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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to San Diego

Steak and fish

The choice between a seared steak and a fresh catch from the water depends entirely on the mood of the evening.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Kinme Omakase image 1
Kinme Omakase image 2
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Japanese restaurant

Intimate setting with 10 seats and a dramatic marble wall creates a calm, luxe atmosphere. Guests watch chefs prepare world-class kaiseki and omakase dishes featuring fresh, high-quality fish and wagyu. The experience includes thoughtful presentation and a matcha tea ceremony, offering a quiet, elegant dining event.

A5 wagyu beef features prominently, served with seasonal vegetables or potatoes. Dishes highlight luxurious ingredients like wagyu and excellent fish, including smoked sashimi and wagyu tartare puffs.

Fish here shows exceptional quality. The freshness and texture stand out clearly.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is unforgettable, with melt-in-your-mouth flavors."

"The steak service is so attentive, they even refold your napkin."

"This fish is the best sushi I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least one month in advance due to limited seating.

2

The cost is over $250 per person, including tip.

3

Parking can be difficult in the downtown area.

02
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, family-owned seafood grill with hand-crafted furnishings and a fast casual setup where orders go at the counter. Atmosphere stays relaxing and friendly with a fun music selection and quiet pace. The place draws steady crowds despite its unassuming, modern storefront.

Steak dishes come with blue cheese crumbles and caramelized onions in red wine sauce. Ribeye skewers and sandwiches are juicy and cooked to rare perfection. Steak kabobs pair well with horseradish and sautéed spinach.

Fish dishes feature fresh, seared fish with sauce served on the side to highlight the flavor. The beer battered fish and homemade British-style chips stand out, especially the fish tacos and Rock Fish and chips.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are awesome and the chips are crispy."

"I ordered the steak and it was perfectly cooked."

"I thought the fish and chips were awesome."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have a bathroom, so plan accordingly before visiting.

2

Expect higher prices on the menu, with items averaging at least $4 more than expected.

3

Parking is ample and available near the restaurant.

03
SOBREMESA image 1
Latin American restaurant

Modern, minimalist Latin-American design blends clean lines with warm textures and live plants, creating a stylish and inviting space. Warm, vibrant atmosphere features seductive lighting and a lively playlist, attracting a fashion-forward, energetic crowd. Live entertainment and a well-curated bar area enhance a refined nightlife experience.

Ribeye stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. Steak dishes come well-prepared and consistently hit the mark.

Halibut stands out with its exceptional quality. Branzino comes perfectly cooked with a balanced sauce. Fish tacos taste light and bright.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with bold, fresh flavors."

"The grilled fish is cooked perfectly and so flavorful."

"You have to try the ribeye steak; it was unreal."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on busy evenings, so arrive early.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a vibrant atmosphere with live entertainment on weekends.

04
Sea & Sky image 1
Californian restaurant

Top-floor setting offers spectacular ocean views and wide windows that frame the coastline. Live jazz music plays softly, creating a luxurious and cozy atmosphere with soft lighting that encourages lingering. Evening energy centers on the sunset backdrop and a full bar serving unique cocktails.

Steak comes out perfectly cooked and pairs well with garlic aioli, chimichurri, and demi-glaze. The steak and frites at the bar offer a solid option with extra chimichurri.

Fresh fish stands out with a sweet, tart, and spicy yellowtail crudo that keeps the fish flavor clear. Seafood dishes consistently deliver good quality and freshness.

People are saying

"The view here is stunning, especially at sunset."

"I loved the steak and frites, cooked perfectly."

"The fish here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm, offering ocean views.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

05
Fonda Del Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican-inspired interior features hand-painted murals and hand-woven textiles that create an authentic, cozy atmosphere with warm, ambient lighting. Live music with acoustic guitar and saxophone adds a soulful, lively energy. Outdoor seating includes cushioned areas enhancing comfort.

Filet mignon comes tender and juicy, often topped with chile poblano sauce or stuffed with cotija cheese and panela in a creamy squash blossom reduction. Grilled skirt steak arrives with poblano peppers, spring onions, and sides like refried beans and enmoladas.

Fish sticks and fish nuggets stand out with solid flavor. Rock fish and salmon stripe also deliver tasty options.

People are saying

"This food, the filet mignon, is so tender and flavorful."

"The filet mignon steak was like butter, so tender and flavorful."

"The fish sticks and nuggets were delicious."

Good to know

1

Live music happens from Wednesday to Sunday after 7 PM.

2

Reservations are not required, and you can usually get a table without a wait.

3

Expect small portion sizes, which may be suitable for sharing.

