The project, dubbed The Landing, would transform the 35-year-old property into a modern, multi-concept dining destination featuring four distinct experiences: a refreshed Fish Market, a new fast-casual concept called The Little Market, a prime steakhouse named Salt & Sear, and expanded banquet facilities for private events. Plans also include a 6-foot-wide public waterfront walkway, which would only be open during business hours, improved landscaping, and new public art to better connect the property to the bayfront.
On September 9, the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners voted unanimously to advance the proposal into the environmental review process under the California Environmental Quality Act, the next required step before any construction can begin. Commissioners praised the proposal as a better-conceived version of Portside Pier, with Commissioner Dan Malcolm noting “lessons learned” from that project in how The Landing has been designed from the outset. A Coastal Development Permit would also be needed.
If approved, the existing two-story structure at 750 North Harbor Drive would be demolished and replaced with a new two-story building on the same footprint. Brigantine is seeking to replace the current 22,087-square-foot building with a 32,080-square-foot structure that would stand 36 feet tall, about two feet higher than today, and expand seating capacity from 635 to 738 seats.
The first floor would house The Fish Market’s casual seafood restaurant, The Little Market with grab-and-go meals, coffee, gelato, and breakfast items, and banquet space for weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings. Upstairs, the planned Salt & Sear Prime Steak House would offer 243 seats with panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the USS Midway Museum, while additional banquet rooms and patios would accommodate private celebrations. 
"This project will transform this stretch of our waterfront into a premier destination," said Port Commission Chair Danielle Moore. "San Diego’s waterfront belongs to everyone, and projects like this ensure it stays that way by expanding public access and creating dynamic spaces to gather, dine, and celebrate."
Brigantine CEO Mike Morton Jr. added that the project is both a continuation and evolution of the Fish Market’s legacy. “The Landing will be a wonderful enhancement to what the Duckett and Wilson families created, and we’re excited for the opportunity to redevelop the site,” Morton said. He told commissioners the walkway has been deliberately designed as a fully separate path, with glass walls ensuring diners and pedestrians remain distinct, in contrast to what some see as an awkward setup at Portside Pier.
Brigantine CEO Mike Morton Jr. added that the project is both a continuation and evolution of the Fish Market’s legacy. “The Landing will be a wonderful enhancement to what the Duckett and Wilson families created, and we’re excited for the opportunity to redevelop the site,” Morton said. He told commissioners the walkway has been deliberately designed as a fully separate path, with glass walls ensuring diners and pedestrians remain distinct, in contrast to what some see as an awkward setup at Portside Pier.
Brigantine is also seeking a new or amended 40-year lease with the Port in light of the proposed investment. The company expects to begin construction in March 2028 and open The Landing in spring or summer of 2029, assuming it secures approvals.
The redevelopment underscores how Brigantine has effectively taken control of the downtown Embarcadero’s dining scene. After being awarded the chance to redevelop the former Anthony’s Fish Grotto into the $25 million Portside Pier complex, which opened in 2020, the company now holds the keys to another of the waterfront’s most iconic restaurant sites. Portside Pier and The Landing would stand less than half a mile apart, cementing Brigantine’s dominance of the central bayfront.
The Fish Market has been a San Diego staple since 1989, founded by Fred Duckett and Robert Wilson after launching their first restaurant in Palo Alto in 1976. Known for its fresh seafood and harbor views, the North Harbor Drive location has endured challenges over the years, including a devastating 2015 grease fire that caused millions in damages. Brigantine, a family-run company established in 1969, now oversees the brand alongside its portfolio of more than 20 restaurants, including the Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar, Miguel’s Cocina, and the $25 million Portside Pier development that opened in 2020 on the same stretch of Embarcadero.
The Fish Market has been a San Diego staple since 1989, founded by Fred Duckett and Robert Wilson after launching their first restaurant in Palo Alto in 1976. Known for its fresh seafood and harbor views, the North Harbor Drive location has endured challenges over the years, including a devastating 2015 grease fire that caused millions in damages. Brigantine, a family-run company established in 1969, now oversees the brand alongside its portfolio of more than 20 restaurants, including the Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar, Miguel’s Cocina, and the $25 million Portside Pier development that opened in 2020 on the same stretch of Embarcadero.
While the Board’s action this week signals momentum, the proposal remains in its early stages. Environmental review, permitting, and lease negotiations must all be completed before construction can begin, meaning The Landing is still years away from opening. For now, both The Fish Market and Top of the Market continue to operate as usual, serving locals and visitors from their waterfront perch next to the USS Midway and the “Unconditional Surrender” statue.
The Fish Market is located at 750 North Harbor Drive in downtown San Diego. For more information, visit portofsandiego.org.
The Fish Market is located at 750 North Harbor Drive in downtown San Diego. For more information, visit portofsandiego.org.
Originally published on September 10, 2025.