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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Clemente's best

Seafood spots

You expect your seafood to be handled with the respect that fresh ingredients deserve.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taqueria Luna image 1
Taqueria Luna image 2
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Restaurant

Tiny restaurant with limited indoor and outdoor seating offers a cozy patio and warm, relaxed vibe. Staff speak Spanish, adding to the authentic atmosphere. The place stays open late, serving fresh, well-regarded tacos and Mexican dishes at reasonable prices.

Mexican food here stands out for its delicious and exceptional flavors. Service matches the food quality with a friendly and attentive staff.

Fish tacos come with fresh tortilla chips, hand mashed guacamole, and yummy salsa. Shrimp tacos and grilled shrimp tacos also appear on the menu, served with rice and beans.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the best."

"I found the food here to be fantastic and delicious."

"I loved the fish tacos with the fresh guacamole and salsa."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos all day.

2

The restaurant is open until midnight on weekends.

3

Limited seating is available inside and in the shared walkway.

02
Primo Foods image 1
Grocery store

Local grocery store combines relaxed atmosphere with excellent Mexican food and affordable street tacos. Lines can be long, especially on discount taco days when prices drop to under a dollar. The place offers free samples and a smooth shopping experience with a strong neighborhood vibe.

Offers authentic Mexican food with great prices and high quality dishes. The cooked food and tacos stand out, alongside unique craft sodas and excellent BBQ options.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful fillings. The ceviche includes shrimp but leans light on quantity. Various tacos like chicken, carnitas, and birria also deliver solid seafood options.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"I thought the tacos were delicious and only cost $1.50."

"I loved the 69 cent seafood tacos on Tuesday and Friday."

Good to know

1

Tacos cost $0.69 on Tuesdays and Fridays, $0.99 on other days.

2

Expect long lines on Taco Tuesdays and Fridays, sometimes wrapping around the corner.

3

Parking options are limited and can be quite challenging.

03
Seasurf Fish Co image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small seafood restaurant with mostly outdoor seating and a laid-back vibe. Atmosphere is relaxing and cool, with enough noise to feel lively but still allow conversation. Features include a patio with heaters, a small indoor bar with TV, and quick table turnover.

Food impresses with excellent quality and unforgettable flavors. Prices stay surprisingly affordable even with drinks included.

Fish tacos and poke nachos stand out with strong flavors and generous portions. The menu also features garlic shrimp with jasmine rice and classic fish and chips, all served fresh with a solid local vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were the best anywhere."

"It's a casual spot with really fresh, plentiful seafood dishes."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and always excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with many items priced just a few dollars.

2

Enjoy $1 oysters and $3 battered fish tacos during happy hour on Tuesdays.

3

Parking is available behind the restaurant for easy access.

04
Surfin' Chicken Grill image 1
Chicken restaurant

Family-run chicken restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating that welcomes dogs. The menu features fresh grilled chicken and fish, including standout burritos and tacos. Prices remain reasonable considering the quality and homemade taste.

Food comes out hot, fresh, and delicious with a focus on great quality and homemade preparation. The menu centers on chicken fast food with consistently amazing freshness.

Fish dishes feature freshness and flavorful seasoning throughout. Options like the red snapper burrito and shrimp tacos come in generous portions and avoid greasiness.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super delicious and fresh."

"The fish here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a good selection of dishes to choose from.

2

Prices at Surfin' Chicken Grill are reasonable and not outrageous.

3

The restaurant is clean and has seating inside and outside.

05
Nalu's Hawaiian Fish Grill & Tutu's Kitchen image 1

Spacious setting with fun decor creates a chill vibe despite some wear and tear. The menu offers fresh, affordable seafood with standout dishes like perfectly fried fish and flavorful pineapple chicken. The atmosphere suits casual dining with a relaxed pace and light crowd.

Food here is fresh and flavorful, with a focus on healthy ingredients free from trans fats and high fructose corn syrup. The dishes capture the essence of old fashioned Hawaiian plate lunches with delicious, reasonably priced meals.

