From Land to Sea: A Culinary Journey Through Lionfish’s San Diego Seafood Menu
Lionfish, perched inside the iconic Pendry San Diego in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, is more than just a meal—it’s a culinary journey from land to sea. With Executive Chef JoJo Ruiz leading the charge, this modern coastal restaurant delivers a thoughtfully curated menu that spans fresh seafood, premium meats, sashimi flights, and cocktails worth celebrating. Whether you’re chasing the best sushi in San Diego or craving upscale Gaslamp seafood, Lionfish checks every box.
🌊 A Fresh Start: The Seafood Philosophy
Lionfish’s foundation is built on fresh, sustainable seafood sourced locally and globally. The kitchen collaborates directly with trusted fishermen and purveyors to ensure every bite serves up both flavor and responsibility. This commitment makes Lionfish stand out as a top-tier San Diego seafood restaurant and a standout choice for Seafood Restaurant San Diego.
Sushi & Sashimi Showcase
Beyond appetizers and entrees, their specialized sushi section is a must-visit. From delicate nigiri flights to creative rolls, Lionfish caters to traditionalists and adventurers alike. Sashimi lovers will delight in offerings like albacore, big-eye tuna, kampachi, and king salmon—each bite clean, fresh, and thoughtfully garnished.
Highlights include:
Specialty Nigiri Flights: Curated pieces that highlight unique garnishes like truffle dijon and smoked saltOpenTable.
Rolls like Big Eye Tuna Pizza, Geisha, and Bonecrusha.
🔥 From Ocean to Element: Hot & Robata Dishes
Spicy Grilled Octopus – A customer favorite that reliably surprises. Tender, charred with garlicky kick and crispy potatoes—“super amazing,” say diners .
Mariscos “Al Fuego” – Hokkaido scallops and shrimp bathed in togarashi butter, capturing surf’s bold side .
Butter Poached King Crab Leg – Luxuriously rich, complemented by caviar, leeks, and lemon-garlic butter—a dish diners call “a bed of creamy dreams” .
Surf & Turf – Steak and seafood unite in a seared Wagyu and marinated shrimp combo—a nod to surf-and-turf perfection .
🥩 Land Lovers Welcome: Premium Meats & Mains
Lionfish also satisfies meat lovers with equally inspired creations:
Rib-Bites & Lamb Lollipop Anticucho – Bold flavors, skewered to perfection.
Black Opal Wagyu Tomahawk – Blue crab crust meets tender Wagyu—described as among the most decadent steaks in SD.
Whole Grilled Fish & Swordfish Al Pastor – Seafood mains that showcase coastal ingredients with creative twists .
🍹 Toast-Worthy: Cocktails & Happy Hour
No land-to-sea dinner would be complete without stellar drinks. Lionfish injects personality into every glass:
Rice-Paper-Scissors – Gin, sake, cucumber, and yuzu craft a uniquely fresh sipper.
Chai Me A River – Tequila infused with chai and tamarind creates a spicy, aromatic cocktail Eater San Diego.
Happy Hour (Mon–Fri 5–6pm) features value-driven bites like oysters, crab hand rolls, and chicken karaage, plus wines and beers—perfect for casual early dining. On Sake To Me Thursdays, half-off select premium sake enhances the lounge experience Pendry Hotel.
🎯 What Critics & Diners Are Saying
Lionfish garners praise across platforms:
“Best Meal Ever… romantic, elegant, classy!” – diners applaud ambiance, food, service.
Celebrated for modern ambiance, standout seafood, and sushi—one Yelp reviewer called it “a contender in SD culinary scene” lionfishsd.com.
TripAdvisor guests highlight standout dishes like spicy tuna rolls, octopus, and kale salad as “absolutely delicious”.
Local Wally praises Lionfish’s bold, upscale vibe and transfer of Las Vegas-level energy to the Gaslamp.
These authentic reviews affirm Lionfish as one of the top Seafood Gaslamp and Downtown San Diego seafood.
🎉 Atmosphere: A Night to Remember
Lionfish’s design amplifies its culinary excellence. Located within a 12-story boutique hotel, the restaurant features dual-level dining with a glassed-in kitchen and sleek bar intended for both intimate meals and lively nights out. Pendry’s sister lounges, Pool House and Oxford Social Club, let guests extend the evening—details on the Clique Hospitality site Pendry Hotels.
📅 Planning Your Visit
Reservations: Strongly recommended via OpenTable for prime time . Book here.
Location & Parking: 435 Fifth Ave, Pendry San Diego. Valet is available, with additional nearby garages Eater San Diego.
Dress Code: Smart casual. Ambience leans upscale-yet-approachable .
Explore menus, special events, and private dining options via the Lionfish menu page, beverage, and happy hour. For celebrations, view their events and explore venue options via Clique Hospitality.
❓ FAQ: Dining at Lionfish
Q: Is Lionfish a top seafood restaurant in San Diego?
A: Absolutely—it’s consistently ranked as a top Seafood Restaurant San Diego and praised for its Downtown San Diego seafood.
Q: Do they have sushi?
A: Yes! Their Downtown San Diego sushi menu includes nigiri flights and creative rolls, making it some of the best sushi in San Diego .
Q: When is happy hour?
A: Monday–Friday, 5–6 pm, featuring small plates and discounted drinks .
Q: Can I host private events?
A: Yes—Lionfish offers group dining and event options. The Pool House and Oxford Social Club provide great post-dinner destinations .
Q: Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?
A: While known for seafood and meats, Lionfish also offers salads, vegetables, cocktails, and gluten-free options—just ask your server.
🌟 Final Bite
Lionfish at Pendry San Diego isn’t just another Seafood Gaslamp stop—it’s a full sensory journey. From sustainably caught fish and sushi crafted right before your eyes to bold robata dishes, premium meats, and cocktails that spark conversation, every element reflects San Diego’s coastal elegance. Whether you're a local food lover or a visitor seeking refined flair, Lionfish delivers an unforgettable downtown San Diego seafood and Gaslamp seafood experience.
Ready to dive in?
Reserve your table now and taste the journey from land to sea: Reserve at Lionfish.
Explore more experiences at Clique Hospitality and keep the night going at Pool House and Oxford Social Club.