As a San Diego native, I’ve scoured the coast to uncover affordable seafood spots that deliver fresh, flavorful dishes without straining your wallet. The San Diego Nav guides you through a vibrant culinary scene, where ocean-fresh catches meet budget-friendly prices.

From bustling fish markets to cozy beachside eateries, my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego showcases hidden gems perfect for locals and tourists alike. Each spot offers unique flavors, generous portions, and welcoming vibes, ensuring every bite feels like a coastal adventure. Whether you crave zesty fish tacos or creamy clam chowder, these restaurants promise quality and value. Dive into my curated guide and savor San Diego’s seafood treasures.

Top 10 Best Cheap Seafood Restaurants in San Diego

As a San Diego native, I’ve explored countless seafood spots to find the best affordable gems that deliver fresh flavors without breaking the bank. Below, I share my top 10 picks for the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego, each offering unique dishes, vibrant atmospheres, and exceptional value. Every restaurant includes basic information, five highlights, and a personal review based on my dining experiences, written to guide both locals and tourists to unforgettable meals.

Point Loma Seafoods

Basic Information
Address: 2805 Emerson St, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone: 619-223-1109
Website: pointlomaseafoods.com
Hours: Open from 9 AM to 7 PM daily

Highlights

• Freshness: Sourced daily from local fishermen, ensuring top-quality seafood.
• Fish Tacos: Iconic, with a light batter and zesty slaw.
• Generous Portions: Hearty servings satisfy even big appetites.
• Clam Chowder: Creamy, packed with tender clams and smoky bacon.
• Casual Vibe: Breezy, market-style setting with bay views.

What makes a seafood meal unforgettable by the San Diego bay? Stepping into Point Loma Seafoods, I’m greeted by a lively, nautical charm that feels like a love letter to the ocean. As the #1 spot on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego, its bustling market and open-air seating set the stage for a quintessential coastal experience.

The food here is nothing short of spectacular. Their signature fish tacos, lightly battered and topped with crisp cabbage and a tangy crema, burst with freshness, while the grilled shrimp skewers offer a smoky, succulent bite. Each dish showcases impeccable seafood quality, and the generous portions ensure I leave satisfied, often with leftovers. The creativity in their preparation pairing local catches with bold, simple flavors feels like a culinary celebration of San Diego’s waters.

One standout side is the clam chowder, a velvety masterpiece that warms the soul. Cooked to perfection, it balances tender clams, potatoes, and a hint of smoky bacon, with every spoonful leaving me in awe of its depth. The freshly sourced ingredients shine, making it a must-order alongside any main dish.

The service elevates the experience further. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, offering recommendations with genuine enthusiasm. They navigate the busy counter with ease, ensuring my order is prompt and accurate, even during peak hours. Their passion for seafood makes me feel like a valued guest.

For locals and tourists craving an authentic San Diego seafood experience, Point Loma Seafoods is a must-visit. With unbeatable tacos, hearty portions, and a welcoming vibe, it’s the top choice on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Dive in and savor the ocean’s bounty right by the bay.

Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill

Basic Information
Address: 3667 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
Phone: 619-497-0914
Website: bluewaterseafoodsandiego.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Quality Seafood: Fresh, locally sourced fish grilled to perfection.
• Fish Tacos: Customizable with mahi-mahi or salmon options.
• Affordable Prices: High-quality meals at budget-friendly rates.
• Ceviche: Bright, zesty, and packed with fresh shrimp.
• Friendly Service: Attentive staff enhance the dining experience.

Can a casual seafood spot steal your heart with bold flavors? At Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, the cozy, unpretentious vibe instantly won me over, securing its #2 spot on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The open kitchen and fish market counter create an inviting atmosphere perfect for a laid-back meal.

The menu delivers consistently impressive dishes. The grilled mahi-mahi tacos, kissed with citrus and paired with a smoky chipotle sauce, are a flavor explosion, while the seared salmon plate melts in your mouth with its buttery texture. Portions are generously sized, leaving me full and content without straining my wallet. The creative marinades and grilling techniques elevate each bite into a coastal masterpiece.

Don’t skip the shrimp ceviche, a refreshing standout. Marinated just right, the tender shrimp mingle with lime, cilantro, and avocado, delivering a zingy, vibrant kick that leaves me speechless. The fresh ingredients make every spoonful feel like a trip to the shore.

