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Best Seafood Restaurants in Hillcrest

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81 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant
1. Ironside Fish & Oyster
4.5
Awesome(4553)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Little Italy
Booked 118 times today
Nestled in the heart of San Diego's vibrant Little Italy, Ironside Fish & Oyster is a gem for seafood enthusiasts. Celebrated for its dedication to the freshest and highest quality seafood, this restaurant has transformed a historic auction house into a bustling seafood haven with an expansive raw bar and open-air culinary hubs. Patrons rave about their "10/10 plump oysters" and assert that the "fish and chips may be the best in San Diego." Not to be missed are their lobster rolls, described as "the best thing I ever had!" With its cool vibe and exceptional service, Ironside Fish & Oyster offers an unforgettable dining experience right by the docks where the city's fishing legacy continues to thrive.
A photo of Water Grill - San Diego restaurant
2. Water Grill - San Diego
4.7
Exceptional(3602)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 48 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Diego's Gaslamp District, Water Grill San Diego offers an unparalleled seafood experience that has consistently earned it top ratings among the city’s seafood dining spots. Right from the bustling docks, their boat-to-table strategy ensures only the freshest seafood, including an impressive variety of fish, lobsters, crabs, and oysters, makes it to your plate, often within hours of being caught. Patrons rave about their 'exceptional' seafood dishes, with the Chilean seabass and lobster frequently highlighted as 'possibly the best ever had.' Each dish is crafted to showcase the natural flavors of the high-quality ingredients, earning glowing reviews for both the culinary finesse and the lively, elegant ambiance. Whether it's the 'amazing' oyster sampler or the expertly prepared sea bass, Water Grill promises a memorable dining adventure right in the bustling center of San Diego.
A photo of Tom Hams Lighthouse restaurant
3. Tom Hams Lighthouse
4.6
Exceptional(6667)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 47 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, Tom Ham’s Lighthouse stands as a beacon of Californian cuisine, offering an unparalleled dining experience. Celebrated for its "100% responsibly sourced seafood menu," this iconic establishment, built around a functioning lighthouse, promises not only breathtaking views but also culinary brilliance. Patrons rave about dishes from the "amazing Sunday Champagne Brunch" to the "best Blackened Salmon BLT ever had." Whether it’s the "exquisite buffet" during Father’s Day or the "perfectly soft salmon" on a romantic evening, every meal here is a testament to the authentic and high-quality Californian fare. As one reviewer aptly puts it, Tom Ham’s is "always a highlight of our trips to San Diego!" – a must-visit for anyone seeking the true taste of California.
A photo of King's Fish House - Mission Valley restaurant
4. King's Fish House - Mission Valley
4.6
Exceptional(2242)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Mission Valley
Booked 12 times today
At King's Fish House in Mission Valley, San Diego, sushi enthusiasts can delight in an unparalleled dining experience. Known for its exceptional seafood offerings, the restaurant's sushi stands out with its freshness and authenticity. The menu, which changes daily, ensures a unique sushi adventure with each visit, promising the most seasonal and top-quality ingredients. Patrons rave about the sushi's excellence, with one customer exclaiming, "Great food and service, we had the wedge salad, some sushi rolls, oysters and clam chowder. Everything was really good." Another highlights the overall quality, noting, "Excellent food as always... Great sushi, sides and Caesar salads." King's Fish House's commitment to service and quality makes it a must-visit for sushi lovers in the heart of San Diego.
A photo of C-Level restaurant
5. C-Level
4.7
Exceptional(4915)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 102 times today
Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, C-Level Lounge offers a cocktail bar experience that is as exceptional as its breathtaking waterfront views. Guests rave about the unique and masterfully crafted cocktails, highlighting favorites like the "spicy and perfectly balanced" Bloody Mary. The atmosphere is described as "upscale-casual," perfect for both special occasions and casual outings. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive and personable service, enhancing the overall experience. "The drinks were amazing," notes one satisfied customer, encapsulating the high standards of the cocktail bar at C-Level, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking a memorable night out.
A photo of insideOUT restaurant
6. insideOUT
4.8
Exceptional(2322)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Hillcrest
Booked 58 times today
insideOUT in Hillcrest, San Diego, is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional seafood offerings. Executive Chef Johnny Duran’s creative California-Mediterranean inspired menu features the freshest local ingredients, ensuring each dish is both delectable and authentically crafted. Guests rave about the quality of the seafood, with one patron describing the BBQ Garlic Prawns as "beautiful" and another applauding the Grilled Atlantic Salmon for its perfection. The vibrant ambiance, combined with consistently praised dishes, makes insideOUT a must-visit for seafood lovers seeking an elevated dining experience in San Diego’s only urban oasis.
A photo of Brigantine at Portside Pier restaurant
7. Brigantine at Portside Pier
4.7
Exceptional(4225)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 101 times today
Located in the bustling heart of Downtown San Diego, Brigantine at Portside Pier is celebrated for its exceptional Steakhouse cuisine, harmoniously blending San Diego’s surf spirit with exquisite turf fare. Patrons rave about the "always amazing" food, where the classic filet mignon shines alongside local favorites like the marinated grilled swordfish. The ambiance and service are consistently highlighted in glowing reviews, with guests noting the "beautiful view" and "great service" as perfect complements to the mouth-watering dishes. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual meal, Brigantine at Portside Pier stands out as a culinary beacon in San Diego, offering a taste of local flavor paired with world-class steakhouse offerings.
