Best of 20 Seafood restaurants in San Diego
Discover our curated list of top-ranked Seafood restaurants in San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like World Famous, Rockin' Baja Lobster - Old Town, Point Loma Seafoods, Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, Roy's Restaurant. Let's explore together!
- 1. World Famous
- 2. Rockin' Baja Lobster - Old Town
- 3. Point Loma Seafoods
- 4. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
- 5. Roy's Restaurant
- 6. Red Lobster
- 7. The Boiling Crab
- 8. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach
- 9. Pacific Beach Fish Shop
- 10. Sally's Fish House & Bar
- 11. C Level Lounge
- 12. Water Grill San Diego
- 13. King's Fish House
- 14. Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp
- 15. Crab Hut
- 16. California Fish Grill
- 17. Joe's Crab Shack
- 18. The Fishery
- 19. Oceana Coastal Kitchen
- 20. Saltwater Seafood & Steak
1. World Famous
Beachfront dining with stunning sunset views
World Famous is a renowned restaurant that offers a comprehensive dining experience, specializing in contemporary California cuisine. Its focus on seafood and hand-cut steak dishes makes it a popular destination for many food lovers. The establishment is known for its high-quality ingredients, expert preparation, and exceptional service.
Visitors to World Famous rave about the delicious food, good drinks, and outstanding service. The calamari, in particular, has been praised as some of the best in San Diego. With its fresh ingredients, perfect preparation, and inviting atmosphere, World Famous has established itself as a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a memorable dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
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2. Rockin' Baja Lobster - Old Town
Mexican-inspired seafood dishes and tropical decor
Some customers have expressed that the prices at this establishment are reasonable, while others believe they are too high for the food's quality. The food offerings, particularly the seafood and Mexican-style dishes, receive high praise from many customers. However, there are differing opinions regarding the portion sizes, with some stating that they are generous, while others find them lacking.
Additionally, a few reviewers have noted that some dishes were slightly overcooked. Despite this, the seafood and Mexican-style options are consistently praised. Price and food quality are subjects of debate among customers, but the flavors and offerings are mostly well-regarded.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Waterfront
3. Point Loma Seafoods
Oceanfront seafood market and restaurant
Point Loma Seafoods is a great place to enjoy seafood in a casual and affordable setting. The restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing meal. The Squid Sandwich is a popular item on the menu, although it may be slightly rubbery, it remains a tasty option.
San Diego is known for its fresh seafood, and Point Loma Seafoods does not disappoint. The Fish Sandwich and Clam Chowder are highly recommended, as they are thoroughly satisfying and flavorful. If you're looking for some of the best seafood that San Diego has to offer, Point Loma Seafoods is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- Waterfront
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
4. Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Sustainable and locally-sourced seafood, Casual and family-friendly atmosphere
The seafood restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere with staff who seem to enjoy their surroundings. The food is not only fresh but also reasonably priced, making it a great value for customers. Two standout dishes are the clam chowder and the shrimp nachos. The clam chowder is packed with large pieces of clam and has an excellent flavor. However, the shrimp nachos are the real star of the menu, elevating the meal to a whole new level.
Moving on to the food, the clam chowder is a must-try with its generous chunks of clam and satisfying flavor. But the star of the show is the shrimp nachos, which are exceptionally delicious. The combination of fresh shrimp, crispy chips, and other tasty toppings creates a dish that is both unique and enjoyable. Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a great meal, this restaurant won't disappoint. With its friendly service, delicious food, and affordable prices, it's the perfect spot for anyone looking for a good time.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Waterfront
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5. Roy's Restaurant
Upscale seafood dining with a Hawaiian twist
The meal in question featured delicious food and fantastic service. Among the culinary highlights were a perfect Kobe beef roll and an amazing sear on the Ahi tuna. The location was also a standout, offering beautiful views and lots of boats. Another highlight was the dessert, a delicious and drippy lava cake.
The service at this establishment was impeccable, adding to the overall positive dining experience. The food offerings included a perfect Kobe beef roll, amazingly prepared Ahi tuna, and a delicious lava cake. The location was great, featuring beautiful views and plenty of boats. In summary, the meal was excellent, highlighted by great food, a wonderful location, and top-notch service.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Waterfront
- High-End
6. Red Lobster
Famous seafood chain restaurant, known for their lobster dishes and fresh seafood
Red Lobster is known for its attentive and pleasant service, with servers who make sure customers have a positive dining experience. They offer great deals and a variety of delicious food, particularly when it comes to shrimp specials. The restaurant is famous for its cheese biscuits, which are a popular and tasty starter for many guests.
