggestions based on my preferences.

Now, let's talk about prices. We all know that seafood can be quite expensive, but James' Place manages to strike a balance between quality and affordability. The prices here are reasonable, making it suitable for both fancy date nights and casual indulgences.

If you're looking for a seafood joint in LA Jolla that will make your taste buds do cartwheels while keeping your wallet happy, then look no further than James' Place Prime Seafood Sushi. Trust me when I say this place will leave you swimming in delight!

Disclaimer: No fish were harmed during this review.

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

Cusp Dining & Drinks

Highlights
Great view
Blood orange margarita
Live music
Hidden gem on 11th floor
Honey garlic pizza

Let me start by saying that Cusp Dining & Drinks is not your average seafood restaurant. Nestled on the 11th floor of a building, it's a hidden gem with breathtaking views of the La Jolla coastline. As I stepped onto the terrace, I couldn't help but be awestruck by the panoramic view before me.

Now, let's talk about the drinks. Oh my goodness! Their blood orange margarita was an explosion of flavors – tangy, citrusy, and just the right amount of sweetness. Sipping on it while enjoying the view was sheer bliss. The bartenders at Cusp truly know how to mix up some magic.

But it doesn't stop there. As you indulge in your delightful libations, live music fills the air, creating an ambience that is both sophisticated and relaxed. It sets the perfect mood for a memorable dining experience.

Now, here comes the twist – their honey garlic pizza stole the show! Who would have thought that a seafood restaurant could excel at making pizza? But trust me when I say that this unique combination of sweet and savory flavors will leave you wanting more.

Cusp Dining & Drinks has successfully carved out its niche in LA Jolla's culinary scene with its innovative menu and stunning location. So if you're looking for a seafood restaurant that goes above and beyond expectations, head over to Cusp – where great food meets an unforgettable view.

Pro tip: Make sure to make reservations in advance as this hidden gem tends to fill up quickly with discerning diners seeking an extraordinary experience.

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

Catania

Highlights
Wonderful food
Excellent service
Elegant interior design
Great view
Incredible flavors

Let me start by saying that Catania is truly a hidden gem when it comes to seafood dining in LA Jolla. From the moment I entered, I was greeted with a warm smile and led to a table with a great view of the ocean. The elegant interior design immediately caught my eye, creating an atmosphere of sophistication and charm.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the food. Oh boy, where do I even begin? Every dish that graced my table was nothing short of wonderful. The flavors were so incredible that they transported me straight to the Italian coastline. Each ingredient was thoughtfully selected and expertly prepared, resulting in a symphony of tastes that left me wanting more.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the service at Catania was top-notch. The staff demonstrated their true passion for hospitality as they attentively catered to every need. They were knowledgeable about every item on the menu and offered excellent recommendations for both food and drink pairings.

Catania has truly earned its place among the best seafood restaurants in LA Jolla. It's a place where you can indulge in exquisite flavors while enjoying breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. So if you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience with impeccable service, look no further than Catania - your taste buds will thank you!

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

Manhattan Of La Jolla

Highlights
Expensive
Amazing
Welcoming

Upon entering Manhattan Of La Jolla, I was immediately struck by the upscale ambiance and elegant decor. The restaurant exudes a sense of sophistication that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners.

The menu at Manhattan Of La Jolla is certainly not for the faint of heart, with prices that can only be described as expensive. However, let me assure you that every penny spent here is well worth it. From start to finish, my dining experience was nothing short of amazing.

The seafood dishes at Manhattan Of La Jolla are truly a work of art. Each plate is meticulously crafted with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. Whether you're a fan of lobster, crab, or shrimp, you'll find an array of delectable options to satisfy your seafood cravings.

What sets this restaurant apart from others in LA Jolla is not just the outstanding cuisine but also the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The staff at Manhattan Of La Jolla go above and beyond to make you feel like royalty. They are knowledgeable about the menu and offer excellent recommendations based on your preferences.

One dish that particularly stood out was their signature lobster bisque. The velvety smooth texture combined with rich flavors left me craving for more. Another highlight was their perfectly grilled salmon fillet, which practically melted in my mouth.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood dining experience that will leave you feeling pampered and satisfied, look no further than Manhattan Of La Jolla. While it may be on the pricier side, the exceptional quality of food and service make it a worthwhile splurge for any seafood lover.

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

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Highlights
View
Friendly staff
Delicious food
Great service

Walking into Eddie V's Prime Seafood, I was immediately captivated by the breathtaking view. The restaurant is perched right on the coast, offering panoramic vistas of the sparkling ocean. It's like dining in a postcard!

The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and promptly seated me at a cozy table by the window. They were attentive throughout my entire meal, ensuring that I had everything I needed without being intrusive.

Now, let's talk about the food! Oh boy, was it a treat for my taste buds! From start to finish, every dish was a delight. The menu boasted an array of fresh seafood options prepared with finesse and creativity. Each bite transported me to an underwater paradise of flavors.

I have to commend Eddie V's for their delicious food selection. Their lobster bisque was velvety and rich, with just the right amount of creaminess. The jumbo shrimp cocktail had perfectly cooked shrimp that practically melted in my mouth. And let's not forget about their signature crab cakes – crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – absolute perfection!

What truly stood out during my visit was the great service. The waitstaff went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch. They were knowledgeable about the menu and offered thoughtful recommendations based on my preferences.

Overall, Eddie V's Prime Seafood is deserving of its reputation as one of LA Jolla's best seafood restaurants. With its stunning view, friendly staff, delicious food, and great service, it checks off all the boxes for an exceptional dining experience. So if you're looking for a place where seafood dreams come true, make sure to pay Eddie V's Prime Seafood a visit – you won't be disappointed!

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

George's at the Cove

Highlights
Amazing view of La Jolla Cove
Delicious food and drinks
Phenomenal service
Breathtaking rooftop dining

As I approached George's at the Cove, I couldn't help but be captivated by its breathtaking view of La Jolla Cove. The restaurant boasts a prime location that allows diners to indulge in a feast for the eyes while enjoying their seafood delights.

Once inside, I was greeted by a friendly staff who made me feel like the king (or should I say, "the codfather") of the ocean. Their phenomenal service truly added an extra layer of enjoyment to my dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the main event: the food itself. Oh boy, was it delicious! From succulent shrimp to perfectly seared scallops, every bite was a burst of flavor that would make even Poseidon himself jealous. Accompanying these delectable dishes were creative and refreshing drinks that complemented the seafood perfectly.

But wait, there's more! As if George's at the Cove hadn't already won my heart with its stunning views and mouthwatering cuisine, they also offer rooftop dining. Yes, you heard me right! Picture yourself savoring seafood delicacies while feeling like you're on top of the world.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable seafood experience in LA Jolla, look no further than George's at the Cove. With its amazing view, delicious food and drinks, and top-notch service, this restaurant truly deserves its place as one of the best seafood spots in town. So dive into a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing and your soul floating on cloud nine – or rather cloud ca-nine.

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