San Diego's Best Seafood Restaurant [Updated 2024]

With my extensive experience dining at various seafood establishments, I've narrowed down the list to 13 top contenders. From succulent crab legs to mouthwatering fish tacos, San Diego's vibrant culinary scene offers something for every seafood lover.

So, put on your bibs and get ready to indulge in some delectable ocean delights as we embark on a lighthearted journey to discover the best seafood restaurant in San Diego. Trust me, by the end of this article, you'll be booking a reservation faster than a seagull swoops down on a French fry.

Get ready to dive into a deep sea of flavors as we uncover San Diego's hidden seafood gems!

Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great place to dine
Big bar with lots of seating
Well decorated
Good portions
Excellent service

Walking into Water Grill San Diego, I immediately knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was magnificent, with its well-decorated interior and a big bar that had plenty of seating options. It was clear that this place meant business when it came to providing an exceptional dining experience.

The menu at Water Grill San Diego boasted an impressive selection of seafood dishes, leaving me eager to dive right in. I opted for the lobster bisque as a starter, and let me tell you, it was like taking a trip to flavor town. The creamy texture and rich taste made my taste buds dance with delight.

For the main course, I ordered the grilled salmon, and boy, was it a catch! The portion size was generous enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetite. The salmon itself was perfectly cooked, flaky on the outside while remaining moist and tender on the inside. Each bite was a burst of oceanic flavors that transported me straight to the coast.

But what really set Water Grill San Diego apart from other seafood restaurants in town was their impeccable service. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every diner felt like royalty. From their extensive knowledge of the menu to their attentiveness throughout the meal, they truly elevated my dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a great place to dine in San Diego that offers excellent seafood dishes with good portions and top-notch service, look no further than Water Grill San Diego. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Highlights
$1 oysters
Clam chowder
Fish tacos
Outstanding service

From the moment I stepped into Ironside Fish & Oyster, I knew I was in for a treat. The first highlight that caught my eye was the $1 oysters. Yes, you read that right! Fresh and succulent oysters for just a dollar each! It's like they were practically giving them away. This special deal alone is enough to make any seafood lover's heart skip a beat.

As I perused the menu, another standout item caught my attention: the clam chowder. Now, I consider myself quite the connoisseur of this creamy delight, and let me tell you, Ironside did not disappoint. Their clam chowder had the perfect balance of flavors – rich, velvety broth with tender clams and hints of smoky bacon. Each spoonful was an explosion of taste that left me yearning for more.

Of course, no visit to a seafood restaurant would be complete without trying their fish tacos. Ironside Fish & Oyster takes this classic dish to a whole new level. The perfectly grilled fish topped with tangy slaw and zesty lime crema wrapped in warm tortillas... sigh. It was pure perfection on a plate.

But what truly sets Ironside apart from its competitors is the outstanding service. The staff are knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about seafood. They are more than happy to answer any questions you may have or offer recommendations based on your preferences.

In conclusion, Ironside Fish & Oyster is undoubtedly one of San Diego's top contenders for the title of best seafood restaurant. With their irresistible $1 oysters, delectable clam chowder, mouthwatering fish tacos, and exceptional service, it's an experience that will leave you craving more. So grab your appetite and head on over to Ironside Fish & Oyster – your taste buds will thank you!

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

Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Excellent staff
Unique entrées
Delicious food

Gaslamp Fish House truly stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in San Diego, and it's not just because of its prime location in the lively Gaslamp Quarter. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by an excellent staff who made me feel like a VIP from start to finish.

One thing that immediately caught my attention at Gaslamp Fish House was their menu. They offer a range of unique entrées that you won't find anywhere else. It's evident that their chef is not afraid to take risks and experiment with flavors. The combination of ingredients in each dish is carefully curated to create a symphony of flavors that excite your taste buds.

Now let's talk about the most important aspect: the food itself. Oh boy, it was nothing short of amazing! Every bite seemed to transport me to seafood heaven. The freshness of the ingredients was undeniable, and you could taste the care and skill put into each dish.

From succulent scallops seared to perfection to melt-in-your-mouth lobster tails, every dish was a delight for my senses. And did I mention their crab cakes? They were so good that I couldn't resist ordering another round!

Gaslamp Fish House has truly mastered the art of serving delicious seafood dishes. Whether you're a seafood aficionado or just looking for a memorable dining experience, this place will exceed your expectations.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for San Diego's best seafood restaurant, look no further than Gaslamp Fish House. With its excellent staff, unique entrées, and delicious food, it ticks all the boxes and leaves you craving for more. Trust me when I say that this place will reel you in with its oceanic delights!

