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New Yorkers 1st Choice
La Jolla's best

Soup and seafood

You want a bowl of soup that feels substantial, especially when it is paired with fresh seafood.

Based on 579 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 2
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 3
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Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with authentic atmosphere and subtle Japanese decor creates a quiet, intimate vibe. Space feels comfortable and unpretentious, with an open front allowing fresh air inside. Fish quality stands out as exceptionally fresh and high-grade.

Miso soup features fresh salmon and sometimes truffle oil, adding a unique twist. The soup stands out as delicious and distinctive compared to typical versions.

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

"The miso soup with salmon and truffle oil was delightful."

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.

02
King Of Thai Cuisine image 1
Thai restaurant

Indoor and outdoor seating offer a relaxed yet elegant Thai style with patio heaters for comfort. The space features clean lines and inviting decor, including a wooden bench with heart pillows. Atmosphere feels pleasant and well maintained, blending beauty with a calm vibe.

Wonton soup serves as a full meal with rich flavors. Tom Yum and Tom Kha soups offer classic Thai spice and creaminess. Sweet and sour soup delivers a balanced tangy taste.

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."

"I found the Thai soup to be delicious and authentic."

"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.

03
La Corriente La Jolla image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space blends French cafรฉ and beach bungalow styles with beautiful decor and terrace seating. Atmosphere stays laid back and soothing, ideal for conversation. Guests enjoy authentic Mexican flavors and warm hospitality.

Siete mares soup stands out with its rich flavors. Complimentary soup samples add a nice touch to the experience.

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."

"This clam chowder is the most delicious bowl I've ever had."

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.

04
Zoya image 1
Restaurant

Open space with extraordinary decor and warm family-style vibe creates an inviting atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating options complement a full bar and on point music choice. Upscale energy suits those seeking authentic Mediterranean flavors in a beautiful setting.

Thick texture and great flavor define the lentil soup here. It stays healthy, light but filling, and looks appealing for photos.

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."

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

"I found the lentil soup to be excellent and flavorful."

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.

05
Aroi Thai On Prospect image 1
Thai restaurant

Restaurant offers ocean and beach views with semi-outdoor patio seating that creates a cozy and warm atmosphere. The vibe is laid-back and pet-friendly, attracting those who enjoy relaxing meals with scenic surroundings.

Soups here come with bold flavors and solid heat, like the boat soup with a level 7 kick. The Tom Yum soup and duck noodle soup stand out for their perfect seasoning and balance.

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 Tom Yum soup here is awesome and flavorful."

"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.

06
Crab City (La Jolla Cove) image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Outdoor seating overlooks ocean views and a lively street, creating a peaceful atmosphere with a warm, family-run vibe. Music plays softly, adding to the chill environment. The setting suits quiet conversations and relaxed dining.

Noodle soup features fried tofu and fresh greens like zucchini and choy in a chicken broth base. Vegetable rice noodle soup offers a hearty, comforting option suitable for chilly days.

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 bรกnh mรฌ.

2

Prices are reasonable, with many dishes under $20.

3

Reservations are not required, and seating is usually available.

07
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Cioppino soup features mostly mussels and clams with little fish. Tomato soup comes alongside pork chop and filet mignon dishes. Bread served with soup can be greasy.

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 cioppino soup was out of this world and so flavorful."

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.

08
El Pescador Fish Market image 1

Fish market and restaurant combine with fresh seafood display behind a glass counter. Outdoor patio lined with cacti offers a relaxed coastal vibe and spacious seating options. The atmosphere feels buzzy and inviting, drawing people who appreciate fresh fish and casual dining.

Seafood soups like cioppino stand out with rich flavors. Soups come alongside dishes like ceviche and sandwiches, all tasting fresh and satisfying.

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."

"The clam chowder soup was pretty good and full of clams."

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
Chin's Szechwan - La Jolla image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small space with about six booths inside and a few tables outside creates an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Warm lighting and tasteful decor blend traditional Chinese elements with modern style, making it a quiet, vibey spot. Popular and often busy, it draws diners who appreciate consistent quality and generous portions.

Wonton soup comes packed full of goodies and has a great flavor. Hot and sour soup also appears as a solid option alongside other dishes.

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

"The wonton soup here is packed full of goodies."

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.

10
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

French onion soup stands out with a twist of rye bread and a different cheese, topped with a great crouton and a tasty base. Lobster soup and meatball soup of the day also offer solid options.

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 found the beer battered cod to be delicious."

"Their French onion soup has a tasty base with lots of cheese."

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.

11
The Grill at Torrey Pines image 1
American restaurant

Outdoor dining overlooks a golf course and sea view, creating a relaxed, family-oriented atmosphere with live music and a bonfire area. The setting feels comfortable and scenic, especially during evening hours. The place attracts golfers, families, and friends gathering for casual meals and drinks.

Roma tomato soup stands out with a rich, comforting flavor. It pairs well with pan-seared grilled cheese featuring perfectly melted cheese inside.

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 shrimp cocktail here is perfection."

"The tomato soup with grilled cheese is delicious comfort food."

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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