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Local picks in Kearny Mesa

Fish spots

A fish dish that is prepared with respect for the catch rather than being buried in breading.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers an intimate vibe with cozy lighting and a central sushi bar. Fish is fresh and buttery, featuring expertly seared options. A notable sake selection rounds out the elevated casual experience.

Fish here is fresh and sliced just right, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The selection feels curated and includes well-executed seared options that are not overly done.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The Panna Cotta here is so fresh and wonderful."

"You should get bar seating to watch Chef Ivan work his magic."

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.

02
Fish With You |Spicy & Sour Fish Soup 鱼你在一起酸菜鱼 image 1

Small, crowded spot buzzes with loud Chinese karaoke music and crisp decor. Fish dishes shine with spicy Szechuan flavor and tender, fresh slices. Ordering is easy via QR code menus, making dining energetic and authentic.

Fish dishes feature thinly sliced tender fish with a fresh taste. Signature offerings include pickled fish with sauerkraut and Suan Cai Fish with a spicy, numbing Szechuan flavor.

People are saying

"The fish here is so tender and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious, flavorful, and fresh."

"The Szechuan dishes are intensely spicy and numbing."

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.

03
KOTOBUKI image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant offers a calm vibe with authentic sushi and fresh fish like spicy jalapeño yellowtail sashimi. Quick service keeps locals happy in a clean space. Rice and fish blend perfectly for a well-prepared meal.

Freshness stands out with fresh fish and spicy jalapeño on the yellowtail sashimi. The fish pairs well with the rice, both tasting very good and well-prepared.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh, the fish and rice taste amazing."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the lot.

2

The restaurant offers quick service for a fast meal.

3

The menu is small, making it easier to choose.

04
Nijiya Market San Diego Store image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese supermarket offers fresh sushi-grade fish in small portions perfect for sashimi. Neatly organized aisles showcase authentic Japanese snacks and a variety of frozen foods. Parking is limited but quality and beautifully displayed produce make it worth the visit.

Fresh fish comes in small portions suitable for sushi and sashimi. Selection includes sushi grade fish and packaged sushi, with quality varying by time of visit.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store is the finest I've visited."

"I found the seafood selection here to be really fresh."

"The fish here is fantastic for sushi and sashimi."

Good to know

1

Parking can be scarce during busy hours.

2

Get there before 11:30 for the best selection of products.

3

Expect limited sushi and bento options after 6pm.

05
Matoi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small omakase bar offers wildly fresh fish flown from Japan and Hawaii. Chef TJ crafts seasonal sashimi like bigeye tuna and Spanish toro with care. Laid-back vibe blends 90's rap music with traditional edomae style for a unique dining experience.

Fish arrives wildly fresh with cuts flown in from Japan and Hawaii. The sashimi platter features seasonal selections like bigeye tuna, Spanish toro, and raw sweet shrimp, all prepared with exceptional care by Chef TJ.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, it's unlike anything I've had."

"Chef TJ made the Omakase fun and interactive with great conversation."

"Chef TJ's Nigiri was knowledgeable, creative, and precise."

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.

06
El Viejon Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood shines with perfectly grilled fish and a large ceviche bowl full of fresh meat. Casual, modern space pulses with lively tropical music and a Mexican coastal vibe. Seating feels cozy yet open, balancing energy and easy conversation.

Fish tacos stand out with perfectly grilled fish and bold sauces. The ceviche bowl offers a large portion with a high meat ratio. Dishes like spicy octopus taco and shrimp tostada bring fresh, flavorful seafood options.

People are saying

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The seafood tacos here are the best I've ever had."

"The fish tacos here are so flavorful and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Parking at the restaurant can be a challenge, especially on weekends.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait during peak hours due to limited seating.

3

Each taco costs around $6-8, with larger sizes available.

07
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, family-owned seafood grill offers fresh seared fish with sauces on the side and standout beer battered fish dishes. The fast casual setup keeps service quick while the relaxing atmosphere and fun music create a friendly vibe. Steady crowds enjoy the unassuming, modern storefront.

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.

08
Aquatic Warehouse image 1
Tropical fish store

Huge space with beautiful aquascapes and healthy corals creates a welcoming vibe. Offers a large selection of freshwater fish and all aquarium essentials. Inspires hobbyists with gorgeous tanks and diverse plants.

Large selection of freshwater fish and a surprising variety visible from outside. Fish are healthy and the store offers everything needed for aquariums including plants and decor.

