Grateful is the only word that can describe my feelings toward this gem of a restaurant we found just a few blocks from our house. There was constantly a line out the door and the indoor/outdoor atmosphere looked more than inviting. Our first trip to the fish shop was made by foot and took us no longer than ten minutes. Our second time back was by bike and only took a few minutes with the help of the downhill slope. There is a convenient (& free!) parking lot outside where we locked up our bikes and could easily glance over from the restaurant whenever we wanted to check on them.
After multiple failed taco shop attempts at this very location many were worried about the next food joint getting ready to open. The Pacific Beach Fish Shop opened it's doors in November of 2009 as a tide-to-table themed restaurant. Since it's opening it has been become the new hotspot on the east end of Garnet Ave. The idea behind the process is "fresh fish made your way" in three easy steps.
First your pick your fish, second pick your marinade, third pick your style. As you walk in you are greeted with an excited line of people standing in front of a glass case filled with fresh fish. You can choose from ahi, halibut, mahi-mahi, red snapper, salmon, swordfish and more.
Next you choose a marinade for your fresh fish: blackened seasoning, chipotle glaze, fish chop seasoning, garlic butter, lemon butter, salt & pepper, teriyaki, or plain.
Finally you decide wether you want all of this made into a taco, salad, sandwich, or platter. It is definitely not cheap, but the quality and flavor is worth the money and worth the line.
One of the restaurants "rules" that seems to be followed by most, is that you are not allowed to reserve a table while someone is waiting to order in line. The entire party must order before they sit to wait for their meal. The system seems to work and no complaints were made during my visits.
I have tried to fish and chips and also had a salmon and local halibut taco. Both were fantastic. I was lucky enough to be able to also try the swordfish, mahi-mahi, and red snapper. They have 8 primary craft beers on tap as well as 50 different bottle choices from nine of the best local San Diego breweries. Don't hesitate to bring your own wine, because there is no corkage fee! If oysters are your thing you can get them for a buck on Thursdays after 4pm until they run out. Did I mention this restaurant is dog-friendly?! All in all this place is a ten out of ten. After two visits in two weeks I have nothing to complain about and can't wait to return to my favorite local fish shop.
The Pacific Beach Fish Shop
1775 Garnet Ave, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 483-4746
www.thefishshoppb.com
open Monday-Sunday 11am - 10pm
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