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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of La Jolla

Seafood spots

Fresh seafood that respects the ocean instead of masking it in heavy, uninspired sauces.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taco Time Cantina image 1
Taco Time Cantina image 2
Taco Time Cantina image 3
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Bright colors and beautiful decor create an inviting space with cozy patio seating. Fish tacos are fried to perfection with high quality ingredients and tasty salsas. Shrimp tacos feature a roasted poblano pepper layer that stands out.

Fish tacos come fried to perfection with high quality ingredients and tasty salsas. Shrimp tacos feature a roasted poblano pepper layer that stands out.

People are saying

"The salsa bar is fantastic, with so many tasty options."

"The Carne Asada is tender and perfectly seasoned."

"The seafood tacos here are fresh, perfectly cooked, and amazing."

Good to know

1

Taco Time Cantina offers unique taco options not available anywhere else.

2

The chef makes everything daily from scratch with over 20 years of experience.

3

Expect a 2% credit card surcharge not listed on the menu.

02
Bistro Pazzo image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers top-notch pasta and a cozy atmosphere perfect for families and couples. Fresh seafood like clams and calamari shines in dishes like seafood fettuccine. Enjoy peaceful outdoor seating on a dog-friendly patio.

Seafood dishes feature fresh clams, mussels, calamari, and salmon cooked perfectly with sauces that enhance rather than overpower. Options like seafood fettuccine and Seafood Cioppino offer flavorful, well-balanced meals.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are amazing and delicious."

"The Italian food here, especially the lasagna, is the best I've ever had."

"The seafood pasta dishes were fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Dinner service starts from 4 pm.

2

Bistro Pazzo accommodates large parties, including groups of 11.

3

The restaurant is kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

03
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers an authentic atmosphere with subtle Japanese decor and fresh air. Fish is exceptionally fresh, featuring cuts like Hon maguro and hamachi. Innovative sauces and beautiful presentation make seafood dishes stand out.

Fish comes extremely fresh, almost like it was just caught, with high quality cuts like Hon maguro and hamachi. Sushi includes shrimp and uni with innovative sauces and beautiful presentation.

People are saying

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

"The nigiri here has an ideal rice-to-fish ratio."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it tastes like it was just caught."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to limited seating.

2

Omakase is available Monday through Thursday with 24 hours advance reservations.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

04
La Corriente La Jolla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space blends French café and beach bungalow styles with terrace seating. Shrimp dishes shine with wood-fired XL Shrimp and fresh ceviche. Atmosphere stays laid back and soothing, perfect for enjoying authentic Mexican flavors and warm hospitality.

Shrimp dishes stand out with wood-fired XL Shrimp that are herb-dusted and fresh, plus a shrimp cocktail noted for its quality. Fish options like the Red Snapper Tostada and ceviche highlight fresh, well-handled seafood with a homemade salsa kick.

People are saying

"I've never had a fresher, crispier fish taco."

"I found the seafood to be authentically Baja style."

"The grilled octopus is tender with a slight char."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends promptly at 6pm; order before then to get the discount.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

3

Parking is not available; consider alternative transportation options.

05
Don Carlos Taco Shop։ image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a laid-back atmosphere and outdoor patio seating perfect for people watching. Known for flavorful burritos and tacos, especially the fresh shrimp burritos and huge fish tacos with amazing sauce. Fast, affordable, and tasty Mexican food.

Shrimp burritos and fish tacos stand out for their freshness and flavor. The fish tacos are huge and tasty, often paired with an amazing sauce that complements the grilled fish well.

People are saying

"I thought this burrito was the best I had ever tasted."

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

"The fish tacos here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

The wait at Don Carlos Taco Shop is usually short, even during rush hours.

2

There is limited seating available at Don Carlos Taco Shop.

3

Don Carlos Taco Shop offers a variety of menu options, including vegan choices.

06
La Jollita image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood like perfectly cooked zarandeado fish in a relaxed beachy vibe with lively music. Spacious, dog-friendly patio and stunning decor create a clean, uplifting space for families and dates.

Fresh seafood stands out with real Mexican flavors. The zarandeado fish cooks perfectly, highlighting the quality and care in preparation.

People are saying

"The food here is super fresh and high quality."

"The staff here is so attentive, they always have the right cocktail in mind."

