Best Seafood in San Diego: Must-Try Restaurants in 2024
If you're a seafood lover, San Diego is the place to be. With its prime location on the Pacific coast, the city offers some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the country. From classic fish tacos to succulent crab legs, San Diego has something to offer for everyone's taste buds.
In this article, we'll take a look at the top seafood restaurants in San Diego, as well as explore some of the best seafood markets and fresh fish suppliers in the area. We'll also highlight some seasonal seafood events and festivals that you won't want to miss, and introduce you to some of the local seafood specialties that you can only find in San Diego. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this guide will help you discover the best seafood that San Diego has to offer.
Key Takeaways
- San Diego is a seafood lover's paradise, with some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in the country.
- The city is home to a wide range of seafood restaurants, markets, and suppliers, offering something for everyone's taste and budget.
- From seasonal seafood events and festivals to local seafood specialties, San Diego has plenty to offer for those looking to explore the city's vibrant seafood scene.
Top Seafood Restaurants in San Diego
If you're a seafood lover, San Diego is the perfect destination for you. With its proximity to the Pacific Ocean, it's no surprise that San Diego has some of the best seafood restaurants in the country. Here are some of the top seafood restaurants in San Diego that you should definitely check out:
Ironside Fish & Oyster
Ironside Fish & Oyster, located in Little Italy, is a must-visit for any seafood enthusiast. The restaurant has a chic and modern interior, and offers an extensive menu of fresh seafood dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include the oysters, clam chowder, and lobster roll. The restaurant also has a great selection of craft beers and cocktails to complement your meal.
The Fish Market
The Fish Market is a San Diego institution, and has been serving up fresh seafood since 1989. The restaurant is located on the waterfront in downtown San Diego, and offers stunning views of the bay. The menu is extensive, with a wide variety of seafood dishes to choose from. Some of the highlights include the crab cakes, fish tacos, and seafood cioppino.
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill
Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill is a casual seafood restaurant located in the heart of Mission Hills. The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood, and has a wide variety of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans to choose from. The menu changes daily depending on what's fresh, but some of the popular dishes include the fish and chips, grilled fish tacos, and clam chowder.
Oceana Coastal Kitchen
Oceana Coastal Kitchen is located inside the Catamaran Resort Hotel in Pacific Beach. The restaurant offers stunning views of Mission Bay, and has an extensive seafood-focused menu. Some of the must-try dishes include the lobster bisque, seafood paella, and the whole roasted fish. The restaurant also has a great selection of wines and cocktails to complement your meal.
These are just a few of the top seafood restaurants in San Diego. Whether you're in the mood for a casual seafood meal or a fancy dinner, San Diego has something to offer for everyone.
Seafood Markets and Fresh Fish Supplies
If you're looking to cook up some fresh seafood in San Diego, you're in luck. The city has a great selection of seafood markets and fresh fish suppliers where you can find everything from shrimp and lobster to tuna and salmon.
One of the top seafood markets in San Diego is Catalina Offshore Products. They have a huge selection of fresh seafood, including sushi-grade fish, oysters, and live sea urchin. They also offer a variety of prepared seafood dishes, such as ceviche and smoked salmon.
Another great option is Point Loma Seafoods, which has been a San Diego institution since 1963. They offer a wide variety of fresh seafood, including crab, lobster, and shrimp. You can also grab a bite to eat at their on-site restaurant, which serves up some of the best fish and chips in town.
For those looking for something a bit more exotic, Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is the place to go. This market specializes in local, sustainable seafood, and offers a variety of unique catches, such as opah and swordfish.
If you're looking to cook up some fresh fish at home, there are plenty of fresh fish suppliers in San Diego as well. Catalina Offshore Products also offers a great selection of fresh fish, including salmon, halibut, and cod. Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is another great option for fresh fish, with a variety of local catches available.
No matter where you go, you're sure to find some of the freshest and most delicious seafood in San Diego. So why not head to one of these great seafood markets or fresh fish suppliers and cook up a delicious seafood feast tonight?
