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Guide to Kearny Mesa

Authentic seafood

Fresh seafood prepared with traditional techniques brings a sense of connection to the table.

Based on 788 Opinions
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01
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Small, intimate omakase bar blends traditional edomae style with 90's rap music for a unique dining vibe. Atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming, balancing quiet moments with casual energy. Fish flown from Japan ensures exceptionally fresh sushi paired with thoughtful sake and beer selections.

Chef TJ serves freshest fish with a focus on authentic edomae style sushi. The experience matches what you'd find in Tokyo, offering rich authentic Japanese dishes.

Fish arrives wildly fresh with ingredients flown in from Japan. Sashimi platters feature seasonal fresh slices like scallops, bigeye tuna, Spanish toro, and raw sweet shrimp. Chef TJ shows exceptional care and deep knowledge about sushi fish.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's ruined shrimp everywhere else for me."

"The chef's passion for sushi and fresh fish makes for an authentic experience."

Good to know

1

They have only 2 seatings per night at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM.

2

Reservations are necessary due to limited seating availability.

3

The omakase experience lasts about three hours.

02
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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.

Offers a wide selection of authentic Korean snacks, sauces, and pickled foods. Food court serves authentic Korean dishes at reasonable prices. Carries upscale authentic processed Asian food and imports not found elsewhere.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found authentic Asian ingredients and hard-to-find international items here."

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.

03
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Small, intimate space with traditional Japanese decor and private horigotatsu rooms creates a cozy, authentic izakaya atmosphere. Lighting is soft and soothing, enhancing a relaxing vibe that transports diners to Japan. Reservation is common to secure private seating, distinguishing it from typical sushi spots.

Traditional Japanese food shines with authentic sukiyaki and a setting that feels genuinely Japanese. The cute booths add to the heartwarming, authentic vibe.

Fresh fish stands out with unbelievably fresh nigiri and rich monkfish liver during its season. Tempura seafood and grilled fish also deliver solid flavors.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and outstanding."

"I found the Japanese food here to be truly authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost a must due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect a 90-minute dining limit, which may feel rushed.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

04
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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.

Egg rolls stand out as delicious and authentic. The menu offers authentic Vietnamese food that stays true to traditional flavors, which might be an acquired taste for some.

Seafood pho soup stands out with rich flavors. The menu features Garlic Butter Shrimp and a tender sole fish dish. Shrimp and pork Banh Noi also appears as a popular choice.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the seafood pho soup; it was the best I had."

"The Vietnamese food here tastes pretty authentic."

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.

05
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Spacious and bright dining area offers a clean, refined atmosphere with authentic Sichuan flavors that maintain traditional spice and aroma. The crowd favors casual meals with bold, spicy dishes like cumin lamb and crispy chicken with chili sauce. The place stands out for true Sichuan cuisine beyond typical Chinese offerings.

Spiciness stays true to traditional Sichuan flavors with a perfect balance of heat and aroma. Dishes like pork trotters and crispy chicken with Lao Gan Ma chili sauce deliver a genuinely authentic Chinese taste reminiscent of home cooking.

Spicy boiled fish features a rich sauce with peppercorn heat that balances well with tofu and fish. The fish fillet carries a distinctive spicy kick throughout the dish.

People are saying

"I found the Szechuan food to be really authentic."

"The spicy boiled fish was absolutely to die for."

Good to know

1

The last dine-in order should be placed by around 8:15 PM.

2

They close promptly at 9:00 PM.

3

Three people can eat well for about $50.

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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.

Charcoal grilling delivers authentic Korean barbecue with rich flavors. Korean cold noodles offer a genuine taste that complements the vibrant, lively ambiance.

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.

People are saying

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

"I highly recommend the authentic Korean barbecue with charcoal."

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.

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Small, crowded space with loud Chinese karaoke music creates a lively, warm atmosphere. Decor is crisp and clean, and ordering happens via QR code menus. The vibe feels like an authentic Sichuan spicy sour fish spot with energetic dining.

Dishes come out quickly with authentic flavors that match expectations. The pickled fish stands out as the most authentic in the area, representing traditional Suan Cai Fish well.

Fish comes sliced very thin and stays tender and fresh. The spicy sour pickled fish fillets and tomato soup stand out as authentic and perfectly cooked dishes.

