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New Yorkers 1st Choice
National City's best

Seafood restaurants

Made for those who prioritize ocean-sourced ingredients above all other dining options.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 1
Mr. Pulpo Sea Food image 2
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Enjoy fresh fish tacos and shrimp cocktails in a quiet, chill spot with a small, comfortable vibe. Affordable prices and generous portions make it a great choice for seafood lovers. The clean, welcoming space focuses on simple, tasty dishes without alcohol service.

Seafood here features excellent quality and perfect cooking. The fish tacos stand out as a go-to item, alongside shrimp cocktails and ceviche options.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are perfectly fried and seasoned."

"I found the ceviche here to be worth dying for."

Good to know

1

Fish tacos cost $2 on Taco Tuesday.

2

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

3

The facility is very clean and well-maintained.

02
Mariscos La Capital (Mexican Seafood Restaurant) image 1

Small space with an intimate, nightclub vibe sets a lively mood. Fresh seafood shines in shrimp tacos dorados and oysters with ceviche. Spicy aguachiles and great margaritas complete the authentic Mexican experience.

Seafood here is consistently fresh and high quality, with dishes prepared very well. Highlights include shrimp tacos dorados, oysters topped with ceviche, and a shrimp cocktail rated 8 out of 10.

People are saying

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are so fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the seafood here was the best I ever had."

"I found parking available right out front."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street, and it's usually easy to find.

2

The restaurant closes at 8 pm on Saturdays.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for street vendors nearby.

03
Mi Pastor Town image 1
Mexican restaurant

Kitchen inside a liquor store offers a cozy, lively atmosphere with authentic Mexican flavors. Fish tacos deliver fresh flavors while Surf & Turf Fries pack a solid seafood punch with extra shrimp. The setting feels like a hidden gem transporting diners to Mexico.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors. The Surf & Turf Fries come loaded with more shrimp than usual, adding a solid seafood punch.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is authentic and delicious."

"I thought the California burrito was delicious and packed with meat."

"The fish tacos here are so good."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited at this location, requiring a short walk.

2

The place is located inside a mart and is not really a sit-down dining area.

3

The tacos contain nuts, so customers should be cautious if they have nut allergies.

04
Guanatos Mexican and Seafood image 1

Small Mexican spot offers authentic seafood with standout fried fish tacos and shrimp roaches. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating create a warm, family-owned atmosphere. Energy stays relaxed and friendly, making it a hidden gem for local flavors.

Super fresh seafood shines with great flavor and authentic Mexican preparation. Fried fish tacos and shrimp roaches stand out as delicious and well priced options.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood here was excellent and well prepared."

"The chips for the Mexican food are the best I have ever had."

"I found the Mexican seafood cuisine here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant is very small with about five tables.

3

Prices are moderate, around $12 for a beef burrito and $20 for spicy shrimp.

05
Jomaru Hot Pot National City | 조마루 감자탕 image 1

Small Korean spot shines with authentic flavors and a health-forward broth letting you adjust sodium. Enjoy fresh shrimp tempura and spicy seafood soup that's mild but tasty. Bright yet dim lighting and great music create a lively vibe for lunch or dinner.

Seafood dishes include knife cut noodles with seafood and a spicy seafood soup that is mild in heat. Starters feature fresh shrimp tempura alongside veggie eggrolls.

People are saying

"I found the food to be really tasty and flavorful."

"I loved the spicy seafood soup, it wasn't too spicy."

"The seafood knife cut noodles were so flavorful and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking on the street is recommended due to congestion in the lot.

2

Prices are reasonable and affordable for hot pot dining.

3

Expect a wait time of 10 to 15 minutes for food preparation.

06
PHOnomenal image 1
Cambodian restaurant

Bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows feels airy and modern. Shrimp in spring rolls adds fresh seafood flavor alongside hearty pho dishes. Hip-hop music and car videos create a lively energy that blends with a family vibe for a welcoming atmosphere.

Shrimp appears in the spring rolls, paired with pork and fresh crunchy veggies. These rolls come alongside dishes like pho, including beef rib and house special with extra meatballs.