Grilled swai fish stands out with its flavor and portion size. Fish bowls feature perfectly fried panko-coated fish served on rice with pineapple salsa and a tasty sauce. Garlic shrimp noodles offer a subtle but enjoyable taste. Prices stay very affordable.

People are saying

"The fish here is perfectly fried with a delicious sauce."

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"The seafood here is perfectly fried with a delicious sauce."

Good to know

1

The prices for seafood are very affordable.

2

Food takes about 15 minutes to prepare.

3

The Teri chicken is a huge portion.

06
Riviera Restaurant & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Modern design and comfy seating create a chill but elegant atmosphere with awesome music enhancing the vibe. The space suits gatherings of any size and feels like a hidden gem among hotel restaurants. The mood stays pleasant and relaxed, making it a great spot to meet and unwind.

Food here reaches a high quality level similar to restaurants in Europe or Australia. Dishes like the chicken roulade with risotto stand out as delicious and beautifully prepared.

Fresh fish and shrimp stand out with perfect flavor and presentation. Fish and chips and salmon are common, but no scallops, oysters, or other shellfish appear on the menu.

People are saying

"I loved the homemade breakfast burrito and chips."

"The food here is delicious and homemade."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant offers a bottomless mimosa deal during brunch hours.

07
Coastal Cowboy CA Eats image 1
American restaurant

Modern country decor with cowgirl surf art creates a laid-back, fun vibe that feels warm and welcoming. Busy atmosphere fills with people drawn to bold, fresh flavors in dishes like smash burgers and fish tacos. Patio seating adds to the casual, inviting energy.

Food features top shelf quality with a menu full of amazing options. Service includes attentive servers who bring orders to the table after counter ordering.

Many gluten-free options exist, especially the fish and chips. The fish tacos come with bold, fresh flavors and pair well with fries and homemade chips.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"The staff at Outdoor Seating were so sweet and attentive."

"I loved the gluten-free seafood options, especially the fish and chips."

Good to know

1

On Thursday, all IPA beers are $5.

2

Expect a 30-40 minute wait during peak hours.

3

You can substitute a gluten-free bun for any sandwich or burger.

08
Min's Dumpling San Clemente image 1

Modern, clean space with a small outdoor patio offers a quiet, cozy atmosphere ideal for quick meals. The restaurant features a self-order system and serves authentic Northern Chinese dumplings with generous portions. Despite busy times, the vibe remains welcoming and straightforward.

Food features authentic Northern Chinese cuisine with fresh soup dumplings served hot and spiced just right. Ingredients stay fresh and flavors come through clearly, making the dishes taste like they do in Taiwan.

Shrimp pot stickers stand out with perfect pan-searing and better taste than pork versions. The menu also features shrimp & pork shu mai and honey walnut shrimp, both praised for their flavor.

People are saying

"The dumplings here are so fresh and tasty."

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentically delicious."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of dumplings and Chinese dishes.

2

Prices are reasonable for the portion sizes provided.

3

There are limited vegetarian and vegan options available.

09
9 Style Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, modern space offers a cozy, intimate vibe with a busy, popular atmosphere that often requires early arrival or reservations. The energy feels inviting and cool, attracting those who appreciate fresh, creative sushi and skilled chefs.

Food arrives timely with eye-catching plating. Dishes stay consistently delicious even during busy times.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh and well cut, with beautiful presentation that highlights its flavor.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi I've ever had."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and beautifully presented."

"The sushi and sashimi here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dining hours.

3

The restaurant is small, so arriving early is advisable.

10
Malulu Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi spot with a mom-and-pop vibe and limited seating like restaurants in Japan. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, attracting those who appreciate fresh, high-quality fish and traditional preparation. Offers a quiet, unassuming setting tucked away in a strip mall.

Food comes out fresh and beautifully arranged. Dishes range from tasty salads to consistently great sushi with solid quality and flavor.

Fish comes extremely fresh and of high quality with a great variety to choose from. The menu features omakase nigiri, yellow tail sashimi, and tasty rolls like the shrimp crunch roll prepared to perfection.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and high quality."

"I found the food here to be pretty good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but walk-ins are common.

