Pacific Beach, San Diego, is a seafood lover's paradise, and tuna takes center stage. With its prime location on the coast, Pacific Beach boasts an impressive array of restaurants specializing in this delicious fish. Whether you prefer your tuna seared, raw, or in a hearty sandwich, this guide highlights the best 15 places to indulge in the freshest tuna dishes in the area. We’ve included everything from upscale dining experiences to casual beachfront eateries, ensuring there's something for every palate and budget.
Top Choices for Tuna in Pacific Beach
This list isn't ranked, as the "best" tuna restaurant depends heavily on personal preference. Each entry offers a unique culinary experience.
1. PB Shore Club
- Speciality: Upscale seafood with a focus on sustainable sourcing. Their tuna dishes often feature unique preparations and high-quality ingredients. Expect a higher price point.
2. The Duck Dive
- Speciality: Casual beachfront eatery, perfect for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Their tuna melt is a local favorite, and they usually have a daily tuna special depending on the freshest catch. Expect a more casual atmosphere and reasonable prices.
3. Kono's Cafe
- Speciality: Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. Their poke bowls featuring tuna are consistently praised for their fresh ingredients and flavorful sauces. Offers a wide price range depending on your bowl customizations.
4. Oscar's Mexican Seafood
- Speciality: A Pacific Beach institution. While primarily known for its Mexican cuisine, their tuna tacos are a must-try, showcasing a unique blend of flavors. Budget-friendly option.
5. Mitch's Seafood
- Speciality: Fresh seafood market with a small attached restaurant. You can select your own tuna and have it prepared to your liking – grilled, blackened, or ceviche-style. Offers a wider price range depending on your tuna selection.
6. Galaxy Taco
- Speciality: Modern take on Mexican cuisine. Look for their rotating specials; they often feature creative tuna dishes. Offers a mid-range price point.
7. Hodad's
- Speciality: Famous for their burgers, but their tuna burgers are surprisingly delicious. A casual, popular choice, offering a budget-friendly experience.
8. Fish Market
- Speciality: Offers a wide variety of seafood, including fresh tuna. They have various preparation options, from simple grilling to more elaborate dishes. Prices vary according to the dish chosen.
9. The Fishery
- Speciality: Seafood with a focus on local ingredients. Their tuna dishes are known for their fresh taste and sophisticated presentations. Mid-range price point.
10. Bluewater Grill
- Speciality: Upscale seafood restaurant with beautiful ocean views. Their tuna selections are often exquisite, featuring high-quality fish and creative preparations. Expect higher prices.
11. Barefoot Bar
- Speciality: Casual beachfront bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. Their tuna fish tacos are a popular choice, perfect for enjoying while watching the sunset. Offers a budget-friendly option.
12. JRDN
- Speciality: Modern American restaurant with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Check their menu for daily tuna specials, which may feature unique preparations. Expect a mid-range to higher price point.
13. Puesto
- Speciality: Upscale Mexican cuisine. Their tuna tostadas are a standout choice, highlighting high-quality ingredients and a unique flavor combination. Offers a mid-range price point.
14. Tapioca House
- Speciality: While not solely a seafood restaurant, their tuna poke bowls are incredibly popular. Budget-friendly option.
15. South Beach Bar & Grill
- Speciality: A classic beach bar, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. They often feature tuna specials. Expect reasonable prices.
Finding Your Perfect Tuna Dish
When selecting a tuna restaurant, consider:
- Your budget: Prices vary widely from casual eateries to upscale dining.
- Your preferred preparation: Do you prefer sashimi, seared tuna, tacos, or a sandwich?
- Ambiance: Are you looking for a relaxed beachside setting or a more formal dining experience?
No matter your preference, Pacific Beach offers a fantastic selection of restaurants where you can enjoy delicious, fresh tuna. Remember to check menus and make reservations, especially during peak season. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