"The seafood here is served by attentive and friendly staff."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is limited; expect challenges finding street parking nearby.

3

The restaurant has a dog-friendly patio for outdoor dining.

07
Eddie V's Prime Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Panoramic ocean views shine from the outdoor patio with heated lamps and a fire pit. Guests enjoy jumbo gulf shrimp and fresh oysters from the large seafood tower. Service stays attentive and elegant, creating a refined dining experience with thoughtful touches like complimentary champagne.

Seafood here features a large seafood tower that works well as an appetizer. The jumbo gulf shrimp and fresh oysters stand out as key dishes.

People are saying

"The ocean view here is spectacular and to die for."

"The steak here felt like a fine dining experience, every moment."

"The seafood here is outstanding, with attentive service making it feel special."

Good to know

1

Reservations are essential as the restaurant is often fully booked.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Valet parking is recommended due to limited street parking availability.

08
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Freshest seafood shines with a fish market vibe and standout dishes like the best fish sandwich. Outdoor patio lined with cacti creates a relaxed coastal feel. Buzzy atmosphere invites casual diners seeking quality and space.

Offers freshest seafood with consistently high quality. Features a true fish market atmosphere combined with a restaurant serving standout items like the best fish sandwich and fish burrito.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the clam chowder was the best I ever had."

"It's a casual and relaxed atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

El Pescador Fish Market operates on a first come, first serve basis; no reservations accepted.

2

Expect long lines on Saturday afternoons, especially during peak hours.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early to secure a spot.

09
King Of Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Indoor and outdoor seating create a relaxed Thai style with patio heaters for comfort. Fish dishes like whole fish pad cha are pre-cut for easy eating. Shrimp Pad see-ew offers a medium spicy kick around level 3 to 4.

Fish dishes come pre-cut for easy eating and include options like whole fish pad cha and Tom Kha fish. Shrimp Pad see-ew offers a medium spicy level around 3 to 4.

People are saying

"I found the Thai food here to be fresh, delicious, and authentic."

"The lunch specials here have generous portions for the price."

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the whole fish."

Good to know

1

The lunch special offers generous portions at a great price.

2

Vegan and vegetarian options are available on the menu.

3

Happy hour specials for food and drink are offered.

10
Raymundo's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor terrace creates a zen-like atmosphere perfect for relaxing. Fish tacos shine with perfectly fried fish and bold Baja sauce. Counter service keeps dining casual and affordable with fresh tortillas and top-notch beans.

Fish tacos feature perfectly fried fish with Baja sauce and green salsa that stand out. The fish burrito offers a unique twist, while shrimp tacos are seasoned but less impressive.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the California burrito huge and delicious."

"I found the fish tacos to be simply to die for."

Good to know

1

There is no restroom available at this taco shop.

2

The prices are surprisingly low for the area, with generous portions.

3

This taco shop offers a limited vegetarian option.

11
Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge image 1

Outdoor covered patio with heated seating welcomes dogs, perfect for casual groups or dates. Menu shines with Jumbo Dynamite Shrimp and diverse seafood tapas like hamachi tacos. Inside, elegant décor meets a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere.

Jumbo Dynamite Shrimp stuffed with crab stands out as a signature seafood dish. Other options include crispy Vietnamese shrimp, hamachi tacos, and ahi poke, offering a variety of seafood tapas.

People are saying

"The crab stack and hot rock are must-orders during Happy Hour."

"I loved the duck quesadilla; it was so filling."

"You can get great deals on seafood during happy hour."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour offers 50% off all dishes from 2 to 5 pm daily.

2

Food is only served on the patio during Happy Hour.

3

Street parking is the only available option.

12
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean spot boasts breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that cuts street noise. Fresh seafood shines with grilled oysters and a whole grilled branzino. Live music adds a classy beach vibe that feels lively and welcoming.

Oysters come grilled or raw and are consistently delicious. The menu features seafood stew, shrimp tacos, and a whole grilled branzino, all fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The ocean view from the balcony is breathtaking."

"The seafood here is amazing and so affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

13
Nautilus Tavern image 1
American restaurant

Small American spot shines with fresh fish tacos and large portions. Outdoor seating and live music create a lively vibe. Dog friendly with free video games keeps kids happy.

