The Absolute Best Seafood Restaurants San Diego: Coastal Gems Await

As a San Diego native, I’ve savored the ocean’s bounty at countless local spots, from cozy bayside shacks to elegant waterfront gems. The city’s seafood scene is a vibrant tapestry, woven with fresh catches and bold flavors that draw food lovers from across the globe. San Diego’s best seafood restaurants offer more than just a meal; they deliver an experience steeped in coastal charm and culinary excellence. Whether you’re a visitor craving a taste of the Pacific or a local seeking a new favorite, this guide, crafted by me, Elena Martinez, unveils the top dining destinations that make our city a seafood haven.

With San Diego Nav as your guide, explore restaurants where every dish tells a story of the sea. Expect succulent lobster rolls, zesty ceviche, and smoky grilled fish, all prepared with ingredients sourced from local waters. These spots blend warm hospitality with innovative menus, ensuring every bite is unforgettable. Dive into this curated list to find the perfect place for your next seafood adventure, tailored for discerning diners who missed opportunities, and discover why San Diego’s seafood restaurants reign supreme.

Top 10 Best Seafood Restaurants in San Diego

As a San Diego native, I’ve explored the city’s vibrant seafood scene, from bustling markets to upscale coastal gems. Below is a curated toplist of the 10 best seafood restaurants in San Diego, each offering fresh catches, unforgettable flavors, and exceptional experiences. Every restaurant includes detailed information, highlights, and an in-depth review based on my personal dining experiences, tailored for culinary tourists and local food enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the best San Diego seafood restaurants that make our coastal city a seafood capital.

Ironside Fish & Oyster

Basic Information

Address: 1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-269-3033
Website: ironsidefishandoyster.com
Hours: Open from 11:30 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Fresh, locally sourced seafood with bold flavors.
Signature Dish: Lobster roll with brown butter mayo.
Portion Size: Generous servings that satisfy hearty appetites.
Side Dish: Creamy clam chowder packed with tender clams.
Service: Attentive staff with deep menu knowledge.

What makes a seafood meal unforgettable in San Diego’s Little Italy? Stepping into Ironside Fish & Oyster, ranked #1 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, the nautical charm and lively ambiance instantly captivate. The decor, with its rustic wood and vintage fishing gear, feels both cozy and sophisticated, setting the stage for a memorable meal.

The food quality here is nothing short of exceptional. The lobster roll, a signature dish, arrives warm, stuffed with succulent lobster drizzled in rich brown butter mayo, delivering a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. For a lighter option, the hamachi crudo, adorned with citrus and avocado, is a delicate masterpiece that highlights the kitchen’s creativity. Portions are substantial, ensuring you leave satisfied without feeling weighed down.

Among the sides, the clam chowder stands out as a must-try. This velvety concoction, brimming with tender clams and smoky bacon, is cooked to perfection, offering a comforting warmth that complements the main dishes. Each spoonful bursts with flavor, leaving you in awe of its depth and richness.

The service elevates the experience further. The staff is warm, knowledgeable, and quick to offer recommendations, ensuring every need is met with a smile. Whether you’re customizing a dish or seeking wine pairings, their attention to detail makes you feel like a valued guest.

For seafood lovers visiting San Diego or locals craving a top-tier meal, Ironside Fish & Oyster is a must-visit. Its fresh ingredients, generous portions, and stellar service make it a standout on this toplist. Dive into this Little Italy gem for an unforgettable coastal dining experience.

Water Grill San Diego

Basic Information

Address: 615 J St, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-717-6992
Website: watergrill.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Premium seafood with meticulous preparation.
Signature Dish: Grilled salmon with vibrant seasoning.
Portion Size: Hearty portions ideal for sharing.
Side Dish: Lobster bisque with a creamy, rich finish.
Service: Professional staff who anticipate every need.

Craving a seafood feast that captures San Diego’s coastal spirit? Water Grill San Diego, ranked #2 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, welcomes you with an elegant yet inviting atmosphere. The Gaslamp District location, with its sleek bar and soft lighting, feels like a seaside escape in the heart of downtown.

The kitchen delivers dishes that are both refined and flavorful. The grilled salmon, perfectly flaky with a zesty herb crust, is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the chef’s skill. For a decadent treat, the Dungeness crab, served with sweet crab butter, melts in your mouth, highlighting the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Portions are generous, making it easy to share and savor multiple dishes.

The lobster bisque is a standout side, its silky texture and deep, savory notes leaving a lasting impression. Prepared with fresh lobster stock and a touch of cream, it’s a luxurious complement to any entree, earning murmurs of delight with every sip.