People are saying

"The pickled fish here is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the pickled fish here to be so authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The portions are large; two main dishes can feed a family of five.

2

Prices range from $15 to $20 for most menu items, including free steamed rice.

3

Parking is plentiful, especially at 3 pm on Saturdays.

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Small, modest space with red accents and tight seating creates a no-frills, lively atmosphere. Bright fluorescent lights and a packed dining room contribute to a high-energy vibe. Known for authentic Sichuan flavors with intense spice and bold dishes.

Bold, authentic flavors define the Szechuan and Yunnan dishes here. Each plate bursts with fresh ingredients and classic Sichuan punch, delivering a reliably meticulously prepared experience.

Salt and pepper fish stands out with its bold seasoning and crispy texture. Spicy dishes like the Szechuan spicy fish and fish marinated with numbing spice offer a hot and flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The fish with spicy sauce here is amazing and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be amazing, spicy, and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging at busier times.

2

Making a reservation a couple of hours before should ensure a table.

3

The portions are large and reasonably priced.

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Modest Thai restaurant with laid-back atmosphere and somewhat dark lighting. Regulars frequent the spot, drawn by lunch specials and free desserts offered after meals. The space features simple decor with small paintings and tables for dine-in or takeout.

Dishes deliver authentic Thai flavors with every bite. Staff eating together shows the food's genuine quality and traditional taste.

Shrimp dishes come with ample spices and fresh flavors. The 3 flavor fish tastes refreshing and not oily. Fish cakes arrive golden brown with a tasty fish sauce.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious and surprisingly refreshing."

"I loved the authentic Thai taste and delicious food."

Good to know

1

Parking can be troublesome at times, especially during peak hours.

2

Lunch specials are available for $13.95, offering great value.

3

The restaurant offers a surprise dessert on weekends.

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Space is extremely narrow with limited seating, mostly standing room and a small counter. Atmosphere feels crowded and lively, with Mexican music playing and customers often brushing shoulders. Guests can watch homemade tortillas being prepared and enjoy a serve-yourself salsa bar.

Mexican street tacos here taste authentic and not greasy. The atmosphere and people add to the genuine vibe of the place.

Shrimp tacos stand out with a lovely flavor profile and grilled shrimp that tastes great. Fish tacos also impress with freshness and solid seasoning, making them a favorite choice here.

People are saying

"The seafood here is crispy and beer-battered."

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The Taco Stand operates as an order-and-go type place with no seating available.

2

Parking can be challenging at The Taco Stand.

3

I recommend ordering ahead because they get busy.

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Small, family-owned Korean restaurant with traditional decor and a homey, unpretentious vibe. Atmosphere feels casual and lively, filled with the scent of simmering broths and sizzling garlic. Known for authentic Korean dishes and wide variety of menu options.

Korean dishes here have a legit authentic taste with standout items like Samgyetang and gamjatang. Banchan sides complement the meals, delivering a true Korean dining experience.

Seafood dishes here are tender, briny, and packed with flavor, focusing on satisfying Korean recipes that taste like home. Options like monkfish stew and seafood sundubu offer a light, filling experience without trendy fusion or fancy presentation.

People are saying

"The Korean food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The seafood here is tender, briny, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

2

Expect a 45-minute wait for a table during peak hours.

3

Parking is free but can be difficult to find during dinner time.

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Small, cozy space with dark interior and izakaya-style dining creates a homey, casual atmosphere. The restaurant fills up quickly at dinner, attracting those seeking authentic Japanese flavors in a relaxed setting. It suits casual dinners rather than large groups or formal nights out.

Offers authentic Japanese dishes with a strong focus on izakaya style cuisine. The atmosphere feels homey and the menu includes varied, traditional options.

Seafood shines in the salmon and salmon roe kettle rice, rich and perfectly cooked. Fresh fish rice bowls and seafood kamameshi with scallops, shrimps, and fish roe add variety, while butter udon noodles feature fish roe at the center.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious, especially the kettle rice."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available and reasonably priced.

2

The restaurant is small, so seating is limited.

3

Parking is challenging due to a busy lot.

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Small strip-mall restaurant with traditional Chinese decoration and colorful interior featuring fish tanks and TVs. Atmosphere feels chaotic but lively, with a large menu offering authentic Szechuan cuisine served family style in generous portions.

Sichuan cuisine here is very authentic with real spice and traditional secret ingredients. A real Chinese chef cooks dishes that capture true Sichuan flavors.

