Top 4 Fish Taco Restaurants in San Diego
If there is one food San Diego is famous for, it’s the fish taco. With the city’s sunny beaches, laid-back lifestyle, and fresh seafood, fish tacos are more than just a meal — they’re part of the culture.
From classic Baja-style to new creative twists, you’ll find some of the best fish tacos in the world right here. To save you time, we picked the Top 4 Fish Taco Restaurants in San Diego you must try.
Here is List of Fish Taco Restaurants in San Diego
Lets explore each Fish Taco Restaurants in San Diego in more details.
1. The Brigantine – Classic Baja Style
- Must-Try Taco: Baja-style fried fish taco with cheddar and house ranch.
Location: Multiple spots, including Shelter Island, Del Mar, Coronado, and La Mesa.
Price Range: $$
The Brigantine has been a local favorite since 1969. Known for both fried and grilled fish tacos, this restaurant gives a twist to the classic Baja flavor. Instead of the usual white sauce, they use ranch dressing and cheddar cheese, making their tacos stand out.
2. Oscar’s Mexican Seafood – Fast and Flavorful
- Must-Try Taco: Smoked fish taco with cabbage, avocado, and cheese.
Location: Pacific Beach, Hillcrest.
Price Range: $–$$
Oscar’s is always busy, and for good reason. The tacos are fresh, fast, and packed with flavor. Locals love the smoked fish taco, while the surf and turf option (shrimp and steak together) is perfect if you’re craving something hearty.
3. City Tacos – Creative and Modern
- Must-Try Taco: Mahi-mahi taco or scallop taco.
Location: Multiple San Diego neighborhoods.
Price Range: $$
City Tacos is all about creativity. Since opening in 2014, they’ve served everything from shrimp tacos to flambéed scallop tacos, all on handmade tortillas. They recently hit a milestone by serving their three millionth taco, proving just how loved they are.
4. Fish Shop – Build Your Own
- Must-Try Taco: Choose-your-own with mahi-mahi and chipotle aioli.
Location: Pacific Beach.
Price Range: $–$$
At Fish Shop, you get to build your own taco. Pick from 12 types of fish, 7 sauces, and plenty of toppings. With over 2,000 possible combinations, no two visits are ever the same. It’s casual, friendly, and a true San Diego experience.
Why San Diego is Known for Fish Tacos
Fish tacos started in Baja California and quickly became a San Diego staple. Today, they’re a must-try food for both locals and tourists. Whether fried or grilled, the mix of fresh fish, creamy sauces, and soft tortillas makes them unforgettable.
Quick Recap: The Best Fish Taco Spots
- Best for Classic Baja Style: The Brigantine
- Best for Fast & Affordable: Oscar’s Mexican Seafood
- Best for Creative Flavors: City Tacos
- Best for Custom Tacos: Fish Shop
No matter which you choose, you’ll taste why San Diego is one of the best places in the world for fish tacos.
FAQs
Q: What is the most famous fish taco in San Diego?
A: The Brigantine’s Baja-style fried fish taco is one of the city’s most iconic.
Q: Are fish tacos expensive in San Diego?
A: Prices range from $3–$7 per taco, depending on the spot.
Q: Where can I find the best variety of fish tacos?
A: Fish Shop offers the most variety with its build-your-own taco menu.