Fish tacos and ceviche stand out with fresh, vibrant flavors. Coconut shrimp offers a sweet but balanced taste. Fish sandwich delivers a notably fresh experience. Portions are large and hot.

People are saying

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

"This bar has the best fish sandwich I've ever had."

"The seafood here is so flavorful, especially the ceviche and coconut shrimp."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day with half-price appetizers.

2

Trivia night occurs every Thursday with a $5 entry fee.

3

Free parking is available in the garage downstairs.

14
Don Bravo image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot buzzes with nostalgic cantina vibes and a lively crowd. Outdoor patio offers ocean views that relax the mood. Seafood shines with crispy fish tacos and tasty octopus tacos under $10, making it a casual, authentic treat.

Lightly fried fish tacos stand out with their crispy texture and fresh flavor. Octopus tacos also feature, paired with affordable prices under $10 for two tacos and a drink.

People are saying

"The patio has a nice ocean view, especially at sunset."

"The salsa bar here is nice, with tasty options like habanero."

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

Good to know

1

Street tacos cost $3 each.

2

A regular breakfast burrito costs $11.99, with extra charges for substitutions.

3

The two fish tacos and a drink cost under $10.

15
Aroi Thai On Prospect image 1
Thai restaurant

Enjoy ocean views from a cozy patio with a laid-back, pet-friendly vibe. Seafood shines with crispy shrimp and fried fish that pairs perfectly with pineapple fried rice. Ideal for relaxing meals by the beach.

Seafood dishes feature fresh ingredients with shrimp that comes out perfectly crispy. Fried fish is also crispy and pairs well with fried rice or pineapple fried rice.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is so flavorful and authentic."

"The curry here is rich, creamy, and full of flavor."

"The seafood here is so fresh and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all week long with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Street parking is available, but can be hard to find.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is often available immediately for lunch.

16
Sea & Sky image 1
Californian restaurant

Top-floor setting offers spectacular ocean views and wide windows framing the coastline. Fresh seafood shines with beautiful presentation, especially the sea bass. Soft live jazz and a full bar create a luxurious, cozy atmosphere perfect for sunset evenings.

Seafood here is incredibly fresh and served with beautiful presentation, especially the sea bass. Every fish dish ordered is fresh and well prepared.

People are saying

"The view here is stunning, especially at sunset."

"I loved the steak and frites, cooked perfectly."

"The seafood here has amazing views."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm, offering ocean views.

2

Parking is validated for guests dining at the restaurant.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

17
Zoya image 1
Restaurant

Open space with warm family-style vibe and extraordinary decor invites guests. Grilled fish dishes offer tender texture and full flavor. Upscale energy matches authentic Mediterranean flavors and a full bar in a beautiful setting.

Grilled fish dishes stand out with tender texture and full flavor. The Roasted Whole Fish and family platters show careful preparation and beautiful presentation.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and amazing."

"I tasted the best hummus I've ever had."

"The seafood here is so great, beautifully prepared and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day with $5 beer options.

2

Outdoor seating is available for guests with dogs.

3

The menu offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes.

18
Public House La Jolla image 1
American restaurant

Cozy spot with heated patio and live music offers a relaxed vibe perfect for quiet drinks. Seafood shines with shrimp burger and fish tacos featuring unique aioli sauces. Numerous sports screens add casual energy without overwhelming the calm atmosphere.

Shrimp burger comes with crispy fries. Fish tacos and fish and chips stand out with lemon pepper aioli and chipotle aioli. Bruschetta also adds a nice touch to the seafood options.

People are saying

"I loved their amazing craft beer selection."

"The patio is a relaxed outdoor space with heaters and classic rock."

"I enjoyed the battered fried fish and chips."

Good to know

1

Half-off burgers are available on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour offers daily specials, including half-price sliders.

3

Parking is plentiful near the restaurant.

19
Verdes El Ranchero image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot offers beer battered fish tacos and a carne asada shrimp burrito that highlight fresh seafood. Cozy bar and classic rock music set a lively Southern California vibe. Pets are welcome, adding to the friendly atmosphere.

Seafood shines in the beer battered fish taco on a homemade flour tortilla and the queso and shrimp tacos. The carne asada with shrimp burrito stands out as well.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican Food here is great, especially the margaritas."

