Gary Uncovers San Diego’s SCRUMPTIOUS Seafood Secrets | Never-Ending Seafood Tower!

California’s southern coast shines in this mouthwatering tour of San Diego’s top seafood experiences, where stunning ocean views, fresh local catches, and cultural fusion define every bite. From elegant harbor dining to a lively taco truck, a buttery lobster roll on Coronado Island, and a Filipino-inspired kitchen, this episode celebrates the city’s evolving food scene and the people who make it thrive.

Tom Ham’s Lighthouse – Bay Views and Sea-to-Table Brilliance

Host Gary meets health coach Alexis at the iconic Tom Ham’s Lighthouse, a family-run institution perched above the San Diego Bay. With sweeping views of downtown and the harbor, they indulge in a vibrant seafood tower of lobster, crab, oysters, and shrimp, alongside salmon with saffron rice and tomatillo pesto. Every plate highlights California’s fresh, local catch and a wellness-focused coastal lifestyle — fine dining that still feels refreshingly relaxed.

Kiko’s Place – Street-Style Seafood with Mexican Soul

Next, Gary and Alexis head downtown to Kiko’s Place, a beloved food truck parked by a gas station that’s become a late-night legend. Founded by Francisco in Baja California and brought to San Diego in 2007, Kiko’s serves tacos, burritos, ceviche, and spicy octopus tacos bursting with flavor. The standout dish? The “Crazy Ceviche” tostada — piled high with octopus, oysters, shrimp, and crab — proving that some of the city’s best seafood comes from its humblest kitchens.

Lobster West – Coronado’s New England Classic with a West Coast Twist

On Coronado Island, Gary meets influencer/foodie Karissa Zamora (@karissa.zamora) Lobster West, where buttery rolls meet beach-town charm. Using authentic Maine lobster — certified, sweet, and sustainably sourced — the restaurant crafts indulgent lobster rolls served on locally baked bread. Karissa samples the grilled cheese lobster melt while Gary dives into the classic roll drizzled with drawn butter and lemon. It’s a simple, decadent sandwich that captures East Coast flavor with San Diego style.

White Rice – Filipino Flavors Meet San Diego Innovation

Finally, award-winning chef Phil Esteban welcomes Gary to White Rice, where his Filipino roots and community spirit shine. Esteban’s palabok, a noodle dish made with local box crab and calamansi citrus, blends Filipino tradition with San Diego’s seafood culture. Through his “Fish to Families” program, Esteban supports local fishermen while feeding those in need — proving that food can nourish both body and soul.

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This is a full episode of the series United Plates of America

Chapters:
00:00 - Show Open/San Diego Intro
03:20 - Tom Ham's Lighthouse
08:58 - Kiko's Place Food Truck
12:57 - Lobster West - Coronado Island
16:52 - White Rice - award-winning chef Phillip Esteban

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