The staff here is exceptionally warm and attentive, offering menu insights with a smile. They’re quick to accommodate requests, like adjusting spice levels, making me feel right at home. Their genuine hospitality turns a simple meal into a memorable outing.

For seafood lovers seeking value and quality, Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a gem. Its stellar tacos, affordable prices, and top-notch service make it a standout on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Stop by for a meal that’s as delightful as it is budget-friendly.

Gaslamp Fish House

Basic Information
Address: 411 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-795-3800
Website: gaslampfishhouse.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Fresh Catches: Daily specials featuring local seafood.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp: Rich, savory, and perfectly cooked.
• Value for Money: Generous portions at reasonable prices.
• Fish & Chips: Crispy batter with flaky fish inside.
• Lively Ambiance: Vibrant, urban setting ideal for groups.

What’s the secret to affordable seafood in the heart of downtown? Gaslamp Fish House welcomes me with a bustling, energetic vibe, earning its #3 spot on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The sleek decor and lively crowd make it a dynamic urban escape.

The food is reliably outstanding. The garlic butter shrimp, drenched in a luscious, herbaceous sauce, is a savory delight, while the grilled swordfish offers a firm, flavorful bite with a lemony zest. Portions are plentiful, ensuring I get my money’s worth. The inventive seasoning transforms each dish into a bold culinary adventure.

The fish & chips side is a crispy triumph. The golden batter, fried to perfection, encases flaky cod, paired with thick-cut fries that are impossibly addictive. The fresh fish elevates this classic, leaving me marveling at its simplicity and taste.

Service is a highlight, with staff who are engaging and efficient. They navigate the busy dining room with ease, offering thoughtful suggestions and ensuring my glass stays filled. Their welcoming demeanor makes every visit feel special.

For a downtown seafood fix, Gaslamp Fish House delivers. Its delectable shrimp, great value, and vibrant atmosphere make it a top pick on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Head over for a meal that’s both affordable and unforgettable.

Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich

Basic Information
Address: 3382 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: 619-255-8940
Website: petesseafoodandsandwich.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights

• Fresh Ingredients: High-quality seafood at budget prices.
• Lobster Rolls: Buttery, packed with tender lobster chunks.
• Affordable Menu: Wallet-friendly without compromising taste.
• Coleslaw: Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced.
• Relaxed Vibe: Casual spot great for quick bites.

How does a small spot pack big seafood flavor? Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich exudes a charming, no-fuss warmth, landing at #4 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Its cozy setup and friendly counter service feel like a hidden neighborhood gem.

The dishes are consistently delightful. The lobster roll, stuffed with succulent, buttery lobster and lightly dressed with mayo, is a New England-inspired treat, while the grilled shrimp sandwich bursts with smoky, zesty notes. Portions are satisfyingly large, making every dollar count. The creative simplicity of the menu feels like a love letter to seafood lovers.

The coleslaw side is a refreshing standout. Crisp and creamy, it blends cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing that complements the mains perfectly. The fresh produce adds a crisp bite, leaving me impressed with its balance.

The staff is welcoming and attentive, offering quick service with a personal touch. They’re happy to explain menu options, ensuring I get exactly what I crave, which makes the experience effortlessly enjoyable.

For a quick, delicious seafood meal, Pete’s Seafood and Sandwich shines. Its mouthwatering lobster rolls, affordable prices, and laid-back charm make it a must on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Swing by for a budget-friendly feast.

King’s Fish House

Basic Information
Address: 825 Camino De La Reina, San Diego, CA 92108
Phone: 619-574-1230
Website: kingsfishhouse.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

• Premium Seafood: Upscale quality at accessible prices.
• Blackened Fish Tacos: Boldly spiced with fresh toppings.
• Generous Portions: Hearty servings for great value.
• Oysters: Fresh, briny, and served ice-cold.
• Polished Service: Attentive and professional staff.

What elevates affordable seafood to a fine-dining feel? King’s Fish House impresses with its elegant yet approachable ambiance, securing #5 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The polished decor and open dining area create a sophisticated coastal escape.

The menu is a showcase of excellence. The blackened fish tacos, featuring spicy, flaky cod and vibrant salsa, deliver a bold kick, while the grilled halibut is tender and infused with herb butter. Portions are impressively large, ensuring I leave full and happy. The artful seasoning makes each dish a culinary gem.

