Oscars Mexican Seafood

While most Mexican seafood spots in San Diego either chase fine-dining credibility or lean on novelty presentation, Oscars plays a different game: high-volume efficiency without sacrificing size or flavor. The **battered fish tacos** aren't trying to be chef-driven or Instagram-worthy — they're built to feed you after a morning in the shore break, two tacos for under six bucks during happy hour, crispy batter that holds up to the salsa bar, and enough heft that one order actually fills you up. That's the differentiator here: portion-to-price ratio that makes sense when you've been in the ocean for three hours and need actual fuel, not a deconstructed taco on a slate.

The setup is pure PB efficiency — order at the counter, grab a number, hit the salsa bar while you wait. The **surf and turf taco** combines grilled steak and shrimp without overthinking it, and the **smoked fish taco** brings a depth most battered versions skip. The mixed ceviche runs inconsistent — sometimes bright and acidic, sometimes underseasoned — so regulars stick to what Oscars does best: fried fish, grilled protein, flour tortillas that don't fall apart. The complimentary fish soup they bring out during waits is a quiet flex, a sign that even at this volume, someone's paying attention.

Parking on Emerald is easier than Garnet, and the outdoor seating means you can bring sandy feet and a board without feeling like you're inconveniencing anyone. Lines move fast even when they stretch out the door. Skip the ceviche, double down on the battered fish, and save room for a second round at happy hour pricing.