When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
The Fish Market
Why The Fish Market is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Fish Market is a celebrated seafood restaurant known for its commitment to serving the freshest, highest-quality seafood at honest prices. Established in 1976 by a group of passionate seafood lovers, the venue has become one of California's most beloved seafood institutions. Its casual atmosphere combined with breathtaking views, especially at the San Diego location, makes it an ideal spot for friends to meet and enjoy a relaxed dining experience. Guests rave about the freshness and superb quality of dishes such as scallops and other seafood offerings, which are simply and expertly prepared. The restaurant also features a retail market where patrons can select fresh seafood directly from local fishermen, enhancing the overall experience. Besides dining, The Fish Market is deeply connected to the community, regularly supporting local charities and fundraisers. With a blend of fresh flavors, scenic views, and a friendly environment, it stands out as a great place to gather with friends for both casual meals and special occasions.
Here's what people think of The Fish Market
As of recent, The Fish Market holds a 4.4-star rating based on 7531 reviews.
Reviews for The Fish Market are generally positive, with an average rating of 4.4 based on over 7,500 reviews. Many guests highlight the freshness and quality of the seafood, praising signature dishes like scallops and noting the casual yet inviting ambiance that complements the dining experience. Positive feedback often mentions the breathtaking views from the San Diego location and the efficient, friendly service that enhances a relaxed outing with friends. However, not all reviews are without criticism. Some customers have reported issues with food preparation, such as overcooked or dry fish, and occasional lapses in attentive service, including slow refills and a perceived lack of engagement from waitstaff. These negative experiences tend to be less common but are noteworthy for potential visitors. Overall, the restaurant maintains a strong reputation for fresh seafood and good atmosphere, with the positive reviews far outweighing the negative ones, making it a highly recommended destination for seafood enthusiasts and social gatherings alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dante Sprott
Right off the water, The Fish Market delivers on every front—stunning views, attentive service, and most importantly, excellent food. The wait wasn’t long, but honestly, even if it had been, it would’ve been worth it. I was impressed before the food even arrived—yes, by a glass of water. I know, you’re thinking, “Water?” But not all water is created equal, and theirs was crisp, cold, and surprisingly refreshing. It set the tone for what was to come. For my main, I started with the jambalaya. While it wasn’t seasoned exactly to my taste, the staff was more than accommodating and handled the situation with ease. I gave it another go with the crab cakes—and that’s when I hit the jackpot. They were perfectly cooked, fresh, and packed with flavor. I was in town for a conference, and my colleagues were just as impressed with their meals. The portions were satisfying without being overwhelming, fresh and high-quality. If you’re in the area, definitely add The Fish Market to your must-visit list. Between the view, the service, and the seafood, it’s an experience you won’t regret.
Kyara Uchiyama
Went for anniversary early dinner. Our server "Sully" was amazing!! Her recommendations were spot on, with my blackened hokkaido scallops and my hubbys grilled ahi tuna. Even the sides she recommended went perfect with our main dishes. Very friendly yet subtle, making us feel VIP from start to end! Even brought us sweets on the house and wished us happy anniversary! Great servers are hard to find these days. The Fish Market always delivers with great food, awesome view, and amazing hospitality!! Thank you for a memorable anniversary dinner!!!
Alexander Kirpichkin
We visited this place twice during our visit to San Diego. We were pleasantly surprised by the taste of the food and the quality of service. We recommend choosing a table outside by the water, it is very cozy. It is nice to watch the yachts sailing by and the seagulls flying. As for the food itself, it was simply excellent! The crab, octopus and oysters looked amazing on the plate, drooling instantly.
Kimberly Floyd
I've eaten here many years ago and loved it so I had good expectations dining here again after the Brigantine bought the restaurant and renovated it. The inside looks beautiful. We had reservations for 8pm and didn't realize that the restaurant closes at 8:30pm (open table should have warned us). Because of staffing issues close to closing time it was difficult to seat us outside or at a table that would seat our party of 6. We had to sit at 2 tables. The waiter was not attentive or particularly helpful. Instead of opening with specials, he asked what can I get you. It's what you'd expect at a diner or if he was in a hurry at the end of the day. The restaurant was not busy, but every time we needed something we had to track him down. The food was fine, but honestly not as good as I remembered. It seemed more like Brigantine recipes, than Fish Market. For the price, there are many other great seafood restaurants in San Diego.