Seasonal Seafood Events and Festivals
San Diego is known for its fresh seafood, and there's no better way to celebrate it than by attending one of the many seafood events and festivals held throughout the year. Here are some of the best seasonal seafood events and festivals to check out in San Diego:
San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival
The San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival is one of the most anticipated food and wine events in the country. This event takes place in November and features over 200 wineries, breweries, and spirits from around the world. In addition to the drinks, the festival also features some of the best seafood dishes from local chefs.
San Diego Oysterfest
The San Diego Oysterfest is a two-day event that takes place in June and features live music, craft beer, and of course, oysters. This festival is a great way to try different types of oysters from around the world and learn more about this delicious seafood.
Tuna Harbor Dockside Market
If you're looking for fresh seafood, the Tuna Harbor Dockside Market is the place to be. This market takes place every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm and features some of the freshest seafood in San Diego. From tuna and swordfish to crab and lobster, you'll find it all here.
San Diego Seafood Festival
The San Diego Seafood Festival is a one-day event that takes place in August and features some of the best seafood dishes from local restaurants. In addition to the food, the festival also features live music, cooking demonstrations, and a beer and wine garden.
Lobster West
If you're a fan of lobster, you won't want to miss Lobster West. This restaurant serves up some of the best lobster rolls in San Diego, and they also have a lobster truck that travels around the city. Be sure to check their website to see where the truck will be next.
Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking for a fun food festival, San Diego has something for everyone. From oysters to lobster rolls, you're sure to find something that will satisfy your seafood cravings.
Exploring Local Seafood Specialities
San Diego is famous for its seafood, and there are many local specialities that you must try. Whether you prefer fish tacos or a more upscale seafood dining experience, San Diego has something to offer everyone.
Fish Tacos
Fish tacos are a popular local speciality in San Diego. They are typically made with fresh fish, cabbage, and a variety of sauces. Some of the best places to try fish tacos in San Diego include Oscar's Mexican Seafood, The Fishery, and Blue Water Seafood.
Seafood Boils
Seafood boils are another popular local speciality in San Diego. They typically include a variety of shellfish, such as shrimp, crab, and lobster, as well as corn on the cob and potatoes. Some of the best places to try seafood boils in San Diego include Crab Hut and Serea Coastal Cuisine.
Seafood Towers
If you're looking for a more upscale seafood dining experience, you may want to try a seafood tower. These towers typically include a variety of shellfish, such as oysters, clams, and shrimp, as well as lobster and crab. Some of the best places to try seafood towers in San Diego include Water Grill and The Fish Market.
No matter what type of seafood you prefer, San Diego has a local speciality that is sure to delight your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Any recommendations for affordable yet delicious seafood spots in San Diego?
Yes, San Diego has plenty of affordable seafood spots that serve delicious seafood. One such place is the Crab Hut, which is known for its finger-licking seafood. The menu at Crab Hut includes a variety of seafood dishes, such as crab legs, shrimp, and oysters, all at reasonable prices. Another great option is the Blue Water Seafood Market & Grill, which offers fresh, locally sourced seafood at affordable prices. The restaurant is known for its fish tacos, which are a must-try.
Could you list the best seafood buffets that are the talk of the town in San Diego?
While San Diego is known for its seafood, seafood buffets are not as popular. However, there are a few good ones that are worth checking out. One such buffet is the Sunday Champagne Brunch at the Hotel Del Coronado. The buffet features a variety of seafood dishes, including crab legs, shrimp, and oysters, as well as other brunch favourites. Another good option is the seafood buffet at the Valley View Casino & Hotel. The buffet features a variety of seafood dishes, including sushi, crab legs, and shrimp.
What are the signature seafood dishes that San Diego is famous for?
San Diego is famous for its fish tacos, which are a must-try when visiting the city. The tacos are made with fresh fish, such as mahi-mahi or halibut, and are topped with cabbage, salsa, and a special sauce. Another signature seafood dish is the California burrito, which is a burrito filled with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and French fries, and sometimes includes shrimp or fish. San Diego is also known for its seafood platters, which feature a variety of fresh seafood, including shrimp, oysters, crab legs, and lobster.