"I considered the shrimp burrito the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Reservations are not required, but the restaurant gets busy quickly.

3

The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating available.

20
Crab City (La Jolla Cove) image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Outdoor seating offers ocean views and a calm vibe perfect for relaxed dining. Seafood boils shine with spicy garlic butter, while shrimp pouches bring a mild seasoning balance. Family-run warmth and soft music create a peaceful atmosphere for quiet chats.

Seafood boils come with a spicy garlic butter sauce that stands out. Shrimp pouches offer a mild seasoning that balances flavor well. Plenty of options exist beyond messy seafood boils.

People are saying

"The seafood boil here is packed with garlic, butter, and spice."

"The pho broth is rich, authentic, and perfect for a chilly evening."

"The outdoor seating offers a wonderful ocean view."

Good to know

1

The menu includes Vietnamese dishes like rice plates and bánh mì.

2

Prices are reasonable, with many dishes under $20.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available.

21
Chin's Szechwan - La Jolla image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with intimate booths and warm lighting creates a cozy vibe. Shrimp dishes like honey walnut shrimp shine with bold flavors. Popular spot offers generous portions and a quiet atmosphere perfect for relaxed dining.

Shrimp dishes stand out with options like honey walnut shrimp and ku ting shrimp drawing praise. Seafood fried rice and crispy wontons add variety, though shrimp can sometimes be overcooked.

People are saying

"I found Chin's Szechwan to be a great Chinese food spot."

"I found the Lo Mein here to be authentic and flavorful."

"I found the Chinese food here to be the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted due to the small size of the restaurant.

2

Expect to wait for a table during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

Lunch prices are lower than dinner prices, providing a more affordable option.

22
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill offers ocean views and a lively, cozy vibe with indoor-outdoor seating. Fish tacos feature blackened seasoning for bold flavor, while multiple sports TVs keep fans engaged. Outdoor seating is dog friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.

Fish tacos stand out with their blackened seasoning and bold flavor. The fish and chips come highly recommended and deliver a delicious, crispy experience.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the burgers here were great and generously portioned."

"I found the beer battered cod to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

23
Rubio's Coastal Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor seating offers temple views and a coastal breeze, creating a relaxed vibe. Fish tacos are huge and crispy, with options like blackened Mahi Mahi and grilled shrimp. Menu includes healthy choices and a small condiment station for customizing sauces.

Fish tacos come in huge, crispy portions with fresh fish and good texture. Options include deep batter fried, blackened Mahi Mahi grilled, and gourmet grilled shrimp tacos, all providing a complete meal.

People are saying

"I found the fish tacos here to be a classic and delicious."

"I found the burrito to be really excellent."

"Their fish tacos are huge, crispy, and freshly prepared."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers a great deal for meals with discounted tacos.

2

Expect parking to be challenging, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices for tacos can exceed $10 for two small ones.

24
Pho La Jolla image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Casual dining with sports TVs creates a lively vibe. Cajun Seafood Boil features clams and shrimp with customizable heat. Open late, it offers a homey atmosphere and satisfies late night pho cravings.

Cajun Seafood Boil offers customizable flavors and heat levels, served on butcher paper with bib and gloves. Dishes include clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish balls, alongside pho and noodle salads with grilled chicken and shrimp.

People are saying

"The pho here is absolutely delicious and flavorful."

"The pho here is some of the best and largest in the county."

"You have to try their Cajun Seafood Boil, it's smoky, spicy, and aromatic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a $15 minimum for credit card payments.

2

They charge $3.50 for extra broth if you want more.

3

They are open late, making it a good option for late-night dining.

25
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining offers sea view and golf course sights, perfect for families and friends. Enjoy shrimp cocktail and exquisite fish dishes that stand out. Live music and a bonfire add to the relaxed, scenic vibe.

Shrimp cocktail features 6 large shrimp cooked and chilled just right. Fish dishes stand out as exquisite, with smoked fish also tasting really good.

People are saying

"I took in the beautiful golf course view from our outdoor table."

"The tomato soup and grilled cheese are delicious comfort food."

"The shrimp cocktail here is perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner service to avoid long wait times.

2

The average meal cost is around $30 per person, excluding drinks.

3

The restaurant offers a scenic patio for outdoor dining with ocean views.

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La Jolla, San Diego

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