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.
Calamari steak stands out with rich flavor and tender texture. The Calamari Sandwich offers an addictive, satisfying bite with breaded calamari as a tasty highlight.
Fresh seafood stands out for a quick lunch here. The spot serves simple, fast meals focused on quality fish.
"The calamari is so tender and perfectly cooked."
"The swordfish sandwich at this Lunch Spot is excellent."
Good to know
El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.
Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.
Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.
Small Italian restaurant blends modern design with traditional elements in a warm, inviting ambiance. Outdoor seating offers heated, shielded comfort ideal for conversation, while indoor space feels lively and energetic. Seating inside can be uncomfortable due to chair design.
Lightly breaded and tender, the calamari stands out as a perfectly cooked and delicious appetizer. It fits well with the menu's focus on fresh, traditional Italian dishes.
Monthly gatherings happen here for groups like the San Diego High School class of 1966. The spot serves amazing lunch that keeps people coming back.
"The calamari here is fantastic and generous."
"I highly recommend this lunch spot."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.
Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.
Parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during weekends.
Large warehouse-style space with roll-up windows creates an open-air feel that shifts from calm to lively depending on the crowd. Several big screen TVs and a modern bar attract a local crowd, blending casual dining with sports bar energy. Outdoor seating includes a dog-friendly patio with heaters, supporting relaxed socializing.
Fried Calamari comes with poblano chiles, morita crema, and lemon, creating a flavorful combo. The portion is somewhat petite but beautifully presented and tasty.
Generous portions and incredible service stand out during lunch. The spot works well for coworkers and offers a solid menu with good food and a welcoming atmosphere.
"This lunch spot has great food and generous portions."
"The fried calamari with poblano chiles was outstanding."
Good to know
Happy hour specials are available before 6pm with great prices.
Saturday nights feature live music, making it louder than usual.
Parking can be difficult during rush hour, but nearby stores have spots.
Italian restaurant with warm, inviting atmosphere and lively noise levels that vary between rooms. Decor features Italian style art and a modern, clean interior with two outdoor patios where dogs are allowed. The space balances a family-owned feel with areas suitable for quiet conversation.
Calamari steak strips stand out with a white sauce that adds rich flavor. The calamari appetizer consistently impresses with great taste and texture.
Lunch offers a delicious menu with options that satisfy many tastes. It serves as a reliable spot for gatherings, handling groups up to 24 people comfortably.
"This lunch spot has great food and quick, friendly service."
"I thought the calamari steak strips were amazing."
Good to know
Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted appetizers and drinks.
Parking is free but can be limited during peak hours.
The restaurant offers a half and half pasta menu for a great price.
Intimate American restaurant with outdoor dining featuring heaters and open-air options. Atmosphere stays calm yet upbeat with beautiful lighting and a warm, inviting vibe. Bar offers bottomless mimosas and well-crafted cocktails, attracting a lively brunch crowd.
Shared calamari stands out as a popular appetizer. It arrives perfectly made and pairs well with other starters like crispy fried artichokes.
Lunch here suits meetups with friends or coworkers. Weekday openings avoid waits and weekends draw a just right crowd.
"The food at this Lunch Spot was great."
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily with great drink specials and appetizers.
Enjoy $10 unlimited mimosas during brunch on weekends.
Monday features a special on ribs and fries.
Italian restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with wooden chairs and extensive homemade pasta menu. The vibe stays casual and relaxed, suitable for date nights or special occasions. Large portions and a strong wine selection complement the friendly, unpretentious setting.
Great calamari stands out with its fresh taste and satisfying texture. It pairs well with other dishes like bruschetta and Scallopina Marsala.
Lunch offers great prices and a great vibe. It works well for meeting friends.
"The calamari here tasted fresh with a light batter."
"The orecchiette pasta with sausage meat at this Lunch Spot was delicious."
Good to know
Parking is plentiful and free near the restaurant.
The menu features a wide variety of homemade pasta dishes.
Portion sizes are large enough for sharing or leftovers.
