The Oceanside Fish Shop will take over the former Ryes and Grind restaurant space on the corner of South Coast Highway and Michigan Avenue in downtown Oceanside. It will be the company's fourth active outpost for the brand, joining existing locations in Pacific Beach, Point Loma, and Encinitas. A previously announced Little Italy location appears to have been scrapped after years of planning, with no progress at the slated site behind Pappalecco on State Street. That long-delayed project now seems officially shelved.
Since launching the original Fish Shop in Pacific Beach in 2010, co-owners Doug Sondomowicz and Bill Ramirez have built the brand around a casual, counter-service format centered on fresh, seasonal seafood. Customers choose a fish, seasoning, and preparation style, then select how they want it served - on a salad, as a sandwich, or in a taco. A glass seafood case allows for direct selection, while the menu also features rotating specials, local craft beer, and a bring-your-own-wine option with a nominal corkage fee.
The group’s most recent opening, Point Loma Fish Shop, debuted in early 2018 just down the road from local stalwarts like Point Loma Seafoods and Mitch's. Despite stiff competition, the Fish Shop has carved out its niche by emphasizing affordability, dog-friendly patios, and community engagement - though not without some recent controversy.
The flagship Pacific Beach location has faced criticism from animal rights groups due to its ownership ties with PB Shore Club, which continues to host weekly goldfish races, a practice condemned by activists. Additionally, in early 2024, many customers alleged coming down with food poisoning from raw oysters at three Fish Shop restaurants.
Despite these issues, the Fish Shop continues to grow. The Oceanside location will bring the concept’s signature offerings and breezy coastal vibe to a bustling corridor already home to several independent restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. No opening date has been announced yet, but interior renovations are expected soon.
Oceanside Fish Shop is expected to open by year's end at 236 South Coast Highway in San Diego's North County city of Oceanside. For more information, visit thefishshoppb.com.
Despite these issues, the Fish Shop continues to grow. The Oceanside location will bring the concept’s signature offerings and breezy coastal vibe to a bustling corridor already home to several independent restaurants, breweries, and coffee shops. No opening date has been announced yet, but interior renovations are expected soon.
Oceanside Fish Shop is expected to open by year's end at 236 South Coast Highway in San Diego's North County city of Oceanside. For more information, visit thefishshoppb.com.
Originally published on July 4, 2025.
