Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Anthony's Fish Grotto

    3.3 (1.8k reviews)
    ModerateSeafood, Lounges
    Closed 11:30 am - 8:30 pm

    Order Anthony's Fish Grotto Takeout or Delivery

    Anthony's Fish Grotto Photos

    Business Info

    ANTHONY'S FISH GROTTO ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Touristy
    Dogs allowed
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like Anthony's Fish Grotto

    Recommended Reviews - Anthony's Fish Grotto

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Jody K.

    On the last evening of our visit to San Diego, we decied to go somewhere a little special. My dad suggested Anthony's Fish Grotto. I may have been here before, many, many years ago, as it seemed slightly familiar. In any case, I absolutely loved the ambiance. There's an outdoor area with heat lamps. Inside, the booths are kind of separated by boulders. There is a pool with fountains and lights outside. My dad got the New England Clam chowder. I had a taste of it. It was really good. He also had the fish and chips, which he enjoyed. My sister liked her tortellini with salmon & broccoli. My first choice, the Hawaiian Ono, was not available, so I got the coconut crusted tilapia with pineapple salsa on top. Unfortunately, the server apparently dropped it, so I had to wait a bit for it. But it was absolutely worth the wait! I really enjoyed it. And, as an apology, they gave us a free dessert. I chose a mud pie, which I thoroughly enjoyed. The service was a little slow, but very friendly. I would definitely come back here again the next time I'm in the area.

    My buddy don and me
    Armando D.

    Food is always consistently good! My wife had the red chowder and didn't like it much. She said it tasted like potatoes...I had the white chowder, as always and it was delicious! We are waiting for our fish tacos and I'm sure they will be delicious also. The lake always soothes my soul! The service continues to be excellent. Happy service makes for a happy meal...most times! Tacos were delicious...black beans ok...would recommend to the chef Cole slaw instead of beans!

    Sarah C.

    The restaurant itself has super cute decor and the water and views are amazing! I really loved the open space and seating. The service is wonderful too! The staff is attentive and on it! The food however is meh. We got a few things. The lunch special shrimp sandwich was good for the price and we enjoyed it! However, the filet mignon that was $45.00 was overcooked and did not taste like a mignon, it tasted like a sirloin if that.

    Hollyann B.

    The back patio is lovely, with a little lake, complete with ducks. Service is excellent, and the food is delicious. Go for happy hour for great deals. The poke stack isn't on special, but it's worth every penny.

    Menu cover
    Henri V.

    Anthony's Fish Grotto restaurant established in 1946, was harborside until it closed in 2017 and opened the La Mesa location which is where I've dined a few times. Free parking in their lot. The restaurant is situated by a man made lake with surrounded by lush greenery, a fountain centered in the lake with swans, ducks and other creatures. Indoor and outdoor seating, I always prefer outdoor beneath a shady umbrella during rain or shine. Service by the hostess, waitress and servers had always been professional, accommodating and nice. The menu focuses on seafood, but also offers some favorites: steaks, burgers, pasta and brunch on weekends. Also available is a special menu for the pups, made with natural ingredients; cooked rice, salmon, and diced veggies. I ordered this for my furbaby Fendi, but she's so picky, she didn't eat it. Most of the dishes 'Ive had here were good, especially the grilled salmon with baby bok choy, carrots and mashed potatoes. The fish and chips, were subpar as Ive had better elsewhere. The clam chowder was too salty and too thick, simply inedible, I had to reject it and sent back. I was left with the coleslaw salad which saved the day along with the glass of vino. Sipping a glass of wine, with views of the lake and fun loving amusing wildlife was probably the highlight every time my pup and I dine here and that's worthy of a visit. Recommend

    Just got the Halibut
    Chris P.

    This is East County's OG seafood spot. I don't think I've ever had anything bad from here. The seating is ample but go on the wrong night and you'll be fighting a senior citizen for a table. Nonetheless it's worth every black eye. You can bring a date for back up security.

    Crab grilled cheese
    Margaret A.

    Each visit I always enjoy the view and the delicious food! This time I ordered a grilled crab and cheese sandwich with a side of coleslaw. My only caveat was I wish the coleslaw had more of the iconic pineapple sauce and the grilled cheese had more crab. The ducks were busy being cute and put on a show while we ate our lunch. Our server was courteous and prompt.

    Ribeye, mashed potatoes, asparagus
    Becky L.

    Walking into this restaurant made me realize how fun dining out used to be - this place is so well decorated, I thought I was at a theme park! Places these days are not as daring when it comes to decor and design. Dining over a beautiful natural spring lake, watching the ducks and egrets swim about, really takes me far away from the bustling city of La Mesa or the mayhem of the 8 freeway. The roasted Brussel sprouts were a perfect way to start the meal. Crispy, perfectly cooked, and delicately seasoned, with a perfect amount of Smokey bacon to compliment each bite. I ordered the 10oz Ribeye which was beautifully cooked with perfect sear marks. The tender meat was piled on top of thick and creamy red mashed potatoes and stunning asparagus. Gigi and Kathleen were incredibly kind, and really made our experience one to remember. While I don't eat seafood, I will say that everyone around me who had a seafood plate delivered to their table silently gasped and made 'mmmm' sounds when eating - I'll take their reactions as a sign of a good meal!

