The Fish Market in San Diego Review

Fresh Catch, Local Flavor, and Bayfront Views at One of San Diego’s Best Seafood Restaurants

If you’re heading to San Diego and craving fresh seafood with a side of sunset views, you can’t go wrong with the San Diego Fish Market. Located right on North Harbor Drive next to the USS Midway Museum, this iconic spot is part seafood restaurant, part fresh fish market, and 100 percent classic California coastal dining.

Whether you’re going for a relaxed lunch, a romantic dinner, or picking up fresh seafood to cook at home, this place checks all the boxes. We’ve been coming here for years, and it continues to be one of our top picks in the city.

Our Experience

We’ve visited the Fish Market in San Diego more times than we can count. Having lived in San Diego and returned often since, it’s always one of our go-to spots for fresh seafood and unbeatable views. We’ve dined here during lunch and dinner, on sunny afternoons and cooler evenings, and it’s always a great experience.

On our most recent visit, we made a reservation for 5:30 PM after enjoying a 2 hour harbor cruise at 3:00 PM, which we highly recommend. It was a cool and overcast day, so we chose a table by the window indoors. We’ve sat out on the deck before, and while that’s still our favorite, the view from inside didn’t disappoint.

We started with the ginger lime prawns appetizer and shared a wedge salad and scallops with au gratin potatoes for our entrée. The staff thoughtfully split the salad onto two plates and left off the cheese for my husband. He also ordered one of their famous Mai Tais, which was as good as ever, strong, flavorful, and perfectly balanced.

We skipped dessert this time, but in the past we’ve had both the crème brûlée and the chocolate brownie cake, and they’re both delicious. The staff is always friendly and attentive. We’ve also eaten at their Del Mar location, which has great food and service as well, but we definitely prefer the waterfront vibes downtown.

What to Order

Not sure what to get? Here are some of the standout dishes and drinks we’ve tried and recommend.

The menu highlights fresh, sustainable seafood with daily specials based on the local catch. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Seared Scallops with Au Gratin Potatoes
  
• Ginger Lime Prawns
  
• Wedge Salad
  
• Crab Cakes
  
• Cioppino
  
• Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl
  
• Mai Tai
  

Best Time to Go

The Fish Market can get busy, especially around sunset and on weekends. We strongly recommend making a reservation, especially for dinner or if you’re visiting during tourist season. You can book through their website or call ahead. While they do accept walk-ins, waits can be long.

For a more relaxed experience, weekday lunch or happy hour is a great option. The views are always stunning, but they’re extra special as the sun sets over the bay.

Fresh Seafood Market

One of the unique things about the Fish Market is that it’s also a working seafood market. You can stop in to buy the freshest catch of the day, everything from tuna, swordfish, and halibut to crab, scallops, oysters, and shrimp.

If you’re staying in a vacation rental or heading home, it’s a great way to enjoy San Diego’s coastal bounty on your own terms. The selection is displayed on ice and the staff is helpful if you need tips on preparation or storage.

How to Get There and Parking Info

The San Diego Fish Market is located at 750 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, right along the Embarcadero.

Getting There:

• On foot, it’s an easy walk if you’re staying downtown or near the cruise port
  
• By car, it’s just minutes from the I-5 freeway exits
  
• By public transport, it’s accessible via the Green Line Trolley and several MTS bus routes
  

Parking Options:

• Valet parking is available on-site for a fee
  
• Metered street parking can be found along Harbor Drive
  
• There are nearby lots and garages near the USS Midway and Seaport Village
  

Ambience and Vibe

Whether you’re sitting inside by the windows or dining out on the deck, the Fish Market delivers a true coastal dining vibe. It’s casual, friendly, and filled with the sounds of clinking glasses and ocean breezes. It’s great for couples, families, or small groups.

Service

The service has always been top-notch. The staff is knowledgeable about the menu, attentive without being pushy, and willing to accommodate dietary preferences, like leaving cheese off a shared salad or splitting dishes between plates. It’s those small touches that make the experience memorable.

Prices and Value

Entrees typically range from $ 25 to $ 45, and cocktails from $ 12 to $ 16. It’s not the cheapest spot in San Diego, but considering the quality, views, and location, the value is definitely there.

Things to Do Nearby

Make it a full day by exploring these attractions within walking distance:

• USS Midway Museum, right next door
  
• 2-Hour San Diego Harbor Cruise, scenic views of the skyline, Coronado Bridge, and naval ships
  
• Seaport Village, a charming waterfront area with shops and restaurants
  
• The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, an outdoor concert venue
  
• San Diego Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

Places to Stay Nearby

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Fish Market in San Diego

Here are some of the most common questions people have about visiting the San Diego Fish Market, with answers based on our personal experience.

Is the San Diego Fish Market good for large groups?
Yes, it’s a great place for groups, but reservations are a must during busy times.

Can you make reservations?
Yes, and we highly recommend it, especially for dinner or weekends. You can book online or call ahead.

Do they offer vegetarian or non-seafood options?
Yes, they have salads, sides, and some non-seafood entrees. The menu is diverse enough to satisfy most dietary needs.

Is there a happy hour?
Yes. Happy Hour is Monday through Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM, with discounted small plates and drink specials. It’s a great time to visit for a lighter meal or afternoon drinks.

Is there a seafood market on-site?
Yes, and it’s fantastic. You can buy fresh fish, shellfish, and more to take home.

The Wrap-Up: The Fish Market in San Diego Review

If you’re looking for a classic San Diego seafood experience with fresh ingredients, great cocktails, and harbor views, the San Diego Fish Market should definitely be on your must-do list. Whether you’re grabbing lunch, celebrating with a sunset dinner, or picking up fish to grill later, this spot offers something for every seafood lover.

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