Fish dishes come fall-off-the-bone tender and cook-to-order in a piping hot reddish broth or black bean sauce. The menu offers a huge variety of seafood and noodle options with well-balanced spices and sauces.

People are saying

"I found the Sichuan food here to be super authentic."

"The spicy fish here is so flavorful and packed a real punch."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult during peak lunchtime hours.

2

The restaurant offers family-style dining with large portions.

3

Guests can bring their own beer after paying a corking fee.

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Small sushi restaurant with an intimate, elevated casual atmosphere and dark, cozy lighting. Central sushi bar surrounded by limited table seating creates a warm, inviting vibe where chefs prepare fresh, high-quality fish. Offers a notable sake selection enhancing the dining experience.

Fish arrives fresh and buttery, melting in your mouth with every bite. The selection feels curated and unique, with sushi and seared fish both executed with care and balance.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the busy location with a parking lot that fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant has limited table seating but plenty of counter seating available.

3

Parking can be challenging due to multiple restaurants in the plaza.

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Spacious and clean interior hosts a lively but comfortable atmosphere with upbeat energy and ample seating. The place fills with people enjoying varied Korean BBQ meats, especially different types of intestines. It offers options to cook food in the back, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience away from the grill.

Authentic Korean BBQ shines with top-notch quality and friendly service. A variety of high-quality Korean dishes deliver genuine flavors that stand out.

Fish appears alongside rice, meat, pickled onions, fish cake, and glass noodles for a balanced meal. Shrimp Tempura and Bulgogi add variety to the seafood options.

People are saying

"The authentic Korean BBQ here has top-notch quality meats."

"Their attention to small details with the seafood was excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is challenging, especially during rush hours and weekends.

2

The restaurant is not all-you-can-eat, but prices are reasonable for meat sets.

3

The menu features a wide variety of KBBQ meats, including unique options like intestines.

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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.

Japanese curry rice offers authentic flavors and affordable prices. Some dishes like Tako Yaki have an American twist and are not made traditionally.

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.

People are saying

"This authentic katsu curry reminded me of childhood."

"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.

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Hot pot restaurant offers authentic spicy broth and a build-your-own hot pot experience with a cozy, warm atmosphere. The space feels clean and tidy but can be loud and crowded during dinner hours. Many options are available, though vegetarian choices are limited.

Offers authentic Chinese street food flavors with a focus on flavorful malatang and a satisfying hot pot experience.

Fresh ingredients include vegetables, meats, and seafood like fish fillets and shrimps. Build-your-own plates let you combine seafood with noodles, vegetables, and fried dumplings in the hotpot.

People are saying

"The authentic broth here is rich, flavorful, and always delicious."

"I loved making my own fresh seafood plate for the hotpot."

Good to know

1

The food costs $13.99 per pound, with a typical portion around 2 pounds.

2

Parking is difficult during busy evening hours.

3

Expect long wait times during dinner as the place is often packed.

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Asian restaurant offers authentic northeastern Chinese Malatang with rich, flavorful broths and adjustable spiciness. The space feels cramped but clean, creating a chill and comfy atmosphere. It gets busy during peak times, with a lively crowd enjoying bold, well-balanced dishes.

Broth stands out with its flavorful, rich taste that matches northeastern Chinese style. Food delivers a very authentic Malatang experience true to its origins.

Offers a wide selection of seafood alongside meat, vegetables, tofu, and noodles. Dishes include shrimp, fish balls, and other ingredients matching those found in China.

People are saying

"The bone broth and dipping sauces are so flavorful."

"The broth here is rich, flavorful, and totally authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times after 6:30 pm, especially on busy nights.

2

The price is $13.99 per pound for ingredients, with extra charges for soup base.

3

Payment is made at the end of the meal, which may confuse first-time visitors.

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Simple, pretty interior with tropical decor and decorative plants creates an intimate, peaceful atmosphere. Lighting is a bit dark and space can feel stuffy, but the vibe stays casual and relaxing. Staff offer friendly, personalized touches like complimentary photos with rose flowers.

Food delivers authentic Thai flavors that taste like home-cooked meals. The Nam Khao Tod stands out with its crunchy rice and flavorful taste.

Shrimp dishes stand out with shrimp and green beans and coconut shrimp served alongside a medium rare crying Tiger. The shrimp fried rice is available but less notable.

