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Go Fish
Seafood
By Robin Kleven
"Catch of the day" is a specialty in San Diego, where the fish you eat today was probably swimming in the sea last night. Each of the following places offers an extensive selection of seafood, shellfish, and local or flown-in-fresh fish of all kinds.
> The Brigantine (various locations)
This chain of informal, family-owned restaurants specializes in fresh seafood, much of it from local waters. In addition to the catches of the day like Pacific swordfish and Hawaiian mahi mahi, check out the reasonably-priced bar fare like fish tacos, shrimp cocktail and clam chowder.
> Blue Point Coastal Cuisine, downtown
Located downtown on a busy Gaslamp District corner, Blue Point offers world-class people watching, superb martinis and consistently good fresh seafood. If just-shucked oysters, seared ahi and lobster pot pie aren't your cup of chowder, the menu also features steaks, poultry and rack of lamb. Short walk from the Convention Center.
> King's Fish House, Mission Valley
Come here for very reasonable prices, "nice-casual" ambiance and king-sized portions - not to mention consistently good fresh fish. The lengthy lineup of seafood appetizers, salads, soups and entrees attracts a mix of families and local workers. Good choice for an informal business meeting, a casual date or a spirited birthday party.
> Oceanaire Seafood Room, downtown
Seafood flown in fresh from around the globe is the catch of the day at this very grown-up, Gaslamp hot spot. It's heaven for fish fans, with at least a dozen fresh selections offered nightly. Other highlights of the menu include several varieties of oysters, the city's best crab cakes and assorted seafood salads. Separate room available for private parties; good for special occasions, and walking distance from the Convention Center.
> Point Loma Seafood, Point Loma
This bustling little seafood market offers ultra-casual dining as well as a great selection of live shellfish, crabs and lobsters and fresh fish of all kinds and some of the city's best clam chowder. The take-out menu includes fried seafood, assorted salads and sandwiches, terrific clam chowder and fish platters. The outdoor seating with harbor views makes this a favorite spot for families.
> Top O' the Market / The Fish Market, downtown
Downstairs, the frenetic Fish Market offers an enormous selection of fresh seafood - broiled, fried, raw, seared, steamed, grilled or baked - to crowds of casually-dressed diners. On the second floor, Top O' the Market offers an upscale approach with higher prices, dressier clientele, more peaceful atmosphere and more elegant presentations. Both levels offer remarkable views of the harbor and the Coronado Bridge.
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San Diego Restaurants: Editor's Picks