A photo of Coasterra restaurant
8. Coasterra
4.6
Exceptional(7577)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Harbor Island
Booked 98 times today
Coasterra stands out as a crown jewel of Seafood cuisine in San Diego, particularly celebrated for its fresh, innovative Mexican flavors right on the waterfront of Harbor Island. Patrons rave about the "spectacular view of the San Diego skyline" while indulging in dishes like the "Blood Orange Scallop Aguachile" and "Ancho Chili Roasted Salmon" which are just a few highlights of their diverse seafood offerings. As one diner exclaims, the seafood is "incredibly fresh and wonderful in flavor," ensuring each meal is an unforgettable experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Coasterra offers not only a meal but an experience, complete with "impeccable service" and a setting that makes every dining occasion special.
A photo of Eddie V's - Seaport District restaurant
9. Eddie V's - Seaport District
4.9
Exceptional(3926)
Price: Very Expensive
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 49 times today
At Eddie V’s Prime Seafood in the vibrant Seaport District of Downtown San Diego, seafood enthusiasts can savor the essence of oceanic bounty. Known for its luxurious ambiance and exceptional cuisine, Eddie V’s sources its seafood from the most pristine waters globally, ensuring every dish celebrates the authentic flavors of the sea. Patrons rave about their dining experiences, with one mentioning, “the lobster and filet were excellent. You will not go away hungry!” and another celebrating a special occasion noted, “I had the sea bass and it was excellent. I loved the way that it was prepared.” Accompanied by a Wine Spectator-recognized wine list and live music in the V Lounge, Eddie V’s offers not just a meal, but a memorable seafood dining adventure.
A photo of Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant
10. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego
4.6
Exceptional(1733)
Price: Moderate
• Seafood • Downtown
Booked 20 times today
At Lionfish Restaurant, situated in the heart of downtown San Diego, seafood lovers revel in a culinary experience that is as delightful as it is authentic. This modern sushi and seafood haven, led by the talented local chef JoJo Ruiz, showcases a passion for fresh-catch cuisine that’s evident in every dish. Enthusiastic diners rave about the “best sushi and sashimi I have ever had! Melts in your mouth!” and commend the innovative, delicious dishes like the "Angry Fish," described as “the BEST fish I’ve ever had.” Lionfish not only excels in creating mouthwatering seafood but also provides an atmosphere and service that consistently exceed expectations. Whether it’s celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, Lionfish is a must-visit for exceptional seafood in San Diego.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • FeriVIP
    Orange County •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great food at the happy hour on Christmas Day!! Our party had their clam chowder soup, bread, octopus, Japanese sweet potatoes, lobster roll, and broccolini. All delicious!
    More info
    Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
    •
    4.5
  • KELLY
    San Diego •16 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Christmas buffet had (5) gluten-free options for desserts!! Awesome!! Wish they used rice flour for the turkey gravy. Service was amazing!
    More info
    CoasterraPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Harbor Island
    •
    4.6
  • SusanVIP
    West Virginia •22 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Scott was an excellent server. The Water Grill has a fantastic menu and the food is fresh, innovative and delicious. The restaurant interior is very well done and comfortable. One of the very best restaurants in San Diego. It is at the too of our list. You won’t be disappointed.
    More info
    Water Grill - San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Downtown
    •
    4.7
  • Yolanda
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Everything was perfect. From the ease of OpenTable reservations , communication via messages to walking in to see the hostess. The seating was absolutely beautiful and atmosphere gorgeous. Just as expected then more. The food and drinks were amazingly delicious!
    More info
    insideOUTPrice: Expensive• Californian• Hillcrest
    •
    4.8
  • Alan
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    This is my go to for business lunches and special events. Food and service at or above expectations. The views are amazing. Selection and quality provides something for all. Custom food requests don’t seem to cause issues. Lunchtime parking is ample and has been free when we go. They may regulate parking sometimes so call if that is a concern. You can’t go wrong with the Cohn family of restaurants, with C-Level being one of their premier locations.
    More info
    C-LevelPrice: Moderate• Cocktail Bar• Downtown
    •
    4.7

Discover best Seafood restaurants in Hillcrest

Discover the vibrant seafood dining scene in Hillcrest, San Diego, where the coastal flavors meet urban flair. In Hillcrest, seafood enthusiasts can expect a variety of culinary experiences, from innovative California-inspired dishes to traditional seafood classics. Restaurants in this eclectic neighborhood pride themselves on sourcing the freshest ingredients, ensuring that each dish serves up both quality and taste. Many establishments feature menus that highlight local catches and seasonal specialties, catering to both casual diners and gourmet aficionados alike. The dining atmosphere in Hillcrest varies from intimate and cozy to lively and modern, making it a perfect destination for any occasion. Visitors will appreciate the commitment to excellence in service and the emphasis on creating memorable dining experiences. Whether you're a local or a tourist, exploring Hillcrest's seafood offerings is sure to satisfy your palate and provide a delightful culinary adventure.

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