Peter Khalil
I came with family members here. Waited ~30 minutes for an outside table as the view is phenomenal. If I wanted to sit inside, there was immediate availability. We ordered the calamari and baked oysters for appetizers, both were fantastic, 10/10. For the main entrees, you choose between fresh catch (wide variety, one way of cooking only, which is grilling, and two sides of your choice with it) or a speciality plate. We got the garlic prawn linguine, which was good, 9/10. We also got two plates of halibut (fresh catch), which was a good 8/10. I just wish they offer different ways of cooking. For example, if you sear the halibut in garlic butter, it would taste better than grilling. Not sure why they don’t allow different ways of cooking 🙁, but it is a little disappointing. Overall, I would recommend the restaurant. Good food and amazing atmosphere.
How to reach The Fish Market
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Why The Fish Market may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Fish Market with your friends?
When planning a gathering with friends or family, the venue sets the tone for the entire experience. The Fish Market, rated highly at 4.4 out of 5 from over 7,500 reviews, stands out as a superb choice for hosting a meetup. This establishment offers more than just food; it presents an atmosphere where people can bond over the freshest seafood in a welcoming setting. Its reputation for quality and consistency provides peace of mind that every visit will be enjoyable. Whether your group is a mix of seafood lovers and casual diners, The Fish Market’s varied menu ensures there’s something for everyone. The friendly, attentive service helps create a warm and inclusive environment, perfect for conversation and connection. Moreover, the restaurant takes pride in sourcing local and sustainable seafood, a value that resonates with guests who appreciate responsible dining choices. This commitment enriches the experience, making your meetup not just enjoyable but also conscious of community and ocean health. When combined with its inviting atmosphere and excellent reviews, The Fish Market is an ideal rally point where friends and family can share meaningful moments over memorable meals.
What activities can you do at The Fish Market for a group meetup?
The Fish Market offers a variety of activities that make it perfect for group gatherings. First and foremost, dining together is an experience centered on fresh, high-quality seafood dishes crafted to satisfy diverse palates. The menu includes classics and innovative items, allowing groups to explore different flavors and share plates, enhancing interaction and discovery among friends. Beyond the main dining experience, The Fish Market features a retail market section where guests can shop for premium seafood to take home. This unique aspect extends the outing into a shared culinary adventure, inviting groups to plan meals together beyond the restaurant visit. Additionally, the restaurant frequently supports community events and charity fundraisers, sometimes offering special group packages or themed evenings, providing guests with opportunities to engage in local culture and philanthropy in a collective setting. The environment itself encourages lingering—whether savoring a cocktail at the bar or enjoying dessert—making it conducive to relaxed socializing. Taken together, the dining, shopping, and event opportunities create a multifaceted experience perfect for any group meetup.
Why is The Fish Market ideal for seafood lovers and casual diners alike?
One of the reasons The Fish Market shines as a meetup spot is its careful attention to catering for all types of diners. Seafood aficionados will appreciate the commitment to freshness, with selections sourced directly from local fisheries and beyond, ensuring that flavors are vibrant and authentic. The menu showcases a range of seafood from buttery fish to succulent shellfish, prepared simply to highlight natural tastes without excessive adornment. At the same time, the restaurant understands that not all guests may be experts in seafood or avid fans, so it includes accessible dishes and flexible options that accommodate diverse preferences. This blend of sophistication and approachability makes it an inclusive venue where everyone can find something enjoyable. The staff’s knowledge and friendliness help guide guests through menu choices, enriching the dining experience. Whether someone craves an adventurous oyster sampling or a familiar grilled fish plate, The Fish Market balances quality and welcome, fostering an atmosphere where all guests feel comfortable and satisfied.
What makes The Fish Market’s atmosphere perfect for groups?
