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Local picks in California

Grilled fish spots

Grilled fish should be prepared with enough heat to crisp the skin while keeping the meat tender.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 2
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 3
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Eclectic Mediterranean spot shines with grilled fish served alongside mixed kabobs and fried options. Cozy outdoor patio glows with warm candlelight and dark red cushions. Indoor bar buzzes with sports on large TV and loud music, blending fast-casual dining with lively vibes.

Grilled fish dishes come with great sides and appear alongside mixed kabobs and fried fish options. Plates offer variety with both fried and grilled fish.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The grilled fish tacos are a five for taste with generous fish."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great variety of tacos at discounted prices.

2

Dine-in specials on Taco Tuesday are not available for takeout.

3

Happy hour starts after 3:00 pm with beer specials.

02
Papa K's Mediterranean Kitchen image 1

Small spot with authentic Egyptian décor offers a cozy vibe and friendly service. Grilled fish is succulent and spiced using traditional methods. Energy rises with music, big screen TVs, and occasional dancing after dinner.

Grilled fish comes out succulent and cooked using traditional Egyptian methods with spices that bring authentic flavor. The seafood, including shrimp and calamari, is well-prepared and seasoned perfectly.

People are saying

"This Mediterranean food is delicious and generously portioned."

"I had the best grilled fish in California; it was so flavorful."

"I experienced the best, tastiest grilled fish I ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially for special menu items after 7 pm.

2

The restaurant is closed during lunch hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect large portion sizes that provide good value for the price.

03
Baja Bay Surf n Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers best fish tacos with fresh, juicy grilled fish and spicy habanero salsa. Casual, dog-friendly patio with ocean breeze and heaters creates a funky, surf vibe. Affordable margaritas complete the cozy, outdoor dining experience.

Grilled fish comes out fresh and juicy, often in tacos or burritos with spicy habanero salsa and roasted pepper options. Fish and shrimp get grilled well, paired with crispy cabbage and marinated onions for texture and flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos here were the best I ever had."

"The fish tacos with spicy habanero salsa are the best I've ever had."

"I thought the grilled fish tacos were the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday happens every week with special deals on tacos.

2

A 20% gratuity is added for parties of six or more.

3

The restaurant offers takeout options for those who prefer to eat elsewhere.

04
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant shines with fresh grilled fish tacos and a lively vibe fueled by Mexican music. Outdoor seating offers pier views while a self-serve salsa bar adds flavor. Affordable $5 margaritas and draft beers complete the experience.

Grilled fish tacos come fresh and delicious here. They stand out for their freshness and flavor.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"These fish tacos are super tasty and crispy."

"The grilled fish tacos are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

05
Don Baja Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small interior offers a calm, quiet spot perfect for casual family meals with unlimited salsa bar enhancing fresh, well-prepared fish tacos. Grilled fish shines in tacos with lightly charred flavor and fresh toppings. Nearby mountains create a beautiful setting for dining.

Grilled fish appears mainly in tacos, served with fresh toppings and a lightly charred flavor. Both grilled and fried fish options exist, with grilled fish tacos noted for their consistent quality.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best I've ever tasted."

"I found the Pastor burrito to be amazing and perfectly seasoned."

"I had the best grilled fish tacos I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The burrito costs $12.49, considered a good value.

2

Fish tacos cost $14 for two.

3

Daily specials are available every day of the week.

06
Andy's Surf N Turf Tacos image 1

Hole-in-the-wall eatery offers perfectly grilled fish in tacos and tortas with juicy, flavorful bites. Casual dining with fresh surf and turf tacos creates a pleasant, unpretentious vibe. Small portions at reasonable prices make it a go-to for quality Mexican snacks.

Perfectly grilled fish appears in tacos and tortas, offering a juicy and flavorful bite. The grilled fish tacos stand out alongside hefty burritos and juicy carne asada.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best breakfast burrito I'd ever had."

"I thought the fish tacos here were the greatest I had ever tasted."

"I found the grilled fish tacos to be the greatest I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Outdoor seating is available for those who prefer dining outside.

2

Takeout is a popular option for enjoying food at home.

