When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Surf & Soul Spot
Why Surf & Soul Spot is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Surf & Soul Spot, located in San Diego, is a standout culinary destination that beautifully marries authentic soul food with fresh seafood, making it an exceptional spot to meet up with friends and enjoy a unique dining experience. Owned by Chef Sarajevo and Sergio Bailey II, a former NFL player turned entrepreneur, this restaurant offers a warm, inviting ambiance complemented by a menu that alternates by day between 'Surf' seafood specialties and 'Soul' comfort classics. From Monday to Wednesday, guests can indulge in their acclaimed seafood dishes like fried salmon and shrimp, served from 11 AM to 7 PM, while Fridays and Saturdays are reserved for soul food offerings such as golden fried chicken wings and the beloved SouthEast Dirty Smothered Fries, available from noon until sold out. The inclusion of sides, cornbread muffins, and daily featured desserts further enhances the communal and satisfying feel of each meal. The spot has gained a strong reputation for its culinary excellence and superb service, creating a hospitable atmosphere ideal for gatherings. With a solid 4.6-star rating from over 350 reviews, the Surf & Soul Spot has become a cherished local gem where friends can reconnect over soulful dishes and fresh coastal flavors.
Here's what people think of Surf & Soul Spot
As of recent, Surf & Soul Spot holds a 4.6-star rating based on 355 reviews.
Reviews consistently highlight Surf & Soul Spot as a beloved hidden gem in San Diego, especially praised for its innovative twist on traditional soul food and fresh seafood selections. Patrons laud the quality and flavor of the dishes, noting the Popcorn Shrimp & Grits and golden fried chicken wings as standout favorites. The combination of friendly customer service and a clean, welcoming environment contributes significantly to the positive dining experience. The SouthEast Dirty Smothered Fries also receive frequent accolades as a must-try item. However, some negative feedback centers around the limited operating days—closed on Sundays and Thursdays—and the quick sellout of soul food items on Fridays and Saturdays, which can frustrate customers hoping to visit those days without advance notice. A few reviewers mention the limited seating space or waiting times during peak hours as potential downsides. Overall, the majority of reviews underscore Surf & Soul Spot’s success in delivering authentic, flavorful dishes paired with excellent service, making it a top choice for locals and visitors seeking soulful comfort food and fresh seafood. Its approachable price point and consistent quality foster highly repeat customer visits, reinforcing its reputation as a great place to meet with friends and enjoy memorable meals.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Taylor Amrein
Take out only, but worth diving into once you're back in your car. Chollas park isn't too far away if you're into dining al fresco. Anyway, the food was incredible. Some of the best fried catfish and shrimp I've ever had. Keep an eye on their daily specials (we had jerk chicken nachos 😋) and don't skip dessert. Food is made fresh and worth the wait. Staff is so friendly and ready to answer questions. Check it out ASAP.
Johnny Bannasch
To start off strong, the food was awesome. Me and my buddy had the shrimp and the catfish baskets with fries and it came with a breadstick in each. The only two issues I had was there wasn’t a place to sit and eat, and that there was a 30 minute wait. Not really that big of issues in light of the amazing taste in the portion size of the food. I’m from Virginia and I haven’t had good catfish since 2013 so it was a nice reminder of home. I’ll definitely be back again to try some of the other things on the menu!
Chance Ward
THE MOST AMAZING SOUL FOOD IN SAN DIEGO! I've tried every soul food spot in sd but this is by far the best. The best fried chicken, yams, and mac n cheese. Everything tasted homemade & the people are really nice. Do order it right as they open (you may need to call every ten minutes because it seems like they're phone gets backed up).
Jessica León
I could cry. This place is so GOOD. We got two combo plates and all the sides. When I asked about getting peach cobbler they said it’s included with the plates 😭 like we did not have to pay separately for the dessert!! This is the best place ever and they are so nice to customers.