People are saying

"The staff here is so helpful and knowledgeable about fish."

"The staff here is super helpful and knowledgeable about aquariums."

"The staff here are so knowledgeable and gave great advice."

Good to know

1

Aquatic Warehouse has a large selection of both freshwater and saltwater fish.

2

Expect to find healthy fish and aquatic life in well-maintained tanks.

3

The store offers a variety of aquatic plants and coral for aquarium setups.

09
Soto's Mexican Food #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot serves huge portions with a varied salsa bar for quick, casual meals. Fried fish shines in the Del Mar burrito and fish tacos, while dishes like carne asada and Albondigas soup show strong food quality.

Fried fish features prominently in the Del Mar burrito alongside shrimp. Fish tacos stand out as really good, and California burritos also include fish options.

People are saying

"I loved the huge burritos and carne asada plate."

"I found the food here to be quick, excellent, and of high quality."

"I thought the fish tacos were really, really good."

Good to know

1

Expect quick service, with some orders ready in under five minutes.

2

Prices are not displayed on the menu, so be prepared for surprises.

3

The restaurant offers a self-serve chips and salsa bar with six salsa options.

10
Gualberto's 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot serves large portions with fresh tortillas and affordable prices. Lunch crowds make parking tough. Fish tacos now have smaller, dry pieces with less flavor, unlike the once crispy golden batter.

Fish tacos come with large, tender portions covered in a crispy golden brown batter. Recent changes brought smaller, dry pieces with a less flavorful, frozen fish taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and a great value."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I've ever tasted here."

"The fish tacos are huge and really good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tight during dinner hours; consider street parking or back lot.

2

Prices are affordable, with large portions offered at a fair price.

3

They serve breakfast all day, making it a versatile dining option.

11
Ju-ichi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate spot with upscale sushi and a weekly changing menu featuring fresh seasonal fish flown from Japan. Lively yet cozy atmosphere suits romantic evenings, while bar seating offers a chef's show and sake pairings enhance the experience.

Fresh seasonal fish flown in from Japan forms the core of the menu. Portions are perfectly crafted with an incredible quality that melts in the mouth.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is outstanding, especially the fresh sushi and creative rolls."

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

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

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase should be made two weeks in advance.

2

The tasting menu is available on Sundays with only 11 seats per session.

3

Sessions for the tasting menu start at 5 pm and 7:30 pm.

12
Somisomi image 1
Dessert shop

Fish-shaped cones hold unique Asian soft serve with flavors like custard and fish cake. Vibrant decor and K-pop music create a lively vibe. Shared picnic tables add a social, bustling feel to the spot.

Soft serve comes in a fish-shaped cone that is fresh and tasty. Stuffed fish options include custard and fish cake, all very good and flavorful.

People are saying

"The ice cream here is so smooth and creamy."

"The Japanese food, especially the taiyaki, is always nice and hot."

"The ice cream and fish cones here are amazing."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

Parking can be difficult, especially during busy evenings.

3

There is free street parking available nearby.

13
spicy city image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Small space with red accents and tight seating creates a lively vibe. Fish dishes shine with numbing spice and crisp stir fry flavors. Bold, authentic Sichuan flavors bring intense spice and energy to every bite.

Fish dishes come with numbing spice, spicy oil, or classic salt and pepper flavors. Fried whole fish appears in a sweet and sour sauce, while fish filets get a crisp, flavorful stir fry treatment.

People are saying

"The food here is legendary; Hua always made my experience perfect."

"I found the Szechuan food here to be authentic and intensely flavorful."

"The fish here is amazing and perfectly spicy."

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.

14
Robataya Oton image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with private horigotatsu rooms offers a cozy, authentic izakaya vibe. Fish is incredibly fresh, featuring silky monkfish liver and perfectly prepared nigiri and uni. Soft lighting enhances a relaxing atmosphere that feels truly Japanese.

Fish comes incredibly fresh with unbelievably fresh fish and rich, silky monkfish liver during its season. Nigiri, grilled fish, and uni stand out for their perfect preparation and flavor.

People are saying

"The nabiyaki udon was amazing."

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

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh."

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.

15
Itacho Sushi - All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious sushi spot offers fresh fish with generous cuts and perfect prep. Large TVs show cultural and sports content, creating a pleasant atmosphere with moderate music. Modern style meets fun anime theme, welcoming groups of all sizes.