Space combines rustic charm and modern flair with high tables and some outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels cozy yet roomy, warm, and inviting with a chill, fun vibe. Crowd enjoys unique European flavors and fresh, farm-sourced ingredients in a setting that blends French and Spanish influences.
Calamari comes with a panko crust and is served in strips. The sweet and sour version is very sweet, almost like a dessert. Lime or lemon are offered as condiments.
Lunch offers reasonably priced beer and lunch combos that pair a small main with a salad. The lunch special provides a solid option for a quick meal with drinks.
"You have to try the calamari; it was excellent."
"The Lunch Spot's watermelon sangria is very tasty."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like theater shows.
The restaurant is wheelchair accessible with tables set up for easy access.
It's conveniently located just steps away from the Civic Theater.
Big old craftsman house converted into a restaurant offers large patio space with tiki torches and plants and a dog-friendly patio featuring fireside seating. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with islandy theme, good music, and a cool layout including a nice bar. The place fills up on weekends, creating a lively vibe with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating options.
Breading on the calamari is perfectly crisp with a spicy kick from deep-fried jalapeños. Comes with a very good dipping sauce that complements the dish well.
Lunch here suits casual meetups or relaxed dates with a pretty bar and grill design. The spot gets packed on weekends, and the fries come out thin and dry, which can be tough to chew.
"The chicken pot pie at this lunch spot is rich, savory, and satisfying."
"The calamari's dipping sauce is really good."
Good to know
Happy hour offers $8 sliders, $7 wine/beer, and $8 appetizers every day.
Parking can be tricky; arrive early to secure a spot across the street.
A cake cutting fee of $15 applies if you bring your own cake.
Small, family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy, authentic atmosphere and dated interior that feels like a time capsule. The place hosts an eclectic group of local regulars and offers a locals-only secret vibe. It serves excellent Italian food with standout dishes like lasagna and Oso Buco.
Italian-style fried calamari comes in a thin, crispy crust with a super tender inside. The portion is generous and the calamari is not greasy, paired with a craveable dipping sauce.
Lunch specials include spaghetti with marinara sauce that tastes good. Staff suggest asking for the lunch specials. The spot works well for both lunch and dinner.
"This lunch spot's food is delicious and a great price."
"The calamari here is super tender with a thin, crispy crust."
Good to know
Reservations are required for large parties to ensure seating.
Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.
A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.
Open air dining with patio seating offers views of the harbor and a dog-friendly atmosphere. Multiple TV screens provide entertainment, while real silverware and plates add a touch of formality to the casual setting.
Offers a relaxed atmosphere ideal for a quick or casual lunch. Serves delicious lunch options that satisfy without fuss.
"The fish tacos here are excellent and a great deal."
Good to know
Oyster night on Thursdays features $1.50 raw oysters, making it a popular event.
Expect large crowds on Thursday nights due to the oyster special.
Parking is generally easy for quick meals, especially on weekdays.
Steakhouse with old school Rat Pack style features red leather booths and a real fireplace creating a swanky, low-key vibe. The atmosphere is relaxed with 70s music playing and a bar known for classic cocktails. Spacious booths and preserved antique details add to the plush, vintage feel.
Lunches here stretch out over two hours with a slow, delicious pace. The spot suits hydraulic lunches with friends, offering a relaxed vibe for long meals.
"The prime rib at this Lunch Spot is perfect."
Good to know
Happy hour runs daily from 4pm to 10pm with great food and drinks.
The B.A.G networking event occurs on the second Tuesday of every month.
Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like Valentine's Day.
Italian restaurant offers beautiful outdoor patio and lovely bar with live music and romantic lighting. Atmosphere feels crowded yet lively, attracting diners seeking an authentic and vibrant experience. Dog-friendly outdoor seating adds a relaxed, inclusive touch.
Lunch features a $29 special with attentive service from Rodrigo and Nacho. Outdoor patio offers a private setting that enhances the meal experience.
"Rodrigo and his staff made our lunch spot feel special."
Good to know
Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.
Live music is featured on Wednesdays, enhancing the dining experience.
Reservations are recommended for special occasions like birthdays.