San Diego’s Favorite Fresh Seafood Spots
There are countless reasons to visit “America’s Finest City”. Our miles of beaches, endless sunshine and perfect year-round weather are certainly welcoming. Still, the world-class food scene here tops the list for many. Not only is San Diego a delectable melting pot of global culture, but our oceanfront location means that the quality of our seafood is second to none. Looking for tips on where to find the best seafood San Diego has to offer? Check out our picks below.
Point Loma Seafoods (1.2 miles)
(Photo: @pointlomaseafoods)
This local staple has famously been serving the “freshest thing in town” for six decades. And it’s more than just a tagline — Everything on Point Loma’s menu is brought in just-caught from just outside their door. Once it is, the preparations are just as timeless as their traditions. From fresh oysters to lump crab cakes to sourdough-bread cod sandwiches served with hot fries and homemade tartar sauce, everything is a winner. So order up, take a seat on the deck overlooking the water, and enjoy the Pacific’s best.
2805 Emerson St, San Diego, CA 92106
Mitch’s Seafood (1.2 miles)
(Photo: @mitchsseafood)
Established by a collective of three local families with a long history of fishing the coastal waters of the area, Mitch’s Seafood finds its foundation in tradition. Everything on the menu is famously sourced from local fishermen, so you know it’s as fresh as it gets. Additionally, the restaurant maintains a commitment to ensuring that everything they serve is sustainable and served responsibly. You’ll also find a deep selection of local craft brews at the full-service bar.
1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106
La Barca (3.5 miles)
Although La Barca is one of the newer entries here, they’ve quickly distinguished themselves among locals as being a seafood spot to watch. Here, you’ll find fresh seafood served south-of-the-border style, using traditional and authentic Mexican recipes. That means hot and tasty fish tacos, grilled shrimp, and ceviche so fresh it almost bites back. Don’t miss sampling their deep craft cocktail menu when you go.
3048 Midway Dr, San Diego, CA 92110
Island Prime/C-Level (4 miles)
(Photo: @islandprimeclevel)
Ask anyone in the city where they’d take a visitor they wanted to impress, and Island Prime (and its on-site C-Level Lounge) would typically top the list. This powerhouse pair takes oceanfront dining to an entirely new level. Set on piles directly over the water, this eatery lets you go beyond the beach, offering exceptional views of the water and downtown skyline. The menu also offers an elevated experience, specializing in steaks and — of course — seafood. Start with the splendid Kumiai oysters or crab cakes before diving into grilled swordfish, seared scallops, or shrimp and caviar angel hair pasta.
880 Harbor Island Dr, San Diego, CA 92101
Cannonball (6.3 miles)
(Photo: @cannonballsd)
Cannonball is a favorite spot among locals. Once you check it out, you won’t be surprised as to why that might be. Directly overlooking the Mission Beach Boardwalk, Cannonball can lay claim to having the largest beachfront rooftop in the city, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. They also serve some of the city’s favorite seafood, with scrumptious sushi, peppered ahi tuna salad and the famous Wild Shrimp and Forbidden Rice all drawing raves. You’ll find a delightful drinks menu of beachy cocktails here, too.
3105 Ocean Front Walk, San Diego, CA 92109
The Fishery (8.5 miles)
(Photo: @sdthefishery)
The Fishery is one of the most unique seafood stops in the city. In addition to the renowned open-kitchen restaurant, The Fishery also maintains a well-stocked seafood market right at the center of the action — so you can take home the same just-caught items you’ll find on the menu. And speaking of the menu, Chef Mike Reidy allows it to evolve with the seasons, ensuring that nothing you’ll order is ever out of its prime peak of flavor and freshness.
5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
Eddie V’s Prime Seafood (12.9 miles)
(Photo: @eddievs_)
Eddie V’s has built an empire on taste, service, and elegant ambience. The La Jolla location is perched seaside on a sandstone cliff overlooking the Pacific, from which they source the bulk of their menu. We recommend starting with the Shellfish Tower, an appropriately named presentation of lobster, shrimp, crab, and oysters, before moving on to the sea bass, branzino, or halibut. After dinner, stick around for a cocktail and some live music in the adjacent lounge.
1270 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
Blue Wave Bar & Grill (just steps away!)
(Reel: @island_palms)
We’d be remiss if we didn’t put in a hearty recommendation for our very own Blue Wave Bar & Grill! It’s a great place to stop no matter what you’re craving, but seafood is definitely the star. Start with a bowl of our award-winning clam chowder or delectable coconut shrimp before digging into the guest-favorite Tiki salmon, lobster mac & cheese, or classic UK-style fish & chips. Island Palms guests are never far from savory seafood!
Plan Your Tasty Tour at Island Palms
Best Western Plus Island Palms is the ideal home base for striking out to sample the city’s most succulent seafood. Our competitive rates, fantastic waterfront location and guest-first amenities are a real catch. When you’re ready to plan your visit, take a look at our Special Offers page for all of our latest and greatest San Diego travel deals. We look forward to seeing you!