"Ironside Fish & Oyster is a seafood restaurant in San Diego's Little Italy. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Team Infatuation
"Helmed by chef Moira Hill, this stunning seafood spot is decorated to look like a 19th-century ocean liner with tentacle-looking lighting overhead. Garage doors open up to India Street, and anchor hooks hold handbags. Known for its raw oysters served with house-made mignonette, the Little Italy establishment also shines with classics like lobster rolls with brown butter mayo, filet-o-fish sandwiches with spicy tartar, and octopus a la plancha with olive chorizo tapenade and sherry and spicy aioli. Don’t skip on a cocktail with a sea-inspired theme or a glass of wine from its curated menu." - Helen I. Hwang
"For an elevated fish and chips experience, diners can go for tempura-battered rockfish, plated artfully with fries seasoned with Old Bay (a mix of spices and flavors including celery salt, mustard, red pepper, and paprika), coleslaw, and tartar sauce ($26), at this perennially hip Little Italy seafood haven. Take advantage of the great selection of craft beers and pair your plate with a nice Saison or maybe even a cocktail — try “J’s Famous Ironside Bloody Caesar,” which has founding chef Jason McLeod’s secret Tofino Distillery vodka and Caesar dressing blend with optional add-ons like an oyster and shrimp or half an order of ceviche. Anyone coming to dine at Ironside can feel good knowing their meal supports local fishermen from Tuna Harbor Dockside Market." - Roxana Becerril
"A not-so-sleeper menu hit that is also the star of one of the best happy hours in town, this craveable, drink-friendly dish tops a mound of crispy fries with what is essentially seafood gravy. As all good clam chowders do, this one has a nice helping of bacon." - Eater Staff
"A vintage nautical setting provides a stunning showcase for seafood, boasting one of the neighborhood’s better happy hours, offered on weekdays between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. that highlights $1 freshly-shucked oysters. Don’t miss out on popular plates like shrimp, lobster, and rockfish ceviche. Choose from the 50 cocktails on offer or pick something from the expansive wine and beer menu." - Helen I. Hwang