What to eat in San Diego: 12 must-try local delights

San Diego is a diverse and cosmopolitan city, which is clearly seen in its cuisine, with influences from many countries. From locally produced beer and wine to dishes that have traveled the oceans, the city's food perfectly reflects its laid-back vibe. You'll find everything from Peruvian ceviche with a San Diego twist to clam chowder, the best fish tacos, woodfire pizza, Korean BBQ, and more.

So whether you're looking for romantic things to do in San Diego, on the hunt for San Diego's best family-friendly activities, or just a quick snack on your way to your next adventure, this guide to what to eat in San Diego will have you coming back for more.

1. Fish tacos

Fittingly for a port city, high on any list of the best food in San Diego is its seafood. To really appreciate the influence of Mexico and its immigrant community on San Diego's cuisine, try the fish tacos. Compare the fried and grilled versions, and add as much pico de gallo as you like, but always make sure to finish with a healthy squeeze of fresh lime.

How to eat the best fish tacos in San Diego?

Every San Diegan has an opinion on where to get the best fish taco, so take a walking tour to decide which is your favorite.

2. California-style pizza

Pizza style can define a city, and San Diego's version of Italy's popular dish is no different. Traditionally wood-fired with a very thin crust, California pizza is known for its fresh and healthy toppings. From artichokes to avocado, peanut sauce to pak choi, the only limit is your imagination.

How to eat the best California-style pizza in San Diego?

Take a walking tour around Little Italy to get a taste of all the classics.

3. Baja-style oysters

Fresh oysters are a staple of San Diego menus. But if you want to really feel like a local, order them Baja California-style. Spruced up with the flavors of Mexico, you'll taste the garlic, chili, and lime with every bite.

How to eat the best Baja-style oysters in San Diego?

To eat the best Baja-style oysters, go to the waterfront. Wander at your own pace discovering the sights and stopping to check out the plates at the many taste food spots along the way — sit down and order half a dozen oysters as soon as you find one you can’t say no to.

4. Guacamole

San Diego’s renowned for its guacamole. The county produces 90 percent of the nation's avocado crop, so it's no surprise that this is where you'll find it used the most. As a filling in burritos, as a dip with chips, or as a garnish on pizza, the humble avocado more than pulls its weight on San Diegan menus.

How to eat the best guacamole in San Diego?

Frankly? The way to eat the best guacamole in San Diego is with everything. Take a food and drink walking tour of the East Village to see how the locals do it.

5. California burritos

Burritos are arguably the most famous food to have multiple city-based variations. And in San Diego, that's the California burrito. Unlike other styles, the fillings are pretty simple: meat, cheese, and salsa, perhaps with sour cream and guacamole to taste.

How to eat the best burritos in San Diego?

If you want the best burritos, go to the Barrio Logan Food District. You can work your way through every filling until you find your perfect match.

6. Carne asada fries

Carne asada is a thin-cut steak marinated in a variety of heat-filled spices and citrus juice. Traditionally a burrito filling, San Diego has embraced the versatility of this dish and serves it with fries, all topped off with sour cream, guacamole, and cheese. You'll find this popular food on almost every street food menu.

How to eat the best carne asada fries in San Diego?

While there are authentic versions across San Diego, but why not discover their roots in Tijuana on a guided tour from San Diego. You’ll taste your way around the Mexican city’s best flavors, including the best carne asada fries around.

7. Ceviche

Originally a fish dish from Peru, San Diego has embraced creviche and truly made the recipe its own. Rather than sweet potatoes and corn, you'll find the fish alongside avocado, tomatoes, and cucumber, all marinated in lime. It all makes for a refreshing mouthful when the California sun is at its hottest.

How to eat the best ceviche in San Diego?

Scoop up creviche with tostadas or tortilla chips, or roll it in crisp lettuce leaves for a healthily crunchy snack.

8. Surf 'n turf

A truly American plate of protein, surf 'n turf is something special in San Diego due to the freshness of the seafood. As well as steak, you'll be able to choose fresh lobster, prawns, squid, or scallops — or a combo of all four — all served with a hefty dollop of butter.

How to eat the best surf 'n turf in San Diego?

Try a food tour will take you through the heart of the food districts and ask your guide for pointers.

9. Korean BBQ

Since the 1900s, Korean cuisine has been a staple in the city, brought by waves of migration. An endless selection of roasted meats, dipping sauces, kimchi variations, and Asian side dishes should make BBQ high on your foods to try list on your next vacation.

How to eat the best in San Diego?

Head to Convoy Street in the Convoy District for all-you-can-eat Korean buffets, or take a guided secret food tour for insider knowledge of hidden food gems, one of the top things to do in San Diego at night.

10. Local craft beer

This famously laid-back city has an equally famous craft brew community, and it’s all evolved with a hipster vibe. Known as the Craft Beer Capital of America, San Diego pioneered the style known as Double IPA, a strongly hopped India Pale Ale that is prized by beer fans for its high alcohol content as well as its flavor.

How to drink the best craft beer in San Diego?

Craft brewers have congregated in the North Park neighborhood, so head there to sample the best beers that the city offers.

11. Californian wine

California has more than 6,000 vineyards, so it stands to reason that the local vintages will be equally abundant. Particularly known for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, there’s a glass to pair with every dish — it's the best way to savor the flavors.

How to drink the best Californian wine in San Diego?

There are tasting rooms across the city and delicious Californian wines on most menus, but why not be driven around the best of them in style on a wine-tasting tour? You’ll discover some of the region’s most exciting wine producers at San Diego’s best tasting rooms.

12. Clam chowder

San Diego grew around a fishing community, and the comfort food on offer reflects this. You can find clam chowder in almost any state near the ocean, and while San Diego's version is also made from clams, potatoes, and onions, it is usually a little thicker as it is served inside a sourdough bread bowl.

How to eat the best clam chowder in San Diego?

San Diego's clam chowder is all about freshness, and ordering near The Fish Market, which is open daily, should ensure your chowder is made from the freshest catch.

FAQs

What are the must-try traditional dishes in San Diego?

Must-try traditional dishes in San Diego include anything using fish or seafood as an ingredient, Baja-style Mexican dishes, Korean BBQ, and everything avocado. Wash it all down with locally produced wine and craft beers.

What are the best food tours in San Diego?

The best food tours in San Diego are all about the neighborhoods. Take a Little Italy Tour for Nonna's classics, a North Park Tour for craft beers, Barrio Logan for Mexican dishes, and the Convoy District for Asian specialties.

What are the top local food markets in San Diego to visit?

The best local markets include North Park Thursday Market, Little Italy Mercato Farmer's Market for Italian ingredients, Hillcrest Farmers Market for the freshest fruit and vegetables, and Bilbao International Market if you want to take part in the SlowFood 0km movement that only sells locally grown produce.

What is the best time of year to visit San Diego for food lovers?

The best times to visit San Diego for food lovers are all centered around the annual festivals. Each season sees something new, but visit in fall for the largest selection, including multiple wine and food events and the unmissable Grape Stomp Festa, when you get a chance to be part of the process.

How much should I budget for food in San Diego?

The average visitor spends around $50 a day on food in San Diego, but if you plan to sample some fine dining, expect to spend considerably more. Happily, the city also offers plenty of options for those on tighter budgets — keep an eye on where the locals go for hidden gems that won't break the bank.