3

The chef uses wild caught fish for their seafood dishes.

07
Shufeng Kitchen蜀风小厨 image 1

Cozy space buzzes with Sichuan spices and casual energy. Spicy grilled fish offers a numbing flavor with crispy outside and tender inside. Generous portions satisfy groups despite high prices.

Spicy grilled fish comes crispy outside, tender inside with a Sichuan-style numbing flavor. Portions are large and juicy, enough for 2-3 people despite the high prices.

People are saying

"The soup here is spicy, numbing, and fragrant."

"The Osmanthus Longjing Tofu Pudding is silky, refreshing, and elegant."

"The grilled fish is thick, juicy, and tender."

Good to know

1

The restaurant specializes in authentic Sichuan cuisine with a focus on braised dishes.

2

Portions are large and prices are very affordable, often under $10 per dish.

3

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended due to limited seating.

08
Dos Amantes image 1
Restaurant

Upscale Mexican seafood spot shines with authentic flavors and exceptional ceviche. Grilled fish is fresh, served with homemade tortillas and guacamole. Spacious seating and gluten-free options keep the vibe chill and inviting.

Grilled fish comes with homemade tortillas and guacamole served free with chips, plus rice and beans. The fish is fresh and pairs well with the fish tacos and Uni.

People are saying

"The taco de pulpo was a standout dish."

"I thought the ceviche here was super awesome and had perfect flavor."

"I found the grilled fish delicious and zingy."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is available for easy access.

2

Street parking is free after 8:00 PM.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

09
Super Yummy 远山少年 image 1

Small wok spot buzzes with lively atmosphere and cozy vibe. Spicy grilled fish shines with bold flavors and hearty portions. Open late, it serves authentic street food perfect for night cravings.

Spicy grilled fish stands out with rich, bold flavors and perfect seasoning. The dry pot grilled fish and mala hot pot style offer a delicious, hearty experience that often comes in generous portions.

People are saying

"The authentic Chinese food here has comforting and exciting flavors."

"The grilled fish here is so tender and flavorful."

"It's a great late night spot for food after hours."

Good to know

1

Super Yummy 远山少年 is open until 3am, allowing for late-night snacks.

2

They charge $5.99 for 8 quail eggs.

3

Expect a variety of authentic Chinese dishes.

10
Yunnan Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious dining area with warm lighting sets a cozy mood. Grilled fish is crispy outside, tender inside and fresh. Free self-serve dessert and fruit bar adds a sweet finish to meals.

Grilled fish comes out very fresh with a crispy outside and tender inside. The flavor is solid and straightforward.

People are saying

"I found the Yunnan rice noodles to be authentic and delicious."

"The food portions here are generous and filling."

"The grilled fish is so fresh, crispy outside and tender inside."

Good to know

1

The food comes out quickly at this restaurant.

2

The lunch special pricing is great.

3

Portions are generous and very filling.

11
Kiko's Place restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood spot buzzes with lively atmosphere and colorful decor. Fish tacos shine with fresh grilled fish and grilled shrimp. Portions are generous and prices affordable, though seating is tight and tables shaky.

Grilled fish tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful fish paired with grilled shrimp options. Seafood soups and appetizers complement the tacos well, creating a solid grilled fish selection.

People are saying

"The fish tacos here are amazingly delicious and wonderful."

"The ceviche here is super fresh and tasty."

"The grilled fish tacos are some of the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 3 large fish tacos for $9.99.

2

Daily specials include 2 fish tacos and a Tecate beer at a great price.

3

Prices are lower than those in the nearby Gaslamp area.

12
Sunnie's Ocean Beach Mexican Food image 1

Small storefront offers peekaboo ocean views and a casual vibe perfect for quick bites. Grilled fish tacos shine with freshness and flavor. Mostly takeout, it draws those craving authentic Mexican flavors in a simple setting.

Grilled fish here stands out for its freshness and flavor. The grilled fish tacos deliver a delicious and satisfying taste.

People are saying

"I thought the Cali burrito was so good and amazing."

"I found the chips and salsa to be my favorite."

