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New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Francisco's best

Unique fish spots

Made for those who prioritize finding rare or specialized fish preparations over standard fare.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
PACIFICO Latin American Cuisine image 1
PACIFICO Latin American Cuisine image 2
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Restaurant offers authentic Colombian flavors with a warm, cozy atmosphere filled with natural light and Colombian music. The vibe stays relaxed and cultural, creating a welcoming, almost familial feel. Dishes blend Colombian and Peruvian influences, delivering unique and refined tastes.

Chef Daniel offers a unique take on Latin cuisine with dishes that stand out. The crab omelette adds a distinct touch, making the menu worth exploring.

Broth in the Cazuela de Mariscos highlights mussels, clams, and fish clearly. Fried whole fish and fish cebiche come with coconut rice and plantains.

People are saying

"This ceviche is melting in your mouth, so fresh and delicious."

"The brunch here is spectacular, especially the crab omelette."

"The fish dishes here have an excellent, authentic flavor."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect to spend over $50 per person, excluding drinks.

3

Portion sizes may be smaller than expected, so plan accordingly.

02
KEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Six-seat counter creates an intimate dining experience with direct interaction from the chef. Atmosphere feels friendly and personal, blending storytelling with a casual yet refined omakase journey. Thoughtful sake pairings complement the exceptional Edomae-style sushi and elevate each bite.

Dishes showcase unique flavors and careful balance. The chef explains the background of each fish and preparation methods to highlight these distinct tastes.

Fish arrives pristine and expressive, with flawless balance and expert Edomae-style curing. Chef Ken shares detailed insights on preparation, highlighting flavors and aromas that stand out clearly.

People are saying

"I experienced the best omakase I have ever had."

"The fish here is carefully selected and explained with passion."

"Chef Ken's witty and engaging conversation adds depth to the unique dining experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating of only 7 people.

2

Chef Ken has extensive training and experience from top restaurants in Japan.

3

The omakase experience is crafted with attention to detail and unique flavors.

03
Lion West Portal image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers unique cart service with small plates delivered Dim Sum-style, creating an interactive dining experience. Interior blends cozy, chic design with an elegant yet casual vibe across two floors. Menu includes a large vegan selection alongside fresh, high-quality nigiri and specialty rolls.

Calm atmosphere hosts dishes with unique twists and a mix of flavors. Omakase nigiri features unexpected pairings like uni on tuna, delivering some of the most interesting sushi around.

Fish tastes very fresh and comes in creative rolls. The baked fish collar is tender and flavorful, with ingredients that highlight the fish without overpowering it.

People are saying

"The vegetarian rolls here are creative and really good."

"The sushi here has unique ingredients and creative rolls."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant operates on a no-tip model, including service fees in menu prices.

3

Expect to pay around $40 per person without drinks.

04
COPPER CHIMNEY INDIAN RESTAURANT image 1

Spices fill the air in a clean, well-decorated space with old Hindi songs playing softly. The atmosphere stays warm and welcoming, creating a peaceful dining mood ideal for relaxed meals. Guests enjoy a comfortable environment that suits any occasion.

Dishes feature unique flavors with well balanced tastes. The Mango Lamb Curry stands out as completely unique and flavorful.

Fish dishes here stand out for their flaky texture and bold flavors. Options like Fish Vindaloo offer a fiery and tangy taste, while Fish Tikka Masala is tender and rich, and the Coconut Fish Curry is light and flavorful.

People are saying

"The Indian food here is rich, creamy, and comforting."

"The Mango Lamb Curry is unique, with a special fruitiness."

"The Fish Tikka Masala is flaky, tender, and rich in flavor."

Good to know

1

Copper Chimney uses organic ingredients for many of its dishes.

2

Dining at Copper Chimney is a treat for both vegetarians and meat lovers.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours.

05
Altamirano Restaurant & Bar image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Covered outdoor patio with fireplace table and live Spanish guitar creates a stylish, sophisticated atmosphere. Tables sit close together, making conversations audible and the vibe intimate. Cocktails, especially pisco sours, and authentic Peruvian dishes define the experience.

Food and drinks feature unique flavor profiles with dishes like Shrimp Toast, Salmon Brulee, and Lamb Arancini standing out from typical options.

Fresh, inventive flavors shine in dishes like ceviche and whole fried fish. The fish quality stays high, with the classic ceviche standing out and the whole fish served with a rich sauce despite being a bit dry.

People are saying

"The dinner here is incredible, especially the ceviche and Lomo Saltado."

"The food here is creative, with unique flavor profiles in every dish."

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm with a special menu.

2

Pisco tasting events occur occasionally; check the schedule.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

06
Sawaan Thai Kitchen image 1
Thai restaurant

Modern Thai restaurant with authentic flavors and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Music leans toward intense club vibes, contrasting with the otherwise thoughtful and warm setting. Unique dishes and high-quality presentation set it apart from typical Thai spots.

