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Local picks in California

Grilled fish and salsa

A bright, acidic salsa is the only way to properly cut through the richness of grilled fish.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Dos Amantes image 1
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Restaurant

Upscale Mexican seafood restaurant offers authentic flavors and exceptional ceviche in a wide open space with comfortable seating. The vibe stays chill with great music and roomy tables. It stands out for homemade salsas and gluten-free options.

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.

Salsas here taste fresh and come in a variety of homemade options. They are not watered down and clearly made in-house, showing real care in preparation.

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.

02
Baja Bay Surf n Taco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a surf-friendly, funky atmosphere and dog-friendly patio. Casual and cozy space offers outdoor seating with ocean breeze and heaters. Known for best fish and shrimp tacos and affordable margaritas.

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.

Salsa comes homemade and blended on site with fresh, chunky ingredients packed with flavor. It pairs well with chips and fish tacos loaded with slaw and crema.

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.

03
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

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

Salsas come fresh and homemade with many options available for self-service. The habanero salsa stands out as particularly awesome and flavorful.

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.

04
Mariscos La Chalupa #1 (Seafood Truck) image 1

Seafood truck offers casual outdoor dining with fresh, flavorful seafood like fish tacos and grilled shrimp. The atmosphere stays friendly and wholesome, attracting families and regulars. Tables under a tarp provide shelter while enjoying authentic Mexican flavors in a lively 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.

Offers a great selection of salsas with complimentary lemons and marinated onions. The green salsa adds a nice flavor to the tacos.

People are saying

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

"I loved the shrimp tacos; they were so good."

"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.

05
Fresh Off the Boat Fish Grill South Coast image 1

Eclectic Mediterranean spot offers outdoor patio seating with warm candlelight and dark red cushions, creating a cozy vibe. Indoor space features a bar with large TV for sports viewing and a lively atmosphere with loud music. Dining resembles fast-casual style with varied seating options including tables, bar, and patio.

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.

Chips come warm and crispy, paired with savory salsa and a smooth, tangy avocado dip. The salsa ranges from spicy to diablo hot, adding a bold kick to dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"They had a salsa bar with a delicious mix of salsas."

"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.

06
Andy's Surf N Turf Tacos image 1

Hole-in-the-wall eatery with casual dining and a few outdoor tables in a quaint plaza. Atmosphere feels pleasant and unpretentious, attracting those seeking fresh, well-balanced surf and turf tacos. Small portions come at reasonable prices, making it a favored spot 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.

Red salsa comes made from scratch and pairs well with tacos. Chips and salsa arrive in a to-go box with tasty flavors, including a notable chipotle sauce.

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
Mission Baja Tacos image 1

Small, charming Mexican restaurant with handmade tortillas and a varied salsa bar. Inside seating features traditional decorations like piñatas and mellow yellow lighting, creating a friendly, authentic vibe. The atmosphere feels lively and welcoming, reflecting a family-run, homely energy.

Grilled fish tacos stand out with their fresh flavor and pair well with carnitas. Some grilled fish dishes can be undercooked, so cooking varies.

Salsa options include a black bean salsa rated highly and a house-made pickled carrots addition at the salsa bar. The bar offers a variety of authentic Mexican salsas alongside homemade tortillas.

People are saying

"The tacos here are delicious and brimming with meat and toppings."

"The salsa bar has a delicious variety of fresh options."

"I found the grilled fish taco to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $2.99 each.

2

They have dedicated gluten-free fryers to avoid cross-contamination.

3

Parking can be challenging near the restaurant.

08
Don Baja Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small interior with calm, quiet atmosphere suits casual family meals. Nearby mountains add to the beautiful setting. Unlimited salsa bar complements fresh, well-prepared fish tacos and generous burritos.

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.

Three salsas sit at a self-serve bar alongside seasoned onions and lemons. The bar includes a creamy avocado salsa and a hot salsa, plus pickled red onions for extra flavor.

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.

09
Sunnie's Ocean Beach Mexican Food image 1

Small storefront with limited outdoor seating offers a casual vibe and peekaboo ocean views. The atmosphere suits quick bites and relaxed sidewalk dining with a gentle ocean breeze. Mostly a takeout spot, it draws people looking for 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.

Salsas here are flavorful and come in varieties like a seasoned verde salsa that is mild on spice. The spicy salsa sauce stands out and pairs well with fresh lime and tacos.