People are saying

"I experienced the best Cambodian style pho in San Diego."

"These beef ribs fall right off the bone."

"The shrimp spring rolls are fresh, tasty, and perfectly wrapped."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure a seat as they sell out quickly.

2

The soup is only available between 10 am and 1 pm.

3

Expect a wait of 30 minutes to an hour during weekend lunch hours.

07
Kyoto Gift & Food image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small space blends fresh fish with a sushi bar, creating a cozy atmosphere and chill music vibe. Creative rolls offer quality seafood at fair prices, making it a top spot for authentic Japanese food lovers.

Fresh fish stands out with every bite. Creative sushi rolls combine quality seafood and reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh, you'll feel like you're eating supreme quality fish."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem for creative sushi rolls."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge, so plan accordingly.

2

First-time customers receive a discount on grocery purchases.

3

Kyoto Gift & Food offers a variety of Japanese groceries and poke.

08
The Ace Crab image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small spot with flavorful Cajun seafood boils offers a quiet, chill atmosphere perfect for families. The SSK COMBO shines with shrimp, crab, and buttery sauce. Easy parking in a plaza adds to the simple, clean vibe.

Seafood boils come with perfect heat and balanced flavors. The SSK COMBO offers a mix of shrimp, snow crab, king crab, corn, potatoes, and sausage in an old buttery sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is so tasty and fresh."

"I loved their seafood; the flavors were so tasty and fresh."

"The American Food here, especially the seafood boils, has such great flavors."

Good to know

1

An automatic 15% tip is added for parties of 5 or more.

2

Parking is plentiful outside as the restaurant is in a plaza.

3

The restaurant has accessible access for handicapped individuals.

09
Sarku Japan image 1
Japanese restaurant

Food court buzz meets generous portions of chicken teriyaki and sushi rolls. Bento boxes shine with tender shrimp and flavorful teriyaki chicken. Quick service keeps pace with the fast energy of mall dining, all at affordable prices.

Bento boxes highlight shrimp with tender, flavorful teriyaki chicken and shrimp options. The seafood stands out in these well-balanced meals.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and really good."

"The teriyaki chicken here is flavorful and tender."

"You should try the flavorful and tender teriyaki shrimp."

Good to know

1

Sarku Japan is located in the food court on the second floor of Plaza Bonita.

2

The restaurant can get very crowded, especially during peak hours.

3

You can add extra chicken to your order for an additional charge.

10
Manila Seafood Oriental Market image 1

Small Asian grocery store offers live fish tanks and a wide seafood selection with free cleaning and prep. Filipino products and fresh fruits add variety. Prices stay reasonable in a clean, friendly space with an old storage unit vibe.

Fresh fish comes in live tanks and a wide selection of seafood is available. Staff will clean, cook, and prepare fish for free, making it easy to get quality ingredients for seafood dishes.

People are saying

"I found the fish here to be really fresh."

"I found a great variety of Oriental food here."

"I found the fish here to be really fresh."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood and Asian products.

2

Parking can be challenging, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect a good variety of fresh fruits and vegetables.

11
Seafood City Supermarket image 1

Supermarket offers fresh seafood with live options and on-site cleaning. It feels like a mini Manila with Filipino foods and dine-in mini restaurants. Narrow aisles and busy parking contrast with the extensive selection of unique products.

Fresh fish and seafood come with great quality and clean displays. Staff clean the fish on site, and there are live seafood options available.

People are saying

"I found the seafood selection to be fresh and awesome."

"I found all the Filipino groceries and dishes I needed here."

"I loved the bakery's many choices for native snacks and desserts."

Good to know

1

Seafood City Supermarket offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood.

2

Parking can be challenging due to its location in a busy shopping center.

3

The store is clean, organized, and well-maintained.

12
Poke ETC. image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Family-run spot offers a cozy, homestyle vibe with authentic island vibes and warm hospitality. Fresh fish stands out, especially the Shoyou Ahi Tuna with deep marinade and large chunks. The setting blends Filipino and Hawaiian influences for a friendly, inviting experience.