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 seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the sashimi and nigiri."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

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.

16
Spicy House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small strip-mall spot serves authentic Szechuan cuisine with generous portions in a lively, chaotic setting. Fish dishes shine with spicy boiled fish and steamed fish offering balanced heat. Unique bites like fish eyeballs add to the adventurous menu.

Boiled dishes mix beef and fish with hot sauce for a spicy kick. Steamed fish comes with a balanced spice level. Fish eyeballs and egg soup offer a unique experience alongside the fish and dumplings.

People are saying

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

"The Szechuan spicy crispy fish is fragrant and packed a real punch."

"The spicy fish here is super crispy and flavorful."

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.

17
Szechuan Chef Chinese Cuisine image 1

Spacious and bright dining area creates a clean, refined atmosphere perfect for casual meals. Bold, spicy dishes like cumin lamb and crispy chicken with chili sauce showcase authentic Sichuan flavors. Fish options such as spicy boiled fish offer rich sauces with peppercorn heat.

Fish dishes come with spicy heat from peppercorns and chili oil. The fish fillet in black bean sauce and the spicy boiled fish stand out for their rich sauces and bold flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"The spicy fish fillet was delicious."

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.

18
Tokyo Central San Diego image 1
Japanese grocery store

Two standalone buildings create a Japanese market vibe with fresh produce and fish. A build-your-own poke station and fresh sushi add to the vibrant scene. Affordable prices and a wide selection of sashimi make it great for fish lovers, while terrace seating offers a relaxing spot.

Fresh fish stands out with a wide selection of sashimi and packaged options. Prices stay affordable while offering a variety of meat, fish, and poultry choices.

People are saying

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

"I found this Japanese grocery store to have some of the best sushi."

"I found the fish here to be very fresh."

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.

19
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers a casual vibe with beachy decor and an open layout. Fish tacos shine with crunchy fish on warm corn tortillas topped with guacamole and cream sauce. Quick, affordable meals suit those craving classic San Diego style and keto-friendly options.

Crunchy fish on warm corn tortillas comes with cabbage, cheese, guacamole, and white cream sauce. Fish tacos follow a classic San Diego style and satisfy cravings with their keto-friendly options.

People are saying

"This Diablo sauce for the tacos is so hot and flavorful."

"The staff here are super friendly and solved my order problem quickly."

"I found the fish tacos to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 original fish tacos all day.

2

Parking is ample and free at this location.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean dining area and restrooms.

20
The Taco Stand image 1
Taco restaurant

Space is extremely narrow with lively Mexican music and a serve-yourself salsa bar. Fish tacos feature fresh, moist white fish in thick beer batter topped with crisp cabbage. Guests often stand at a small counter, enjoying the homemade tortillas and pairing tacos with fries.

$4 Baja Fish Taco features fresh, moist white fish deep-fried in a thick beer batter, topped with crisp cabbage and classic crema. Fish tacos come out exceptionally delicious and pair well with fries.

People are saying

"These tacos are worth the wait; they're the best in San Diego."

"You must try the California burrito; it's excellent."

"You have to try their fish tacos; they're the best in San Diego."

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.

21
Tasty Noodle House image 1
Shanghainese restaurant

Small space buzzes with lively atmosphere and tight seating for fast dining. Fish dishes shine with complex umami and crunchy mushrooms, while soup dumplings offer generous portions and bold flavors. Walls amplify noise, adding to the packed, energetic vibe.

Complex umami flavors define the House Pungent Fish, enhanced by mushrooms that add a crunchy texture. The Crispy Fish Fillet with Seaweed offers a crispy bite, while the Spicy Fish Noodle Soup delivers a spicy warmth.

People are saying

"The beef chow mein here has great flavor."

"These pork dumplings are so juicy and tasty."

"I am still dreaming about the spicy fish soup."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hectic on weekends, so arrive early or consider street parking.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The prices at Tasty Noodle House are great considering the portion sizes.

22
Pet Zone Tropical Fish image 1

Store features heavily planted tanks with a wide variety of freshwater fish including celestial pearl danios. Displays are neat and well-labeled, creating an inviting space. Staff offer friendly, knowledgeable support for fish care and aquascaping.

Healthy fish arrive quickly and stay well. The store offers a wide variety of freshwater fish with heavily planted tanks. Staff provide friendly, knowledgeable support for fish care and aquascaping.

