Surf & Soul Spot

4.6 ( 349 reviews )
Checking... 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM See Hours
$10–20
7229 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115, United States
+1 619-439-8801

Located in the heart of San Diego, Surf & Soul Spot has quickly become a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Patrons rave about the incredible flavor and generous portions, with highlights like fish and grits and fried catfish emerging as standout dishes. Customer Khayree Whetstone emphasizes the impressive banana pudding that "puts you in a choke hold," showcasing the restaurant's dedication to delightful desserts.

Jessica León describes her experience as emotional, praising the complimentary peach cobbler that comes with combo plates—unlike many establishments that charge extra, this adds to the feeling of value. Several reviews note the friendly and attentive service, ensuring a warm and welcoming atmosphere, which is vital in capturing the essence of soul food.

While primarily a takeout spot, many patrons recommend enjoying the food at nearby Chollas Park to soak in the sunshine. Ezra McFadden's experience of waiting in line only adds to the restaurant's allure, proving the food is worth every minute. With a focus on generous offerings and flavorful dishes, Surf & Soul Spot is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of soul food.

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair-accessible car park
    • Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Service options
    • Offers takeaway
    • Serves dine-in
    • No delivery
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves comfort food
    • Quick bite
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Serves dessert
  • Amenities
    • No toilet
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Trendy
  • Crowd
    • Popular with tourists
  • Planning
    • Doesn't accept reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
  • Parking
    • Free of charge street parking

Reviews For Surf & Soul Spot

Khayree Whetstone
Jul 1,2025
I went to San Diego, ca. to see a new place and try new foods. This was by far one of the top food spots I tried while out there. I highly suggest any tourist to check this place out. I ordered the fish and grits(got a good portion as well, was able to save some for later), and some banana pudding. Usually I’m skeptical of eating just anyone’s banana pudding but I can say the fish and grits was great but that banana pudding is what pulled me in and put me in a choke hold. Great food, great service. I just wish I didn’t have to sit in the car and eat. But keep it up!
Jessica León
Jun 17,2025
I could cry. This place is so GOOD. We got two combo plates and all the sides. When I asked about getting peach cobbler they said it’s included with the plates like we did not have to pay separately for the dessert!! This is the best place ever and they are so nice to customers.
Ezra McFadden
May 14,2025
Great food and amazing customer service. Although I did wait in line for 25 minutes as soon as they opened, the wait is surely worth it for the food! At opening, there were 10 people in line waiting. A must-have when it comes to soul food in the area. I will definitely come back!
Taylor Amrein
May 13,2025
Take out only, but worth diving into once you're back in your car. Chollas park isn't too far away if you're into dining al fresco. Anyway, the food was incredible. Some of the best fried catfish and shrimp I've ever had. Keep an eye on their daily specials (we had jerk chicken nachos ) and don't skip dessert. Food is made fresh and worth the wait. Staff is so friendly and ready to answer questions. Check it out ASAP.
Brandi
Apr 21,2025
Our wait time was maybe 15 minutes. The portions are very generous, I wasn’t expecting my fish sandwich to be so large. The coleslaw on the sandwich was delicious as well and I liked that the cabbage wasn’t diced but more-so shredded. The seasoning of all of the seafood was wonderful. The fried shrimp was my absolute favorite. They were also very generous with sauces: tartar and hot sauce. And we shared a grape soda flavored lemonade which was wonderful. Lastly, who doesn’t love a black owned business
Mr Free press
Apr 3,2025
All I will say is go because very good and also the portions are real decent !!I got a catfish plate on Friday. Very good delicious lol.
Danielle Veney
Mar 28,2025
Sooo delicious Great portions I had the shrimp and grits and let me tell you I would go back just for that!! The shrimp was a nice size perfectly seasoned and the grits with the cheese was perfection Soo good My mother had the fried fish and she isn’t a fan of fried but said it was good The breadstick that came with the order was delicious too My only disappointment was the dessert I ordered the banana pudding It wasn’t Bad just not as good as I hoped since the other food was soo good I will definitely be returning
Vinny M
Mar 25,2025
Excellent food. Loved the shrimp and grits! You guys should seriously consider putting a menu up out front, and maybe a better sign too. I'd been driving past this place for a year before I realized it was a food establishment. You'd get more business if you had a menu posted above the ordering area.

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