The oysters, served on a bed of ice, are a briny delight. Shucked to order, they burst with ocean-fresh flavor, paired with a zesty mignonette that leaves me in awe. Their pristine quality elevates the meal to new heights.

The staff is professional and engaging, offering expert recommendations and checking in just enough to keep things comfortable. Their polished service makes me feel like a VIP without the hefty price tag.

For seafood with a touch of class, King’s Fish House is a winner. Its flavorful tacos, fresh oysters, and impeccable service make it a top choice on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Visit for a meal that feels luxurious yet affordable.

El Pescador Fish Market

Basic Information
Address: 634 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: 858-456-2526
Website: elpescadorfishmarket.com
Hours: Open from 10 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights

• Fresh Market: Daily catches displayed for dining or take-home.
• Grilled Fish Sandwiches: Simple yet packed with flavor.
• Budget-Friendly: High quality at low prices.
• Crab Salad: Light, refreshing, and full of lump crab.
• Relaxed Setting: Casual, beachy vibe perfect for La Jolla.

Can a fish market double as a dining gem? El Pescador Fish Market captivates with its bright, airy charm, earning #6 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The bustling market counter and communal tables create a laid-back coastal haven.

The food is exceptionally fresh. The grilled fish sandwich, featuring flaky yellowtail and a toasted bun, is a simple masterpiece, while the seared ahi tuna offers a peppery crust and tender center. Portions are satisfying, making every bite a steal. The minimalist preparation lets the seafood’s natural flavors shine.

The crab salad is a refreshing highlight. Lightly dressed with lemon and herbs, it’s packed with sweet lump crab that feels like a luxury for the price. The fresh ingredients leave me delighted with its clean taste.

The staff is friendly and efficient, offering insights into the daily catch with enthusiasm. They ensure quick service, making my visit seamless and enjoyable, even during busy hours.

For a taste of La Jolla’s seafood scene, El Pescador Fish Market is a must. Its delicious sandwiches, affordable prices, and beachside charm make it a standout on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Drop in for a fresh, budget-friendly meal.

Mitch’s Seafood

Basic Information
Address: 1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone: 619-222-8787
Website: mitchsseafood.com
Hours: Open from 8 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights

• Local Sourcing: Seafood caught by trusted local fishermen.
• Fish Tacos: Flavorful, with a variety of fresh fish options.
• Great Value: Affordable prices for hearty meals.
• Crab Poutine: Indulgent, with rich gravy and crab.
• Waterfront Views: Scenic dining by the harbor.

What’s the recipe for a perfect harborside seafood meal? Mitch’s Seafood welcomes me with a breezy, nautical vibe, landing at #7 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The waterfront patio and open-air seating offer a relaxing coastal retreat.

The dishes are bursting with quality. The fish tacos, customizable with mahi-mahi or rockfish, are topped with vibrant slaw and a creamy sauce, while the grilled octopus is tender with a smoky char. Portions are generous, ensuring I’m fully satisfied. The creative spins on classics make every dish a flavorful adventure.

The crab poutine is an indulgent treat. Smothered in rich gravy and melted cheese, the fries are topped with sweet crab meat, creating a decadent harmony that leaves me speechless. The fresh seafood elevates this side to a must-try.

The staff is warm and attentive, offering quick service and helpful tips on pairings. Their genuine care makes me feel like a regular, enhancing the laid-back vibe.

For a harborside seafood escape, Mitch’s Seafood delivers. Its tasty tacos, unique poutine, and stunning views make it a gem on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Savor a meal that’s as scenic as it is delicious.

Oscar’s Mexican Seafood

Basic Information
Address: 703 Turquoise St, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 858-488-5550
Website: oscarsmexicanseafood.com
Hours: Open from 8 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Mexican Flavors: Bold, Baja-inspired seafood dishes.
• Surf and Turf Tacos: Creative combo of shrimp and steak.
• Low Prices: Affordable without sacrificing quality.
• Ceviche Tostada: Zesty, fresh, and perfectly balanced.
• Vibrant Vibe: Lively, beachy spot for casual dining.

Craving seafood with a Mexican twist? Oscar’s Mexican Seafood draws me in with its colorful, beachy energy, securing #8 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The vibrant decor and bustling counter create a festive coastal vibe.