Danielle Veney
Sooo delicious Great portions I had the shrimp and grits and let me tell you I would go back just for that!! The shrimp was a nice size perfectly seasoned and the grits with the cheese was perfection Soo good My mother had the fried fish and she isn’t a fan of fried but said it was good The breadstick that came with the order was delicious too My only disappointment was the dessert I ordered the banana pudding It wasn’t Bad just not as good as I hoped since the other food was soo good I will definitely be returning
How to reach Surf & Soul Spot
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Why Surf & Soul Spot may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Surf & Soul Spot with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable outing is about more than just good company — it’s also about the perfect setting that offers great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and activities that bring everyone closer together. Surf & Soul Spot, located in San Diego, is an exceptional choice when planning a meetup with your crew. With a stellar rating of 4.6 from over 350 reviewers, this vibrant venue has earned its reputation as the go-to spot for both delicious meals and an inviting social experience. What makes Surf & Soul Spot stand out is its unique culinary blend of surf-inspired seafood and authentic soul food, which satisfies a diverse range of taste buds, ensuring everyone in your party leaves happy and full. The welcoming environment, run by passionate owners Sarajevo Petty and Sergio Bailey, exudes warmth and friendliness, making guests feel like part of an extended family. Whether it’s a casual catch-up or a celebration of a special occasion, Surf & Soul Spot offers a lively, relaxed ambiance that encourages connection and conversation. It’s a place where good food meets great vibes, making it ideal for rallying your friends and creating cherished memories together.
What activities can you enjoy at Surf & Soul Spot?
Surf & Soul Spot goes beyond just serving delicious food — it offers a dynamic space that encourages interaction and enjoyment for groups. One of the highlights of visiting this spot is indulging together in their varied menu, which splits between two exciting themes: a seafood-focused “Surf” menu available Monday through Wednesday and an irresistible soul food “Soul” menu served on Fridays and Saturdays. This offers your group a chance to explore different flavors depending on when you visit, making repeat visits fresh and exciting. Beyond eating, the restaurant’s lively atmosphere invites conversation and laughter, perfect for bonding over shared meals like their renowned Golden Fried Chicken Wings or the crowd-favorite Southeast Dirty Smothered Fries. The communal vibe at Surf & Soul is reinforced by friendly and attentive staff who enhance the social dining experience. Your group can plan to enjoy meals in a clean, stylish setting that supports intimate chats or larger celebrations. With generous portions and reasonable prices, it’s easy to order a variety of dishes to share, fueling lively discussion and a sense of togetherness.
Why is Surf & Soul Spot perfect for a group meetup?
Surf & Soul Spot’s appeal as a group meetup destination lies in its perfect blend of food variety, welcoming environment, and accessibility. The restaurant prides itself on being a Black-owned local establishment that consistently delivers not only exceptional meals but also a genuine community feel, making it an empowering place to support and enjoy. Its location on El Cajon Boulevard is easily reachable, encouraging spontaneous meetups or planned gatherings. The diverse menu ensures that everyone, from seafood lovers craving Popcorn Shrimp & Grits to soul food aficionados eager for authentic dishes, finds something that satisfies their palate. The portion sizes are generous, and dishes are thoughtfully crafted to be sharable, emphasizing the communal dining experience. This, paired with efficient service, ensures that groups won’t feel rushed, allowing plenty of time for catching up, celebrating, or just soaking in the good vibes. The blend of surf and soul food theme also sparks conversation and adds an element of culinary adventure, giving every group member something new to try and talk about. For events like birthdays, casual meetups, or even informal business lunches, Surf & Soul Spot provides just the right balance of flavor, fun, and comfort.
How does the menu at Surf & Soul Spot cater to a crowd?