The ambiance at The Fish Market is thoughtfully designed to foster comfort and enjoyment for groups. The décor typically combines casual elegance with maritime charm, creating a relaxed yet polished setting that suits both informal get-togethers and special occasions. Seating arrangements accommodate parties of various sizes, including larger tables where everyone can engage easily in conversation. The lighting is warm and inviting, enhancing the sense of intimacy even in a bustling restaurant. This balance of liveliness and coziness encourages guests to focus on one another and enjoy extended visits without feeling rushed. Service is attentive but unobtrusive, attentive staff ensure that group needs are met promptly while allowing space for personal interaction. The overall vibe is one where laughter, storytelling, and shared experiences thrive, crafting a memorable backdrop for friends or families reconnecting. Meanwhile, the focus on fresh seafood and honest pricing adds to a feeling of authenticity that complements the welcoming atmosphere.
How does The Fish Market support community and sustainability, enhancing your meetup experience?
Beyond excellent seafood and a great atmosphere, The Fish Market demonstrates a strong commitment to community support and sustainability — qualities increasingly important to modern diners. Since its founding, it has worked closely with local fisheries to source the freshest catches responsibly, minimizing environmental impact and supporting local economies. This practice not only ensures superior seafood quality but also aligns the restaurant with sustainable fishing practices. Guests can feel confident that their meal choices contribute positively to ocean health and local livelihoods. Additionally, The Fish Market actively participates in charity fundraisers, community events, and its “Giving Sips” program that helps give back to the neighborhoods it serves. These efforts create a sense of shared purpose among patrons, turning a simple meal into a community-building occasion. Choosing The Fish Market for your group meetup means enjoying great food while participating in a broader movement toward conscious eating and community engagement, enriching the gathering on multiple levels.
What should groups expect regarding menu highlights and dining experience at The Fish Market?
Groups visiting The Fish Market can look forward to a menu packed with fresh seafood selections prepared with care and simplicity. Popular items often include seasonal fish, grilled specialties, and a variety of shellfish such as oysters and shrimp. The menu typically emphasizes freshness and quality above complexity, allowing the natural flavors to shine. Many dishes lend themselves well to sharing, promoting a tapas-like experience for groups to sample multiple tastes in one sitting. The Fish Market often offers daily specials reflecting catch availability, inviting diners to enjoy unique flavors each time they visit. Servers are knowledgeable and experienced in offering pairing suggestions and accommodating dietary needs, ensuring the group’s dining experience is smooth and enjoyable. With a solid balance of familiar favorites and exciting options, the menu encourages lively discussion and shared enjoyment around the table. The atmosphere, combined with attentive service, supports a relaxed yet vibrant dining event where friends and family can reconnect effortlessly over outstanding seafood.
Why is The Fish Market’s pricing and value good for group meetups?
Hosting a group meetup often means balancing quality, atmosphere, and cost, and The Fish Market strikes this balance well. Despite serving premium seafood, the restaurant is known for honest pricing that offers strong value, making it accessible for groups without compromising quality. This affordability often surprises guests who expect high-end seafood prices, helping make The Fish Market a welcome option for regular social gatherings or celebratory occasions. Pricing is transparent and reasonable, with portions designed to satisfy without overwhelming or being wasteful. For groups, this means you can enjoy multiple dishes and share without worry about excessive costs per person. The combination of fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, attentive service, and a comfortable ambiance — all at fair prices — makes The Fish Market a smart choice for anyone planning a memorable and cost-conscious group event.
How accessible and convenient is The Fish Market for group visits?
The Fish Market is well-regarded not only for its food but also its accessibility and convenience, important factors for group visits. Many locations offer wheelchair-accessible entrances and facilities, ensuring that guests with mobility needs can join comfortably. The restaurant’s layout and seating options also accommodate large parties, often facilitating reservations that help streamline group dining. Payment options include credit, debit, and mobile payments, providing flexibility for guests to split bills or pay individually as they prefer. Additionally, its location often situates it conveniently near other attractions or entertainment venues, allowing groups to combine dining with other social activities easily. Whether meeting before a show or concluding an outing, The Fish Market provides a welcoming and accommodating setting. The presence of an on-site retail market also adds convenience, enabling guests to pick up fresh seafood take-home orders as part of the visit.
In summary, The Fish Market offers a blend of fresh seafood, inviting atmosphere, sustainability commitment, and thoughtful amenities that make it an excellent choice for hosting meetups with friends or family. Its combination of quality, value, and community focus creates a dining and social experience that goes beyond the plate, ensuring memorable moments for all.