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

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Highlights
Fresh Seafood
Wide Variety
Award-winning
Attentive staff
Great prices

Walking into Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, I could immediately sense the freshness in the air. The scent of the ocean mingled with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling seafood on the grill. It was a promise of good things to come.

The menu boasted a wide variety of seafood options that would make any seafood lover weak at the knees. From succulent shrimp to flaky fish fillets, there was something to please every palate. Their commitment to quality and sustainability was evident with each bite. I felt like I was tasting the essence of the sea itself.

What sets Blue Water apart from other seafood joints is its award-winning status. With accolades raining down upon them like confetti at a seafood parade, it's no wonder they've become a cult favorite among locals and tourists alike. The combination of excellent ingredients and skilled chefs created dishes that were nothing short of sublime.

The staff at Blue Water were not only attentive but also knowledgeable about their offerings. They happily answered my barrage of questions and made recommendations based on my preferences. Their passion for seafood was contagious, and it made my dining experience all the more enjoyable.

Now, let's talk about prices - because who doesn't love a good deal? Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill offers incredible value for money without compromising on taste or quality. It's like finding a pearl in your oyster – unexpected, delightful, and definitely worth sharing.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an exceptional seafood experience in San Diego, look no further than Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill. With their commitment to freshness, wide variety of delectable options, award-winning status, attentive staff, and great prices, they tick all the boxes for being one of the best seafood restaurants in town. So dive right in and let your taste buds swim with joy!

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

King's Fish House

Highlights
Fantastic dining experience
Amazing octopus and tuna
Excellent service
Wide variety of menu options
Kid-friendly atmosphere

From the moment I stepped into King's Fish House, I knew I was in for a fantastic dining experience. The ambiance was warm and inviting, with a nautical theme that made me feel like I was dining on a luxurious yacht.

Now let's talk about the star of the show: the seafood. Oh boy, did King's Fish House deliver! The octopus dish had me singing praises from the first bite. It was tender, perfectly seasoned, and melted in my mouth like butter. And don't even get me started on the tuna! It was so fresh that it practically jumped off my plate and swam away.

But it wasn't just the delectable food that impressed me; it was also their excellent service. The staff at King's Fish House were knowledgeable about their menu and provided recommendations that didn't disappoint. They were attentive without being overbearing, making sure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Speaking of the menu, King's Fish House offers a wide variety of options, ensuring there's something for every seafood lover out there. Whether you're craving lobster, shrimp, or oysters, they've got you covered. And if you have little ones in tow, fear not! The restaurant provides a kid-friendly atmosphere, complete with a special menu to please even the pickiest eaters.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for San Diego's best seafood restaurant, look no further than King's Fish House. Its fantastic dining experience, amazing octopus and tuna dishes, excellent service, wide menu variety, and kid-friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any seafood aficionado. So dive in and enjoy an oceanic feast fit for royalty!

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

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Delicious food
Friendly service
Unique menu
Wheelchair accessible

As soon as I stepped into Lionfish, I was immediately captivated by its great atmosphere. The sleek and modern decor combined with the vibrant colors gave it a trendy yet welcoming vibe. It's the type of place that makes you feel like you're dining in style.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the food. Brace yourself for an explosion of flavors because Lionfish knows how to do seafood right. Their menu is a treasure trove of culinary delights, with each dish offering a unique twist on traditional coastal cuisine. From their perfectly seared scallops to their melt-in-your-mouth tuna tartare, every bite was an exquisite experience.

But what truly sets Lionfish apart is their commitment to providing exceptional service. The waitstaff were not only knowledgeable but also genuinely friendly and eager to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch.

Let's not forget about accessibility – Lionfish goes above and beyond by being wheelchair accessible. This attention to detail shows their dedication to creating an inclusive environment for all seafood lovers.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood restaurant in San Diego, look no further than Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego. With its great atmosphere, delicious food, friendly service, unique menu, and wheelchair accessibility, it truly deserves its spot at the top of the list. So why wait? Dive into a world of culinary bliss and let your taste buds embark on a seafood adventure like no other!

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

Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant

Highlights
Quick service
Large portion sizes
Great deals
Relaxing outdoor seating
Amazing food

Let me start by saying that Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant is a hidden gem in the world of seafood dining. From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted with quick and friendly service. The staff here truly knows how to make you feel welcome.

One thing that really stood out to me about Marion's is their commitment to serving generous portion sizes. I ordered their famous seafood platter and boy, was I blown away! It was like a feast fit for a king, complete with an assortment of delectable delights from the ocean.