People are saying

"The staff here are so knowledgeable and helpful with your Fish."

"The staff here are so helpful with aquarium advice."

Good to know

1

The store offers a great selection of freshwater fish and plants.

2

Fish and plants purchased here are generally healthy and thriving.

3

The return policy allows only store credit within 5 days for returns.

23
99 Ranch Market image 1
Asian grocery store

Huge Asian grocery store buzzes with a casual atmosphere and strong seafood scent. Fresh seafood shines with live crabs and whole fish ready for cooking. Layout is easy to navigate despite crowds, and specialty shops add unique flavors.

Freshness stands out with a wide variety of live crabs, mussels, and whole fish. Cuts and selections cover many sea fishes, all looking very fresh and ready for Asian cooking.

People are saying

"I found the freshest seafood and a great selection here."

"I found all the Asian groceries I needed at this grocery store."

"I found the fish selection here to be really impressive and fresh."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards.

2

Parking can be limited, especially during peak hours.

3

Expect fresh produce and seafood at competitive prices.

24
Ten seconds yunnan rice noodle image 1

Cozy space with warm lighting offers authentic Yunnan rice noodles and rich broths. Spicy fish dishes bring a noticeable kick, especially in the spicy fish noodle and soup. Clean, comfortable, and busy, it delivers a flavorful, inviting dining experience.

Spicy fish dishes stand out with a noticeable kick, especially in the spicy fish noodle and spicy fish soup. Fish rice noodle soup also features prominently on the menu.

People are saying

"I loved the springy rice noodles in the flavorful soup."

"The fish rice noodle soup is spicy, savory, and deeply comforting."

"I loved the spicy fish rice noodle soup."

Good to know

1

You can put in a waitlist request on Yelp ahead of time.

2

The restaurant may get crowded at night and on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging due to the restaurant's location in a small strip mall.

25
Zion Market image 1
Korean grocery store

Large Korean grocery store offers fresh fish and sashimi-grade seafood with many frozen options. Spacious aisles and bright lighting create a pleasant shopping environment. Food court and bakery provide diverse Korean cuisine experiences.

Fresh fish selection stays high quality and sashimi-grade. Plenty of fresh and frozen seafood options fill the refrigerated and freezer sections.

People are saying

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

"I found the fresh kimchi and rice cakes to be my loyal sidekicks."

"I found the fish here to be so fresh and good."

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.

26
The Friendly image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Simple burger spot with delicious burgers and a casual vibe. Fish sandwich stands out with unique fish roe but can be quite fishy. Loud hip hop and a hipster/skater atmosphere keep energy high.

Filet o fish features fish roe that adds a unique flavor. The fish sandwich offers a distinct taste, though it can be quite fishy for some.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the fish sandwich; it tasted very unique."

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.

27
H Mart Balboa image 1
Korean grocery store

Huge Korean grocery store offers authentic Asian foods and a spacious food court with diverse vendors. Fresh seafood includes live fish displays and sushi trays. Crowded aisles challenge carts but walls feature maker-inspired graphics for a unique vibe.

Fresh fish includes live fish on display and a wide selection of whole, filleted, frozen, and sushi trays. Options come in individual and party sizes, with quality fish alongside Korean BBQ and hot pot meats.

People are saying

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

"This grocery store has authentic Asian ingredients I can't find elsewhere."

"You can find so much fresh and frozen fish 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.

28
PT Eatery image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Spacious, clean space welcomes groups with a friendly vibe and an amazing aroma. Grilled and fried fish shine, especially the sole fish and fish sauce chicken wings. Prices for fried fish jumped, and staff ask about fish weight, which is unique.

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."

"The egg rolls here are so fresh and crispy."

"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.

29
Studio Diner image 1

Enjoy authentic fish and chips with a crispy bite that rivals English pubs. The diner boasts a nostalgic movie set theme with memorabilia and an arched ceiling. Relax on the spacious patio featuring mountain views and quirky alien statues.

Fish and chips here taste really authentic and satisfyingly crispy. The dish compares well to versions found in English pubs and is a solid choice on the menu.

People are saying

"The diner food, like the Reuben and fries, was solid and tasty."

"This lunch spot serves sandwiches the size of Montana."

"The fish and chips here are really good and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking spaces are limited, with only four spots available.

2

The diner only accepts cash payments for large parties.

3

Expect a 90-minute time limit during busy hours.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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