Food stands out with authentic Thai dishes rarely seen elsewhere. Plates and utensils feel unique and high quality, adding to the experience.

Lemongrass fish stands out with fresh, vibrant flavors. It pairs well with jasmine rice and crispy chicken, both prepared freshly.

People are saying

"The Thai food here is incredibly authentic and delicious."

"The Thai dishes here are unique and authentic, unlike typical restaurants."

"The lemongrass fish here is amazing and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

As of November, the restaurant isn't serving beer due to pending alcohol license.

2

Dogs are allowed at the restaurant.

3

The menu features unique Thai dishes not commonly found elsewhere.

07
The Roll image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant with a modern yet cozy interior and stylish, relaxed vibe. Atmosphere feels comfortable and clean, blending trendy and intimate elements. Quiet and peaceful setting suits casual dining.

Fresh cuts of tuna, salmon, and amberjack come together in their futomaki called The Roll, seasoned in a way that stands out. The space feels modern yet cozy, like a sleek bar in SoMa, creating an intimate vibe for a unique sushi experience.

Freshness stands out with every bite. Portions come generous and flavors hit strong, showing amazing quality in the fish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious, especially the sushi and miso soup."

"The fish here is so fresh and creamy, it just melts in your mouth."

"I loved their unique, creative interpretations of popular snacks."

Good to know

1

The hand rolls start at $6, offering great quality for the price.

2

The restaurant opened in December 2024, making it a newer establishment.

3

The rolls used to come with 10 pieces, but now they come with 6.

08
Ocean Aquarium image 1
Tropical fish store

Small, densely packed store showcases well-planted, self-sustaining tanks with deep substrate beds that support healthy fish and plants. The atmosphere feels like a mom-and-pop style shop with an eclectic collection of tiny, impressive aquariums. It attracts both beginners and experts seeking hard-to-find fish and plants with expert care advice.

Incredible selection of tanks stands out here. Deep substrate beds offer a natural way to manage water quality. The store sells unique fish not commonly found elsewhere.

An immense variety of beautiful fish fills the tanks, all bred in-house and sized for most home aquariums. Staff spend time helping set up tanks and offer detailed care advice to keep fish healthy and thriving.

People are saying

"The owners are so kind and knowledgeable about fish."

"They had a unique selection of fish and funky tanks."

"Parking was never a problem, even with my truck."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but can be hard to find during busy hours.

2

Expect to pay $2 per day for leaving your pet fish.

3

The store offers a wide selection of healthy fish and plants.

09
Cholita Linda image 1
Latin American restaurant

Wide open seating offers stunning bay views and a breezy outdoor patio. Lively Latin music creates a chill, Cuban-inspired atmosphere. The place draws a mix of locals and tourists enjoying casual, self-service dining by the water.

Sandwiches stand out with their amazing and unique flavors. Tacos offer a tasty twist, and the mango drink features a tamarind flavor that sets it apart.

Fish tacos feature tender, flaky fish with a crispy fried shell. They come veggie-forward, topped with cabbage, herbs, crema, and a signature hot sauce.

People are saying

"These fish tacos are out of this world."

"I thought the fish tacos were amazing."

"The tacos and drinks here have such unique flavors."

Good to know

1

Cholita Linda does not provide table service.

2

Cholita Linda is handicap accessible.

3

There are no restrooms inside the restaurant, but public restrooms are available at the ferry building.

10
Barberio Osteria image 1

Elevated Italian restaurant with an open kitchen and wood-burning grill creates a lively, buzzing atmosphere. The space feels tasteful and intimate, balancing elegant design with cozy seating enhanced by cushions and pillows. Noise levels can rise, making conversation challenging at times.

Dishes feature unique flavors and innovative twists on traditional recipes. Pasta stands out as both traditional and distinct in taste.

Whole fish dishes stand out with salt crusted cod and grilled fish cooked on coals that fill the air with aroma. Market fish options come super filling and pair well with pasta.

People are saying

"The house-made pasta here is fantastic and perfectly cooked."

"I found the pasta here to be unique and delicious."

"The Black Rock Cod here just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

The menu changes regularly to highlight seasonal ingredients.

3

Barberio Osteria serves only wine, beer, and spritz; no cocktails available.

11
Xebec image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends Mediterranean and Japanese fusion cuisine with creative craft cocktails in a space that balances cozy charm and Michelin-star sophistication. Atmosphere feels stylish and comfortable, inviting for intimate dinners or special occasions. Art from local artists and a beautiful private room add unique touches.

Flavors blend Mediterranean and Japanese influences in a way that stands out. Each dish offers a unique fusion that pushes boundaries in both taste and presentation.