    The fish & chips are off the chart
    Kevin L.

    Treated my wife to a wonderful lunch date to celebrate our wedding anniversary. Dined in the beautiful patio area with a great view of the "lake" and ducks. Enjoyed some delicious Fish & Chips and scrumptious fish tacos. The Old Fashioned cocktail was prepared to perfection. Our server Rob was nothing short of spectacular! He was super busy however never skipped a beat. Great place, Great food and Great service, what more could you ask for? If you haven't been here yet you seriously need to give this place a try. I promise you'll be thanking me and my taste buds.

    Northern Combo
    Jeff S.

    Our trip to Anthony's started with a very friendly greeting by the host Dylan. Dylan sat us quicker than first quoted. He even gave our Corgi a small treat after he sat us. We sat by the lake and were served by Dez. We enjoyed a relaxing lunch with our dog. We had Manhattan Chowder, QC Fish and Shrimp, and the Northern Combo of Cod and Sole. Our Corgi ate fish and rice. As usual, the food and service was outstanding!

    Fish and shrimp sans shrimp
    Ana P.

    The view was def nice; the service? Not so much; our server was overwhelmed with too many tables and we had to wait a bit for our order to be taken, then waited for salad dressing, and and order was missing part of meal. Was not expecting such a long wait time for lunch... maybe someone called in sick? Who knows. We were disappointed

    Lake view
    Natalie R.

    After passing this place all my life I finally found myself dining here. I've always passed since I'm not a seafood person but my in laws are. We came here to celebrate Father's Day as they had availability for 5 within 10 minutes. We even got a table with a lake view. They have a lot to offer and plenty of non fish/seafood items on the menu. A good selection for drinks too. They do serve complimentary bread though it's a roll per person haha no more or less. The view was nice but the back half of the restaurant is pretty warm compared to the front. No AC was blowing and we had to leave without any after meal banter because of this. They can host large groups and have outdoor seating with includes for dogs too. I got a rib-eye ordered medium rare but came out well done. Fries and rice pilaf. Meat was ok I thought about sending it back but I didn't wanna be waiting for a refry so I just ate it. Seasoning was good. Rice was good, standard rice pilaf. Everyone seemed happy with their food Overall not bad wish my meat was cooked correctly but our server was so so sweet and attentive .

    Chris A.

    Ambiance was nice and the view of the lake was amazing. Agustin, our server, was really attentive to us and super friendly overall. He really made our time at the restaurant special! Food was also really good, especially the mud pie dessert! Heavily suggest coming here, and if you do, ask for Agustin!

    Sympathetic oysters

    See all

    1 month ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Angie R.
    2
    64
    743

    30 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    24 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    7 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 22
    Thanks 11
    Love this 20
    Oh no 3

    2 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jeff S.
    1
    34
    13

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ana P.
    5
    134
    227

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    16 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    20 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tracy M.
    459
    441
    10716

    10 months ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 2
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bj P.
    0
    22
    8

    1 month ago

    Great seafood. I have been going here for years and going back again today to celebrate a special birthday

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 26
    Thanks 6
    Love this 20
    Oh no 1

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 month ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mike C.
    1
    118
    51

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2
    Photo of Kayla M.
    244
    25
    5

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 5
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 45

    Anthony's Fish Grotto Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Anthony's Fish Grotto

    Is this restaurant pet friendly?

    Yes they allow pets in their outdoor dining area. There is also a designated area for pets to relieve themselves and they provide doggie clean up bags

    Can I get the Trout Fillet blackened?

    When you place the orders, the server will ask you of how you like it cooked and the way like it prepared just like a steak.

    Does the restaurant take reservations?

    I was told that by the hostess that they only take them for parties of 6+. This was just two days ago.

    Whats your happy hour?

    monday-thursday 3:00-5:30

    I noticed that there is no dinner "menu". Are you no longer serving dinner? Why a photo of a menu, that is difficult to read instead of a REAL menu?

    The Anthony's dinner menu is apart of our regular menu and is always available. Unfortunately, the only menu we have is the physical one that customers post pictures of.

    Hi does anyone know if there is a kids menu and the age for this?

    Yes, 12 and under

    Do you deliver?

    Yes on Uber Eats.

    Do they serve any type of crab legs?

    Unfortunately not.

    Does the clam chowder have bacon/pork?

    I never had their clam chowder. But their coleslaw and macaroni salad are awesome. Kim Volm DRE#02040644… Read more

    Do they ever have Trout on the menu' or ever available?