2

Expect a 90-minute dining experience during peak hours.

3

The lunch menu offers great value for money.

11
Ilya image 1
Food and drink

Stone details and Cycladic-inspired dรฉcor create a warm, coastal Mediterranean atmosphere with a relaxed indoor-outdoor flow. Soft lighting and heaters keep the space cozy, while attentive service supports a luxury dining experience. The vibe suits both intimate dates and lively group nights.

Food features exceptional quality and Top Chef Mediterranean cuisine. Dishes deliver an exciting and delightful dining experience.

Fresh seafood shines with wood-fired cooking and Mediterranean flavors. Dishes include vibrant seafood and classic mezze meant for sharing.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"It's the perfect spot for a romantic date night."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful, especially the octopus."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Valet parking is available for $10, but street parking can be challenging.

3

Expect to share plates, as the menu is designed for communal dining.

12
Full Moon Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot with cozy, casual atmosphere and counter seats by the chef offering views of the ocean. Busy and lively, it draws people for affordable, fresh sushi and reasonable prices. The space feels tight and simple, creating a laid-back, welcoming vibe.

Food here is consistently fresh and delicious. Dishes come out quickly and taste excellent every time.

Fish quality varies greatly, with some servings being fresh and well made while others are rotten and spoiled. Poke bowls come with a large amount of fish.

People are saying

"The sushi here is incredible and a great price."

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and high quality."

"The seafood here is so fresh and well made."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials range from $9.50 to $12.50, including a roll, side, and miso.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere after 5pm; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking is readily available near the restaurant.

13
Franco's Famous San Clemente image 1

Spacious Mexican restaurant with an airy patio and pet-friendly courtyard offers a comfortable setting and lively bar area. The atmosphere blends friendly local energy with good music and a relaxed vibe. Cocktails, especially margaritas, stand out as a highlight alongside fresh chips and house-made salsa.

Mexican food offers great taste paired with tasty cocktails. Outdoor seating enhances the experience during happy hour with a pleasant breeze.

Shrimp dishes stand out with perfect spice and freshness. Fish and shrimp tacos deliver bold flavors, while shrimp enchiladas come with a side of guacamole.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and very well priced."

"The airy patio is a delightful spot for tasty Mexican food."

"The seafood tacos were perfectly spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6pm and all evening on Tuesdays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers an affordable menu with great options.

3

Expect a small wait for seating during popular happy hour times.

14
Ricos Mexican Food image 1

Small space with limited seating inside and outside offers a pleasant atmosphere and fast food Mexican dishes. The vibe is casual and comfortable, with freshly made food that draws consistent appreciation for its quality and flavor.

Food features excellent quality and fresh ingredients with dishes like asada torta and fish tacos served alongside fresh guacamole and warm chips. Service is friendly and attentive in a small, comfortable setting with outdoor seating.

Fish tacos feature fresh guacamole and warm chips alongside excellent quality fish. The preparation highlights the flavors well in both tacos and burritos.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and fresh."

"I loved the huge burritos with great salsa."

"The fish tacos here are heavenly and so fresh."

Good to know

1

It can take a few minutes from ordering until the food is ready, so calling your order in advance is recommended.

2

There is seating inside and a few tables outside if you want to enjoy the beautiful weather.

3

The small bottle of water costs $2.35.

15
China Bros image 1
Chinese restaurant

Fast food-style seating supports a steady flow of takeout orders in a space with good decorations but mixed cleanliness. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting despite some maintenance issues. Large portions and affordable prices attract those seeking quick, satisfying Chinese meals.

Food features authentic flavors and generous portions with a menu close to East Coast Chinese options. Dishes come fresh, delicious, and affordable, offering a taste similar to Panda Express but cheaper.

Seafood dishes feature honey walnut shrimp and shrimp with snow peas, noted for their flavor and texture. The seafood soup balances taste well without being too salty.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is delicious, especially the orange chicken."

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"The seafood soup was full of flavor and not too salty."

Good to know

1

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Lunch specials are available, offering good value for money.

3

Portion sizes are generous, making it suitable for teenagers and families.

