The Absolute Best Seafood Restaurants in Gaslamp San Diego [Updated 2024]

Lucky for me, I've had the opportunity to try out a whopping 13 seafood joints in the Gaslamp Quarter. From delightful dive spots to upscale establishments, my taste buds have been on quite the adventure.

So, if you're craving some delicious ocean treats and you find yourself wandering through Gaslamp San Diego, join me on this lighthearted journey as I share with you the absolute best seafood restaurants in town.

Gaslamp Fish House

Highlights
Delicious food
Excellent service
Perfectly cooked dishes
Wide variety of drinks

Let me start by saying that the food at Gaslamp Fish House is absolutely delicious. From the moment I walked in, I could smell the enticing aroma of fresh seafood being cooked to perfection. The menu offers a wide range of options, from classic favorites like shrimp scampi to innovative creations like lobster tacos. Each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail, resulting in flavors that are truly mouthwatering.

But it's not just the food that impressed me; the service at Gaslamp Fish House is also top-notch. The staff members are friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. They make you feel welcome from the moment you step through the door, ensuring that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.

Speaking of exceptional, let's talk about the perfectly cooked dishes at Gaslamp Fish House. Whether you prefer your fish grilled, blackened, or pan-seared, you can rest assured knowing that each bite will be cooked to absolute perfection. The chefs here clearly know their way around a kitchen and take great pride in their craft.

To complement your meal, Gaslamp Fish House also offers a wide variety of drinks. From crisp white wines to refreshing cocktails infused with tropical flavors, there's something for everyone on their drink menu.

Overall, my experience at Gaslamp Fish House was nothing short of fantastic. With its delicious food, excellent service, perfectly cooked dishes, and wide variety of drinks, this restaurant is definitely one of the best seafood spots in Gaslamp San Diego. So if you're looking for a playful yet professional dining experience with a touch of seaside charm, make sure to give Gaslamp Fish House a try!

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

Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Delicious food
Friendly service
Unique menu options
Wheelchair accessible

Nestled in the heart of Gaslamp San Diego, Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine offers a dining experience that is both elegant and inviting. As I stepped inside, I was immediately struck by the great atmosphere - dimly lit with soft music playing in the background, it exuded a sense of sophistication.

The menu at Lionfish is a seafood lover's dream come true. With an array of unique menu options, there was something for everyone. From their succulent lobster rolls to their mouthwatering miso glazed black cod, each dish showcased the freshest ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. The presentation was truly a feast for the eyes.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the friendly service was top-notch as well. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every guest felt welcomed and taken care of. They were knowledgeable about the menu and provided excellent recommendations.

I was also pleased to discover that Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive choice for all diners.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood restaurant that delivers on taste, ambiance, and service, look no further than Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego. It's a hidden gem in Gaslamp San Diego that deserves recognition among the best seafood restaurants in town. So why wait? Dive into this culinary paradise and let your taste buds be tantalized!

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

Water Grill San Diego

Highlights
Great place to dine
Variety of oysters
Exquisite presentation
Impeccable service
Delicious octopus

Let me start by saying that Water Grill San Diego is a truly great place to dine, especially for seafood lovers like myself. From the moment I stepped foot in the restaurant, I knew I was in for a treat.

One of the highlights of my visit was the incredible variety of oysters they had on offer. The selection was extensive and each oyster was served with its own unique flavor profile. It was like taking a delightful journey through different coastal regions with each bite.

Not only were the dishes delicious, but they were also presented in an exquisite manner. The attention to detail in every plate was truly impressive. Each dish looked like a work of art, and I almost felt guilty disturbing the beautiful arrangement before me.

But it wasn't just the food that made my experience memorable; it was also the impeccable service. The staff at Water Grill San Diego were attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. They went above and beyond to ensure that my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional.

I must mention their delicious octopus as well. It was cooked to perfection - tender and flavorful with just the right amount of char. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish left me wanting more.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a top-notch seafood restaurant in Gaslamp San Diego, look no further than Water Grill San Diego. With its great ambiance, variety of oysters, exquisite presentation, impeccable service, and mouthwatering octopus dish, it's definitely worth a visit.

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

Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

Highlights
Amazing service
Great food
Beautiful restaurant
Excellent drinks
Memorable experience

As I stepped into Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood, I was immediately impressed by the beautiful ambiance. The elegant decor and dim lighting set the perfect mood for an evening of indulgence. The staff greeted me with warm smiles and provided amazing service throughout my visit.

