Seafood Lovers’ Weekend Itinerary in Downtown San Diego
If you're a seafood aficionado searching for your next culinary adventure, Downtown San Diego—and especially the Gaslamp Quarter—has everything you crave. This weekend itinerary is designed for lovers of fresh-catch cuisine and sushi, with Lionfish serving as the highlight of your journey. From scenic waterfront strolls to inventive coastal dishes, here’s how to experience Seafood in Gaslamp and Downtown San Diego seafood at its best.
Day 1: Explore the Waterfront & Working Up an Appetite
Morning: Seaport Village & Embarcadero
Start your day at Seaport Village. Stroll along the bayside pathways, peek into local shops, and enjoy sunrise views of the Pacific—just minutes from Lionfish’s future dinner location.
Midday: USS Midway Museum or Harbor Cruise
Take a harbor cruise or tour the USS Midway to learn about San Diego’s maritime history—perfect for seafood lovers who appreciate all things ocean-related before their foodie adventure.
Late Lunch: Local Seafood at the Pier
Grab a casual bite near the pier—think fresh oysters or fish tacos—keeping your palate primed for Lionfish’s evening feast.
Afternoon: Leisure and Prepping for Gaslamp Dinner
Chill at Waterfront Park
Unwind at Waterfront Park. Kids can splash in the fountains while adults soak in the harbor panorama.
Core Brewing Tasting
Head to Core Brewery for a flight of local beers on the waterfront—great pre-game for seafood dining.
Return to Hotel to Freshen Up
Get ready for dinner at Lionfish, your destination for San Diego Seafood Restaurant dining, sushi, and coastal cuisine.
Evening: Starry Dinner at Lionfish
Location & Ambience
Located inside Pendry San Diego on 5th Avenue, Lionfish is a modern, design-driven hotspot in the Gaslamp Quarter.
Why It's the Go-To for Gaslamp Seafood
Experts and diners alike hail it as one of the best Seafood Gaslamp spots, consistently praised on Yelp and TripAdvisor for ambiance, service, and innovative seafood .
Culinary Highlights
Start with an elegant sashimi platter or a chef’s sushi selection—expertly prepared by Executive Chef JoJo Ruiz, a James Beard Smart Catch Leader.
Mariscos al Fuego
A Gaslamp hotspot favorite: Hokkaido scallops and shrimp served flaming with togarashi butter—a dramatic and delicious showcase of coastal creativity sandiegoevents.com.
Signature Rolls and Small Plates
Geisha Roll: spicy tuna, serrano, avocado, crunchy garlic.
Angry Whole Grilled Fish: a simple yet sumptuous celebration of fresh flavor sandiegoevents.com.
Happy Hour Sips & Bites
Open Monday–Friday, 5–6 pm, with specials like oysters, crab hand rolls, and chicken karaage—ideal for casual dancing.
Beverage Pairings
The bar shines with handcrafted cocktails, sake flights on “Sake To Me” Thursdays, and an attentive wine & beer selection.
Post-Dinner: Keep the Night Rolling
Step into Oxford Social Club
Just an elevator ride up, the Oxford Social Club offers plush seating, live music, and an intimate late-night lounge vibe—perfect for post-dinner drinks and dancing.
Rooftop Vibes at Pool House
Prefer a brighter scene? The rooftop lounge, Pool House, features fire pits and panoramic city views, ideal for unwinding under the stars.
Both venues are part of the Clique Hospitality family, ensuring an elevated experience throughout Lionfish.
Day 2: Coastal Morning & Sushi-Brunch Option
Morning Kayak or Ferry
Kickstart the day with a Coronado kayak tour or ferry trip, breathing in morning sea air and Coastal San Diego vibrancy.
Late Breakfast: Another Seafood-Focused Fare
Try brunch spots like Ironside or The Fishery for seafood omelets or shrimp benedicts—extending your weekend’s seafood theme.
Why Lionfish Works for Seafood Lovers
Chef JoJo’s sustainable practices—fresh, local, responsibly sourced seafood.
Innovative coastal cuisine—from flaming seafood to artful sushi rolls sandiegoevents.com.
Prime Gaslamp atmosphere—design-forward setting inside Pendry.
Happy hour & events—midweek sips, sake specials, and rotating tasting menus .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I book a table at Lionfish?
A: Reserve via OpenTable or by calling directly. [Reservation link above]
Q: Do they offer happy hour for sushi?
A: Yes—Monday–Friday, 5–6 pm, featuring oysters, hand rolls, and small platesgaslamp.org+15pendry.com+15tripadvisor.com+15.
Q: Is Lionfish family-friendly?
A: Absolutely. The vibrant, refined setting suits families and couples alike.
Q: Are vegetarian options available?
A: Yes—the menu includes non-seafood and vegetarian-friendly dishes for diverse tastes.
Q: What are Oxford Social Club and Pool House?
A: These are sister venues in Pendry offering post-dinner lounges and rooftop nightlife—perfect to complement your dinner tripadvisor.comtripadvisor.com+1lionfishsd.com+1tripadvisor.com+9lionfishsd.com+9lionfishsd.com+9.
Q: Can Lionfish host events?
A: Yes! From private dinners to corporate gatherings, inquire through their Events page above.
From sunrise waterfront strolls to sushi artistry at Lionfish, this Seafood Lovers’ Weekend delivers unforgettable flavors and experiences. With thoughtfully curated activities and a premier San Diego seafood restaurant centerpiece, your weekend will be a celebration of coastal cuisine, sustainable dining, and vibrant nightlife—all rooted in Gaslamp charm.
Bon appétit!