However, some customers have noted that there isn't an abundant selection of lobster, which may seem surprising given the restaurant's name. Nevertheless, Red Lobster's strength lies in its other offerings, including its high-quality service, tasty cheese biscuits, and affordable shrimp options. Overall, it's a great choice for seafood lovers looking for a satisfying meal at a reasonable price.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
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7. The Boiling Crab
Authentic Louisiana-style seafood experience
The Boiling Crab is a popular choice for those who enjoy Cajun-style food. The restaurant is known for its well-seasoned dishes, which many customers find to be the highlight of their visit. Long wait times are not uncommon, but customers generally agree that the delicious food is worth the wait. The staff, particularly a person named Brian, is known for providing excellent service and contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
Located in a shopping plaza with plenty of parking, The Boiling Crab is a convenient stop for travelers heading between Los Angeles and Tijuana. The menu features flavorful seafood options and a variety of add-ons, allowing customers to customize their meals to their liking. With its tasty food and standout service, The Boiling Crab is a must-visit restaurant for anyone in the area.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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8. Blue Water Seafood Ocean Beach
Seafood market and restaurant with a view of the ocean
Fast forward to 2023, and the enchanting flavors at Blue Water Seafood are still going strong. While the menu may have undergone some simplification, fear not as the essence of their delectable offerings remains unchanged. Indulge in the beloved blackened fish tacos and a comforting cup of clam chowder for a true taste of coastal bliss that will leave you craving for more.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
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9. Pacific Beach Fish Shop
Sustainable seafood, extensive gluten-free options
The seafood selection at this establishment is extensive and fresh, offering a wide variety of options such as shrimp ceviche, scallops, ahi tuna, halibut, albacore, diver scallops, and red snapper. Other menu items include fish and chips, tacos, salad, and poke bowls, as well as a kids menu. All dishes are delicious and sure to satisfy any seafood craving.
Freshness is a priority for the seafood options, which include fish and chips, shrimp ceviche, scallops, ahi tuna, halibut, albacore, diver scallops, and red snapper. In addition to these, there are also other menu items such as tacos, salad, and poke bowls. The kids menu is also available. All of the dishes are delicious and will not disappoint.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Dinner
10. Sally's Fish House & Bar
Offers breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay
San Diego's finest dining experience offers a romantic seafood menu, specializing in sustainable seafood, local ingredients, and unique flavors. The restaurant is located on the water in the Marina district of downtown San Diego, providing breathtaking views of the San Diego Bay.
Dine in style with a waterfront table, where you can indulge in inventive takes on classic seafood dishes. The menu features dishes like octopus, cooked on a natural wood-burning grill, signature crab cakes, and seafood paella. The restaurant also offers a selection of sushi and sake, as well as a variety of wines to complement your meal.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Social Gatherings
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11. C Level Lounge
Located on a floating dock with panoramic views of the San Diego skyline
A group of four visited C-Level Lounge on a Wednesday afternoon, around 4:15 PM, and had a very enjoyable experience. It's worth noting that the lounge can get quite busy, so it's highly recommended to make reservations in advance to ensure entry. The happy hour menu was a great value, with a range of delicious options available until 5:30 PM.
During their visit, the group ordered a few plates of coconut shrimp and fried calamari from the happy hour menu, as well as a wedge salad from the dinner menu. They were pleased with the serving sizes, which were generous and filling. The food was delicious, with the coconut shrimp and fried calamari being particular standouts. The happy hour cocktails were also a hit, making for a very enjoyable experience overall. Of course, the view from C-Level Lounge is truly exceptional, and it's easy to see how it could make any meal or drink even more special.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Social Gatherings
- Mid-Range
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12. Water Grill San Diego
Sustainable seafood options, knowledgeable and attentive staff
The Water Grill provided an excellent dining experience with delicious food. I would classify it as one of my favorite restaurants. Upon a recent visit, the quality of the food remained outstanding. However, there was a noticeable difference in the service compared to previous visits. It was not as attentive or friendly as before.
During this particular visit, I had the opportunity to introduce the Water Grill to some friends who had never dined there. They found the food to be quite enjoyable and had a positive experience overall. The service lapse did not detract from the quality of the meal, and my friends still had an enjoyable evening. Despite the service hiccup, the Water Grill remains a highly recommended dining establishment.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
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13. King's Fish House
Sustainable seafood options, raw bar, and happy hour specials
King's Seafood offers an excellent selection of dishes, making it my top choice for seafood. The fresh fish, cooked to perfection, is particularly noteworthy. This, combined with tasty sides like crispy kale and brussels sprouts, creates a heavenly dining experience.
A California native highly recommends King's Seafood for any seafood lover. With its impressive array of menu options and perfectly prepared fish, it's no wonder this restaurant stands out as a favorite. The addition of delectable side dishes, such as crispy kale and brussels sprouts, only enhances the overall experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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14. Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp
Mexican-inspired seafood dishes with a fun and energetic ambiance
Some customers have expressed mixed opinions about the prices at the restaurant, with some finding them reasonable and others considering them too high for the amount of food served. The lobster dish at the restaurant has received varying reviews, with some customers praising its taste, well-seasoned flavor, and perfect cooking, while others have reported issues with it being over-salted or not fresh.