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.

10
TACO CENTRO image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with open kitchen and fresh tortilla making visible from inside. Atmosphere shifts from warm and inviting to loud music on busy days, with an outdoor patio offering a quieter option. Extensive salsa bar provides a wide variety of sauces to complement the food.

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

An abundant salsa bar offers a variety of fresh, homemade salsas and pico. It includes grilled onions, grilled jalapeños, radish, and pickled onions for added flavor options.

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.

11
Kiko's Place restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with colorful decor and a lively atmosphere marked by loud music and street activity. Offers generous portions of highly praised fish tacos and ceviche at affordable prices. Seating is limited and can be uncomfortable due to shaky tables and crowded space.

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.

House salsas range from spicy reds to mild greens and pair well with tacos and burritos. The salsa bar offers a variety, though some find it lacking in selection or quality.

People are saying

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

"The salsas here are fantastic, especially with the tacos."

"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
Grand Fish Tacos & Ceviche image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers clean, bright ambiance with natural light and casual indoor seating. Energy stays welcoming and lively without loud music, supporting easy conversation. Free private parking and a diverse menu highlight the experience.

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.

Fresh food shines with spicy green salsa and crispy chips. Service stays attentive, offering extra chips or salsa when needed.

People are saying

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

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

"I'd go-to this place for their Mahi Mahi tacos."

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.

13
Mike's Taco Club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Rustic, hip Mexican restaurant with tiny indoor seating and pet-friendly outdoor patio offering a beach view. Atmosphere is laidback and authentic with lively music that can make conversation challenging. Popular for its highly regarded burritos and tacos.

Grilled fish tacos use Mahi Mahi and come with a finger-licking vibe. They pair well with horchata and stand out alongside other tacos like carne and shrimp.

Salsas here are spicy and tasty. They pair well with the burrito, making a solid combo.

People are saying

"This California burrito is massive and packed with grilled carne asada."

"The salsas here are fantastic and extremely good."

"I found the grilled fish tacos to be perfectly seasoned and grilled."

Good to know

1

They close at 10 pm.

2

On weekdays, there is no wait to be seated.

3

Parking can be hard to find, but street parking is available nearby.

14
Baja Catch and Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, including a dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming, with a bar-like environment and a relaxed, inviting vibe. Popular for generous fish and shrimp tacos and a simple, unpretentious setup.

Grilled fish tacos stand out with authentic flavor and quality. Shrimp and fish both grill well, delivering a solid taste experience.

Salsa here has a nice spice level and tastes great. The green salsa stands out as spicier and pairs well with the fish tacos, which get salsa on top.

People are saying

"I loved the fish and shrimp tacos and ceviche."

"The salsa here is super tasty with a nice spice level."

"I loved the grilled fish tacos, they were five stars."

Good to know

1

Parking is tight, so visit during off hours for easier access.

2

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

3

Expect limited nearby dining options if you're looking for quick meals.

15
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fish market and restaurant combine with fresh seafood display behind a glass counter. Outdoor patio lined with cacti offers a relaxed coastal vibe and spacious seating options. The atmosphere feels buzzy and inviting, drawing people who appreciate fresh fish and casual 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.

Chips and salsa come with a fresh avocado addition that complements the meal well. The salsa pairs nicely with the crispy chips, making it a solid starter or side.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

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

"The chips and salsa were a great addition to my meal."

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.

16
Ensenada's Surf N Turf Grill image 1

Small, crowded seafood spot offers indoor and outdoor seating with a chill, no-frills vibe and friendly staff. The atmosphere is loud and lively, attracting a mostly Hispanic crowd who come for the excellent fish tacos and casual dining experience.

Grilled fish tacos stand out with their consistent flavor and appeal. The grilled fish offers more flavor than breaded options, appearing in tacos and burritos that satisfy regularly.

Fresh salsas come with dishes like fish tacos and ceviche, featuring pickled onion, jalapeno, and a self-serve salsa station with marinated white onion ribbons and roasted yellow chiles. Tortillas hold up well to the flavorful, fresh salsas, enhancing the overall meal.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are the best I've ever had."

"I loved the fresh, flavorful salsa bar."

"I always ordered the grilled fish tacos; they always hit the spot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash payments, so bring cash or credit.

2

Parking is limited during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours, particularly on Good Friday.