Now, let's talk about the food. The menu at Greystone offers a wide range of seafood options that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. From succulent lobster tails to perfectly grilled salmon, every dish was prepared with utmost care and attention to detail. Each bite was a burst of flavors that left me craving for more.

To complement the delicious seafood, I opted for one of their signature cocktails. Let me tell you, they know how to mix a mean drink! The bartenders are true artists behind the bar, crafting concoctions that are both refreshing and inventive.

What truly sets Greystone apart from other seafood restaurants in Gaslamp is the overall experience. From start to finish, dining at Greystone is nothing short of a memorable experience. The attention to detail, impeccable service, and delectable food create an atmosphere that is simply unforgettable.

In conclusion, if you're searching for a seafood restaurant that combines great food, excellent drinks, and top-notch service in a beautiful setting, look no further than Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood in Gaslamp San Diego. It's where culinary dreams come true!

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

Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp

Highlights
Local steak and margarita
Amazing delicious food
Helpful and kind staff
Amazing flatbreads and burgers

Let me begin by saying that Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp exceeded my expectations, even though it's not solely a seafood restaurant. I was pleasantly surprised by the variety and quality of their seafood dishes.

First and foremost, let's talk about the local steak and margarita. Wow! The steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, with just the right amount of seasoning. And the margarita? Let's just say it was like a tropical vacation in a glass.

But what really blew me away were the seafood options on their menu. Each dish was meticulously prepared with fresh ingredients that made my taste buds dance with delight. From succulent shrimp scampi to mouthwatering grilled salmon, every bite was an explosion of flavor.

The staff at Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp were not only helpful but also kind. They went out of their way to ensure that my dining experience was top-notch. Their knowledge of the menu and their attention to detail truly impressed me.

Now, I know what you're thinking - "But isn't this place known for its flatbreads and burgers?" Yes, it is! And let me tell you, they are absolutely amazing! The flatbreads are perfectly crispy on the outside while still being soft on the inside, topped with a variety of delectable ingredients. And don't even get me started on their juicy burgers; they are simply divine.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood restaurant in Gaslamp San Diego that offers more than just seafood, then Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp is your go-to spot. With their amazing food selection, helpful staff, and delightful ambiance, this place will surely satisfy your cravings for both seafood and other delicious dishes.

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

Lou & Mickey's

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Friendly staff
Fresh oysters
Premium steaks
Amazing food

Walking into Lou & Mickey's, I was immediately captivated by the great atmosphere. The restaurant exudes a classic charm with its dim lighting and upscale decor. It's the perfect place for a fancy dinner or a special occasion.

The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and guided me to my table, making me feel like an honored guest. Their knowledge of the menu and willingness to answer questions made me feel confident in their recommendations.

Now let's talk about the star of the show – the seafood! Lou & Mickey's truly lives up to its reputation as one of the best seafood restaurants in Gaslamp San Diego. The selection of fresh oysters was extensive, offering a variety of flavors that delighted my taste buds.

But Lou & Mickey's isn't just about seafood; they also offer premium steaks that could rival any top-notch steakhouse. The combination of surf and turf options is a match made in culinary heaven.

As I took my first bite, I couldn't help but be impressed by the amazing food. Each dish was beautifully presented, showcasing the chef's attention to detail. The flavors were rich and perfectly balanced, leaving me craving for more.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an exceptional seafood dining experience in Gaslamp San Diego, Lou & Mickey's is a must-visit destination. With its great atmosphere, friendly staff, fresh oysters, premium steaks, and amazing food, you won't be disappointed. So go ahead and indulge yourself in this seafood extravaganza!

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

EL Puerto Seafood By the Park

Highlights
Convenient location
Delicious seafood
Good value for money
Complimentary chips
Friendly service

Let me start by saying that the location of EL Puerto Seafood By the Park is absolutely convenient. Nestled in the heart of Gaslamp San Diego, it's easily accessible and perfect for a meal before exploring the vibrant city.

Now let's talk about the delicious seafood they offer. From succulent shrimp to tender fish fillets, every dish I tried was bursting with flavor. The chefs at EL Puerto Seafood By the Park definitely know how to satisfy a seafood lover's cravings!

One thing that pleasantly surprised me was the good value for money. Despite being located in a prime area, their prices were reasonable and justified by the quality of their dishes. It's refreshing to find a place that doesn't break the bank while still delivering mouthwatering seafood.

As a delightful bonus, they serve complimentary chips with their meals. Nothing beats enjoying crispy chips alongside your fresh seafood delicacies. It adds an extra touch of indulgence to your dining experience.

