Oscars Mexican Seafood

"For some really good fried or grilled fish tacos, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood should be your first stop. The place is pretty casual, there’s usually a line, and the tacos come with the classic toppings: shredded cabbage, onion, tomato, cilantro, and avocado. Depending on what’s available that day, you can order fresh yellowtail or snapper in a burrito, torta, or plate, and there’s some great ceviche and shrimp, chorizo, and veggie tacos, too." - ligaya malones

"Oscar’s might be across the street from what’s technically the La Jolla border, but it’s on this guide because they make the best tacos around. Go for the smoked fish: chunks of tuna wrapped in a melty layer of cheese are balanced by crisp cabbage, sweet tomatoes, and sharp red onions. The battered fish is also great, and makes a satisfying crunch with every bite. And when it’s hot out, cool off with their ceviche loaded with plump shrimp and slices of white fish drenched in a tangy-and-salty citrus marinade. This laid-back spot has limited seating, so get an order to go and bring a towel over to Tourmaline Surf Park. " - sabrina medora

"Don’t be fooled by the appearance of this hole-in-the-wall spot. It’s got the best tacos in town. Yeah, we said it. The smoked fish taco—wrapped in a meaty layer of gooey cheese— is THE move. The saltiness of the fish and cheese is well balanced by fresh cabbage, sweet tomatoes, and sharp red onions. And, because one taco is never enough, we also recommend the battered fish, which comes piping hot with a thin, crisp layer of batter. And for an unassuming casual spot, their ceviche is better than a cold lemonade on a hot day. Plump succulent shrimp mixed with substantial slices of white fish are drenched in a bright and refreshing citrus mix, tossed with red onions and tomatoes. Served alongside is a crunchy tortilla which is just as good on its own as it is when scooping large mouthfuls of ceviche. You won’t find any gruff faces here; despite the extremely limited (mostly sidewalk) seating, Oscar’s has got a fair few staff members, ready with a smile, a conversation, and encouragement for you to come back again soon." - Sabrina Medora

"With two Pacific Beach locations and a Hillcrest outpost, Oscar’s is a popular hangout for casual seafood. Its smoked fish tacos topped with cabbage, avocado and cheese are a standout but the house take on the classic fried and grilled fish tacos are also worth a bite." - Candice Woo, Mario A. Cortez

"Literal steps from the beach in Pacific Beach, Oscar’s Mexican Seafood is a taste of the sea in the folds of a tender corn tortilla." - The MICHELIN Guide