Service at Water Grill is impeccable. The staff is courteous and attentive, offering insights into the daily-changing menu and ensuring a seamless dining experience. Their ability to accommodate special requests adds a personal touch that enhances every visit.

Whether you’re a tourist exploring the Gaslamp Quarter or a local seeking a seafood haven, Water Grill San Diego is a top choice. Its bold flavors, ample portions, and outstanding service cement its place on this toplist. Make a reservation and indulge in a meal that celebrates San Diego’s oceanic bounty.

Sally’s Fish House & Bar

Basic Information

Address: One Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-358-6740
Website: sallyssandiego.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Fresh, sustainable seafood with vibrant flavors.
Signature Dish: Crab cakes with a golden crust.
Portion Size: Satisfying servings for all appetites.
Side Dish: Artful sushi rolls with creative twists.
Service: Friendly staff who elevate the dining experience.

Where can you find seafood that pairs stunning bay views with exquisite flavors? Sally’s Fish House & Bar, ranked #3 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, offers a warm and sophisticated setting at the Manchester Grand Hyatt. The open-air patio and sleek interiors create a welcoming vibe perfect for any occasion.

The menu shines with high-quality seafood prepared with care. The crab cakes, a signature offering, are crispy on the outside and tender within, bursting with sweet crabmeat and subtle spices. For a lighter option, the seared tuna with sesame crust and citrus glaze is a refreshing delight, showcasing the kitchen’s innovative approach. Portions are well-balanced, leaving you content without excess.

Among the sides, the sushi rolls steal the show. The spicy shrimp roll, with its perfect blend of heat and freshness, is crafted with precision, using top-grade fish and vibrant garnishes. Each bite is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality and creativity.

The service is exceptional, with staff who are both approachable and professional. Their enthusiasm for the menu and attentiveness to guests’ needs make every visit feel special, whether you’re celebrating or dining casually.

Sally’s Fish House & Bar is a gem for tourists and locals alike. Its fresh seafood, creative sides, and top-notch service make it a standout on this toplist. Stop by for a meal that captures the essence of San Diego’s coastal dining scene.

The Fish Market

Basic Information

Address: 750 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-232-3474
Website: thefishmarket.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Daily fresh catches with consistent excellence.
Signature Dish: Grilled swordfish with herb marinade.
Portion Size: Ample servings for seafood enthusiasts.
Side Dish: Oyster bar with briny, fresh selections.
Service: Knowledgeable staff with a passion for seafood.

Looking for a classic seafood experience in San Diego? The Fish Market, ranked #4 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, delivers with its bayside location and vibrant, nautical charm. The bustling yet cozy dining room, with views of the harbor, sets the tone for a delightful meal.

The menu boasts pristine seafood, with the grilled swordfish stealing the spotlight. Marinated in herbs and cooked to flaky perfection, it’s a hearty dish that embodies coastal flavors. The raw bar’s yellowfin tuna sashimi, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture, offers a lighter yet equally impressive option. Portions are substantial, catering to those with a healthy appetite.

The oyster bar is a highlight among sides, offering a rotating selection of plump, briny oysters sourced from pristine waters. Served chilled with a tangy mignonette, they’re a refreshing start to any meal, showcasing the restaurant’s dedication to freshness.

Service is a strength, with staff who are both efficient and engaging. Their expertise in explaining the daily catch and suggesting pairings adds a layer of warmth to the experience, making every guest feel at home.

For visitors and San Diegans seeking a reliable seafood destination, The Fish Market is a top pick. Its fresh dishes, generous portions, and stellar service make it a cornerstone of this toplist. Visit for a taste of San Diego’s seafood legacy.

Lionfish

Basic Information

Address: 435 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-738-7200
Website: lionfishsandiego.com
Hours: Open from 4 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Sustainable seafood with bold, modern twists.
Signature Dish: Coal-grilled Baja striped bass.
Portion Size: Well-portioned for a refined dining experience.
Side Dish: Mussels in aromatic curry sauce.
Service: Polished staff with a flair for hospitality.

What elevates a seafood dinner to an art form? Lionfish, ranked #5 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, answers with its chic, coastal-inspired setting in the Gaslamp Quarter. The modern decor and lively energy create an alluring backdrop for a standout meal.

The seafood here is a celebration of sustainability and creativity. The coal-grilled Baja striped bass, served with a coconut aji amarillo sauce, is a smoky, flavorful masterpiece. For a richer option, the lobster spaghetti with cognac cream and bacon lardons delivers decadence in every bite. Portions are thoughtfully sized, perfect for savoring multiple courses.

