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Top picks in Kearny Mesa

Affordable Seafood

Made for those who want to enjoy high-quality seafood without the inflated price tag of a formal dining establishment.

Based on 604 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Monsta Ramen Curry image 2
Monsta Ramen Curry image 3
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Asian restaurant

Small space with bright, clean interior and relaxing music creates a warm, casual atmosphere. The vibe is quiet and pleasant, making it feel cozy and inviting. The setting stands out for its Studio Ghibli-like ambiance and neat decor.

Shrimp spring rolls stand out with fresh flavors. The menu also features shrimp egg rolls and potato shrimp alongside other dishes like spicy ramen and skewers.

Fiery curry and lunch specials come at very affordable prices. Portions offer great value compared to nearby spots, making meals both tasty and inexpensive.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is delicious and affordable."

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

"The curry rice dishes were outstanding and rich."

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

02
Mic Drop Comedy image 1
Comedy club

Small venue with an Alice in Wonderland theme creates an intimate atmosphere where every seat feels close to the action. Professional improv keeps the crowd engaged and the energy fun without crossing lines. Full bar and kitchen offer creative cocktails and distinctive food alongside strong comedy acts.

Shrimp dishes stand out with blackened shrimp that are well charred and shrimp tacos that deliver solid flavor. The shrimp and grits also offer a tasty option among the seafood choices.

Shows have very affordable tickets that make for a great night out. Drinks cost less and vary by day and event. The venue feels intimate and cozy while keeping prices low.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and the staff is friendly."

"It's cozy and affordable, with a really intimate atmosphere."

"The blackened shrimp were exquisitely charred and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is free parking available on site.

2

Mic Drop Comedy does not require a food or drink minimum.

3

Doors open at 9 PM, but seating may be delayed.

03
Paik's Noodle - Hong Kong Banjum SD image 1

Large, bright space with spaced tables creates a comfortable, open environment. Atmosphere feels sterile and quiet, lacking warmth or mood. Ordering happens via table tablets, making service efficient and convenient.

Chili shrimp stands out with its crispy jumbo shrimp and sweet chili sauce that packs a noticeable heat. The seafood jajangmyeon and jjampong come loaded with seafood and offer a spicy, flavorful experience.

Prices stay affordable while offering good quality food. The meals are tasty but don't reach an excellent level.

People are saying

"The jjajangmyeon here is the best Korean food I've had."

"The seafood jjamppong here is packed with flavor and quite spicy."

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

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during peak hours due to limited spaces.

2

Free parking is available in the lot for diners.

3

Ordering is done via tablets at the table, streamlining the process.

04
The Fire Spot image 1
Restaurant

Charcoal grills create a smoky, vibrant atmosphere in a small, cozy space with tables close together. The place fills quickly, leading to long waits and a lively, bustling vibe. Strong smoke and limited ventilation add to the intense grilling experience.

Seafood options include shrimp dishes and a seafood tofu stew that offers a relaxing taste. The seafood soup stands out as a better soondubu than many nearby spots.

Prices start around $32.99 for a basic package and go up to about $39 for premium options. These rates stay affordable compared to other Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"The Korean food's quality meat just melts in your mouth."

"I thought the brisket was the best I've ever had."

"I thought the price offered good value for money."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy times.

3

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long lines.

05
H Mart Balboa image 1
Korean grocery store

Huge Korean grocery store with spacious food court featuring about eight vendors and a small French bakery. Crowded aisles make maneuvering carts difficult, but the place offers an outstanding selection of authentic Asian foods and fresh seafood. Walls display maker-inspired graphics, adding a unique visual touch.

Fresh seafood includes a wide variety of fish and shellfish, both fresh and frozen. The selection pairs well with premium Japanese beef and other meats, offering options for Korean BBQ and hot pot.

Affordable prices cover high-quality produce, meats, and Asian spices. Dishes and seafood also come at very reasonable costs.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very fresh and plentiful."

"You'll find a wide selection of fresh seafood here."

"I found the produce, meats, and spices here to be affordable."

Good to know

1

H Mart Balboa offers a large selection of Korean food and snacks.

2

Parking can be challenging at times.

3

The store is clean and well-organized.

06
Zion Market image 1
Korean grocery store

Large, modern Korean grocery store with spacious aisles and bright lighting creates a pleasant shopping environment. Frequent bursts of K-pop music add lively energy, while food court and bakery options offer diverse Korean cuisine experiences.

Fresh fish and seafood stand out with a marvelous selection including both fresh and frozen options. The seafood department offers affordable prices and encourages trying new varieties.

Affordable vegetables and Korean products stand out here. Ready-to-eat meals, marinated meats, and butane gas cans also come at inexpensive prices. Special offers add to the budget-friendly options.

People are saying

"This market has a great variety of fresh produce and Asian snacks."

"The seafood here is always incredibly fresh."

"I found the produce and marinated meats to be deliciously affordable."

Good to know

1

There are special offers every week.

2

Zion Market has a great selection of seafood, both fresh and frozen.

3

Expect to find the best deals on produce in California.

07
The Friendly image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Simple burger spot with a bare bones interior and limited seating creates a casual, no-frills environment. Loud hip hop music and a hipster/skater vibe set a lively, youthful tone. Burgers stand out as delicious and creative, often described as some of the best around.

Fish sandwiches feature a unique flavor with some versions including fish roe to boost taste. The filet o fish stands out as a notable option, though the fishiness can vary.

Prices stay inexpensive and affordable with no fuss when adjustments are needed. Burgers come as filling options that suit an affordable lunch.

People are saying

"These burgers are beyond delicious; they melt in your mouth."

"I found the burgers here to be very affordable and filling."

"The fish sandwich here is so unique and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging during busy times, so arrive early.

2

The menu is fixed with no substitutions allowed on burgers.

3

The restaurant is small with limited seating available.

08
Tokyo Central San Diego image 1
Japanese grocery store

Two standalone buildings create a Japanese market atmosphere with fresh produce, fish, and shelf-stable products. Bright decorations and a build-your-own poke station add to the vibrant, inviting vibe. Terrace seating and a small food court offer places to relax and enjoy fresh sushi and bento.

Fresh fish and sashimi stand out with an extensive selection of seafood. Prices stay affordable while offering a variety of fresh and frozen options alongside produce and meats.

Offers inexpensive bowls and affordable produce compared to other Japanese supermarkets. Discounts apply to items near expiration, and the meat selection is priced reasonably.

People are saying

"I found tons of authentic Japanese food and snacks here."

"I found the prices for produce and meats to be pretty affordable."

"I found lots of fresh seafood and produce here."

Good to know

1

Tokyo Central San Diego accepts EBT payments.

2

Parking can be challenging during busy hours.

3

A 20% discount on ready-to-eat food is available after 6pm.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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