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Where to eat: the 50 best restaurants in San Diego
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Where to eat: the 50 best restaurants in San Diego

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Wanderlog staff
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• updatedSep 10, 2025

San Diego is a culinary treasure trove, where the sun-kissed coast meets a vibrant food scene that’s as diverse as its neighborhoods. From the bustling streets of Little Italy to the trendy East Village, this city offers a delightful mix of flavors and dining experiences that cater to every palate. Whether you're craving mouthwatering fried chicken at The Crack Shack or an elegant evening at the award-nominated Addison, San Diego's restaurants promise to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

As the Wanderlog team explores this dynamic city, we can't help but be excited about the hidden gems and well-loved institutions that make dining here so special. Picture yourself savoring a wood-fired seafood dish at Fort Oak or indulging in a decadent dessert at Extraordinary Desserts after a meal at Herb & Wood. With a blend of upscale dining and casual eateries, San Diego invites you to embark on a delicious journey through its culinary landscape. So grab your fork and get ready to discover the best places to eat in this sunny paradise!

Why trust us
We scoured through the internet and read through 25 reputable sites and blogs like Condé Nast Traveler and Time Out. We gathered all the results in one place and ranked them by how many times they were mentioned so you know you're getting the best of the best. Just look for the "mentioned by" tags on each place like these:
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1Juniper and Ivy

4.6
(2582)
•
4.5
(938)
•
Mentioned on 
+6 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Restaurant
Juniper and Ivy is a spacious, modern restaurant in San Diego known for its imaginative New American cuisine and creative drinks. It has been recognized as a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand establishment and is highly acclaimed by critics. The menu, curated by executive chef Anthony Wells, features consistently superb, sophisticated, and imaginative dishes that change daily to showcase the freshest seasonal ingredients from local farmers and fishermen.
Simply the best! Highly recommended. My husband and I didn’t have a reservation for our anniversary dinner, but we were lucky enough to get counter seating at the pastry prep station as walk-ins. The food was incredible, but even more impressive was the impeccable service. The pastry chefs educated us on their plates as well as their recommended mains and our waiter Carlos was truly exceptional! Will definitely be back the next time we visit SD!
Cheryl L — Google review
My recent visit to Juniper & Ivy was an absolute delight! The entire experience, from the vibrant atmosphere to the incredible food, was top-notch. The kitchen truly shines with its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients. Every dish was not only delicious but also showcased a wonderful variety of textures. It's clear that the chefs put a lot of thought into crafting a dynamic and exciting menu. Beyond the food, the service was fantastic. The staff was friendly, attentive, and really contributed to the overall positive and fun experience. I'm already looking forward to my next visit to explore more of their creative dishes and variations. If you're looking for a memorable dining experience, I highly recommend Juniper & Ivy.
Adi L — Google review
Some of the best service I have ever received. They take great care of their diners and their attention to detail is incredible. We went for our engagement dinner and were treated with complimentary champagne and a non alcoholic drink when seated that I can only assume the alcoholic versus non preference was based on what we were drinking at the entry bar. Amazing. Food was on a different level and the options they had were great. We cant wait to come back to give everything else a try that we xouldnt on our first visit. Thank you for making our night so special.
Brandon S — Google review
Perfection. My cocktails were incredible. I had two tequila drinks, one of which was on their list, and the other which was a recipe by a famous female bartender named Ivy. I also had an espresso martini to finish (along with their black sesame panna cotta). I had the JP organic caprese and the three cheese ravioli. Sat at the bar and had phenomenal service from all of the staff. Super great ambiance. Worth every penny. I’ll be back!
