Hey fish lovers, San Diego’s iconic Fish Market on the Embarcadero is about to get a major upgrade.
The Brigantine, Inc., which operates The Fish Market and Top of the Market on North Harbor Drive, is proposing a $25.5 million redevelopment that keeps the beloved seafood restaurant while adding new dining experiences, banquet spaces, and a public waterfront walkway. The project will be called The Landing.
On Sept. 9, the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners advanced the project to the environmental review phase.
“The Landing will transform this stretch of our waterfront into a premier destination,” said 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. The Morton family’s vision blends elevated dining, a celebration of the sea, and a deep commitment to community – strengthening our economy, driving tourism, and showcasing the very best of San Diego’s bayfront.”
According to a news release, plans call for a new two-story building in roughly the same location as the current structure. Key features include:
- The Fish Market – 293-seat casual seafood restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining and bay views.
- The Little Market – 58-seat fast-casual spot serving seafood, breakfast, coffee, and gelato.
- Salt & Sear Prime Steak House – 243-seat upscale steak and seafood restaurant with panoramic views of the bay and USS Midway Museum.
- Banquet facilities – indoor and outdoor rooms for weddings, corporate events, and family celebrations.
The redevelopment would also add a six-foot-wide public waterfront walkway, refreshed landscaping, new lighting and patio furniture, and public art—providing waterside access the property currently lacks.
“My team and I are honored to have the Port Commission’s unanimous support to move forward with environmental review on the redevelopment of the Fish Market,” said Mike Morton, Jr., president and CEO of Brigantine Restaurants. “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.”
The Board’s action begins the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review. It does not constitute final project approval, a lease amendment, or financing authorization. A Coastal Development Permit will also be required before construction can begin.
Brigantine, Inc., a family-owned business founded in 1969, operates 21 restaurants across San Diego County, including Portside Pier and Ketch Grill & Taps.