High-quality hamachi comes with a balanced sweet and sour ponzu. The catch of the day fettuccine includes clams, mussels, and fish, though the pasta can be slightly overcooked.

People are saying

"The Date Spots here have outstanding, flavorful dishes like octopus and ravioli."

"The cocktails here were excellent and tasty."

"The fish here, like the hamachi, is high-quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

Parking is available right out front, making it convenient.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other restaurants in the area.

12
Burma Love image 1
Asian restaurant

Modern space blends zen and cool vibes with a spacious patio that opens to a lively outdoor area. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and inviting during off-peak times to vibrant and energetic on event days. Location offers people watching opportunities and a stylish setting near a major arena.

Mango sticky rice pop stands out as a unique dessert blending traditional flavors with an ice cream bar form. Cocktails offer awesome, unique mixes, and every dish delivers flavorful, distinctive tastes.

Black cod stands out with its soft texture and rich flavor, especially when wrapped in banana leaf. Fish curry offers a delicate balance of spices that pairs well with coconut rice and tea leaf salad.

People are saying

"You have to try the tea leaf salad; it's so tasty."

"The cocktails here are awesome and unique."

"The black cod fish in banana leaf just melted in my mouth."

Good to know

1

Getting a seat on game days can be difficult due to high demand.

2

Parking can be challenging during events at the Chase Center.

3

The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating.

13
The Happy Crane image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern Chinese restaurant offers a beautifully designed space with stunning woodwork and an open, casual atmosphere. The vibe balances stylish yet welcoming energy, avoiding pretension while featuring thoughtful cocktails and standout dishes like Peking duck and biang biang noodles.

Chefs transform classic Chinese dishes into unique, flavorful creations. Cocktails stand out as expertly balanced and top-tier.

People are saying

"The firecracker shrimp has a great mala hit."

"The fish here had a crispy skin and burst with flavor."

"The food here is unique, reimagined classic Chinese cuisine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the tasting menu, which costs $120 per person.

2

Expect a wait of about an hour after your reservation time.

3

The total cost with drinks and tips can reach around $200 per person.

14
Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant image 1

Small space filled with traditional Chinese decor and old furniture pieces reflecting Silk Road history. Atmosphere feels cozy yet crowded, with an upbeat vibe despite some cleanliness issues. Limited seating and busy times create a sense of urgency among diners.

Cuisine offers a unique taste not found anywhere from China to Beijing. The restaurant serves delicious dishes that create a distinctive dining experience.

Crack Fish Chef’s Special features a mildly mala broth with chili and numbing peppercorns. Hot and spicy boiling fish offers a strong Sichuan flavor with heat and spice.

People are saying

"I found the Halal Chinese food here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The seafood here is fresh, juicy, and piping hot."

"The food here has a unique, rich flavor that's perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

The restaurant serves only halal food with zabiha meat and no alcohol.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added for parties of 3 or more.

15
Caché image 1
Bistro

Small modern bistro with warm wooden decor and multiple intimate dining areas, including a hidden outdoor patio with heaters. Atmosphere feels cozy and romantic, especially during sunset. Guests enjoy a blend of refined French and California cuisine in a quiet, private setting.

Dishes feature unique flavors and ingredients that stand out. The buckwheat maple syrup tart offers a one-of-a-kind sweet finish. The wine list includes hard-to-find bottles that pair well with the menu.

Fish sashimi stands out as a key dish. Main courses feature tasty fish dishes that complement the menu's variety.

People are saying

"The French food here is amazing, with staff who are warm and knowledgeable."

"Each dish was unique and delicious, bursting with flavor."

"The fish dishes here were absolutely delicious."

Good to know

1

Caché has a seasonal menu that changes regularly.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Expect higher prices for unique dishes, with some items over $20.

16
Four Kings 四大天王 image 1
Cantonese restaurant

Small space with izakaya-style decor and walls adorned by classic Cantonese artists creates a nostalgic, cozy vibe. Energetic atmosphere buzzes with 80s and 90s Canton-pop music and lively chatter. Tight bar seating and warm service add to the intimate, vibrant experience.

Bold Hong Kong-style dishes include Mapo spaghetti and XO escargot. Small bites offer unique flavors like squab offal and crispy pig head.

Whole fried sole stands out with its flaky texture, crispy outer shell, and a fragrant sauce topped with pickled mustard. The whole fermented mustard fish offers a distinct, rich flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the spicy XO escargot."

"The escargot and milk bread here are unique and excellent."

"The whole fried sole is flaky with a crispy outer shell."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, and should be made at least three weeks in advance.

2

Expect a long wait if you arrive without a reservation, especially after 5:30pm.

3

Certain signature dishes may be unavailable if you arrive late, so plan accordingly.

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