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San Diego's best

Clam Chowder spots

You are looking for a bowl of clam chowder that is worth the trip on its own.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Surfside Fish House image 1
Surfside Fish House image 2
Surfside Fish House image 3
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Casual restaurant with clean, bright decor and a cool San Diego mural creates a welcoming, chill atmosphere. Seating includes outdoor patio and bar options, with a lively vibe that can get noisy when busy. Offers affordable, fresh seafood with a serious focus on quality and variety.

Food arrives quickly with house-made chips and plenty of oysters. Dishes offer original flavors and high quality at reasonable prices.

Rich and creamy clam chowder features plenty of seafood and a delicious, hearty flavor. It stands out as a top tier soup alongside other seafood dishes.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the happy hour with $2 tacos and $6 wine."

"The food here is really great and delicious."

"I haven't had such good clam chowder in so long."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 pm with $2 fish tacos and $1.5 oysters.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price, especially the kids' shrimp basket.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes at very reasonable prices.

02
Charli's Landing image 1

Outdoor seating overlooks a bayfront marina with unbeatable views of boats and the harbor. Atmosphere stays relaxed and quiet with no loud music, inviting casual dining and sunbathing. Patio welcomes dogs and offers simple games like connect 4, creating a friendly, laid-back vibe.

Food stands out with amazing breakfast tacos and shrimp tacos praised for their flavor. Staff provide thoughtful service, including extra portions and convenient to-go packaging.

Clam chowder appears as a tasty option, sometimes featured as a special not on the menu. It pairs well with other items like tacos and onion rings, all noted for their flavor.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are phenomenal, fresh, and juicy."

"I thought the food here was really good and tasty."

"I was surprised by the quality and taste of the clam chowder."

Good to know

1

Outdoor seating is available, providing great views of the marina.

2

The eatery has a free parking lot for customers.

3

You can order from a QR code at the table to skip the line.

03
bar Ella Pacific Beach image 1

Sleek space with pink and blue lighting and a patio deck overlooking the ocean creates a stylish, welcoming vibe. Atmosphere blends laid-back energy with a female-friendly, girls night out feel, suitable for dates and casual gatherings. Live music and customizable events add to the dynamic, inclusive environment.

Food combines unique flavors with quality ingredients. Standouts include the flat iron steak, burger, and fried olives appetizers. A kids menu offers quick service to keep little ones comfortable.

Clam chowder features generous portions and a symphony of seafood flavors. It pairs well with scallops and other seafood dishes like linguini with clams.

People are saying

"The Bar Ella team handled every detail for my event, making it magical."

"The food here is simple, satisfying, and always tasty."

"The clam chowder was a symphony of seafood flavors."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:00 PM with great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The 'Tinis and Weenies' special on Wednesdays features $8 martinis and $4 hot dogs.

3

Reservations are recommended for private events and large gatherings.

04
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.

Fresh fish and other seafood dishes stand out with their freshness and delicious flavors. Seating and catering options make it convenient for dining in or ordering out.

Clam chowder here matches New England style closely, creamy and rich. It pairs well with seafood dishes like seabass and swordfish sandwiches.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

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

"The food here is unbelievably 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.

05
Sportsmen's Seafoods image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers epic bay views with plenty of outdoor seating by the docks and boats. Atmosphere feels unpretentious and cozy, attracting those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh seafood and a beer. Indoor space is small, but the focus stays on the harbor setting and relaxed vibe.

Food arrives fresh and perfectly cooked with a clear focus on deliciousness and affordability. Chef Quetita's care shows in every dish, making the meals consistently very good and satisfying.

Bread bowl holds clam chowder packed with clams. Soup tastes yummy and flavorful.

People are saying

"The shrimp tacos here are the best, seriously bomb."

"The patio has great marina views."

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but can be challenging during busy times.

2

Prices are reasonable, with fish tacos costing around $15.

3

The seafood is fresh and often sushi-grade.

06
Point Loma Fish Shop image 1
Seafood restaurant

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.

Food feels fresh and well prepared with no overcooking. Dishes come out consistently satisfying and delicious.

Rich and generous portions define the clam chowder here. It serves warmer than some versions and stands out as a top choice compared to other spots.

People are saying

"The seafood tacos, especially the shrimp and sea bass, were magical."

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I thought the clam chowder was very tasty and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Oyster night on Thursdays features $1.50 raw oysters, making it a popular event.

2

Expect large crowds on Thursday nights due to the oyster special.

3

Parking is generally easy for quick meals, especially on weekdays.

07
La Corriente La Jolla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space blends French cafรฉ and beach bungalow styles with beautiful decor and terrace seating. Atmosphere stays laid back and soothing, ideal for conversation. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and warm hospitality.

Food features freshest, authentic flavors with a cozy, hidden gem vibe. Service includes excellent recommendations enhancing the dining experience.

Thick broth and lots of fillings make the clam chowder stand out. Some find it over salted, while others say it does not need crackers and comes in a bread bowl that cools it quickly.

People are saying

"I've never had a fresher, crispier fish taco."

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

"I've never had a more delicious bowl of clam chowder."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends promptly at 6pm; order before then to get the discount.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is not available; consider alternative transportation options.

08
Bay Club Bar & Grill image 1
American restaurant

Restaurant offers beautiful marina views with a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Bar is small but well stocked and the setting includes outdoor seating by the water. Food includes rich clam chowder and outstanding salmon, with reasonable prices and a relaxed vibe.

Food offers four-star quality taste with reasonable prices. Dishes consistently deliver great flavor and satisfy across different visits.

Clam chowder offers a rich and flavorful taste with excellent flavor noted. Some find it good, while others consider it only marginal compared to other dishes.

People are saying

"The salmon here is outstanding; you'll love it."

"Happy Hour has an awesome view by the pool and marina."

"I found the food to be really excellent."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is no longer offered at Bay Club Bar & Grill.

2

The late lunch menu is very limited.

3

Reservations are recommended for outdoor seating.

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