06
Taco Time Cantina image 1

Bright colors and beautiful decor create an inviting space with both indoor and outdoor seating, including a cozy patio with heaters and cover. Atmosphere feels authentic and relaxing, suitable for casual dining with fresh air and friendly energy. A standout feature is the fantastic salsa bar offering a range of heat levels.

Steak tacos feature real filet mignon and a whole ribeye inside the tortilla, cooked perfectly with simple ingredients like guacamole and pickled onions. The ribeye burrito also delivers strong flavor, but the filet mignon bowl does not meet the same standard.

Fish tacos come with perfectly cooked, fresh fish and a nicely seasoned batter. Options include Baja style and fish burritos made to order, all at a very reasonable price.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"The fish tacos are fried to perfection and absolutely delicious."

"The ribeye in the tacos and bowls is packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.

2

The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.

3

Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.

07
La Jollita image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a relaxed beachy vibe with authentic Mexican energy and lively music that keeps noise levels comfortable for conversation. Interior features stunning, detailed decor and a spacious, dog-friendly patio. Atmosphere suits both family outings and date nights, blending cleanliness with uplifting design.

Steak comes off the grill cooked perfectly. The taco lorenza features steak with cheese. Steak pairs well with guacamole.

Zarandeado fish comes out cooked perfectly with a smoky flavor. The whole fish and surf and turf taco pair well with famous beans.

People are saying

"The food here is super fresh and high quality."

"The fish zarandeado was cooked perfectly and tasted amazing."

"The steak was cooked perfectly, just like it came off the grill."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

08
The Waves Taco Club image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright walls showcase hand-painted murals and vibrant artwork that draw attention throughout the space. A self-serve salsa bar offers a variety of sauces and toppings, adding flavor options to meals. The atmosphere combines lively music with a casual, downtown vibe.

Steak Tacos feature soft buttery steak wrapped in corn tortillas with grilled cheese. Carne asada steak tacos and steak baked potatoes come cooked well and full of flavor.

Fish tacos stand out with fried and breaded white fish and grilled Mahi options. The menu also features scallop and garlic shrimp tacos, all priced reasonably with combos including a beer.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be amazing, especially the chipotle shrimp."

"I found the fried fish taco to be one of the best I've ever eaten."

"I found the steak and egg dish with a giant egg to be very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is available around the corner from the restaurant.

2

The restaurant does not have public restrooms for customers.

3

Expect no wait to order on Sunday nights.

09
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Panoramic ocean views define the setting, especially from the outdoor patio with heated lamps and a fire pit for warmth. The atmosphere stays elegant and quiet, welcoming guests with attentive service and thoughtful touches like table decorations and complimentary champagne. The place draws those seeking a refined dining experience paired with stunning scenery.

Steak comes as medallions that pair well with seafood like scallops and lobster. The dishes feature rich flavors and a high-quality preparation.

Fish arrives fresh and cooked to perfection, with dishes like Parmesan crusted sole served in a light lemon cream sauce that feels fresh and not greasy.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is spectacular and to die for."

"The steak here felt like a fine dining experience, every moment."

"The fish here is so fresh and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

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

3

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking availability.

10
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Filet mignon stands out with its incredible sauce and rich flavor. Denver steak also delivers solid taste, making the steak options well worth trying.

Fresh fish shines in the whole grilled branzino and rock fish tacos. Fish dishes come with unique touches like slate plates for fish and chips.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The filet mignon's flavor and sauce were pure happiness."

"The whole branzino fish is perfectly cooked and a must-try."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

11
The Noble Chef (豪記私房菜) image 1

Small space with simple decor creates an authentic Cantonese atmosphere. The vibe feels like an everyday neighborhood diner with a cozy, unassuming setting. Limited seating and a popular, lively crowd shape the experience.

Steak comes sizzling hot and large, especially the peppercorn steak which stands out as a popular choice. The beef is served with a strong black pepper flavor that makes it memorable.

Fish dishes feature black bean sauce and black pepper preparations. Signature options include steamed sea bass and assorted seafood plates with fish and shrimp.

People are saying

"I found the Cantonese food here to be so good and reminded me of China."

"You have to try the peppercorn steak; it's a must order."

"The black pepper fish is light and delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-40 minute wait for a table on busy nights.

2

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

3

Parking is easy and complimentary for diners.

12
The Butchery image 1
Butcher shop

Butcher shop combines wide selection of meats, fish, and cheeses with an impressive butcher counter and artisan foods. Atmosphere includes a sit-down area where sandwiches and burgers stand out for quality and flavor. Shelves feature rare beers and unique cooking ingredients, creating a specialty food market vibe.

House marinated steak stands out with its rich flavor. The tender steak and steak tip also deliver solid, enjoyable bites.

A wide selection of fresh fish complements the variety of meats available. The fish options consistently stand out for their quality and range.

People are saying

"I thought the pastrami sandwich was one of the best I've had."

"I found a great selection of fish here."

"I found the tender steak to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop opens at 9 AM, while the kitchen opens at 10 AM.

2

They offer a wide selection of meats, fish, cheeses, and artisan foods.

3

Expect a great variety of spices, oils, and vinegars for cooking.

13
Itacho Sushi - All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious sushi restaurant with well spaced tables and large TV screens showing cultural and sports content. Atmosphere stays pleasant and chill with moderate music volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe blends a modern, clean style with a fun anime theme, welcoming groups of all sizes.

Steak teppanyaki stands out with its rich flavor. The wagyu offers a tender, high-quality bite.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh and cut to perfection. Generous cuts appear in appetizers and handrolls, with mackerel and other varieties showing clear freshness and careful preparation.

People are saying

"The bottomless sushi here is delicious and satisfying."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"You have to try the steak teppanyaki; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $30, offering a wide variety of sushi.

2

Lunch service does not include a menu on weekends or holidays.

3

Sushi orders come in full rolls of 8 pieces, providing good value.

14
Ortega's A Mexican Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Quaint bistro with authentic Mexican decor and soft lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Classic Mexican music plays, adding to the vibrant yet cozy vibe. Outdoor seating and a separate upstairs area offer varied spaces for dining and meetings.

Steak comes in large portions with rich mushroom sauce and pairs well with seafood like lobster and shrimp. The steak burrito stands out as incredible and the steak itself is cooked perfectly.

Mahi mahi stands out as a delicious fish dish here. The fish tacos, especially the grilled and Ensenada style, come with perfectly thin, crisp batter and are consistently excellent.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the fresh tortillas and flavorful tacos."

"I thought the fish tacos were incredible."

"The steak and lobster were cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Brunch includes unlimited mimosas at a great price.

2

Happy hour specials are available from 6pm.

3

Parking can be a challenge in the area.

15
Cocinas Del Monte image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Garden-style seating overlooks a river, creating a spacious outdoor setting with a warm, rustic-modern vibe. Soft jazz music plays, enhancing a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. The place feels well run and comfortable, offering breakfast all day in a clean, beautifully decorated space.

Steak varies from tender and easy to cut to overcooked depending on the dish. Some orders include an extra charge for steak that isn't always mentioned upfront.

Fish tacos come crispy and fresh with just the right amount of sauce. They arrive with a side of black beans and rice, making for a filling and flavorful meal.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The fish tacos here are crispy, fresh, and flavorful."

"The steak here is great, and the staff is so friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available nearby.

2

The restaurant serves breakfast all day.

3

Happy hour starts at 2 PM with special pricing.

16
California English image 1

Sprawling restaurant blends indoor art deco with a lush outdoor patio featuring a grassy area for lawn games. Atmosphere stays cheeky and vibrant with live classical music and a lively crowd. Cocktail menu highlights tea-based drinks alongside unique British-inspired dishes.

Prime rib comes with a chimichurri sauce and serves well for sharing. Kids' steaks have a nice char and stay tender. Steak salad offers a flavorful option alongside other dishes.

Fish and chips come with avocado tartar that changes the game. The dish stands out as a must-try and pairs well with the burger.

People are saying

"The Fish And Chips here are huge and excellent."

"The fish and chips are huge and a must-order."

"The hangar steak was delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great cocktail deals.

3

The restaurant allows individual payments during happy hour.

17
Hasta Mañana Cantina image 1

Lively restaurant with colorful decor and upbeat Latino music that creates a high-energy atmosphere. Spacious layout includes a large bar offering a wide selection of drinks. Outdoor seating provides a shaded area for a more relaxed experience.

Wagyu skirt steak stands out in the carne asada, offering rich flavor. Fajitas feature tender steak and chicken, making the dishes fresh and flavorful.

Fried fish tacos come true Baja style with crispy texture. White fish ceviche offers a bright acidity paired with seasoned, thick tortilla chips.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

"The Carne Asada with wagyu skirt steak is fresh and flavorful."

"The fried fish tacos are prepared true Baja style."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on drinks runs from 3-6pm daily.

2

Expect a $6 charge to add meat to quesadillas.

3

Generous portions are served, so come hungry or plan to share.

18
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

Steaks come out tender and perfectly cooked, with options like T-bone, ribeye, skirt, and flat iron. Fries and veggie medley often accompany the dishes.