"You have to try the grilled fish tacos; they're awesome."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, they have a 'Taco Tuesday' deal with cheaper mix-and-match tacos.

2

Takeout is recommended due to limited outdoor seating.

3

There are no restrooms available at the restaurant.

13
Grand Fish Tacos & Ceviche image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant shines with grilled fish tacos that are light and tasty. Bright, clean space offers casual indoor seating and free private parking. Energy stays lively yet calm, perfect for easy conversation.

Grilled fish appears in tacos and burritos, often paired with fried fish in combo plates. The grilled fish tacos stand out as light, easy to eat, and tasty options.

People are saying

"I thought their ceviche was the best I had ever tasted."

"The fried fish tacos are perfectly crispy and airy."

"I enjoyed the tasty grilled fish tacos; they were nice and light."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of free self-parking available for guests.

2

The restaurant offers a 4% discount for cash payments.

3

The menu features a diverse selection of seafood entrees.

14
Mariscos La Chalupa #1 (Seafood Truck) image 1

Seafood truck serves fresh grilled fish and plump shrimp tacos with bold Mexican flavors. Casual outdoor dining under a tarp creates a friendly atmosphere loved by families and regulars. Enjoy authentic seafood in a lively, wholesome setting.

Grilled fish comes fresh and tender, often melting in your mouth. Shrimp and fish tacos feature plump, flavorful pieces with a freshness that stands out.

People are saying

"The seafood tacos here are delicious and fresh, especially the shrimp."

"The food here is amazing, especially the fish tacos."

"The grilled fish tacos are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

They charge a credit card fee without prior notice, so cash is recommended.

2

The seafood truck is located in the AutoZone parking lot.

3

Hot sauce is added to dishes automatically; ask for it on the side if preferred.

15
Joyous Cuisine 花溪王 山野美食 image 1

Lush greenery and wooden decor create a cozy atmosphere perfect for families. Grilled fish arrives steaming hot with bold chili flavors and fresh herbs. Guests enjoy a free ice cream treat after meals, adding a sweet finish to a modern dining experience.

Grilled fish comes steaming hot and packed with chili and herbs, delivering a very flavorful and delicious taste.

People are saying

"I found the food to be exceptionally good and delicious."

"The noodle soups here have remarkably flavorful and distinct broths."

"I found the grilled fish to be incredibly fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of authentic Guizhou-style dishes.

2

Prices are considered affordable for the quality of food.

3

The menu features unique dishes not found in other restaurants.

16
Tasty Dining image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small indoor space boasts cool decor and comfortable seating with large tables that avoid crowding. Grilled fish shines with three side dishes and customizable spice levels, offering a flavorful meal. Warm, lively atmosphere lets guests glimpse chefs preparing food, adding an authentic vibe.

Grilled fish comes with three side dishes at the bottom of the pot, enough for two. The spicy sauce version offers different spice levels and a portion size similar to their dry pot, making it a flavorful and tasty choice.

People are saying

"The dry pot dishes here are authentic and delicious."

"The grilled fish here is fresh, flavorful, and satisfyingly spicy."

"The beef ribs are so tender and juicy."

Good to know

1

Order with a QR code through a website for quick service.

2

The pots are customizable to suit different spice levels.

3

Dinner portions are sufficient for two people, often leaving leftovers.

17
Sandbar Sports Grill image 1

Sports bar boasts ocean views from a rooftop Sky Deck, creating a lively SoCal vibe. Grilled fish shines with the TKO style, especially in tacos that pair well with Quesa Birria. Music and sunsets add to the laid-back energy.

Grilled fish comes in multiple styles, with the TKO style standing out as a popular choice. The grilled fish tacos taste delicious and pair well with other tacos like the Quesa Birria.

People are saying

"The ocean views from upstairs are breathtaking, especially at sunset."

"I thought the fish tacos here were the best I've ever had."

"I thought the grilled fish tacos were massive and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs Monday through Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM.

2

Taco Tuesday is popular and considered one of the best in the area.

3

A 4% surcharge is added to all bills, which may affect your total cost.