Fresh fish shines with a marinade that fully penetrates the Shoyou Ahi Tuna, unlike many poke spots. Combo plates offer generous portions with large chunks of fish, delivering authentic flavors and spot-on preparation.

People are saying

"I found the poke here to be delicious and high quality."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like Hawaii."

"This poke food is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Parking is available next door, but the plaza can be crowded.

2

Expect long lines during lunchtime as it's a popular spot.

3

Additional charges may apply for certain toppings not listed on the menu.

13
8th & B Poke image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small indoor space with window bar seating feels cozy but cramped, while outside offers covered waiting tent for comfort. Vibrant ohana spirit creates a family-like vibe popular with young adults. Seafood bake shines with rich flavors and generous portions, especially scallop salmon and shrimp tempura.

Seafood bake stands out with its rich flavors and generous portions. Dishes like scallop salmon and shrimp tempura add variety, while the fish quality and sauce balance remain consistently excellent.

People are saying

"I thought this was possibly the best poke in the world."

"The poke here is so tasty, I can't wait to visit again."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

They open at 11am and are closed on Tuesdays.

2

You need to arrive well before 11am because the food is only available until sold out.

3

Expect to wait in line, especially on weekends when it is busier.

14
Mariscos El Tiburon image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with shrimp ala cucaracha and fresh ceviche tostada. Lively vibe comes from a DJ singing a wide mix of songs. Families enjoy late nights sipping popular micheladas in a fun, upbeat setting.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like shrimp ala cucaracha and shrimp cocktails. The ceviche tostada adds a fresh, tangy seafood choice.

People are saying

"The seafood here is great for karaoke nights with a friendly DJ."

"The DJ sings amazingly and is very attentive."

"You have to check out the karaoke nights here; they're the best!"

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

2

DJ Juan Roman hosts karaoke sessions on weekends.

3

The venue stays open until 2 am on weekends.

15
Chào XO Kitchen image 1
Asian restaurant

Small, elegant Asian spot offers a warm, family-friendly vibe with modern design and vibrant decor. Seafood shines with large, juicy shrimp in perfectly cooked linguine and garlic shrimp noodles. Open bar adds to the relaxed, inviting atmosphere.

Shrimp in the pasta comes large, juicy, and well-cooked with linguine that's al dente in a rich, flavorful sauce. Garlic shrimp noodles and fries add extra seafood variety.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and yummy."

"The coconut ceviche here is amazing and presented very prettily."

"The Kare Curry's pork belly was amazing, though some found it too big."

Good to know

1

The restaurant's grand opening is on March 21, 2024.

2

A special menu is available for Restaurant Week.

3

Parking is available in a shared lot, but can be limited.

16
Imperial Palace image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern dining area feels welcoming with a small shrine adding charm. Enjoy crispy salt and pepper shrimp and generous portions of classic Chinese dishes. Seafood options like sweet shrimp and hot pot offer bold flavors in a cozy setting.

Salt and pepper shrimp and chicken wings have a crispy and light crunch with very flavorful seasoning. Sweet shrimp stands out as super delicious. Seafood hot pot and pan fried noodles also appear alongside these dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is so flavorful and has a light, crispy crunch."

"These salt and pepper chicken wings are so crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash, so bring cash with you.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

You won't leave hungry if you order a family meal.

17
Pho Mai Cali & Grill image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese spot offers a cozy vibe with a pet-friendly patio. Shrimp dishes shine, especially fried shrimp and shrimp with walnuts. Space feels tight but welcoming, perfect for casual seafood lovers.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like spring rolls, fried shrimp, and shrimp with walnuts. The menu also features seafood pho soup, grilled salmon, and a grilled shrimp salad, all noted for their strong flavors.

People are saying

"The pho here is amazing and authentic."

"The grilled pork spring rolls were delicious and crunchy."

"The seafood pho soup was great."

Good to know

1

Parking at Pho Mai Cali is easy to find in National City.

2

The restaurant is pet-friendly and accommodates dogs on the patio.

3

Prices are affordable compared to other dining options in the area.