The mussels, served in a fragrant red coconut curry sauce, are a stellar side. Cooked just right, their tender texture and bold flavors make them a highlight, with the sauce begging to be sopped up with crusty bread.

Service is seamless, with staff who are both professional and personable. Their ability to guide you through the menu and anticipate needs ensures a flawless dining experience, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular.

Lionfish is a must for anyone exploring San Diego’s culinary scene. Its innovative dishes, vibrant sides, and exceptional service secure its place on this toplist. Book a table and discover why it’s a favorite among locals and tourists.

Mabel’s Gone Fishing

Basic Information

Address: 3770 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: 619-228-9866
Website: mabelsgonefishing.com
Hours: Open from 4 PM to 10 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Artisanal seafood with Iberian influences.
Signature Dish: Hiramasa with citrus and herbs.
Portion Size: Shareable plates for a tapas-style experience.
Side Dish: Mussels escabeche with tangy marinade.
Service: Warm, attentive staff who enhance the vibe.

Where can you find seafood with a Spanish twist in San Diego? Mabel’s Gone Fishing, ranked #6 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, offers a trendy, intimate setting in North Park. The vibrant decor and lively chatter create an inviting space that feels like a culinary adventure.

The menu is a showcase of bold, fresh flavors. The hiramasa, a delicate crudo with citrus and herbs, is a light yet complex dish that feels like a work of art. For heartier fare, the Baja snapper, grilled to perfection, delivers robust flavors with a smoky edge. Portions are designed for sharing, encouraging a communal dining experience.

The mussels escabeche is a standout side, marinated in a tangy, herb-infused vinaigrette that highlights their plump texture. Served chilled, they’re a refreshing contrast to the richer mains, leaving you marveling at their zesty profile.

Service is a highlight, with staff who are passionate and engaging. Their recommendations and genuine enthusiasm make every visit feel personal, ensuring you leave with a smile.

Mabel’s Gone Fishing is a gem for seafood lovers and adventurous diners. Its creative dishes, shareable portions, and top-tier service make it a standout on this toplist. Visit for a meal that blends San Diego’s coastal bounty with global flair.

El Pescador Fish Market

Basic Information

Address: 1177 Pearl St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: 858-456-2526
Website: elpescadorfishmarket.com
Hours: Open from 10 AM to 8 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: Ultra-fresh seafood from local waters.
Signature Dish: Grilled fish sandwich with local catch.
Portion Size: Hearty servings for casual dining.
Side Dish: Shrimp cocktail with zesty sauce.
Service: Friendly, no-fuss staff with quick service.

Want seafood as fresh as it gets in La Jolla? El Pescador Fish Market, ranked #7 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, combines a bustling market with a casual dining space. The bright, airy setting and communal tables create a laid-back yet enticing vibe.

The food is all about simplicity and quality. The grilled fish sandwich, featuring daily catches like mahi-mahi or yellowtail, is a juicy, flavorful standout, served with crisp lettuce and tangy tartar sauce. The shrimp ceviche, with its citrusy kick, offers a refreshing alternative. Portions are generous, perfect for a satisfying meal.

The shrimp cocktail is a stellar side, featuring plump shrimp in a zesty, house-made sauce. Chilled and vibrant, it’s a classic that pairs beautifully with the main dishes, earning nods of approval from every table.

Service is straightforward and warm, with staff who move quickly while maintaining a friendly demeanor. Their knowledge of the daily catch adds a personal touch to the no-frills experience.

El Pescador is a go-to for tourists and locals craving fresh, unfussy seafood. Its hearty portions, vibrant sides, and welcoming service make it a staple on this toplist. Stop by for a taste of La Jolla’s coastal charm.

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

Food Quality: Market-fresh seafood with authentic flavors.
Signature Dish: Fish and chips with crispy batter.
Portion Size: Plentiful servings for seafood lovers.
Side Dish: Smoked fish platter with hickory flavor.
Service: Efficient staff with a local touch.

Where can you enjoy seafood with San Diego Bay views? Point Loma Seafoods, ranked #8 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, offers a casual, market-style setting with a waterfront charm. The open-air patio and bustling counter create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

The menu celebrates fresh, local catches. The fish and chips, with their golden, crispy batter and flaky white fish, are a crowd favorite, served with tangy tartar sauce. For a lighter option, the smoked fish banh mi, with its bold flavors, is a creative standout. Portions are ample, ensuring a filling meal.