18
酸小七 酸汤鱼Seven Fish Cuisine image 1

Bright lighting and spacious seating create a cozy, stylish spot. Spicy grilled fish shines with generous portions and pairs well with rice. Unique Sichuan dishes offer varying spice levels to suit all tastes.

Spicy grilled fish offers generous portions and pairs well with rice. Pickled fish varieties, including one with golden broth, complement the grilled options nicely.

People are saying

"The sour fish soup here is so flavorful and comforting."

"The Szechuan fish soup is bursting with numbing, spicy, sour, and tangy flavors."

"I found the grilled fish here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Cash payments come with a complimentary drink.

2

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with meals averaging around $30.

19
川遇 Golden House image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Sichuan restaurant shines with bold, authentic flavors and a spicy aroma that fills the modern dining space. Chongqing grilled fish stands out with perfectly cooked sea bass in a spicy, numbing broth. Private KTV rooms add fun for group gatherings.

Chongqing grilled fish comes in a spicy, numbing broth rich with peppers and herbs. It features sea bass cooked perfectly and is priced around $19.99 with a huge portion size.

People are saying

"The seafood portions, like the grilled fish, are huge and a steal."

"This casual spot's food is packed with authentic, spicy Sichuan flavors."

"The Grilled Fish is tender, spicy, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Be prepared for a wait on weekends due to the place's popularity.

2

Spending $50 earns you a $50 credit at the restaurant.

3

During the soft opening, diners received 30% off their total bill when dining in.

20
Ping's Bistro Cupertino image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright space with large windows overlooks a small Asian garden, creating a calm vibe despite the crowd. Dai-style lemongrass grilled fish shines with bold herbs and perfect char. Popular spot fills fast, so expect noise and long waits without reservations.

Grilled fish comes out moist and tender, cooked just right with a beautiful char. The Dai-style lemongrass grilled fish features fragrant herbs, garlic, lime, and chili that add bold flavor.

People are saying

"The Yunnan food here is so authentic and refreshing."

"You have to try the Dai-style lemongrass grilled fish."

"The Fried Rice with Boletus and green peppers is so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait if arriving after 12:30 pm on Saturdays.

3

No reservations are taken; be prepared to wait in line.

21
Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill image 1

Small spot with authentic Iraqi grilled fish offers a cozy vibe perfect for casual meals. Perfectly grilled fillets bring bold flavors, complemented by flavorful chicken kebabs. Warm, homey setting suits seafood lovers and friends alike.

Iraqi grilled fish stands out with perfectly grilled fillets that deliver a burst of flavor. The grilled fish pairs well with flavorful chicken kebabs, making it a solid choice for grilled dishes.

People are saying

"The Iraqi Masgouf fish here is full of authentic flavor."

"The grilled fish here is amazing and perfectly cooked."

"I loved the perfectly grilled fish fillets."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for maskoof as it takes time to grill fish.

2

The fish is priced at $7 per pound for takeout and $8 for dine-in.

3

Expect a 20-25 minute wait for the fish to be cooked.

22
Roast Fish & BBQ House image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Dim lighting sets a nightclub vibe while a karaoke machine adds lively fun. Signature Qingjiang grilled fish offers rich, sweet, and spicy flavors with large portions. Space stays quiet and clean, with occasional kids' noise creating a unique atmosphere.

Grilled fish here stands out for its rich flavor and sweet and spicy taste. Portions come quite large, with the signature Qingjiang grilled fish especially noted for its deliciousness.

People are saying

"The food here was packed with flavor and cooked perfectly."

"I found the grilled fish here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The barbecue here tastes just like back home."

Good to know

1

The portion sizes are large, perfect for sharing between two people.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a good value for the amount of food.

3

Expect quick service on Mondays when the restaurant is less busy.

23
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fresh seafood shines behind a glass counter at this lively fish market and restaurant. Enjoy char grilled fish in tacos or sandwiches on a spacious outdoor patio lined with cacti. The vibe is casual and inviting, perfect for lovers of fresh fish and relaxed coastal dining.

Char grilled fish stands out for its fresh flavor and is served in sandwiches, tacos, and over salads. The fish is perfectly seasoned and highlights the quality of the seafood.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I ever had."