Now, let's talk about deals. Who doesn't love a good deal, am I right? Well, Marion's has got you covered. They offer great specials that won't break the bank. You can enjoy a mouthwatering seafood meal without emptying your wallet – now that's what I call a win-win situation.

The outdoor seating area at Marion's is simply delightful. Picture yourself sitting back in a comfortable chair, sipping on a refreshing drink, and enjoying your meal while basking in the warm San Diego sun. It's pure bliss.

And let's not forget about the star of the show – the food! Marion's serves up some of the most amazing seafood dishes I've ever had the pleasure of tasting. Each bite was bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Trust me when I say that you won't be disappointed.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a top-notch seafood dining experience in San Diego, look no further than Marion's Fish Market & Restaurant. With its quick service, large portion sizes, great deals, relaxing outdoor seating area, and amazing food, it truly stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in town. Give it a try and prepare to have your taste buds dancing with joy!

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

The Fish Market - San Diego

Highlights
Beautiful view of the Bay
Tasty and perfectly cooked Swordfish
Fabulous food and amazing views
Fresh fish specialties
Creamy and decadent clam chowder

From the moment I stepped into The Fish Market, I was captivated by the beautiful view of the Bay. The panoramic vista of the sparkling waters instantly transported me to a seaside paradise. It's no wonder this restaurant is known for its fabulous food and amazing views.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show—the seafood! The swordfish at The Fish Market is a true delight for any seafood lover. Cooked to perfection, each succulent bite melts in your mouth. I couldn't help but appreciate the mastery involved in creating such a tasty and perfectly cooked dish.

But that's not all; their menu boasts an impressive selection of fresh fish specialties that will make any seafood aficionado weak at the knees. From delicate scallops to plump prawns, they have it all. One cannot visit The Fish Market without indulging in their creamy and decadent clam chowder. It's like diving into a bowl of pure bliss.

The staff at The Fish Market are knowledgeable and attentive, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is top-notch. Their expertise shines through as they guide you through the menu and offer recommendations tailored to your preferences.

In conclusion, if you're seeking an extraordinary seafood dining experience with breathtaking views, look no further than The Fish Market - San Diego. With its picturesque setting, delectable dishes, and impeccable service, it truly deserves its place among San Diego's best seafood restaurants.

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

Crab Hut

Highlights
Love the spice
Epic seafood boil
Large portions
Yummy beignets

First and foremost, let me tell you that Crab Hut knows how to spice things up! If you're a fan of bold flavors that will make your taste buds dance, this is the place for you. Their epic seafood boil is a true delight for any seafood lover. From succulent crab legs to plump shrimp and tender crawfish, they have it all.

The portions at Crab Hut are generous to say the least. You won't leave this place feeling hungry, that's for sure. So make sure to come with an appetite or be prepared to take some leftovers home.

One thing I absolutely couldn't resist was their yummy beignets. These fluffy, powdered sugar-coated treats were the perfect ending to my seafood feast. Trust me, you won't regret giving in to your sweet tooth here.

Now, let's talk about the ambiance. While Crab Hut isn't the most upscale restaurant in town, it definitely has its own charm. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming environment where you can kick back and enjoy your meal without any pretentiousness.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood spot that packs a punch with spicy flavors and offers ample portions, Crab Hut should be on your list. And don't forget to save room for those delightful beignets!

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

Eddie V's Prime Seafood

Highlights
Excellent service
Delicious food
Beautiful atmosphere
Live music
Special occasions

Upon entering Eddie V's, I was immediately captivated by the beautiful atmosphere that exuded elegance and sophistication. The dimly lit dining room, adorned with exquisite artwork and plush seating, created a romantic ambiance that made me feel like I was on a luxurious ocean voyage.

But let's get to the important part - the food! The menu at Eddie V's is a seafood lover's dream come true. From the moment I took my first bite of their delicious food, I knew this place was something special. The fresh, succulent oysters melted in my mouth, while the perfectly grilled lobster tail transported me to seafood paradise.

But what truly sets Eddie V's apart is their excellent service. The attentive staff catered to my every need, ensuring that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. They were knowledgeable about every dish on the menu and provided insightful recommendations, truly enhancing my enjoyment of each course.

To top it all off, Eddie V's offers live music, providing a delightful backdrop to your dining experience. Whether it's soothing jazz or lively tunes, the talented musicians add an extra layer of entertainment to your evening.