    Yes. Always

    View All 11 Questions

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Seafood 21,120 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    The Riviera Supper Club & Turquoise Room - Flat-Iron Steak

    The Riviera Supper Club & Turquoise Room

    4.0(1k reviews)
    2.5 mi
    $$

    "A Retro Gem with a Modern Kick!" From the moment you walk…read morethrough the doors, you're transported back to the golden age of the 1960s. The vibe is effortlessly cool--think red leather booths, vintage neon, and a mood that feels like Frank Sinatra might walk in at any moment. The highlight of the experience is the unique "Grill-Your-Own" steak concept. There is something incredibly social and fun about seasoning your own hand-cut steak and hanging out around the communal grill with friends or neighbors. If you're not in the mood to grill, their kitchen menu is equally impressive; the Turquoise Tots, Brisket Corn Dogs, and Bacon Wrapped Shrimp are legendary. Don't skip the Turquoise Room for drinks. The craft cocktails are expertly made (the "Art Snob" is a personal favorite), and they have a fantastic selection of local beers. With live music playing most nights, it's the perfect spot for a date night or a lively evening out with a group. Between the top-notch service and the one-of-a-kind atmosphere, the Riviera is easily one of the best spots in San Diego's East County. Highly recommended!

    For two parents temporarily liberated from the chaos of domestic life, dinner was nothing short of…read morea revelation. We began with the deviled eggs--a classic reimagined with such precision they served as the perfect structural opening to the meal. The true showstopper, however, was the Filet Mignon. Topped with a vibrant, hand-cut chimichurri, the steak didn't just meet the knife; it surrendered. The sauce provided a brilliant counterpoint: fresh, crisp, and possessing a light, tingly spice that dances on the palate rather than overwhelming it. Even the greens were a celebration; the "weed salad" arrived as a kaleidoscopic "rainbow of happiness," proving that even the most virtuous courses can be indulgent. Pair this with a cocktail program defined by their house-made syrups, and you have a destination that understands the assignment: total sensory restoration. Salud.

    Photos
    The Riviera Supper Club & Turquoise Room - Dining area

    Dining area

    The Riviera Supper Club & Turquoise Room - Banana foster

    Banana foster

    The Riviera Supper Club & Turquoise Room - Restaurant exterior view

    See all

    Restaurant exterior view

    Helix Brewing - Inside

    Helix Brewing

    4.5(310 reviews)
    1.9 mi
    $$

    The design of this place is really cool. It feels like you've walked into a back alley and are in a…read morecompletely different part of town. Everything is so clean but it has a very good rustic and real feel to it. The drinks here are my favorite because to be honest, I'm a sours beer kind of guy and they have a whole building dedicated to it. The amount of variety when it comes to sours is great a prices are fair. Flavors pop but theirs also a good enough selection if you want a more chill sour that won't punch you in the face. The other building (not sure which is considered the main ones) has a large selection of your typical IPAs, lagers, you name it. The flavors are good and they seems to have some deals going on from time to time for cans to take home which I can appreciate. They also have a few board games to keep you entertained and seem to consistently have some options fora food vendor as well as many times having live music. Definitely worth the visit on a day you see them having one of these vendors or live bands you may be interested in. The people here seem to be very friendly with their regulars and greet you as if you're a friend. I think this bodes well with breweries considering you're usually here to have a good time and chill. I wouldn't say it feels like the reason I'd come back at all but no complaints here. Just didn't feel like out of this world service by any means.

    Was here on a Friday night for a friends birthday. There was a food truck and a band, adding to the…read moreambiance of a beautiful fall Friday night on a patio adorned with string lights and open concept. The staff member that helped me was friendly. I am a cider girl usually, and she was so patient asking follow up questions to give me her best recommendation. I opted for her suggestion and tried Fun Times. It was really good!

    Photos
    Helix Brewing - Inside

    Inside

    Helix Brewing - Expanded view

    Expanded view

    Helix Brewing

    See all

    Charcoal House - Cheese Sambousik

    Charcoal House

    3.3(353 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    We recently celebrated my husband's 50th birthday at Charcoal House, and we had such a wonderful…read moreexperience! From start to finish, Suha was incredibly helpful with everything from A-to-Z. She made the planning process so much easier and even recommended amazing dessert vendors that turned out great. Nabil was also so kind, welcoming, and always willing to help with anything we needed. We truly appreciated all of his help and hospitality. The food was delicious, the ambiance was fun and lively, and our guests had a great time. Thank you, Charcoal House, for helping make this celebration so special and memorable!

    Charcoal House Bar and Grill was hands down one of the worst experiences I've had at any lounge or…read morerestaurant. The hookah was terrible--harsh, flavorless, and clearly rushed like they didn't care at all. For a place that offers hookah, this was embarrassing. Service was painfully slow and disorganized. On a packed, busy night, they were severely understaffed, which is not the customer's problem. We waited forever for basic service, and staff looked overwhelmed and unprepared. No urgency, no communication, no apologies. The place was crowded, chaotic, and poorly managed. If you know you're going to be busy, staff accordingly. Simple. Overall, bad hookah, bad service, bad management decisions. Definitely not worth the time or money. I won't be coming back and wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

    Photos
    Charcoal House
    Charcoal House - Mixed Beef Plate

    Mixed Beef Plate

    Charcoal House - Iced Tea

    See all

    Iced Tea

    Anthony's Fish Grotto - seafood - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...