KL N — Google review
I wish I could change two things: taking pictures of every dish I tried here and transplanting this restaurant much closer to where I live. From the moment I arrived to when I was walking out after my incredible meal was over, I felt like every staff member was focused on their guests' full enjoyment of the experience. Lauren, the waitress that helped me, was especially engaging and helpful. I've attached the few pictures I took, but they don't quite do it justice. If you're ever near San Diego, it's worth the detour and the price. Get the miso black cod. I wish I came with more people so I could try more of their menu.
Derek H — Google review
Easily one of the best restaurant experiences we’ve ever had! We sat at the Chef’s counter and it was incredible to watch Alex and the team do their magic. The service was impeccable, the food extraordinary, and the vibe perfect. Definitely not a cheap night out but it’s very worth the price.
Geoff H — Google review
If you’re craving Peking Duck in San Diego, look no further than Juniper and Ivy in Little Italy—this spot completely redefines the classic dish with creativity and flair, and it’s hands down one of my favorite dining experiences in the city. First things first: this high-end eatery blends SoCal’s laid-back vibe with innovative cuisine, and it’s incredibly popular. Make a reservation well in advance—I can’t stress that enough. For parking, street parking is available a short walk away, or you can opt for valet right outside for $15, which is super convenient. Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the Peking Duck. It’s "one duck, two ways," and every bite is a revelation. The 3.5–4-pound whole duck is treated with such care: the breast is glazed with honey mixed with coriander, cinnamon, and cloves, while the legs are marinated in salt, pepper, and thyme overnight before being slow-cooked. The result? Crispy, shatteringly thin skin that crunches when you bite into it, and tender, juicy meat with no gamey aftertaste—way more flavorful than traditional Peking Duck, with the natural sweetness of the duck really shining through. Served with stir-fried wheat berries, grilled veggies, and a fried duck egg, the dish has amazing texture and balance—savory, slightly sweet, with a hint of spice, and never greasy. No wonder locals call it "the best duck in SD"! The ambiance is just as impressive. Industrial-chic decor with high ceilings, exposed brick, and large windows letting in plenty of natural light—it’s warm and inviting, not stuffy. The open kitchen is a fun touch too, so you can watch the chefs work their magic. With two floors, including private dining spaces, it’s perfect for everything from date nights to group gatherings. And let’s not forget the service—it’s top-tier. The staff is attentive without being intrusive: they accommodated my friend’s gluten allergy seamlessly, and little touches like guiding me to the restroom and refolding my napkin while I was away made the experience feel extra special. We also tried the Hokkaido Scallops, which were fantastic—crispy exterior, buttery and tender inside, paired with a delicious sauce. We only ordered two dishes total because the duck is so generous, and we left absolutely stuffed. Oh, and they serve a complimentary sour appetizer to start, which is a nice way to wake up your taste buds. After dinner, take a stroll around Little Italy—there are great ice cream shops and cool bars nearby, perfect for digesting that amazing meal. Juniper and Ivy isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a must-visit food destination in San Diego. From the creative dishes to the great atmosphere and service, it checks all the boxes. I’m already planning my next visit to try more of their menu!
Momo Z — Google review
Wish I could have given a higher rating but the service ruined the experience. It took way too long to get our first drinks and 1st courses. And once we declined the dessert menu we didn't see waitress for 30 mins to ask for the check. I had to get up to ask floor manager to get it. Unacceptable.
Carrie D — Google review
2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://www.juniperandivy.com/•(619) 269-9036•Tips and more reviews for Juniper and Ivy

