The impending closure of The Tin Fish seems to be all but confirmed based on a recent liquor license transfer, where the restaurant’s Type-41 Beer and Wine License is moving to Jaeseung Gwak, who records show plans to open Imperial Beach Kitchen in the same 1,558-square-foot space. The transition comes as the latest in a series of closures for the Tin Fish brand, which has struggled to maintain its foothold in San Diego in recent years.
The Tin Fish first opened on the Imperial Beach Pier in 2016, operated by Edward Kim since March 2018. Known for its seafood tacos, fish and chips, and stunning ocean views, the restaurant became a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike. Situated at the tip of the 1,500-foot pier—the southernmost in California- it offered a unique dining experience, with outdoor seating overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a casual atmosphere that drew families, anglers, and sunset seekers.
However, the Tin Fish brand has faced significant challenges recently. In 2021, Kim opened a 4,000-square-foot lakefront outpost at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve in East County, hoping to capitalize on the scenic setting and a capacity for nearly 200 diners. The venture lasted just 18 months, closing in November 2022 and replaced by Angry Pete’s Pizza, a Detroit-style pizza concept. Angry Pete’s has since shuttered as well, reflecting the volatility of the restaurant industry in the area.
The Tin Fish first opened on the Imperial Beach Pier in 2016, operated by Edward Kim since March 2018. Known for its seafood tacos, fish and chips, and stunning ocean views, the restaurant became a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike. Situated at the tip of the 1,500-foot pier—the southernmost in California- it offered a unique dining experience, with outdoor seating overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a casual atmosphere that drew families, anglers, and sunset seekers.
However, the Tin Fish brand has faced significant challenges recently. In 2021, Kim opened a 4,000-square-foot lakefront outpost at Santee Lakes Recreation Preserve in East County, hoping to capitalize on the scenic setting and a capacity for nearly 200 diners. The venture lasted just 18 months, closing in November 2022 and replaced by Angry Pete’s Pizza, a Detroit-style pizza concept. Angry Pete’s has since shuttered as well, reflecting the volatility of the restaurant industry in the area.
Additionally, the Tin Fish’s longtime Gaslamp Quarter location, a 4,500-square-foot space across from the San Diego Convention Center, closed in June 2022 after 24 years. That space was taken over by Rick DiRienzo of Rockin’ Baja Lobster, who transformed it into Baja Rick's Cantina & Grill by the end of 2022.
The impending Imperial Beach transfer leaves the Tin Fish with just one San Diego location in Oceanside, alongside three outposts in Florida and one in Indiana. Founded in 1998 by Joseph Melluso, the chain once thrived on its promise of fresh, oceanfront dining, but rising operational costs, competition, and changing consumer habits have taken a toll.
The impending Imperial Beach transfer leaves the Tin Fish with just one San Diego location in Oceanside, alongside three outposts in Florida and one in Indiana. Founded in 1998 by Joseph Melluso, the chain once thrived on its promise of fresh, oceanfront dining, but rising operational costs, competition, and changing consumer habits have taken a toll.
The Imperial Beach Pier location faced its own hurdles, including a prolonged closure during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kim was forced to shut down on March 17, 2020, after the pier’s gate lock was changed without notice, leaving him with a stock of perishable seafood.
Jaeseung Gwak, the new lessee and a longtime area sushi chef, plans to open Imperial Beach Kitchen on the pier space, according to public records, though details about the concept remain scarce. The transfer of the Type-41 license suggests the new restaurant will continue to serve beer and wine, maintaining the pier’s appeal as a dining destination. The Port of San Diego owns and manages the 1960-era pier, which has undergone recent enhancements, including new paint, murals, and a shark-themed shade canopy, as part of a $2 million Phase 2 project completed in December 2024.
For more information on Tin Fish, visit thetinfishrestaurants.com.
Jaeseung Gwak, the new lessee and a longtime area sushi chef, plans to open Imperial Beach Kitchen on the pier space, according to public records, though details about the concept remain scarce. The transfer of the Type-41 license suggests the new restaurant will continue to serve beer and wine, maintaining the pier’s appeal as a dining destination. The Port of San Diego owns and manages the 1960-era pier, which has undergone recent enhancements, including new paint, murals, and a shark-themed shade canopy, as part of a $2 million Phase 2 project completed in December 2024.
For more information on Tin Fish, visit thetinfishrestaurants.com.