While Eddie V's Prime Seafood may be on the pricier side, it is undeniably worth it for those special occasions when you want to indulge in a memorable culinary experience.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an upscale seafood restaurant in San Diego that delivers not only delicious food but also excellent service and a beautiful atmosphere, look no further than Eddie V's Prime Seafood. It truly deserves its spot among the best seafood restaurants in San Diego.

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

Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Nice interior
Wonderful view
Delicious food
Romantic patio
Friendly service

As soon as I stepped into Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar, I couldn't help but appreciate the nice interior that exuded a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It was like being embraced by the sea itself. And speaking of the sea, let's not forget about the wonderful view! The restaurant is strategically positioned to offer breathtaking vistas of the ocean, allowing diners to immerse themselves in a truly maritime experience.

Now, for what we're all here for: the food. Let me tell you, it was nothing short of a culinary delight. Every bite was a burst of flavors that danced on my taste buds. From succulent shrimp to perfectly grilled fish, each dish showcased the chef's expertise in seafood preparation. Trust me when I say that if Neptune himself were to dine here, he'd raise his trident in approval.

To add another layer of enchantment to your dining experience, Brigantine offers a romantic patio where you can enjoy your meal under twinkling stars and soft candlelight. It's perfect for those seeking both good food and an amorous ambiance.

Lastly, I must commend the staff for their friendly service. They were attentive without being intrusive and had an extensive knowledge of the menu, guiding me through an oceanic journey with their recommendations.

In conclusion, Brigantine Seafood & Oyster Bar is undoubtedly one of San Diego's finest seafood restaurants. With its nice interior, wonderful view, delicious food, romantic patio, and friendly service – it checks all the boxes for an exceptional dining experience. So whether you're a seafood aficionado or just someone looking for a memorable evening by the sea, make sure to give this gem a try!

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

Sally's Fish House & Bar

Highlights
Incredible seafood
Great service
Tasty drinks
Reasonable prices
Friendly waitstaff

Let me start by saying that Sally's Fish House & Bar is a hidden gem when it comes to seafood restaurants in San Diego. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a delightful seafood feast.

One of the highlights of my visit was undoubtedly the incredible seafood selection. The menu boasted an impressive array of fresh catches from the ocean depths, each dish prepared with expert precision. From succulent shrimp to buttery lobster, Sally's Fish House & Bar truly knows how to deliver mouthwatering flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Not only was the food top-notch, but the service was also exceptional. The waitstaff were friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout my dining experience. They were happy to recommend their personal favorites and answer any questions I had about the menu.

To complement my meal, I indulged in some tasty drinks from their well-stocked bar. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or a refreshing craft beer, they have something for everyone. The bartenders proved their mixology skills by concocting creative and delicious beverages that perfectly complemented the flavors of the seafood dishes.

Now let's talk about prices. Reasonable would be an understatement. Considering the quality of the food and service, I found Sally's Fish House & Bar to be surprisingly affordable compared to other seafood establishments in San Diego.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable seafood dining experience in San Diego, look no further than Sally's Fish House & Bar. With its incredible seafood offerings, great service, tasty drinks, reasonable prices, and friendly waitstaff, it truly deserves its place among the best seafood restaurants in town. So go ahead and dive into this culinary treasure trove – your taste buds will thank you!

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

Mitch's Seafood

Highlights
Fresh fish sandwich
Plentiful shrimp
Perfectly crispy fries
Heavenly battered fish
Friendly atmosphere

Upon entering Mitch's Seafood, I was immediately greeted by a friendly atmosphere that made me feel like a part of their seafood-loving family. As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to their famous fresh fish sandwich, and boy, let me tell you, it did not disappoint.

The sandwich was bursting with flavor as the tender fish melted in my mouth. The combination of perfectly seasoned batter and flaky fish was nothing short of heavenly. It was evident that they take pride in sourcing the freshest ingredients for their dishes.

Not one to miss out on shrimp, I also indulged in their plentiful shrimp option. Each succulent morsel had a delightful snap and was cooked to perfection. And let's not forget about the crispy fries that accompanied these seafood delights! They were flawlessly golden and provided the perfect crunch to complement the main course.

Mitch's Seafood truly knows how to master the art of deep-frying. Their battered fish had a satisfyingly crispy exterior while maintaining its moist interior. It was like biting into a flavor explosion with each delicate forkful.

Overall, my experience at Mitch's Seafood left me with an undeniable craving for more. If you're looking for a seafood restaurant that delivers on taste, quality, and an enjoyable ambiance, look no further than Mitch's Seafood in San Diego. Trust me when I say it will leave your taste buds swimming with joy!

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