Ask any San Diegan where to go for the biggest selection of the freshest fish, and they'll send you to the bustling Fish Market on the end of the G Street Pier on the Embarcadero. Chalkboards announce the day's catches--be it Mississippi catfish, Maine lobster, Canadian salmon, or Mexican yellowtail--which are sold by the pound or available in a number of classic, simple preparations in the casual, always-packed restaurant. Upstairs, the fancy offshoot Top of the Market offers sea fare with souped-up presentations (and jacked-up prices). Either way, the fish comes from the same trough, so I recommend having a cocktail in Top's posh, clubby atmosphere to enjoy the stupendous panoramic bay views, and then head downstairs for solid affordable fare or treats from the sushi and oyster bars.

There's another Fish Market in Del Mar at 640 Via de la Valle (tel. 858/755-2277), and a counter outlet in Mission Valley at 2401 Fenton Pkwy. (tel. 619/280-2277).