The smoked fish platter is a highlight among sides, featuring hickory-smoked fish with a rich, savory depth. Prepared with care, it’s a smoky treat that complements the mains and leaves you craving more.

Service is fast and friendly, with staff who embody the laid-back San Diego spirit. Their efficiency and local knowledge make ordering a breeze, even during busy hours.

Point Loma Seafoods is a must for anyone seeking authentic seafood in a casual setting. Its fresh dishes, hearty portions, and reliable service make it a beloved spot on this toplist. Visit for a meal that captures San Diego’s coastal soul.

The Brigantine

Basic Information

Address: 1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-298-8070
Website: brigantine.com
Hours: Open from 11 AM to 9 PM daily

Highlights

Food Quality: High-quality seafood with consistent excellence.
Signature Dish: Award-winning fish tacos.
Portion Size: Generous servings for all appetites.
Side Dish: Clam chowder with creamy richness.
Service: Welcoming staff with attentive care.

What makes a seafood meal iconic in San Diego? The Brigantine, ranked #9 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, offers a bayside setting with a warm, nautical charm. The cozy dining room and scenic patio create an inviting space for locals and visitors alike.

The seafood here is both reliable and flavorful. The fish tacos, a San Diego staple, feature perfectly grilled fish, fresh cabbage, and creamy sauce, delivering a burst of coastal flavor. For a heartier option, the grilled mahi-mahi with lemon herb sauce is a beautifully executed dish. Portions are substantial, ensuring satisfaction.

The clam chowder is a standout side, its creamy texture and hearty clams making it a comforting classic. Prepared with fresh ingredients, it’s a soul-warming addition that enhances any meal.

Service is a highlight, with staff who are both professional and personable. Their attentiveness and ability to create a welcoming atmosphere make every visit feel like a special occasion.

The Brigantine is a top choice for seafood lovers in San Diego. Its iconic dishes, generous portions, and exceptional service secure its place on this toplist. Stop by for a meal that celebrates the city’s coastal heritage.

Blue Water Seafood

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

Food Quality: Fresh, locally caught seafood with bold flavors.
Signature Dish: Ahi sashimi with vibrant garnishes.
Portion Size: Hearty plates for seafood enthusiasts.
Side Dish: Fish tacos with house-made salsa.
Service: Casual, friendly staff with quick service.

Where can you find laid-back seafood with unbeatable freshness? Blue Water Seafood, ranked #10 on our toplist of the best San Diego seafood restaurants, offers a no-frills setting with a vibrant, local vibe. The casual counter and outdoor seating create a relaxed, welcoming environment.

The menu is a love letter to San Diego’s waters. The ahi sashimi, sliced fresh from the morning’s catch, is a light, flavorful dish with soy and wasabi accents. The grilled white sea bass, with its smoky char, offers a heartier option that showcases the kitchen’s skill. Portions are generous, perfect for a satisfying meal.

The fish tacos, served as a side or main, are a highlight. Featuring flaky fish, crisp veggies, and zesty house-made salsa, they’re a fresh, flavorful bite that captures the essence of San Diego’s seafood culture.

Service is warm and efficient, with staff who embody the restaurant’s down-to-earth charm. Their quick responses and local insights make ordering a breeze, even during peak hours.

Blue Water Seafood is a gem for tourists and locals seeking fresh, unfussy seafood. Its bold flavors, hearty portions, and friendly service make it a fitting finale to this toplist. Visit for a meal that embodies San Diego’s coastal spirit.

Why San Diego’s Seafood Scene Shines

San Diego’s culinary landscape sparkles with seafood that captures the essence of the Pacific. The best seafood restaurants in San Diego serve more than just dishes; they offer a taste of our coastal soul, blending fresh catches with vibrant flavors. From the tender crab cakes at bayside haunts to the smoky grilled fish in upscale dining rooms, each spot on this toplist, curated by me, Elena Martinez, a proud local, invites you to savor the city’s oceanic heritage. Every bite is a celebration, whether you’re a tourist exploring our shores or a San Diegan rediscovering your city.

With San Diego Nav as your compass, these restaurants promise unforgettable meals for every palate. Expect warm hospitality, generous portions, and innovative menus that elevate seafood to an art form. This guide is your invitation to dive into San Diego’s finest, where quality and creativity meet. Don’t wait to explore these culinary gems; book a table, share a meal, and let the flavors of our coast linger. San Diego’s best seafood restaurants await, ready to make your dining experience one for the books.