One of the greatest strengths of Surf & Soul Spot for groups is its versatile menu designed to satisfy a wide range of cravings and dietary preferences. The “Surf” side of the menu focuses on fresh seafood with creative dishes such as Popcorn Shrimp & Grits — a perfect blend of Southern comfort and coastal influence — and other expertly prepared fish items that are crispy, flavorful, and thoroughly satisfying. On “Soul” days, the restaurant shines with Southern classics like Golden Fried Chicken Wings and hearty side dishes, embodying comfort and tradition. Many reviewers highlight the SouthEast Dirty Smothered Fries as a must-try, often ordering these addictive fries as a communal appetizer that ignites the meal. The menu’s thoughtful structure allows groups to mix and match, sampling across surf and soul offerings for a dynamic shared experience. Portion sizes are made to be generous, creating plenty of dishes to share family-style, which suits the convivial spirit of a meetup. Additionally, the freshness of made-to-order meals ensures that every bite is enjoyed at its best, enhancing the overall satisfaction of your group. This combination of variety, authenticity, and quantity makes Surf & Soul Spot uniquely suited to hosting groups that want to explore flavors together.
What makes the atmosphere and service at Surf & Soul Spot ideal for friends and family gatherings?
The ambiance and customer service at Surf & Soul Spot contribute significantly to its status as a favorite gathering spot. Guests frequently highlight the warm, friendly vibe fostered by the owners and staff, who make every visitor feel at ease, whether it’s a first visit or a regular hangout. The physical space is clean, inviting, and styled with an understated coolness that complements the laid-back San Diego lifestyle. This caring atmosphere elevates the dining experience beyond just food, fostering connection and celebration. The staff’s attentiveness ensures that groups receive excellent service without feeling rushed, making it easy to relax and enjoy long conversations or celebratory toasts. This supportive environment helps groups feel comfortable bringing together mixed ages, from families with kids to groups of old friends. Furthermore, the pride the owners take in their Black-owned identity resonates in the community, creating a space where cultural appreciation and inclusivity are front and center. Together, these elements create an enriching social experience that encourages guests to linger, laugh, and return often.
How can Surf & Soul Spot accommodate special occasions and large groups?
For those planning a special occasion or gathering a larger crowd, Surf & Soul Spot offers a flexible venue that adapts to your group’s needs. The sizeable portions and sharable menu items naturally lend themselves to festive group dining, allowing everyone to participate in the meal and try multiple dishes without breaking the bank. While the space exudes a cozy vibe, it can comfortably accommodate groups looking to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or community events. The owners’ dedication to excellent customer experience often translates to personalized attention for special requests or arrangements, ensuring your gathering feels unique and well cared for. Whether it’s coordinating meal timings to serve the surf menu early in the week or the soul menu at the weekend, or accommodating dietary preferences with careful customization, the team is committed to making your meetup seamless and memorable. Additionally, the restaurant’s popularity and solid reputation — evidenced by the numerous glowing reviews — assure you’re choosing a proven winner that locals trust. This combination of adaptability, quality, and genuine hospitality makes Surf & Soul Spot an excellent choice for any social occasion.
Why should you support Surf & Soul Spot as a Black-owned business?
Supporting Surf & Soul Spot goes beyond enjoying a fantastic meal; it’s an opportunity to contribute to the success of a thriving Black-owned business in San Diego. Owned by Sarajevo Petty and Sergio Bailey, the restaurant represents entrepreneurship rooted in community pride and cultural authenticity. This establishment not only provides jobs but also brings flavorful heritage to the local culinary scene, enriching the diversity of dining options available. Patrons who choose Surf & Soul Spot help foster economic growth and cultural representation, which are vital in the broader push for equity and inclusion in business. Beyond economics, the restaurant serves as a cultural gathering place, offering soul food and seafood dishes steeped in history and tradition, which adds depth and meaning to each visit. Many customers express enthusiasm for supporting local Black-owned businesses, and Surf & Soul Spot exemplifies how quality, culture, and community can beautifully intersect. Hosting your next meetup here means enjoying great food while contributing positively to the local economy and cultural landscape.