16
Miyako Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Newly remodeled space combines cool modern design with cozy, clean atmosphere and friendly, quiet vibe. Sushi is known for exceptional freshness and quality, attracting steady crowds despite limited seating. Outdoor tables add casual option near the beach.

Food here is incredibly fresh and melts in your mouth. Dishes come out delicious and consistently amazing.

Fish arrives with incredible freshness every time. Both the wasabi and fish maintain high quality and freshness throughout.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is exceptionally good, especially the sushi."

"The food here is amazing and incredibly fresh."

"The seafood here is always super fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect over an hour wait for dine-in or takeout during peak hours.

2

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

3

Happy hour specials are available from 4-6pm on weekdays.

17
Chelas Mexican Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with outdoor seating and a chill atmosphere featuring contemporary Mexican music and soccer on television. The vibe is comfortable and relaxing, reminiscent of a beach shop in Mexico. Generous portions and flavorful dishes like burritos and rib eye tacos define the experience.

Food features freshness and excellent flavor with generous portions. Preparation is consistent and the taste is very good.

Fish tacos and burritos stand out here, especially the Shrimp Burrito and the Baja steak and shrimp burrito. Freshness shows in the fish tacos served with chips and salsa during happy hour for $6.

People are saying

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

"The tacos and rice and beans here are so good for Date Spots."

"You've got to try the fish tacos; they're so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 3 pm to close on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

2

Taco Tuesday offers great deals on tacos and is popular among locals.

3

On Wednesdays, enjoy fresh fish tacos with chips and salsa for $6 during Happy Hour.

18
San Clemente Pier image 1
Public beach

Long pier extends over the ocean with mesmerizing views and beautiful sunsets. Atmosphere feels historical and relaxing, attracting people who enjoy watching surfers and strolling along the shoreline. Fire pits and nearby restaurants add to the laid-back vibe.

Numerous food choices line the pier, including Gallette Crepes serving from early morning to afternoon and Fisherman's Restaurant offering excellent dishes. Food quality often stands out even more than the views.

Fresh seafood dominates the menu with oysters and coconut shrimp noted for their quality. Fish and chips stand out among the offerings at the pier's restaurants.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great beach and pier here."

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The seafood here is fresh, with views that are breathtaking and awe-inspiring."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1.50 per hour, but finding a spot can be challenging.

2

Public restrooms are available, but only Port-a-Potties are currently accessible.

3

Fisherman's Restaurant & Bar offers happy hour specials with great prices.

19
Nomads Canteen image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with a two-level patio and space heaters for comfort. Atmosphere reflects surf culture with loud music and a lively vibe, especially on the patio. Bar features include house-made margaritas and a focus on flavorful dishes like poke bowls and tacos.

Food features great taste and friendly service at an affordable price. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options for a spacious dining experience.

Pokรฉ bowls feature ahi tuna, shrimp, pork, and spam. Tacos and nachos come with fresh fish and excellent salsas and guacamole. Shrimp tacos and quesadillas add to the Tex-Mex seafood options.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really yummy and enjoyable."

"I enjoyed the great beer selection."

"I loved the shrimp tacos and poke bowls here."

Good to know

1

Parking on the premises is limited, but municipal parking is available nearby.

2

Nomads Canteen offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

3

The hotel is located in the heart of downtown San Clemente.

20
Los Patios Cocina Mexicana image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a comfortable patio that welcomes dogs. The vibe is relaxed and inviting, featuring fresh homemade tortillas and authentic dishes. The setting feels charming and cultural, reflecting an old downtown style.

Food comes out hot, fresh, and tasty with generous portions. Service and bar complement the consistently great meals.

Shrimp tacos stand out with fresh flavor and are often described as outstanding. Fish tacos also appear frequently and are consistently well-prepared.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, and Roxy is such a delight."

"I found the food to be authentic, fresh, and delicious."

"I thought the shrimp tacos were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, making it easy to drop in.

2

Parking can be tight, especially during busy hours.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly on the patio.