The restaurant offers a lobster dish, and opinions about it are divided. Some diners have raved about its delicious taste and expertly executed seasoning and cooking, while others have reported dissatisfaction with the dish, citing concerns about it being over-salted or not fresh. The differing responses highlight a discrepancy in the quality of the lobster dish served to customers.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Corporate Events
- Budget-Friendly Eats
15. Crab Hut
Fresh seafood, fun and lively environment
Ironside, located in Little Italy, is a lively and enjoyable seafood restaurant. It offers delicious lobster rolls and seafood platters that are highly recommended. The seafood served at Ironside is fresh and of high quality, providing great value to its customers. However, some reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with certain dishes, such as the smoked fish appetizer being overly salty and the garlic prawn pasta being too dry.
Despite some negative reviews, Ironside's fresh and quality seafood is generally well-received. The lobster rolls and seafood platters are highly recommended choices. However, some dishes such as the smoked fish appetizer and garlic prawn pasta may not meet expectations, with some reviewers finding them to be too salty and dry, respectively. Therefore, it may be best to stick to Ironside's more popular seafood dishes.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
16. California Fish Grill
Sustainable seafood options, focus on grilled dishes
California Fish Grill provides a delicious dining experience with tasty meals and reasonable prices. The fish tacos are a popular choice, priced a little over $3 each, and served in generous portions. Dynamite fries are another option, though they can be spicy. Sharing a bowl of clam chowder is recommended, as it is quite good. When ordering online, customers can expect their food to be ready in around 20 minutes. Plenty of free parking is available outside the restaurant for those picking up their orders.
The restaurant boasts a convenient kiosk ordering process and a friendly, accommodating staff. One standout dish is the Shrimp and Avocado Salad, featuring well-seasoned shrimp and fresh, crunchy kale.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
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17. Joe's Crab Shack
Seafood-focused menu with a fun and casual vibe
The quality of food at the establishment is inconsistent. Some guests have reported dry and bland dishes, while others have enjoyed meals that are full of flavor. The service experience varies for customers, with some praising the attentiveness, friendliness, and overall quality of the service, while others have expressed concerns.
Inconsistency in food quality is a common complaint, with some dishes lacking taste and moisture. However, there are also positive reports of dishes that are bursting with flavor. Similarly, the service is described as attentive and friendly by some guests, while others have raised issues regarding the service quality. It appears that there is a need for improvement in both food quality and service to ensure a consistent and positive experience for all patrons.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Dinner
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18. The Fishery
Known for their sustainable and fresh seafood options
The restaurant offered a comfortable and friendly atmosphere, with an efficient and congenial server. The steamed clams were a standout dish, cooked to perfection in a delicious garlic, butter, and wine broth. The garlic butter broth was so good that I would consider returning to the restaurant just to have the clams again.
On this particular visit, the weather was beautiful, allowing for outdoor seating. The cocktail menu offered some great options, and I enjoyed a refreshing Negroni. The salad selection was also impressive, and I chose the Summer salad, which featured juicy melon, arugula, and an intriguing Taijin vinaigrette. The swordfish was another hit, perfectly cooked and full of flavor.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Cheap Eats
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19. Oceana Coastal Kitchen
Stunning ocean views, eco-friendly seafood selection, happy hour specials
The seafood restaurant offers a delicious and memorable dining experience, with a particularly impressive selection of lobster dishes. The restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality ingredients, with the lobster being a standout. The restaurant's excellent service enhances the dining experience, with staff going above and beyond to ensure guests have a enjoyable meal.
In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant also boasts a beautiful view of Mission Bay. The ambiance is relaxed and perfect for a variety of occasions, from romantic dinners to family gatherings. The combination of fresh seafood, excellent service, and beautiful views makes this restaurant a must-visit for any seafood lover.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Waterfront
- Dinner
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20. Saltwater Seafood & Steak
Features a lively bar area, outdoor seating and a raw bar
Saltwater Seafood & Steak is known for its fresh and diverse selection of seafood. The menu features an array of oysters, clams, lobster, and other shellfish, giving diners a wide range of options. The chef's creativity is showcased in each dish, providing a unique and memorable dining experience.
Aside from the delicious food, the restaurant also offers exceptional service. Customers rave about the Greek Salad with heirloom tomatoes, which is bursting with flavor. The whole Branzino dish is another popular choice, perfect for sharing among friends and family. The budget-friendly prices make it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy a high-quality meal without breaking the bank. Overall, Saltwater Seafood & Steak is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots