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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Seafood spots in Hillcrest

Seafood that tastes like it belongs to the coast rather than a generic supply chain.

Based on 665 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot shines with fresh fish and creative rolls that taste ocean-fresh. Interior boasts Japanese murals and a warm vibe despite some loud music. Clean, modern design makes it cozy and inviting.

Fish tastes exceptionally fresh, like it just came out of the ocean. The quality shows clear care in preparation and sourcing.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the matcha flan; it's the best dessert I've ever had."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking is limited; allow extra time to find street parking.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

02
Makai Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers fresh seafood with dishes like the Godzilla sushi bowl. Cozy indoor and welcoming patio create a laid-back Hawaiian vibe. Music adds a sophisticated touch while the atmosphere stays casual and inviting.

Fish comes incredibly fresh with top-notch quality and solid sauces. The seafood shines in dishes like the Godzilla sushi bowl, where fish, rice, and avocado blend perfectly.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the freshest I've ever tasted."

"The owner Matthew makes you feel right at home during lunch."

"The seafood here is amazingly fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

03
Tacaliente Mexican Grill image 1

Open dining space with bright murals and TVs sets a casual, authentic tone. Seafood shines with battered fish tacos and budget-friendly happy hour deals. Self-serve salsa bar with hot carrots adds fun flavor options for relaxed meals with friends and family.

Battered fish tacos stand out with their big, fresh, and tasty portions. Happy hour offers affordable deals like $2.50 fish tacos and draft beer, making seafood options like shrimp tacos and street tacos easy to enjoy.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be fantastic and packed with flavor."

"The fish tacos here feel like family thanks to Matthew's warm welcome."

"I thought the fish tacos were delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers four tacos for $7 starting at 2 PM.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 PM with fish tacos at $1.29 each.

3

They accept credit cards only; no cash payments.

04
Ortega's A Mexican Bistro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Quaint bistro offers authentic Mexican decor and a warm atmosphere with classic music. Seafood lovers enjoy shrimp enchiladas and crisp fish tacos in various styles. Outdoor seating and an upstairs area provide flexible spaces for dining and meetings.

Shrimp enchiladas stand out with rich flavor. Fish tacos come in several styles, including grilled and Ensenada style, both thin, crisp, and highly praised. Mahi mahi dishes also offer a delicious option.

People are saying

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

"The tableside guacamole with homemade chips shows extra effort."

"I highly recommend the shrimp enchiladas and fish tacos."

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.

05
Corner Cafe image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, family-owned spot offers a laid-back vibe with authentic Cantonese dishes. Shrimp shines in walnut shrimp and black bean sauce. Seating faces the street, creating a casual, chill setting. Food arrives fast, perfect for a quick, tasty meal.

Shrimp dishes stand out with walnut shrimp and shrimp in black bean sauce. Noodle options include fried noodles with shrimp and a steaming hot shrimp noodle soup.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here tastes homemade and authentic."

"The seafood dishes here, like the walnut shrimp, were amazing."

"The takeout here is surprisingly delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking could be an issue depending on the hours.

2

There aren't many tables, so during peak times, it might be better to order takeout.

3

There is 15-minute parking outside for pickup.

06
Cluck N' Sip image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with a friendly vibe and soft Mandarin music offers juicy chicken and southern-style fish sandwiches with pickles. Sides like mashed potatoes and glazed salad balance the meal. Affordable prices and clean, casual seating make it a great choice.

Fish sandwiches feature southern-style seasoning and come with pickles for around $6. Fried fish and chicken are cooked to perfection without being overly seasoned. Sides like mashed potatoes with gravy and glazed salad complement the house sauces well.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is so juicy and crispy."

"I loved the spicy Mac and Cheese; it scored a perfect 10."

"I loved their fish sandwiches, seasoned just right."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch deal every day for $7.99, including two chicken tenders, a side, and a drink.

2

Happy hour specials are available at Cluck N' Sip.

3

The restaurant is halal certified, making it a good option for halal diners.

07
Lazy Acres Market - Mission Hills image 1

Market shines with fresh poke bar offering Hawaiian seafood flavors and a helpful fish counter. Enjoy natural foods and specialty bakery treats in a clean, local setting with outdoor seating and EV charging. Prices lean high but quality stands out.

A whole pokรฉ bar offers multiple seafood options prepared with Hawaiian flavors. The seafood department stays fresh with well-cut fish and helpful staff at the meat and fish counter.

People are saying

"I found a great selection of fresh, organic healthy foods here."

"I thought the Cookie was amazing, packed with chocolate chips."

"I found the seafood here to be really fresh and well-prepared."

Good to know

1

The market offers a great selection of fresh produce and healthy snacks.

2

There is plenty of parking available for customers.

3

They provide samples of their cosmetics section.

08
Parma Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot offers intimate seating and a dog-friendly patio for a warm, family vibe. Seafood lovers enjoy linguine with clams and unique specials like squid-ink pasta. Staff add authentic charm to every visit.

Linguine with clams and shrimp fettuccine with vodka sauce stand out on the menu. Specials like squid-ink pasta and seafood risotto add variety and flavor.

People are saying

"The pasta here is amazing, truly the best I've ever had."

"The food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The seafood pasta here is amazing, especially the walnut pesto with shrimp."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during busy dinner hours to secure a table.

2

On Wednesdays, enjoy 30% off a bottle of wine with dinner.

3

The Tuesday date night menu offers great value for couples.

09
La Vecindad Neighborhood TACOS image 1

Colorful outdoor seating and kitsch Mexican decor create a lively vibe. Fish tacos shine with blackened and grilled options and unique bacon-wrapped shrimp. Cool vibes come from a unique salsa bar and flavorful micheladas.

Fish tacos stand out with options like blackened, grilled, and quesa birria styles. The Seafood Trio taco and bacon-wrapped shrimp in the Costal Azul taco add unique flavors.

People are saying

"I ate the best tacos I have ever eaten here."

"The Bisteces Rancheros seafood is so good, my tastebuds went wild."

"I had the best handmade corn tortillas Iโ€™ve ever had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers 2 tacos for $8 and $9 house margaritas.

2

Happy hour runs Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 3 to 6 pm.

3

Each canned or bottled soda is priced at $4.

10
CURRY NATION - INDIAN RESTAURANT & CATERING image 1

Modern interior and calm atmosphere create a cozy spot for families and friends. Tandoori shrimp offers a spicy grilled seafood option alongside rich dishes like butter chicken. Indian music adds to the welcoming vibe.

Tandoori shrimp features prominently alongside dishes like butter chicken and gobi manchurian. It offers a spiced grilled flavor that complements the other rich, saucy items.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and perfectly seasoned."

"The mango lassi is so smooth and refreshing."

"The seafood dishes here are packed with flavor and taste super fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the lot under the Atlas building, which is free.

2

The restaurant does not yet have a liquor license, but it is being worked on.

3

The menu features a good variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

11
Pokรฉ Chop image 1

Small poke bar shines with fresh fish and generous portions that satisfy seafood lovers. Inside seating offers a trendy, clean interior with football games on TVs. Good vibes and great music make it a fun spot with no wait times.

Fish comes in super fresh and top quality cuts that melt in your mouth. Portions are generous and the flavor stands out compared to average poke shops.

People are saying

"I found the poke here to be the best I've ever tasted."

"I found the parking to be limited."

"The seafood here is so fresh and tastes amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking at Pokรฉ Chop can be a nightmare, but there is a lot available.

2

The medium size poke bowl comes with three scoops of protein.

3

Avocado costs $1 extra for about 5-7 slices.

12
White Elephant Asian Kitchen image 1

Quaint restaurant with a serene atmosphere and soft music offers a relaxed vibe for casual meals. Massive shrimp shine in appetizers and spicy fried rice delivers bold flavors. Quiet setting makes it perfect for unwinding.

Massive shrimp appear in the shrimp appetizer and fire cracker shrimp. Spicy fried rice and seafood pad talay stand out with strong flavors. Tom yum with shrimp lacks flavor and has soggy shrimp.

People are saying

"The salads here are so fresh and full of flavor."

"This Thai food's noodle soup has a super chewy noodle and flavorful broth."

"I found the seafood pad talay to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, so consider arriving early.

2

Seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

3

The patio is dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

13
RK Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot buzzes with vibrant energy and a family-friendly vibe. Fresh fish shines, especially the unbelievable oysters and tender seafood with spicy sauce. Quick lunches keep it reliable and authentic.

Fish comes incredibly fresh with a perfect balance of fresh fish flavor and sauce. Oysters stand out as unbelievable, and cooked seafood options offer tender dishes with spicy sauce and sesame oil.

People are saying

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

"I thought the spicy ramen was legit and pretty good."

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on select items.

2

The all-you-can-eat menu is $40 but has limited options.

3

Parking is available in a small lot with about 10 spaces.

14
Crest Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Open kitchen and standing tables create a clean, inviting atmosphere. Bright yellow umbrellas and a bar add a casual, social vibe. Fish tacos with beer-battered mahi mahi are fresh and affordable, making it a top spot for seafood lovers.

Fish tacos come in beer-battered mahi mahi and are perfectly cooked. Options include tacos, burritos, rolled tacos, quesadillas, nachos, fries, and crunch wraps, with some fish tacos priced at $1.99.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is made with genuine care and warmth."

"I loved the rich flavors of their fantastic salsas."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the perfectly cooked fish."

Good to know

1

Crest Taco offers a limited menu of high-quality tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.

2

Fish tacos are available for $1.99, making them a budget-friendly option.

3

The restaurant is open late on weekends, perfect for late-night cravings.

15
Cocina De Barrio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Modern Mexican spot shines with fresh margaritas and a breezy patio perfect for people watching. Seafood lovers enjoy tender fish tacos and zesty ceviche with local shrimp. Stylish design and generous portions create a friendly vibe that feels both high class and welcoming.

Fish tacos come out tender and flavorful. The menu features ceviche with local shrimp, brightened by citrus and habaneros, plus tender octopus and fresh oysters.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here delicious and full of flavor."

"The French toast and birria tacos are amazing for brunch."

"The fish tacos and ceviche here are delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm most days with affordable prices.

2

Expect a busy crowd on weekends; arrive early to avoid long waits.

3

Parking can be limited with only street parking available.

16
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store offers fresh seafood with a wide fish and oyster selection, including shucked oysters on ice. Cozy aisles lead to a rooftop seating area and an Amazon pick-up station. Crowds come for ready-made meals and fresh produce.

Fresh seafood includes a huge selection of fish and oysters. Oysters come shucked and plated on ice, with staff checking they are alive before picking. Unique options like tin fish are available, and special deals on oysters happen on Fridays.

People are saying

"I found so many fresh, organic, and healthy food options here."

"I found the market's prepared food and desserts to be high quality."

"I love getting shucked oysters on ice, especially during their Friday deals."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely difficult, especially during peak hours.

2

Whole Foods Market offers special deals on Tuesdays and Fridays.

3

The hot food bar may not be ready by 11 AM.

17
Dumplings N More image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy spot with handmade dumplings and a warm, quiet vibe feels like home cooking. Seafood shines in honey walnut shrimp and authentic shrimp dumplings, blending crunchy textures with rich, comforting flavors. Vegetarian options add variety to the menu.

Honey walnut shrimp stands out with a crunchy texture and rich flavor. Shrimp dishes like Dim Sum Crystal Shrimp and shrimp dumplings offer authentic tastes reminiscent of China. The shrimp with preserved cabbage blends seafood with a comforting broth vibe.

People are saying

"I found the dumplings here to be authentically delicious."

"This lunch spot's special was excellent and delicious."

"The shrimp dumplings here reminded me of China."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough around the restaurant, so plan accordingly.

2

Lunch specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.

3

The restaurant is family-run and known for handmade dumplings.

18
TASTE OF THAI - HILLCREST image 1

Small dining space offers a cozy atmosphere with authentic Thai decor and soft classical music. Fried whole fish shines with crisp skin and rich traditional flavors. Quiet weekdays make it perfect for a relaxed meal.

Fried whole fish comes with a crisp skin, ginger, and a sauce full of traditional Thai flavors, served with vegetables and Chinese mushrooms. Pad see-iw noodles with tofu and pad cha seafood stand out, while shrimp dishes can vary in freshness.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is delicious and flavorful."

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

"The seafood here is great, and the service is friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a bit tricky in Hillcrest.

2

Their entrees with rice are priced around $13-$16.

3

They can accommodate very mild spiciness if requested.

19
Baikohken Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small ramen shop blends authentic broths with a cozy vibe. Seafood broth offers distinct umami but lacks freshness. Atmosphere stays quiet and casual, perfect for relaxed meals.

Broth blends tonkotsu and seafood umami but the seafood flavor lacks freshness and depth. The Hokkaido style seafood broth offers a distinct umami, complemented by moving leaves over the fish balls.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be excellent and authentic."

"These ramen Date Spots have a phenomenal, flavorful broth."

"The seafood here is delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining, which is a recent change.

2

Parking is very difficult, especially on weekends.

3

The Tonkotsu ramen costs about $24, while Miso ramen is $15.

20
Panda Express image 1
Chinese restaurant

Busy spot with friendly staff and small portions. Shrimp dishes like walnut honey shrimp shine despite small size. Parking is tight and shared, so plan ahead.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like walnut honey shrimp and firecracker shrimp. Shrimp size tends to be small, and the kitchen sometimes makes more on demand.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, I felt like I was going to burst."

"The orange chicken here is exceptional, I felt like I was going to burst."

"The walnut honey shrimp here is so good, I waited for them to make more."

Good to know

1

Parking is somewhat limited and the parking lot is small and shared.

2

There was street and lot parking available near Panda Express.

3

Using the app, I received discounts and freebies at Panda Express.

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Hillcrest, San Diego

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