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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Kearny Mesa

Salad and seafood

Made for those who want a light, crisp salad paired with the substance of fresh seafood.

Based on 592 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.

Seared Ahi Tuna Salad features a generous amount of Ahi and offers a great portion size. Grilled chicken salads here stand out for their freshness and flavor compared to other spots.

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.

People are saying

"The fish and chips here are awesome and the chips are crispy."

"I thought the grilled chicken salad here was the freshest and best tasting."

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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Japanese Italian fusion defines the menu, offering unique dishes like eel pizza and squid ink pasta in a small, cozy space with quiet, relaxed atmosphere. Seating includes 2-4 person tables and a few bar seats, accommodating small groups comfortably. The place stays unbusy, allowing easy seating without long waits.

Lunch combos come with a small house salad paired with soup and a drink. Salads serve as a fresh side alongside dishes like cabbage wrapped meatballs and burger steak.

Shrimp dumplings stand out as a notable seafood dish here. The Seafood Doria offers a rich crab flavor but can be quite fishy, and the seafood pasta sometimes comes with overcooked seafood.

People are saying

"The Seafood Doria was amazing, so rich and full of crab."

"The lunch combo included a salad and soup, offering good value."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The lunch combo includes a main dish, salad, soup, and a drink for good value.

3

Expect a unique menu with both Japanese and Italian fusion dishes.

03
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
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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.

Seafood shines in the salads with options like shrimp chopped and rainbow shrimp salads. The street corn salad adds a fresh twist alongside other dishes.

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.

People are saying

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

"I had one of the best shrimp chopped salads ever."

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.

04
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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.

Salads here offer bold flavors and refreshing tastes. The crispy catfish salad stands out with its tangy and flavorful profile, while the beef and papaya salads deliver satisfying, fresh options.

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."

"You have to try their crispy catfish salad; it's so flavorful."

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.

05
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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.

Caesar salad stands out with its outstanding dressing and beautiful preparation. Quality ingredients and generous size make it a favorite starter.

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."

"The Caesar salad here has outstanding dressing."

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.

06
Mekong Cuisine Lao & Thai image 1
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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.

Papaya salad stands out with its sweet-sour, spicy, and funky flavors. Nam khao tod and beef salad also offer distinct tastes alongside traditional options like som tum and Laos sausages.

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."

"The boat noodles had a flavorful, thick black broth."

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.

07
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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.

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

"The cucumber salad here is so good, I ordered more."

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

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.

08
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Old-fashioned Chinese buffet with spacious seating and a huge salad bar. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet despite occasional loud chatter. Regularly plays Taylor Swift music, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Cold bar and salad bar offer solid options for vegetarian dinners. Salads include a killer ambrosia salad and a notable seafood salad that stand out.

Seafood here stays fresh and well-prepared. The coconut shrimp stands out, and clams and oysters are solid choices. Cold shrimp come out tender and clean-tasting, which is rare for a buffet.

People are saying

"The salad bar was huge with lots of great options."

"The shrimp here were so tasty and cooked to perfection."

Good to know

1

Cooked oysters are available only during Friday, Saturday, and Sunday dinner hours.

2

The all-you-can-eat buffet costs $20 per person.

3

There are no drink dispensers; drinks must be ordered separately.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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