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Guide to Kearny Mesa

Seafood and fish

A seafood meal where the fish is the star of the plate rather than a vehicle for heavy sauces.

Based on 727 Opinions
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01
Adrian's Surf n' Turf Grill image 1
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Small, family-owned seafood grill with hand-crafted furnishings and a fast casual setup where orders go at the counter. Atmosphere stays relaxing and friendly with a fun music selection and quiet pace. The place draws steady crowds despite its unassuming, modern storefront.

Fish dishes come fresh with sauces on the side to highlight their quality. Options like fish tacos and rock fish and chips stand out for their balanced seasoning and tasty ingredients.

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 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
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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.

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.

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 pickled fish here is so authentic and delicious."

"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.

03
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Japanese supermarket layout offers neatly organized aisles with beautifully displayed fresh produce, sushi, and sashimi. Atmosphere feels authentic with a wide selection of Japanese snacks, frozen foods, and bakery items. Parking can be scarce during busy hours, but quality and variety stand out.

Fresh fish comes in small portions ideal for sampling without buying large amounts. Sushi grade fish and sashimi options stay extremely fresh, rivaling specialty markets. The selection includes packaged sushi, sashimi, and bentos alongside fresh seafood and produce.

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

"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.

04
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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.

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.

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

"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.

05
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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.

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

"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.

06
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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.

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.

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

"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.

07
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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.

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

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 seafood here is unbelievably fresh and outstanding."

"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.

08
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Small, intimate Japanese restaurant with upscale sushi and weekly changing menu based on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Atmosphere is lively yet cozy, suited for romantic evenings or special occasions. Bar seating offers a chef's show and sake pairings enhance the dining experience.

Fish arrives fresh and seasonal, often flown in from Japan. Dishes feature special fish selections not commonly found elsewhere, with perfectly crafted portions that melt in your mouth.

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 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.

09
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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.

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.

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 with spicy sauce here is amazing and 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.

10
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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.

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.

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 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.

11
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Mexican restaurant with an open, comfortable layout and beachy motifs creates a casual, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere stays active and welcoming, making it suitable for quick, affordable meals. Fish tacos stand out as a signature dish enjoyed by many.

Fish tacos stand out with a variety of styles including beer battered shrimp and keto options. The shrimp chopped salad and burrito plate add fresh, flavorful seafood choices.

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

"You have to try the shrimp tacos; they're amazing."

"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.

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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.

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.

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

"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.

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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.

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.

$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

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

"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.

14
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Small Mexican restaurant offers large portions with affordable prices and fresh tortillas. Atmosphere gets crowded during lunch hours, with limited parking nearby. Known for flavorful carne asada and spicy red salsa.

Fish tacos come in large portions with a crispy golden brown batter and tender, juicy fish. Recent changes made the fish smaller, drier, and less flavorful, resembling frozen battered fish, and the mild salsa is now less chunky and less tasty.

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 here are huge and really good."

"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.

15
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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.

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

"The seafood here is always incredibly fresh."

"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.

16
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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.

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.

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.

People are saying

"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.

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.

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 so flavorful 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.

18
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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.

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.

Fish dishes include deep-fried fish and monkfish stew with a seasoning called agujjim. The fish tends to be dry and chewy, and the soup can be a bit salty.

People are saying

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

"The fish stew here is delicious."

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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Large, bright space in a strip mall offers an airy, clean environment with casual vibe. The restaurant fills up quickly, creating a lively atmosphere. Signature dishes include pho with rich broth and chicken wings with fish sauce.

Grilled fish rolls in rice paper and vermicelli noodles with grilled shrimp stand out for their fresh flavors. Seafood pho and spicy fish fillet add variety, while the meat and seafood fried rice impresses with its rich taste.

Grilled fish rolls wrapped in rice paper come with vegetables and Vietnamese sauce. Catfish sautéed in fish sauce stands out, along with spicy fish fillet and fried fish in roll meals.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so tasty, especially the fried shrimp."

"The banh xeo with fish sauce is crisp and generous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant only accepts cash and Venmo as payment methods.

2

Finding parking is always a challenge in the Convoy Street area, especially on weekends.

3

Expect a wait of about 20 minutes during peak hours.

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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.

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.

Fish appears as part of the meal alongside fried fish cake and other side dishes. The meal combines fish cake with rice, meat, and glass noodles for a balanced bite.

People are saying

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

"The fish here is so fresh, it practically swims onto your plate."

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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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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