San Diego is known for its stunning beaches, beautiful weather, and vibrant food scene. With so many great restaurants to choose from, it can be hard to decide where to go for a memorable meal. One spot that should definitely be on your list is Top of the Market Seafood, located on the historic San Diego waterfront.
As its name suggests, Top of the Market specializes in seafood, offering a variety of fresh catches that are prepared with skill and care. The restaurant is situated on the second floor of The Fish Market, a San Diego institution that has been serving up fresh seafood for over 40 years. With panoramic views of the harbor and downtown skyline, Top of the Market offers not only delicious food, but also a breathtaking setting for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.
The menu at Top of the Market changes frequently to reflect the best of what’s in season, but there are a few standout dishes that are always popular with diners. The seafood tower, for example, is a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds, featuring a selection of oysters, clams, shrimp, and lobster. Other favorites include the crab cakes, which are made with jumbo lump crab meat and served with a tangy mustard sauce, and the grilled octopus, which is tender and flavorful with a crispy charred exterior.
One of the things that sets Top of the Market apart is its commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing. The restaurant works closely with local fishermen and purveyors to ensure that the seafood it serves is both fresh and responsibly harvested. In fact, Top of the Market was one of the first restaurants in San Diego to be certified by the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program, which recognizes businesses that are committed to serving environmentally sustainable seafood.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Top of the Market is also known for its exceptional service. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer recommendations and answer questions. The restaurant has a relaxed, upscale atmosphere that makes it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic evening out.
For those who want to learn more about seafood and cooking, Top of the Market also offers a variety of classes and workshops through its cooking school, which is located on the ground floor of The Fish Market. Classes range from hands-on cooking lessons to wine tastings and cocktail workshops. The cooking school also offers a series of “chef’s table” classes, where participants can learn from Top of the Market’s culinary team and sample their creations.
Overall, Top of the Market Seafood is a must-try restaurant for anyone who loves fresh seafood, stunning views, and exceptional service. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to San Diego, it’s definitely worth a visit to experience all that this special spot has to offer.
If you’re planning a visit to Top of the Market, be sure to make a reservation in advance, as the restaurant can get quite busy, especially on weekends and holidays. If you’re looking for a special occasion venue, the restaurant also has several private dining rooms that can accommodate groups of varying sizes.
In addition to Top of the Market, San Diego is home to many other great restaurants that showcase the city’s diverse culinary scene. From Mexican street food to fine dining, there’s something for everyone in this foodie paradise.
If you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a quick bite, head to Oscar’s Mexican Seafood, which serves up some of the best fish tacos in town. For a more upscale experience, try Addison, which has been awarded three Michelin stars for its contemporary French cuisine.
Other great options include Juniper and Ivy, which offers a creative and eclectic menu that changes frequently, and Cucina Urbana, which serves up Italian-inspired dishes in a stylish, rustic-chic setting.