21
Guichos Eatery image 1
Italian restaurant

Takeout-only Italian eatery offers cozy atmosphere and fair prices with generous portions suitable for groups. Food includes creamy seafood pasta and fresh salads, enjoyed in various casual settings. Service handles large orders smoothly, though order accuracy needs attention.

Food comes out hot and fresh with a delicious taste that impresses every time. Meals offer great value and leave guests satisfied.

Shrimp fettuccine stands out with its creamy seafood flavor and is a frequent choice. Linguine with shrimp, scallops, and mushrooms offers a mix of seafood, though shrimp sometimes arrives overcooked and tough despite requests to avoid this.

People are saying

"I found the pasta here to be amazing, especially the fettuccine with shrimp."

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

"I loved the incredible flavor of the shrimp fettuccine seafood."

Good to know

1

Guichos Eatery is takeout only, limiting the dining atmosphere.

2

The prices are very fair for the portion sizes offered.

3

Both locations of Guichos Eatery are convenient for quick stops.

22
El Jefe Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Family-run Mexican cafรฉ offers a casual, authentic atmosphere with street-style tacos and homemade dishes. The vibe is relaxed, welcoming both families and those who want to watch the game with a beer. Plenty of parking and bilingual staff add to the local, approachable feel.

Food features authentic Mexican cuisine made in house with care. Meals carry a special flavor that satisfies cravings for home style dishes.

Fish and chips come with fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce, offering a classic combo. Shrimp dishes like the shrimp taco and shrimp and octopus cocktail stand out for their flavor.

People are saying

"I thought the food was super good and made fresh in-house."

"This Mexican food felt so authentic, it was like being in Mexico."

"I had the best fish and chips I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

The prices at El Jefe Cafe are very reasonable.

2

There is plenty of parking available, which is usually hard to find.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but there is a fee for ATM use.

23
Thai Dara image 1
Thai restaurant

Small space with cozy interior and calming music creates a quiet, relaxing atmosphere. Decor adds a pleasant, warm vibe suitable for intimate meals. Complimentary Thai chi service offers a unique touch.

Food here is consistently fresh and clean with flavors that stand out. Meals arrive piping hot and well packaged, keeping quality intact.

Shrimp comes with tails removed, showing extra care in prep. Mixed seafood curry includes mussels, shrimp, fish cakes, and octopus with veggies and rice. Shrimp sometimes overcooked and dry in noodle dishes.

People are saying

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

"I thought the green curry here was flavorful and cooked to perfection."

"The seafood curry here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

Lunch specials are available and offer large portions at affordable prices.

3

The spice levels can be high, even for mild dishes, so order carefully.

24
San Clemente Sushi Co image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small dining space with quaint, down-to-earth vibe and quiet atmosphere despite freeway proximity. Seating feels awkward but the setting suits romantic dinners well. Staff remain attentive, enhancing the friendly environment.

Food arrives quickly and stays fresh with high quality ingredients. Service matches the wonderful and amazing flavors on the plate.

Fish quality stays consistent and top-notch across dishes. Shrimp tempura appears on the menu but shrimp is missing from ordered items.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is fresh and delicious."

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully arranged."

"You have to try the scallops; they're the best seafood dish."

Good to know

1

Parking could be challenging on weekends and during the evenings towards dinner time.

2

The restaurant closes at 9 PM.

3

They have their own parking lot.

25
Italian Cravings image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with soothing instrumental music and comfortable outside seating. Space includes large booths and long tables suited for family gatherings. The vibe is warm and homey, attracting groups looking for a relaxed meal.

Food arrives promptly, usually within 20 minutes. Italian dishes are delicious, affordable, and consistently good over many years.

Seafood dishes feature generous clam portions with both cut-up pieces and whole clams. The gluten-free pasta with clams stands out as especially well-prepared and flavorful.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, rich, and full of flavor."

"I thought the pasta here was the best I've ever had."

"The gluten-free pasta with seafood was incredible."

Good to know

1

There is a parking lot available, along with street parking.

2

The menu offers varied options at reasonable prices with generous portions.

3

The restaurant is a small eatery nestled in the heart of town.

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San Clemente, California

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