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Coleslaw and clam chowder in California

A bowl of clam chowder that actually pairs with a side of coleslaw instead of forcing you to choose between two different dining styles.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tin Fish Oceanside image 1
Tin Fish Oceanside image 2
Tin Fish Oceanside image 3
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Seafood restaurant

Restaurant sits under a pier with beachfront views and outdoor picnic tables. Atmosphere feels chill and beachy with '80s pop music playing and a crowd that can be rougher at times. Free ice lemon water and occasional samples add to the casual vibe.

Light coleslaw uses a vinaigrette dressing instead of mayo, giving it a fresh, tangy flavor. It pairs well with BBQ pork sandwiches and works great as a side for a beach walk.

Clam chowder comes fresh and hot, often paired with cod fish tacos. It draws attention for being delicious and a frequent choice to order.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are among the best I've had."

"I loved the fish tacos; they were amazing and tasty."

"The coleslaw here is a must-have and really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located right on the beach.

2

You will not see the restaurant from the street because it is located under the Y of the pier.

3

I visited Tin Fish Oceanside during Taco Tuesday and took advantage of the $1 off promotion.

02
Surfside Fish House image 1

Casual restaurant with clean, bright decor and a cool San Diego mural creates a welcoming, chill atmosphere. Seating includes outdoor patio and bar options, with a lively vibe that can get noisy when busy. Offers affordable, fresh seafood with a serious focus on quality and variety.

Coleslaw features an Asian-themed dressing with wontons for extra crunch. It leans away from creamy styles, offering a unique, lighter flavor.

Rich and creamy clam chowder features plenty of seafood and a delicious, hearty flavor. It stands out as a top tier soup alongside other seafood dishes.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the happy hour with $2 tacos and $6 wine."

"I haven't had such good clam chowder in so long."

"The coleslaw here has wontons and an Asian dressing for crunch."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 pm with $2 fish tacos and $1.5 oysters.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price, especially the kids' shrimp basket.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes at very reasonable prices.

03
The Lobster Shack image 1

Coastal-inspired shack offers a casual, lively atmosphere with comfortable outdoor seating. The vibe is welcoming and laid-back, attracting those seeking a chic yet simple dining experience. Prices lean high, reflecting the focus on fresh lobster and quality seafood.

Blue cheese adds a strong, distinct flavor to the coleslaw that works well for fans but can be overpowering for others. It pairs nicely with lobster, though the portion size tends to be small.

Thick and super delicious clam chowder stands out here. It often comes with a secret sauce that adds a unique touch.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the lobster roll and chowder."

"I found the clam chowder super delicious and thick."

"The blue cheese coleslaw was different and really good."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $30 for a lobster roll, which may be small for some.

2

Two small sides are included with each meal at no extra charge.

3

A hidden credit surcharge may apply to your bill, so check before paying.

04
Harbor Fish & Chips image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Casual fish and chips spot sits right on the harbor with outdoor seating and picturesque water views. Atmosphere feels like a blast from the past with a strong local vibe and visible history on the walls. Self-serve condiment bar and heaters make outdoor dining comfortable even when it's cool.

Coleslaw comes fresh and pairs well with the fish fry. It has a great balance of flavors and a crisp texture.

Clam chowder comes in a large bread bowl that holds a rich, creamy soup. The chowder tastes delicious and hearty, often praised as equal to or better than versions from San Francisco.

People are saying

"I found the fish and chips to be some of the best I've ever eaten."

"I thought the clam chowder was amazing and perfectly consistent."

"I thought the coleslaw was excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult on busy Saturdays.

2

You can sit outside to enjoy marina views.

3

They offer a 10% discount for WorldMark members.

05
West Coast Fish N' Chips image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with blue trimming and an old sit-down dinner feel creates a laid-back, relaxing atmosphere. Quiet and comfortable space offers affordable seafood with grilled and fried options. Known for excellent fish and chips and a bay area vibe.

Homemade coleslaw comes as a common side, often paired with seafood like prawns, fish, and calamari. It offers a fresh crunch that complements fried items such as onion rings.

Clam chowder here has a balanced flavor that some find delicious and others see as average. It pairs well with fish and fits a West Coast style.

People are saying

"I thought the fish here was the best I had ever tasted."

"I loved their tartar sauce; it was exceptional."

"I loved the homemade coleslaw."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive before the lunch hour.

2

They do not accept checks for payment.

3

You must pay first when ordering at the counter.

06
Berth 55-Fish Market & Seafood Deli image 1

Outdoor seating overlooks a working berth with boats and water, creating an authentic dockside atmosphere. The vibe is lively and casual, with chefs' banter and classic rock music playing outside. Fresh seafood and picnic tables invite relaxed gatherings by the water.

Unique and flavorful coleslaw stands out here. It pairs well with seafood dishes like shrimp and scallops, adding a tasty and well-loved side option.

Rich, velvety texture with fresh clams defines the clam chowder here. Served hot in a bread bowl, it offers a flavorful and satisfying experience.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious and fresh."

"I loved the outdoor seating by the water with the boats."

"I thought the coleslaw was unique and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The experience of selecting live crabs directly from the fish tank is unique.

2

There is plenty of parking available for small, large, or big rigs.

3

The place functions as both a fish market and a deli, ensuring food freshness.

07
The Albright image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seaside restaurant on a pier offers huge outdoor deck with scenic views and patio seating where dogs are welcome. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy with Bob Marley music and heaters keeping the space warm. Counter service uses buzzers for orders, creating a casual, relaxed vibe.

Coleslaw comes in generous portions and often accompanies fried dishes like calamari and shrimp. It has a classic creamy texture but opinions on its flavor vary.

Chunky, hot clam chowder comes in a bread bowl with a good portion size for $12. The chowder has a white sauce base and pairs well with seafood like shrimp and mussels.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the clam chowder to be delicious."

"The coleslaw has a great vibe with views of the pier."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

2

Expect long lines around noon; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Prices are effectively 10% higher due to a hidden fee.

08
Captain Kidd's Fish Market & Restaurant image 1

Seafood restaurant offers casual beach vibes with picnic-style seating indoors and outdoors, including a heated terrace. Ocean views provide a scenic backdrop while guests enjoy fresh seafood and cold beer. Family-friendly atmosphere includes interactive tanks with live crabs and lobsters.

Coleslaw here comes as a fresh side salad that pairs well with seafood dishes like lobster and king crab legs. It adds a crisp, tangy contrast to the meal.

Creamy and flavorful, the clam chowder features lots of clams and potatoes. It often comes served in a bread bowl, making it a hearty choice.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood was packed with real clam meat and rich flavor."

"This clam chowder is creamy, flavorful, and packed with clams."

"The coleslaw was delicious with the lobster and king crab legs."

Good to know

1

Beach Life Festival occurs annually in the summer with live music and food vendors.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

Expect longer wait times during weekends, especially for dinner.

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