17
El Muelle de San Blas Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a chill vibe and plenty of seating. The menu features seafood specialties like grilled fish and spicy aguachiles that stand out. Music is minimal, creating a calm dining experience.

Grilled fish stands out with its delicious flavor and is often paired with shrimp dishes like empanadas or aguachile. The menu says it comes with rice and beans, but it arrives without sides.

Salsa here is on point with a bomb flavor that makes the chips addictive. The salsas deliver consistent bold taste.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the huge tacos and amazing chilaquiles."

"The grilled fish here is super delicious."

"The salsa here is addictive and on point."

Good to know

1

Expect a $10 fee for card payments; cash is preferred.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early or consider alternative transport.

3

The restaurant offers specials on Mondays and Tuesdays.

18
Diablos Tacos Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Brightly lit space combines rustic charm and contemporary style with clean, spacious seating indoors and outdoors. Lively atmosphere features fun, great music that energizes the room. The environment feels Americanized yet maintains an authentic vibe with attention to detail in design and ambiance.

Mahi-mahi appears as the main fish in the grilled fish tacos. The fish cooks perfectly grilled, staying moist and flavorful in the street taco style.

A salsa bar offers fresh options with a standout green salsa among three varieties. Diablo salsa appears in dishes like the Cheesy Diablo and Loaded Steak Fresh Bowl, adding a spicy kick.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty and always fresh."

"The salsas here are amazing, especially the Diablo."

"The grilled fish taco was perfectly grilled, moist, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant serves halal meat, catering to dietary restrictions.

2

Chips are complimentary with your meal, adding value to your order.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

19
Sandbar Sports Grill image 1

Sports bar with ocean views from a rooftop Sky Deck offers a laid-back, energetic vibe reflecting SoCal beach culture. Music plays to enhance the chill atmosphere where people gather to watch sunsets and enjoy drinks.

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.

Salsa comes fresh and flavorful with a side of beans that stands out. Chips stay crunchy and pair well with the guacamole and salsa.

People are saying

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

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

"The fish tacos here are fresh, crispy, and perfectly balanced."

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.

20
Harry's taco club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating on a street patio creates a hole in the wall vibe with a lively atmosphere. A bar with pool tables adjoins the space, offering two-for-one margaritas and other drinks. The spot draws crowds seeking highly rated burritos and tacos in a casual setting.

Grilled fish tacos come in small portions with a flavorless taste and poor texture. Ceviche is also available alongside the tacos.

Multiple types of salsa come with the food. These salsas are delicious and pair well with the burritos.

People are saying

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

"I was impressed by the grilled fish tacos and ceviche."

"I thought the California burrito was the best I'd ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Harry's Taco Club accepts only cash payments.

2

The line at Harry's Taco Club is always long.

3

There was no space inside for dine-in, and only a few tables were outside.

21
Mariscos Martin inc. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers live mariachi music that plays continuously, creating a loud and lively atmosphere. The space is small and crowded, with a simple interior and exterior lined with benches. Cash-only policy and Micheladas stand out as notable features.

Grilled fish comes well-seasoned and cooked just right. It stands out as incredibly delicious compared to fish fillet.

Salsa here ranges from fresh and great with chips to a special salsa sarandeada dish. Some versions use raw tomatoes, giving a sour taste that not everyone likes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very good."

"I found the grilled fish here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

"I thought the salsa and chips were great."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash payments; an ATM inside charges $4 for withdrawals.

2

The restaurant is small and gets very crowded on weekends, with waits over an hour.

3

Parking is tricky but well worth the hunt for seafood lovers.

22
Santo Fish image 1
Seafood restaurant

Modern seafood restaurant offers a spacious, beachside-inspired decor with blue and white colors and wood tones. Atmosphere is vibrant and lively, often loud with live guitar music and active social interaction. Separate bar area and event space provide ample seating and versatility.

Grilled fish varies here, with some servings delicious and others burnt and bitter. Quality can be inconsistent.

People are saying

"I loved the smoky, flavorful Zarandeado fish."

"The Pescado Zarandeado is huge, charbroiled white fish with lots of bones."

"I thought the grilled fish here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts on Sundays, which is their busiest day.

2

Expect long wait times on Sundays due to high traffic.

3

Prices are generally high, with meals costing around $160 for two without drinks.

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