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Casa Marte Oyster Bar & Grill on La Paz Malecon

Discovering La Paz’s Seafood Treasures

La Paz, Mexico, is a seafood-lover’s paradise. Like most of Baja’s region, it is located on the Sea of Cortez and offers an ocean-to-table experience. The Sea of Cortez delivers freshness and flavor daily. You’ll find everything from succulent chocolate clams to flawlessly grilled fish. La Paz presents a delightful array of dining establishments. When it’s dark, you can experience the best nightlife that La Paz has to offer! Whether you crave fine dining, a casual family meal, or a local mariscos joint, La Paz Seafood delivers.

Casa Marte Oyster Bar & Grill on La Paz MaleconFine Dining with Ocean Views

  1. NEMI, located near the Malecon, is a contemporary Mexican seafood restaurant under the guidance of Chef Alex Villagómez. Famous for their beef cheek and zarandeado shrimp, NEMI has firmly established itself as a fine-dining spot. Their reputation implies their La Paz seafood is just as delicious. To continue, all guests rave about their nine-course seafood tasting menu. Continuing, it is said to be a delightful journey through the region’s ocean harvest. NEMI’s menu changes weekly, so you’ll only have the freshest La Paz Seafood on your plate. 
  2. Casa Marte Oyster Bar & Grill also has a prime seaside view. Here, Chef Héctor Palacios, a hospitality veteran with over 20 years of experience, showcases the best of each season. Additionally, they are particularly celebrated for their famous chocolate clams that are native to La Paz’s region and locally sourced oysters. When a chef with such extensive experience passionately promotes local seafood, you can be certain that you’ll be having a great meal. Also, Casa Marte’s commitment extends to sustainability. This makes it an even more appealing choice for the environmentally conscious diner.
  3. Bismarkcito is next and located directly on the Malecon; and is a lively and busy restaurant. Their seaside terrace allows you to take in the fresh air, people-watch, and enjoy the gorgeous climate, which just adds to the charm. To carry on, they have an extensive menu with fresh seafood. By far, their smoked marlin and lobster tacos are favorited by all customers. The only downside is that service can occasionally be iffy. Despite this, the restaurant’s prime location and energetic atmosphere make it a popular choice for savoring La Paz’s Seafood with a view. Finally, Bismarkcito is extremely popular with Mexican travelers as their owners have another location in Polanco, Mexico City. 

Kids Enjoying Mariscos in La PazFamily favorites

  1. Claros Fish Jr. is more of a touristy spot. Nevertheless, it consistently delivers tasty food. Crucially for families, they offer “pollo crunch tacos,” essentially chicken tenders. This is a familiar and reliable option for children who may not be ready for La Paz Seafood. Moreover, their location on the Malecon has a stunning view. Customers praise the generous portions, quick service, and fresh ingredients. The casual atmosphere makes it a stress-free choice for families looking to enjoy a relaxed seafood meal without any fuss.
  2. SeaSide Bar/Wine & Grill is another popular spot in La Paz for families. This upscale, open air restaurant is perfect for families looking for a relaxed dining experience with fresh seafood. SeaSide’s menu has a mix of fish tacos, ceviches and even non-seafood options for picky eaters. Parents love the friendly service and kids love the easy going vibe and simple food. The restaurant is easily accessible from Hotel La Concha and also offers valet parking so you can get your kids in and out of the restaurant. 
  3. El Molinito is great for generous portions and welcoming atmosphere, making it a top choice for families craving delicious and affordable seafood. Plus, the menu offers something for everyone, from fresh ceviches to crispy fried fish. Even better, the laid-back setting ensures kids feel comfortable while enjoying their meal, creating a stress-free dining experience for parents.

Tacos El Estadio in La PazHidden Seafood Hotspots

  1. El Estadio Tacos in the center of downtown La Paz is a local favorite for fish tacos. Described as a “locally-run eatery” and “super popular with the locals” where “no other tourists” were in sight, it sums up the essence of a hidden gem. Also, El Estadio’s remarkably affordable prices are a part of the restaurant’s appeal. So, for an authentic taste of La Paz Seafood, El Estadio Tacos is an absolute must. It’s good to note that on most navigation apps, locally run businesses are sometimes hard to find. When we asked locals, most said that it is near a Soccer and Baseball field. 
  2. TacoFish La Paz also frequently appears in local recommendations, and for good reason. Tucked just outside the city center, it remains a hidden gem, mostly attracting locals who appreciate its crispy, perfectly battered fish and fully stocked salsa bar. Unlike the tourist-packed spots along the Malecon, TacoFish offers an authentic experience that puts flavor and quality first. To locals, it’s considered one of the best fish taco spots in La Paz, making it a must-visit for those craving a true taste of Baja.
  3. Marisqueria Los Plebes sits just a few blocks from the Malecon, offering a colorful, open-air setting with a laid-back vibe. Despite being within walking distance from the Malecon, it’s good to know that the sidewalks in Mexico are sometimes uneven, narrow, and full of obstacles. Continuing to the restaurant, Los Plebes goes beyond the classic taco with a more creative take on local flavors. For example, they offer tacos with octopus in a rich adobo sauce and smoked marlin with melted cheese. Their menu often highlights seasonal seafood and regional flavors, making it a go-to spot for those who want to explore La Paz Seafood in a way that feels both traditional and inventive.

Fresh Seafood at a Mercado in La PazFreshness Guaranteed: Sourcing Seafood Directly

For those with a passion for fresh ingredients, La Paz’s seafood markets provide an unbeatable experience. At Mercado Municipal General Nicolás Bravo, the city’s most renowned market, seafood vendors line the south entrance, offering everything from just-caught fish to plump shrimp and local specialties like manta ray.

Alongside the seafood, you’ll find fresh meats, colorful produce, and an authentic market atmosphere that draws both locals and visitors alike. Mercado Francisco I. Madero, while smaller, still provides a selection of fresh seafood among its many vendors, selling everything from pantry staples to household goods. If you’re looking for a more local, hidden experience, Mercado Municipal General Agustín Olachea Avilés is a paceño family favorite, known for its variety of fresh food and a more relaxed, community-driven vibe. Whether you’re buying ingredients for a home-cooked meal or just want to immerse yourself in the food culture, these markets are the way to experience La Paz Seafood at its best.

Tips for Market Shopping

  • Go early: Seafood is at its freshest. Arriving early mid-day increases your chances of finding the best and most diverse selection of La Paz seafoods. On the beach? Look for carts selling fresh marasicos and traditional Mexican seafood cocktails.
  • Check for freshness: Look for bright eyes, firm flesh with a healthy shine, and a fresh, clean smell. Avoid anything with an overpowering “fishy” smell. If the gills are visible, they should be a vibrant red.
  • Engage with vendors: Vendors are often experts on their seafood. Don’t be scared to ask about the origin, quality, or best preparation methods for their products.
  • Haggle respectfully: While not always necessary, polite negotiation is common in Mexican markets, especially when buying in bulk. Keep it friendly and considerate—vendors rely on these sales for their livelihood, and a respectful exchange enhances the market experience.