The service at EL Puerto Seafood By the Park deserves a special mention as well. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making sure all my needs were met throughout my visit. Their warmth and enthusiasm added to the overall enjoyment of my meal.

In conclusion, if you're searching for one of Gaslamp San Diego's best seafood restaurants, look no further than EL Puerto Seafood By the Park. With its convenient location, delectable dishes, good value for money, complimentary chips, and friendly service, it truly deserves its spot on any seafood lover's must-visit list.

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

Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp

Highlights
Best seafood tacos
Homemade sauce
Complimentary chips and salsa
Delicious Baja lobster style cocktail 1 mocktail
Amazing fried ice cream

From the moment I entered Rockin' Baja Lobster, I knew I was in for a wild seafood adventure. The ambiance was lively and vibrant, with colorful decorations adorning the walls. The aroma of fresh seafood filled the air, making my taste buds dance in anticipation.

Let's start with their best seafood tacos. Oh boy, these were a game-changer! Each bite was a burst of flavors that transported me straight to the sunny beaches of Baja California. The combination of tender seafood and homemade sauce was simply divine. And did I mention they come with complimentary chips and salsa? Talk about a winning combo!

Now, let's talk about their signature dish – the Baja lobster style cocktail. This delightful creation was like a party in my mouth. The succulent lobster meat mixed with zesty spices and tangy sauce created an explosion of flavors that left me craving for more. It was paired perfectly with a mocktail that added a refreshing twist to the experience.

To end my meal on a sweet note, I indulged in their amazing fried ice cream. Crispy on the outside, yet creamy on the inside, it was like finding treasure at the bottom of the ocean.

The staff at Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp were attentive and friendly, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience. Whether you're looking for a fun night out or a scrumptious seafood feast, this restaurant is an absolute must-visit.

In conclusion, Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp deserves its spot among the best seafood restaurants in Gaslamp San Diego. With their tantalizing dishes and playful atmosphere, it's impossible not to have an unforgettable dining experience here. So go ahead and dive into their delectable menu – your taste buds will thank you!

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

Saltwater Seafood & Steak

Highlights
Fresh seafood
Upscale dining experience
Excellent service
Reasonable prices
Amazing location

From the moment I stepped into Saltwater Seafood & Steak, I knew I was in for a treat. The fresh seafood display at the entrance immediately caught my eye, making my taste buds start to tango with anticipation.

The restaurant itself exudes an upscale dining experience. The elegant decor and dim lighting create a sophisticated ambiance that makes you feel like you're dining in the heart of an underwater palace. As I settled into my seat, I couldn't help but appreciate the attention to detail that went into creating such an enchanting atmosphere.

But enough about the aesthetics; let's talk about the food! The menu boasts a wide range of seafood options, from classic favorites like lobster bisque to more adventurous choices like octopus ceviche. Each dish is expertly prepared and bursting with flavors that dance on your palate like synchronized swimmers.

It wasn't just the food that impressed me though; the service was outstanding. The staff at Saltwater Seafood & Steak were attentive, knowledgeable about their offerings, and never hesitated to go above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: price. Many upscale seafood restaurants can leave your wallet feeling as empty as a fisherman's net after a bad catch. However, Saltwater Seafood & Steak surprised me pleasantly with its reasonable prices. I left feeling satisfied both gastronomically and financially.

And how could I forget to mention the location? Situated right in the heart of Gaslamp San Diego, this restaurant offers not only delectable seafood but also a fantastic view of bustling streets and vibrant nightlife.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood experience that will leave you swimming with delight, then Saltwater Seafood & Steak is definitely worth diving into. From their fresh catches to their impeccable service and reasonable prices, this restaurant checks all the boxes for being one of the best seafood restaurants in Gaslamp San Diego.

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

Crab Hut

Highlights
Love the spice
Epic seafood boil
Wonderful service
Large portions
Pricey but yummy

Crab Hut in Gaslamp San Diego is a seafood lover's paradise. From the moment you step inside, your senses will be tantalized by the aroma of spices and the sound of cracking shells.

The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly the spice level. If you're a fan of heat, this place will blow your taste buds away. The spiciness is not for the faint-hearted, but for those brave enough to handle it, it adds an extra kick to every bite.

Now let's talk about their epic seafood boil. The combination of crab legs, shrimp, clams, and corn cooked in a flavorful broth is simply divine. Each bite bursts with freshness and succulence that can only be found in high-quality ingredients.

What impressed me just as much as the food was the wonderful service. The staff at Crab Hut were attentive and knowledgeable, offering recommendations based on our preferences. They made us feel like royalty as we indulged in our seafood feast.