18
Ichiban Sando image 1
Sandwich shop

Small shop offers cozy vibes with cute murals and friendly staff. Shrimp sandos shine, especially the Coconut Curry Shrimp with bold spices. Soft music keeps the mood balanced between quiet and lively.

Shrimp sandos stand out here, especially the Coconut Curry Shrimp and Shrimp Katsu Sando. The coconut curry version bursts with rich spices and bold flavors.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are fluffy, crispy, and perfectly moist."

"The curry here is bursting with flavor and rich spices."

"The seafood sandos here are delicious and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

You can order ahead using the website or via phone call.

2

They accept cash and card, but there is a charge for using a card, around 50 cents.

3

The place only offers inside seating.

19
LA MALCRIADA BIRRIERIA image 1

Small, quaint spot with family-friendly atmosphere and a patio deck for outdoor fun. Seafood is hit or miss, with fish tacos heavy on sauce and small shrimp portions. Casual vibe with good music and charming photo spots like a big red chair.

Fish tacos come with deep-fried batter and a mayonnaise sauce that covers most of the flavor. Shrimp portions are small and pico de gallo lacks taste, making the seafood options hit or miss.

People are saying

"This Mexican food tastes just like Tijuana, not Tex-Mex."

"The fish tacos here are really good and fresh."

"The ramen birria was surprisingly delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday specials offer regular Birria tacos for $2.50 all day.

2

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of birria options.

20
blue pokē image 1
Health food restaurant

Modern space offers a clean atmosphere with a chill vibe and wide variety of toppings. Seafood is incredibly fresh, with every protein tasting clean and fresh. Busy, fresh environment suits those who love customizable health-focused meals.

Seafood here stands out for its incredible freshness. Every fish and protein tastes clean and fresh, making the seafood consistently impressive.

People are saying

"The poke here is so fresh, especially the fish and veggie toppings."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh."

"This lunch spot is a perfect place for a quick, friendly, and delicious meal."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges extra for many toppings and sauces.

2

Portion sizes are smaller when ordering through delivery services.

3

Expect to pay around $23 for a 3-portion meal through delivery.

21
Market on 8th image 1
Food court

Food court buzzes with large tables and a bar with TVs for sports. Seafood taco shines as a highlight dish, while sushi offers tasty choices. Outdoor seating with fire pits adds cozy charm, perfect for families and groups enjoying live music and games.

Seafood taco stands out as a notable dish, often missed and considered a highlight. Sushi and seafood spots offer delicious options, though some shrimp may lack freshness and proper preparation.

People are saying

"The Market has tons of delicious food options, like fresh sushi and juicy burgers."

"I found a great beer selection and enjoyed the beer garden."

"The seafood here is delicious and super good."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited at Market on 8th.

2

The cafe closes after 5 PM, limiting dessert options.

3

There are various food vendors offering Mexican, Asian, and more.

22
Sushi n' Gone Teriyaki & Noodles image 1

Spacious spot with a bright interior and fun walls offers a chill vibe for solo meals or groups. Shrimp tempura shines with its crispy texture, while rolls like dynamite mix fresh fish and avocado for balanced taste. Live music adds to the casual feel.

Shrimp tempura stands out with its crispy texture and flavor. Rolls like the dynamite and samurai mix fresh fish, shrimp, avocado, and sauce for a balanced taste.

People are saying

"The ramen and sushi here are delicious and hit the spot."

"You have to try the jalapeño poppers; they're unforgettable."

"I've visited five times and never been disappointed with the seafood."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted for special occasions like birthdays.

2

Parking is limited during busy hours, so arrive early.

3

The total bill for two people averages around $65.

23
Crab Pub image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with crab clusters and fried shrimp baskets in a casual, shareable style. Cajun flavors like crawfish spice up the menu. Atmosphere swings from lively to loud during events, matching the high prices.

Seafood boil features crab clusters and shrimp with garlic noodles. Fried shrimp baskets add a crispy option in this down and dirty seafood spot.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really tasty and fresh."

"I enjoyed the good food and generous portions of seafood."

"The food here is really good and tasty."