People are saying

"The seafood Pad Thai is flavorful and hard to resist."

"I found the food to be really authentic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early or using rideshare.

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Restaurant offers airport runway views with planes taking off and landing visible from inside. Atmosphere blends Mexican culture with airplane decor, creating a unique and lively vibe. Separate bar area features big screens for sports, attracting groups and company gatherings.

Mexican dishes here show authentic flavors and traditional preparation. The menu offers genuine Mexican cuisine paired with strong margaritas.

Shrimp dishes stand out with garlic sauce, bacon-wrapped Camarones Machado, and fresh mango salsa. Fish tacos also appear frequently and come highly praised.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The Seafood here is amazing and the staff is so friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 pm to 9 pm with various drink specials.

2

Daily specials are available throughout the week, offering great value.

3

The restaurant is located on the second floor of Montgomery Airport.

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Upscale Italian restaurant with old-school decor and dark wood paneling creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Live piano music adds a classic, elegant vibe that suits romantic dinners and special occasions. The setting feels authentic and transports diners with its traditional Italian heritage.

Traditional recipes and authentic ambiance create a genuine Italian experience. The food tastes like classic New York Italian, with décor and music that reflect true Italian heritage.

Seafood shines with a seafood medley praised highly and Blue crab stuffed ravioli topped with jumbo shrimp in vodka sauce. Daily specials include sea bass in lemon butter and caper sauce paired with shrimp scampi and steamed vegetables.

People are saying

"The Seafood here feels like a genuine trip to Italy."

"It felt like a genuine trip to Italy with authentic food."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to a very small lot, but valet service is available.

2

Prices are on the high end, with many dishes exceeding $50.

3

The restaurant will celebrate its 50th anniversary on 4/21/24.

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Spacious dining room with airy layout and elegant Chinese décor creates a pleasant setting. Large tables with lazy Susan facilitate sharing dishes, attracting groups and family gatherings. Atmosphere tends to be lively and noisy when crowded, reflecting a bustling energy.

Food offers authentic Hong Kong dim sum with flavors that stay true to the region. Dishes come across as remarkably authentic and consistently tasty.

Seafood dishes avoid any fishy taste common elsewhere. Shrimp and scallops stand out, along with fried shrimp balls and har gow. Some takeout orders miss the sauce for shrimp roll dim sum.

People are saying

"The food here is remarkably authentic and super tasty."

"I liked the shrimp and scallops; the seafood wasn't fishy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash for payment.

2

Expect to pay $9-10 per dim sum item.

3

They charge $1.50 for take-out boxes.

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Japanese curry restaurant offers cozy, inviting atmosphere that closely resembles locations in Japan, with franchise-style seating including a bar for single diners. The space feels cramped during busy times but maintains a clean, well-maintained interior that helps guests forget the outside surroundings.

Japanese-style curry here matches the authentic Coco Ichi flavor closely. The katsu curry and other dishes taste like those from Okinawa and Sasebo, delivering a genuine experience.

Seafood dishes include triple seafood curry, popcorn shrimp, and clam and tomato curry. Shrimp is well cooked and flavorful. Curry options vary from seafood to chicken and beef katsu, with extras like okra and asparagus available.

People are saying

"I tear up the triple seafood curry every time I visit."

"I found the Japanese-style curry here to be really authentic."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute wait time during peak lunch hours.

2

Parking can be a challenge due to limited space in the shopping complex.

3

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long lines.

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Huge space with traditional Chinese decor and an austere, cafeteria-like atmosphere. The vibe is family-oriented and casual, attracting a clientele familiar with its authentic Cantonese dim sum offerings. The environment feels dated but maintains a steady, unpretentious presence.

Boiling water for tea matches an authentic Cantonese teahouse vibe. Steamed beef balls follow Hong Kong dim sum styles. Food serves standard Cantonese cuisine without frills.

Shrimp dishes stand out with salt and pepper shrimp fried to a crisp you can eat shell and all. Dim sum features good shrimp options that highlight fresh seafood flavors.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be authentic Cantonese cuisine."

"The seafood here is authentic and delicious Cantonese cuisine."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult in the large lot shared with other restaurants.

2

Dim sum offerings are only available on weekends.

3

Prices for dim sum trays range from $5.5 to $6.5.

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