Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
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 665 Opinions
+662
User
User
User
Updated
01
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 1
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 2
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 3
View all

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

"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.

02
Aquatic Warehouse image 1
Aquatic Warehouse image 2
Aquatic Warehouse image 3
View all

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."

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.

03
Fish With You |Spicy & Sour Fish Soup 鱼你在一起酸菜鱼 image 1
Fish With You |Spicy & Sour Fish Soup 鱼你在一起酸菜鱼 image 2
Fish With You |Spicy & Sour Fish Soup 鱼你在一起酸菜鱼 image 3
View all

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."

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.

04
Nijiya Market San Diego Store image 1
Nijiya Market San Diego Store image 2
Nijiya Market San Diego Store image 3
View all

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

"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
Matoi image 2
Matoi image 3
View all

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."

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
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 1
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 2
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 3
View all

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."

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.

07
Somisomi image 1
Somisomi image 2
Somisomi image 3
View all

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 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.

08
Robataya Oton image 1
Robataya Oton image 2
Robataya Oton image 3
View all

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 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.

09
H Mart Balboa image 1
H Mart Balboa image 2
H Mart Balboa image 3
View all

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

"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.

10
spicy city image 1
spicy city image 2
spicy city image 3
View all

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 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.

11
Ju-ichi image 1
Ju-ichi image 2
Ju-ichi image 3
View all

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 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
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 2
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 3
View all

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

"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.

13
Szechuan Chef Chinese Cuisine image 1
Szechuan Chef Chinese Cuisine image 2
Szechuan Chef Chinese Cuisine image 3
View all

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

"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.

14
Wa Dining Okan image 1
Wa Dining Okan image 2
Wa Dining Okan image 3
View all

Small, cozy spot with a homey atmosphere perfect for casual dinners. Fresh fish shines in seafood kamameshi and butter udon with fish roe. Dark interior and izakaya-style dining create a relaxed vibe that fills up fast at dinner.

Fresh fish appears in rice bowls and seafood kamameshi with scallops, shrimps, and fish roe. Butter udon noodles also feature fish roe in the center.

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.

15
Spicy House image 1
Spicy House image 2
Spicy House image 3
View all

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

"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.

16
Gualberto's 2 image 1
Gualberto's 2 image 2
Gualberto's 2 image 3
View all

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

"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.

17
PT Eatery image 1
PT Eatery image 2
PT Eatery image 3
View all

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

"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.

18
Zion Market image 1
Zion Market image 2
Zion Market image 3
View all

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

"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.

19
The Taco Stand image 1
The Taco Stand image 2
The Taco Stand image 3
View all

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

"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.

20
Yuk Dae Jang San Diego / 육대장 샌디에고 image 1
Yuk Dae Jang San Diego / 육대장 샌디에고 image 2
Yuk Dae Jang San Diego / 육대장 샌디에고 image 3
View all

Korean spot offers shrimp-flavored fish cakes as tasty banchan alongside well-seasoned kimchi and green onions. Clean, modern space plays K-pop videos, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for casual dinners and friend catch-ups. Tables sit close, adding to the pleasant buzz.

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; the restaurant uses a paper waitlist only.

2

Expect long wait times on weekend nights, often exceeding 40 minutes.

3

Parking is plentiful and free, making access easy for visitors.

21
Ten seconds yunnan rice noodle image 1
Ten seconds yunnan rice noodle image 2
Ten seconds yunnan rice noodle image 3
View all

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 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.

Discover more

Kearny Mesa, San Diego

Area guide