Secret Seafood Joint

Okay, about a couple weeks ago, I had to go out to San Diego, CA to see my little brother graduate from the Marine Corps. His plan was to return to Wisconsin a few days after graduation, but not before visiting with me and my family. Anyway, to get to the point, one day some of us got this idea to do some sightseeing. So five of us piled into this cramped rental car and drove off.

Now, I can't remember the town (it was called Imperial, I think), but it was noted for being the most southwesternly point in the United States. In fact, there was even a bar called "The Most Southwestern Bar and Grill in America". Anyhoo, we decided to go traipzing around on the beach when we noticed something. A rather long pier that had to go out at least a half a mile towards the ocean. So, we figured... what the hell?

Upon walking along the pier, the first thing to be noted was the countless amount of fishermen and women. I'm not too sure why they found that particular pier interesting, but some of them didn't seem 'professional'. Now at the end of the pier is what comes to mind. In a little hut is a carry-out seafood place. Unfortunately, almost everything on their menu is fried. However, it is quite fresh, which makes me wonder if they got their catch from the fishermen along the pier. But there, they have everything under the sun, including some inticing dishes that blend Mexican standards (like Calamari burritos and the like).

Anyway, I know this is long winded, but I assure you. If you find yourself out in San Diego, give it a try. If anything, the little adventure might pique your interest.

Hi, Doatsie from San Diego county here. I have attached more information about the resturant pathend is talking about. I got it off of our local website signonsandiego.com.

The Tin Fish
910 Seacoast Drive (at the end of the pier); (619) 628-8414.

No visit to Imperial Beach is complete without a walk along the pier and, lucky for you, there's a great eatery at the pier's end. You'll often find owner Joseph Melluso taking orders at the self-service window. The casual eatery has seating inside (on stools) and several tables with umbrellas outside. On weekends, usually between noon and 2 p.m., Coconut Joe entertains with island classics on his acoustic guitar.

Melluso, a proud Italian fishmonger, began working at age 11 at a seafood restaurant on Long Island. That's where he acquired the secret, slightly spicy breading recipe that has made his fish and chips, fried calamari, shrimp, scallops, oysters and crab cakes famous. Fried platters, accompanied with cole slaw, french fries, and cocktail and tartar sauce, range from $4.95 to $12.95.

Melluso credits his partner, Roberta Hepburn, who also manages the Tin Fish in the Gaslamp, as the driving force behind the eateries, where you will also find grilled swordfish, halibut, salmon, shrimp, North Atlantic cod and spicy calamari tacos ($2.75 to $3.95).

Yep, that's the place. Thanks for that information, Doatsie. I noticed while reading my explanation through though that I didn't mention anything about how the food was. Let me tell you, it was an experience I don't think I'll be able to forget. One reason being that I've never had Calamari before that moment, and I was thoroughly surprised. I believe I had the sampler platter with shrimp, cod, calamari, and scallops.

So, I would reccomend this place to anyone heading to San Diego. And again, thanks for the help, Doatsie.

Glad to be of help.