"The grilled fish here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

24
四姐 Special Noodle image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Underground cyberpunk vibe with neon lights sets a cozy scene. Grilled fish is fragrant and spicy, served with leeks and rice crackers. Open late, it draws a friendly crowd craving authentic Chinese noodles and good music.

Grilled fish comes out very fragrant and spicy with a generous portion. It pairs well with leeks and rice crackers for a full barbecue experience.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're amazing."

"I loved the hot and spicy beef noodle soup."

"The grilled fish here is so fragrant and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late, until 12am or later on weekends.

2

Reservations are accepted for larger parties.

3

Parking is easy and accessible.

25
Crazy Fish Grill Express image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers shaded outdoor seating and a laid-back atmosphere with street views. Fresh grilled fish tacos are perfectly flaky and served with beans and rice. The vibe is chill and welcoming, ideal for healthy, generous meals.

Fresh grilled fish tacos feature perfectly grilled flaky fish with cabbage, tomato slices, and a white sauce for a refreshing flavor. Each order includes two tacos served with beans and rice at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"The fish and chips were hot, fresh, and delicious."

"The outdoor space is comfortable and shaded."

"The grilled fish tacos taste so fresh and refreshing."

Good to know

1

The outside seating is dog friendly.

2

Food is ready within 5 minutes during busy hours.

3

The prices are budget-friendly for two people.

26
Harbor Fish & Chips image 1
Fish & chips restaurant

Casual spot on the harbor offers grilled fish with tasty slaw and chowder. Outdoor seating boasts picturesque water views and heaters for comfort. Walls show local history, creating a strong, nostalgic vibe.

Grilled fish comes with slaw and chowder on the side. Plates often feature a special grilled fish option. The fish is consistently well-prepared and flavorful.

People are saying

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

"You can sit outside and watch the boats and birds."

"I loved the grilled fish; it was so delicious."

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.

27
TACO CENTRO image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with fresh tortilla making and a lively vibe. Grilled fish tacos boast flavorful mahi-mahi, standing out among other options. Enjoy a wide salsa bar and a quiet outdoor patio for a balanced experience.

Grilled fish tacos feature mahi-mahi with a flavorful and satisfying taste. They stand out alongside other tacos like asada and pastor.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tacos, to be spectacular."

"The salsa bar offered a great variety of phenomenal, fresh salsas."

"The grilled fish tacos are amazing and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $5 beers on Taco Tuesdays from 6 PM.

2

Taco specials are available on Tuesdays and game days.

3

Expect the restaurant to be busy on Taco Tuesdays, around 75% full.

28
HalalStreet Xinjiang Cuisine | Mountain View image 1

Spacious dining offers Xinjiang-style decorations and cozy floor seating. Halal dishes highlight authentic flavors with fresh ingredients. Grilled fish is very spicy and best with buns, though it uses frozen fish and costs extra for add-ons.

Grilled fish comes out very spicy and pairs well with buns. It uses frozen fish and costs extra for add-ons.

People are saying

"The hand-pulled noodles are perfectly chewy and deeply satisfying."

"I found the Uyghur lagman to be authentic, with rich flavors and perfectly cooked noodles."

"I thought the grilled fish here was so delicious."

Good to know

1

All dishes are halal, which is extremely important for many diners.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options for non-meat eaters.

3

Prices are reasonable considering the quality and portion sizes.

29
Student Days Rice Noodles BBQ 学生时代米线烧烤 image 1

Northeastern Chinese barbecue fills the air with cumin aromas and charcoal flavors. Spicy grilled fish keeps its authentic skin and pairs well with sweet and sour pork. Bright lights and bumping music create a laid-back vibe perfect for friends.

Spicy and fragrant grilled fish stands out with its skin retaining original flavor. The dish tastes authentic and pairs well with sweet and sour pork.

People are saying

"I found the Northeastern rice noodles and barbecue to be so authentic."

"The skewers here taste like the best street skewers from my childhood."

"I found the grilled fish incredibly fragrant and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended in advance due to the time required for clay pot cooking.

2

Expect to queue during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for late-night snacks.

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