The food is bold and flavorful. The surf and turf taco, pairing juicy shrimp with tender steak and a spicy salsa, is a creative standout, while the battered fish taco delivers crispy perfection. Portions are hearty, offering great value. The Baja-inspired recipes feel like a culinary fiesta.

The ceviche tostada is a zesty gem. Marinated with lime and chili, the fresh fish and shrimp sit atop a crisp tostada, delivering a bright, tangy crunch that leaves me amazed. The vibrant ingredients make it unforgettable.

The staff is lively and welcoming, serving with speed and smiles. They’re quick to offer extra salsa or explain specials, making my visit fun and stress-free.

For a taste of Baja in San Diego, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood is a must. Its unique tacos, fresh ceviche, and lively atmosphere make it a top pick on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Dive into a meal that’s bold and budget-friendly.

Pacific Beach Fish Shop

Basic Information
Address: 1770 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 858-483-4746
Website: pbfishshop.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Customizable Tacos: Choose your fish, marinade, and style.
• Fresh Seafood: High-quality catches from local waters.
• Great Value: Affordable prices for hearty portions.
• Clam Chowder: Rich, creamy, and full of flavor.
• Beach Vibe: Laid-back spot near Pacific Beach.

How do you craft your perfect seafood taco? Pacific Beach Fish Shop enchants with its relaxed, surf-inspired vibe, earning #9 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The casual counter and outdoor seating create a beachside oasis.

The menu is a playground of flavors. The customizable fish tacos, with options like grilled salmon or fried cod, let me mix marinades like lemon herb or chipotle for a personalized masterpiece. The seared ahi bowl is equally stunning, with fresh fish and vibrant veggies. Portions are plentiful, ensuring great value. The flexible menu feels like a culinary adventure.

The clam chowder is a comforting highlight. Thick and creamy, it’s loaded with tender clams and a hint of thyme, offering a soul-warming bite that leaves me in awe. The fresh ingredients make it a perfect sidekick.

The staff is friendly and efficient, guiding me through the menu with enthusiasm. They ensure quick service, making my visit smooth and enjoyable, even during busy hours.

For a customizable seafood feast, Pacific Beach Fish Shop shines. Its unique tacos, fresh catches, and beachy charm make it a gem on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Stop by for a meal tailored to your taste.

Bay Park Fish Company

Basic Information
Address: 4121 Ashton St, San Diego, CA 92110
Phone: 619-276-3474
Website: bayparkfishco.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

• Local Focus: Seafood sourced from San Diego waters.
• Macadamia Crusted Halibut: Crunchy, flavorful, and tender.
• Affordable Prices: Quality seafood at budget rates.
• Seafood Chowder: Hearty, packed with fish and shrimp.
• Cozy Ambiance: Warm, neighborhood feel.

What makes a neighborhood seafood spot unforgettable? Bay Park Fish Company welcomes me with a cozy, inviting glow, landing at #10 on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. The intimate dining room and friendly staff create a homey coastal retreat.

The dishes are consistently excellent. The macadamia crusted halibut, with its crisp, nutty coating and tender flesh, is a flavorful triumph, while the grilled shrimp skewers burst with citrusy zest. Portions are generous, offering great value. The creative preparations make each bite a delightful surprise.

The seafood chowder is a hearty standout. Simmered to perfection, it’s brimming with fresh fish, shrimp, and a creamy broth, delivering a comforting warmth that leaves me impressed. The local ingredients shine in every spoonful.

The staff is warm and attentive, offering personalized service that makes me feel like family. They’re quick to accommodate requests, ensuring a memorable visit.

For a cozy seafood escape, Bay Park Fish Company is a gem. Its stunning halibut, hearty chowder, and welcoming vibe make it a top choice on my toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego. Visit for a meal that feels like home.

Why These Seafood Spots Are a Must-Visit

My toplist of the best cheap seafood restaurants in San Diego highlights ten standout eateries, from Point Loma Seafoods’ iconic tacos to Bay Park Fish Company’s cozy charm. Every restaurant delivers fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and exceptional service, making them ideal for seafood lovers on a budget. With detailed reviews, including highlights like signature dishes and vibrant atmospheres, this guide ensures you find the perfect spot. Visit these gems to experience San Diego’s rich coastal cuisine, where affordability meets unforgettable taste. Let the San Diego Nav lead you to your next delicious meal.