The Best Fish-tacos in Hillcrest

Hillcrest's go-to fish taco. Reliable, festive, and a strong margarita pairing for a casual night out.

Baja Betty's is a Hillcrest mainstay that serves a solid Baja-style fish taco in a colorful, lively room. The fish is battered and fried, the slaw is fresh, and the white sauce is tangy. The taco is a reliable order, and the menu is broad enough that it works for groups with mixed tastes. The margaritas are strong and the atmosphere is festive, making it a good choice for a casual dinner or a night out. It is not the best fish taco in the city, but it is the best one within walking distance of many Hillcrest apartments.

Splurge fish taco. Lobster, chipotle crema, and a fresh tortilla — indulgent and worth trying once.

El Zarape's lobster taco is a splurge item that delivers on flavor. The lobster is tender and sweet, the chipotle crema adds a smoky heat, and the tortilla is fresh and warm. The price is high for a single taco, but the quality of the shellfish justifies it as a treat. The University Heights location is casual and friendly, and the taco pairs well with a margarita. It is not an everyday fish taco, but it is a memorable one for a special occasion or a date night.

Fresh-catch fish market with a grill. The grilled fish taco is clean and seafood-forward, ideal for non-fried eaters.

Blue Water Seafood is a fish market with a small grill operation, and the fish taco benefits from the fresh-catch supply. The grilled fish is flaky and well-seasoned, and the toppings are simple enough to let the seafood shine. The tortilla is fine, but the real draw is the quality of the fish. The Mission Hills location is casual and often crowded at lunch. It is a strong option for anyone who wants a fish taco without the batter, and the menu lets you choose the catch of the day.