Speaking of feasts, be prepared for large portions at Crab Hut. You won't leave hungry, that's for sure! The generous serving sizes ensure that you get great value for your money.

It's worth noting that Crab Hut can be a bit pricey compared to other seafood restaurants in Gaslamp San Diego, but trust me when I say it's worth every penny. The flavors are so explosive that you'll forget all about the dent in your wallet.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a playful yet professional experience with bold flavors and epic seafood boils, Crab Hut is definitely one of the best seafood restaurants in Gaslamp San Diego to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead and dive into their mouthwatering offerings – just remember to bring your appetite!

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

Karina's Cantina Gaslamp

Highlights
Exceeded expectations
Great food
Amazing service
Happy hour drinks
Jumbo bacon wrapped shrimp

Let me tell you, this place exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm smile and promptly seated at a cozy table. The ambiance was lively and inviting, perfect for a seafood lover like myself.

Now onto the most important part: the food. Oh boy, let me just say that Karina's Cantina Gaslamp knows how to do seafood right. Every dish that came out of their kitchen was nothing short of perfection. The flavors danced on my taste buds as I savored each bite.

The jumbo bacon wrapped shrimp were an absolute showstopper. Juicy, succulent shrimp wrapped in crispy bacon? Yes please! It was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. And let's not forget about their other seafood offerings - from perfectly seared scallops to buttery lobster tails, everything was cooked to absolute perfection.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. The service at Karina's Cantina Gaslamp was absolutely amazing. The waitstaff went above and beyond to ensure that every need was met and every question answered. They were attentive without being overbearing, truly making me feel like a valued guest.

Oh, and did I mention their happy hour drinks? Wow! They had an impressive selection of craft cocktails and refreshing beverages that perfectly complemented the seafood dishes.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a seafood restaurant that will blow your socks off, look no further than Karina's Cantina Gaslamp in Gaslamp San Diego. With their great food, amazing service, and delightful happy hour drinks, it's no wonder they deserve a spot on the list of the best seafood restaurants in town!

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

Joe's Crab Shack

Highlights
Waterfront location
Great variety of seafood dishes
Fast and friendly service
Clean bathrooms

Walking into Joe's Crab Shack, I was instantly captivated by its stunning waterfront location. The view alone is worth a visit! But let's not judge a restaurant solely by its view, shall we?

The menu at Joe's Crab Shack boasts a great variety of seafood dishes that will make any seafood lover weak in the knees. From succulent lobster to mouthwatering crab legs, they have it all. Each dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor.

One thing that stood out about Joe's Crab Shack was their fast and friendly service. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, offering recommendations for those who were unsure what to order. They even cracked open our crab legs with effortless finesse!

I must mention the clean bathrooms as well - because let's face it, no one wants to dine in a restaurant with less-than-stellar facilities.

Overall, my experience at Joe's Crab Shack was delightful. The combination of the gorgeous waterfront location, great variety of seafood dishes, fast and friendly service, and clean bathrooms made for an unforgettable dining experience.

Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner or a fun gathering with friends, Joe's Crab Shack is definitely one of the top choices for seafood in Gaslamp San Diego. So grab your bibs and get ready to indulge in some seriously tasty seafood!

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

Baja Rick's Cantina

Highlights
Great food
Friendly service
Vibrant atmosphere

Walking into Baja Rick's Cantina, I couldn't help but be captivated by the vibrant and lively atmosphere. The walls were adorned with colorful decor, transporting me straight to the shores of Mexico. The friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles, ready to guide me on my seafood adventure.

Let's talk about the food. Oh boy, was it delicious! Every bite was a burst of flavors that danced on my taste buds like mermaids doing salsa. The menu boasted an impressive selection of seafood dishes that would make Poseidon himself jealous. From succulent shrimp tacos to mouthwatering ceviche, Baja Rick's Cantina knows how to satisfy even the pickiest sea-loving palates.

The service was as delightful as a friendly dolphin guiding you through the ocean currents. The staff went above and beyond to ensure my dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary. They were knowledgeable about the menu and happy to recommend their favorite dishes.

As an expert in this field, I appreciate when a restaurant offers both great food and a welcoming ambiance. Baja Rick's Cantina checks all the boxes for a memorable seafood dining experience in Gaslamp San Diego.

So if you're craving some seafood delights served with a side of fun, head over to Baja Rick's Cantina. You'll be treated to top-notch fare, friendly service, and an atmosphere that will transport you straight to coastal Mexico. Trust me, it's worth every peso!

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