Good to know

1

Crab Pub only offers takeout after 10 PM.

2

Bottled water is not offered at Crab Pub.

3

Expect high prices for food and drinks.

24
Sushi & Galbi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Casual spot with lively vibe and limited seating fills up fast. Sushi features thick fresh fish cuts and excellent fried shrimp. Perfect for groups who enjoy social dining and good seafood.

Fish portions in sushi come with thick cuts and are often fresh, offering good value. Fried shrimp stands out as excellent, though freshness varies across dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is super fresh and tasty."

"The seafood here, especially the sushi, has thick, fresh cuts."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy during peak hours, so arrive early.

2

Parking can be tight, especially during dinner hours.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy times.

25
Donburi Rice Bowls image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese rice bowls offer huge portions with crispy katsu and fluffy rice in a chill food court. Shrimp tempura adds seafood flavor but can be soggy. Relaxed atmosphere suits groups, though food takes time, delivering great value and taste.

Shrimp tempura appears in several dishes like donburi and curry, offering a delicious but sometimes soggy breading. Other seafood items like takoyaki complement the menu with filling options.

People are saying

"The shrimp tempura here is so delicious and filling."

"The Tonkatsu is so crispy and delicious."

"The Korean Food steak and kalbi were so good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait as food takes time to prepare.

2

The restaurant is located inside a market with other food vendors.

3

Portions are generous and worth the price.

26
Royal Mandarin image 1
Mandarin restaurant

Salt and pepper chicken wings and shrimp are signature dishes loved by many. The place feels family-friendly despite its noisy, crowded, and outdated interior. Expect a low-key setting with no frills but great flavor.

Salt and pepper shrimp stands out as consistently excellent and a go-to choice. The salt and pepper chicken wings and salt and pepper fish also receive frequent praise for their flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the salt and pepper chicken wings were the best."

"The dinner portions here are huge, easily feeding three or four people."

"I loved the salt and pepper seafood; it's perfectly fried and flavored."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

2

The restaurant is located inside a shopping plaza with ample parking.

3

Expect higher prices due to recent inflation and tariff increases.

27
Kimball Bar & Eatery image 1

Oceanfront dining shines with mesmerizing decor and a lively vibe. Grilled fish tacos offer a delicious seafood choice. Evenings bring live music and a warm fire pit for a cozy yet vibrant feel.

Grilled fish tacos stand out as a delicious option here. The seafood leans traditional and pairs well with other dishes like the fried fish tacos and sweet potato fries.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fresh and flavorful."

"I loved the food and enjoyed the live music."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great prices.

2

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on tacos and drinks.

3

Live music events happen every Saturday night, attracting large crowds.

28
Cotija's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Quiet spot with large portions and a busy drive-through suits families and fast food lovers. Diablo shrimp burrito offers a spicy seafood punch, while fish tacos bring fresh, tasty flavors. Limited parking and simple decor keep focus on food quality.

Shrimp dishes stand out with the Diablo shrimp burrito offering a spicy, flavorful kick. Fish tacos and burritos come with fresh, tasty fillings that many find memorable.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and delicious."

"I found the burritos here to be amazing and delicious."

"I thought the shrimp burrito was the best I'd ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Most Cotija's locations are for take-out food.

2

The prices have climbed way too high.

3

There was not enough parking at Cotija's Taco Shop.

29
Golden Chopsticks image 1
Chinese restaurant

Spacious interior with traditional Chinese decor offers bright natural light in private rooms. Honey Walnut Shrimp shines with consistent quality while shrimp lo mein is perfectly cooked. Loud, busy atmosphere creates a lively environment but can feel overwhelming during events.

Honey Walnut Shrimp stands out with consistent quality. Coconut shrimp and sweet and sour fish offer a balanced flavor. Shrimp in the shrimp lo mein is always cooked just right.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"These salt and pepper chicken wings are crispy and seasoned to perfection."

"You have to try the salt and pepper squid and chicken."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available until 3 p.m. with large portions.

2

Parking can be challenging due to limited spots in the shopping center.

3

Dine-in lunch orders include complimentary soup.

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