San Diego's Bayside Vistal Restaurant To Host Exclusive Yellowtail Dinner Experience Celebrating San Diego's Fishing Heritage

Vistal Restaurant and Bar at the InterContinental San Diego will continue its immersive culinary series with Behind the Catch: California Yellowtail, a one-night-only seafood dinner celebrating the prized local fish and the culture surrounding it. More than just a meal, the event promises an evening of storytelling, education, and hands-on demonstrations, all centered around one of the region's most iconic gamefish.

Part of Vistal’s ongoing quarterly seafood dinner series, Behind the Catch seeks to deepen the public's understanding of San Diego’s commercial fishing legacy by spotlighting not only the seafood on the plate, but also the people and practices behind it. Taking place on Friday, August 15, this latest installment focuses on the California Yellowtail, a fish revered both for its fighting spirit and its sushi-grade flavor. Found offshore and near the coast year-round, yellowtail is accessible to a wide range of fishermen, making it a unifying species across sportfishing subcultures.

The August 15 event will feature two guest speakers for the first time in the series' history. Dr. John Hyde, a leading NOAA marine biologist and aquaculture expert based at the Southwest Fisheries Science Center in La Jolla, will offer insight into yellowtail physiology, conservation, and sustainability. Joining him will be Jared Saaib, founder of Strictly Irons, a local brand and fishing community built around the high-skill, high-thrill method of surface iron fishing. Saaib will share his personal journey, from catching his first yellowtail to building a business and purpose-driven brand rooted in fellowship, faith, and sport.

After the presentations and a Q&A session, guests will witness a live fish breakdown demonstration led by Chula Seafood, offering a rare glimpse into the commercial processing of yellowtail. Throughout the evening, Chef de Cuisine Fabian Aceves will showcase the versatility of the fish through a series of tray-passed appetizers and a four-course meal, all designed to honor the species' flavor and significance. This unique dining experience is priced at $85 per person, not including CA sales tax and an 18% service charge.

Guests will also be automatically entered into a raffle with prizes from Vistal, Huk Outdoor Gear, and Strictly Irons. The event begins at 6:15pm and will take place within Vistal at the InterContinental San Diego, directly across from waterfront Embarcadero. For seafood enthusiasts, anglers, and curious diners alike, Behind the Catch: California Yellowtail offers a unique opportunity to explore San Diego’s fishing culture through food, education, and hands-on experiences. 

Vistal is located at 901 Bayfront Court in downtown San Diego. For more information, visit vistalsd.com and reserve your seat for the August 15 experience at Resy.com.

Originally published on August 5, 2025.