Fried fish tacos stand out with a blackened, flavorful taste. The fish and chips feature a crispy, delicious batter, and the Mahi Mahi tacos offer a satisfying fried option.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I enjoyed the fish and chips; they were delicious."

"I had the steak, and it was cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

19
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.

Steak comes perfectly seasoned and fills tacos and burritos generously. The Steak n Shrimp Cali Burrito is large, melts in your mouth, and combines steak and shrimp without skimping on either.

Grilled fish tacos come fresh and cooked perfectly with toppings that enhance every bite. The beer battered fish and seafood trio tacos offer a satisfying crunch and flavor that stand out.

People are saying

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

"I thought the grilled fish tacos were amazing."

"The steak taco was pretty solid and had a bit more flavor."

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.

20
PT Eatery image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious and clean interior offers ample seating with a friendly, airy design. Atmosphere feels relaxing yet slightly uncomfortable at times, accommodating groups and families. The place fills with people and carries an amazing aroma upon entry.

Beef tenderloin comes fried or sizzling, with the fried version cooked to tender perfection. The sizzling option offers a tasty experience, though some find it just okay.

Grilled and fried fish feature prominently, with the fried fish price rising notably from $40 to $69 for the same size. Staff ask about fish weight, which is unusual. The sole fish and fish sauce chicken wings stand out as distinctive dishes.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"I thought the beef tenderloin was tasty and tender."

"I found the baked catfish delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on busy nights to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is ample, with an EV charging station available on-site.

3

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

21
Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar image 1
American restaurant

Large space with warm lodge-like decor and a dog-friendly outdoor patio featuring heaters and a fire pit. Atmosphere feels homey and lively, suitable for both casual meals and social gatherings. Busy environment often requires reservations, with a mix of bar seating and dining booths.

Steak comes perfectly cooked and seasoned with options like the Korean Ribeye and flat iron steak served alongside mashed potatoes and spinach. Staff handle steak issues promptly, ensuring a smooth dining experience.

Four big pieces of fish make up the fish and chips, which stay crispy even 20 minutes after serving. The fish tacos and other fish dishes also get positive mentions for taste.

People are saying

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

"I had an amazing steak dinner, cooked perfectly."

"The fish and chips are still crispy after 20 minutes."

Good to know

1

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar allows customers to bring their dogs during Sunday brunch.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger parties.

3

Parking can be challenging, so arrive early.

22
Zama San Diego image 1
Latin American restaurant

Latin American restaurant with beautiful Tulum-inspired decor and a magical patio creates a lively atmosphere. Music plays loudly, often featuring DJs and dancers, making the vibe energetic and festive. Celebrations include sparklers and indoor fireworks, adding to the dynamic party energy.

Steaks come out perfectly cooked and very tender, especially the filet mignon and A9 Wagyu. Options include a Porterhouse and a tomahawk, both highly praised for quality.

Fresh fish stands out with the Salmon Sashimi and Chilean Sea Bass offering great taste. Sushi platters feature fish that practically melts in your mouth with balanced flavors throughout.

People are saying

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

"The filet mignon was cooked to perfection."

"The fish here is so fresh, it practically melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

23
TopSail image 1
Restaurant

Rooftop restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views with a chic and charming ambiance. Outdoor seating includes lounge groups with fire pits that create a chill atmosphere by the water. Music plays at a comfortable level, enhancing the relaxed vibe.

Skirt steak stands out with its rich flavor and tender texture. Rib eye chicharrón offers a crispy, savory twist on classic steak cuts.

Fish comes out crispy and pairs well with fries. The fish and chips taste consistently good and satisfyingly crunchy.

People are saying

"I loved the great view of the harbor and sunset."

"The fish and chips were so crispy and tasted really good."

"The skirt steak here is a must-try, especially with chimichurri."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers cocktails and small plates, but food specials are limited.

2

The rooftop bar provides stunning views, ideal for sunset dining.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups to avoid long wait times.

24
AKA San Diego image 1
Restaurant

Interior features Asian-inspired decor with stylish, romantic design and photo-friendly artwork. Atmosphere balances warm, welcoming vibes with lively music and dancing, creating a fun environment for groups. Cocktails and sushi stand out as notable highlights.

Filet mignon stands out with perfect cooking, tender texture, and bursting flavor. Seared wagyu and prime steak also offer great tenderness and rich taste.

Fish dishes show super fresh quality with some ranking among the top ever tasted. Sushi fish sometimes carries a chemical taste, and nigiri rice lacks enough stickiness to hold well.

People are saying

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

"This steak is so tender and flavorful, it's the best I've ever had."

"I had one of the top three best fish dishes ever."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant turns into a nightclub on weekends after dinner.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

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