2ADDISON BY WILLIAM BRADLEY

4.5
(481)
•
4.5
(305)
•
Mentioned on 
+5 other lists 
$$$$very expensive
Fine dining restaurant
Located at the Grand Del Mar in San Diego, California, Addison is an elegant restaurant that offers New French cuisine. The renowned Chef William Bradley has earned a three-star rating from Michelin for his immense talent and inventive dishes. The restaurant's nine-course tasting menu evolves with the seasons and features playful and artful creations such as chicken liver churros and shellfish Chawanmushi.
Dining at Addison is an unforgettable experience. Every detail — from the impeccable service to the beautifully curated wine list — reflects the artistry of a true three-Michelin-star restaurant. The flavors are refined yet full of soul, with each course unfolding like a story. Elegant, intimate, and absolutely worth the journey.
Anne C — Google review
We recently had the pleasure of celebrating our anniversary at Addison, and the evening proved to be an unforgettable dining experience. From the first sip of the tepache—a playful and refreshing expression of fermented flavors of Mexico—the menu unfolded like a story told with precision and artistry. The Prelude set the tone beautifully. The sake cured kanpachi nigiri was pristine in its clarity of flavor, while the Spanish anchovies with potato, wild arugula, and Meyer lemon jam delivered a striking balance of richness and brightness. The chicken liver churro with bitter chocolate and white truffle was daring yet harmonious, marrying decadence with an unexpected elegance. Among the seasonal selections, the caviar enhancements stood out magnificently. The Regiis Ova Reserve caviar with koshihikari rice, smoked sabayon, and sesame was a masterclass in layered textures and flavors—each bite luxurious yet precise. The fish and chips with burnt onion dip and dill relish offered a whimsical interlude, a playful nod to tradition elevated with refinement. The olive wagyu with squid ink cracker, tartare, and black garlic was another highlight, its depth and umami resonance carried to perfection by the pairing. The wine pairings were remarkable throughout the evening, each glass chosen with an intuitive sense of balance. The selections did not merely complement the dishes but deepened the experience, enhancing delicate notes and emphasizing contrasts with grace. Desserts were as thoughtful as the savory courses. The yuzu custard with candied ginger and ceremonial matcha offered brightness and finesse, while the tres leches with white truffle was a surprising and memorable finale, a luxurious close to an already exceptional evening. Addison delivered more than a meal—it crafted a memory. Every detail, from the careful progression of dishes to the seamless wine pairings, spoke of sophistication and intention. It was the perfect way to mark a special anniversary.
Jeremy B — Google review
TL;DR: It’s the most expensive, but also the best food I’ve ever had in my life so far. There isn’t a single bad dish, and I feel lucky to live so close to this place. I came to Addison to celebrate my birthday, and it was an unforgettable experience from the moment I walked in. As soon as I stepped into the dining room, I noticed this gorgeous champagne glass with a vibrant stem—the kind of glass you immediately fixate on. I spent a good part of the meal contemplating whether I should order champagne just so I could drink out of it… and eventually I did. Zero regrets. It made the moment feel even more special. The food was outstanding from beginning to end. Every course was intentional, beautifully plated, and genuinely delicious. My favorite was their signature rice bowl—the kind of dish so good you stop talking mid sentence. Once you try it, you’ll want to swim in it. The service was exceptional as well. When the dishes are placed on the table, everything is done in perfect synchronization, which adds this elegant, almost theatrical touch to the experience. Addison isn’t an everyday restaurant—it’s a true event. But if you want one of the best meals of your life, this is absolutely the place. I’m genuinely grateful to have something this extraordinary right here in San Diego.
Landy L — Google review
My husband and I visited here for our wedding anniversary. All the foods and drinks were amazing. They have exceptional choices for champagne- for the ones tough to get in market. Other than food/drinks, I liked their enough spacing in between tables which the staff mentioned it was designed like that on purpose to give customers enough privacy. Chawanmushi was definitely the highlight for me! :D
Yeji S — Google review
Still impressed with overall experience compared to last we were here. Food was still incredibly rich & delicious. Service is still like a well rehearsed choreography from setting the food on the table to picking up the empty plates. It was very entertaining to watch. The entire dinner was expensive but was so worth it.
Imee C — Google review
My mom and I came to Addison for my birthday dinner! We’ve been to some three star michelin restaurants in NY, so we were wondering how Addison would compare, and it definitely didn’t disappoint! Just a note for those going, the location and parking for the restaurant is different from the actual hotel/resort, so don’t get them mixed up! Addison is located in a gorgeous resort, and their waiting area is one of the prettiest I’ve seen. We had reservations for 5:30PM, which gave us enough time to see and enjoy the restaurant in natural lighting before it turned dark out. I would definitely recommend getting an earlier slot! The tasting menu was delicious! It was a unique twist, with the chef combining Japanese, French, and Mexican flavors seamlessly throughout. What stood out to me the most however, was the menu’s emphasis on texture. It wasn’t something I always paid attention to, but this meal stood out because of it. Their signature dish, eggs and rice, was a great example: the crunchy rice, with the creamy sauce, topped with the caviar, was such a treat! The only thing I’d say is that the supplements weren’t really worth it. My mom got the wagyu, which was good and tender, but $100 was a bit much in my opinion. I got the caviar supplement, which does get added to 3 separate dishes, but it wasn’t anything mindblowing. It wasn’t worth the almost $200 either… Service was also excellent. Everyone described the dishes well, and the sommelier was super attentive and nice as well. The wine pairing was on the steeper side price wise, costing the same as the tasting menu itself, but it was a good pairing that really complimented the dishes. If you’re looking for a special meal, Addison has to be on your list! It’s such a charming restaurant, and is no wonder why they’ve maintained their three star status for so long.
Ceci — Google review
My husband surprised me with a birthday dinner at Addison back in February and it was the most amazing experience we’ve ever had from the moment we walked in. The service was so professional yet comfortable and I loved how choreographed it was. The food was unforgettable. The wine pairings are perfection. If we ever get to go back, it would be an absolute dream!
Jordan F — Google review
We went back to Addison in San Diego, and it was even better than last time. You simply come in and enjoy what the kitchen creates, and every dish was incredible. The food felt familiar yet completely new with different ingredients and beautiful presentation. The wine pairing was out of this world, with some of the rarest bottles you can find in California. The service was perfect and the whole experience reminded us why this is a true three-star restaurant.
Omni L — Google review
5200 Grand Del Mar Way, San Diego, CA 92130, USA•http://www.addisondelmar.com/?utm_source=google+Maps&utm_medium=…•(858) 314-1900•Tips and more reviews for ADDISON BY WILLIAM BRADLEY
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3NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar

4.5
(496)
•
4.5
(677)
•
Mentioned on 
+5 other lists 
$$$$expensive
American restaurant
NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar, located in the Grande Colonial Hotel, offers a sophisticated and elegant dining experience perfect for intimate conversations and quiet celebrations. The restaurant features inventive seasonal cuisine crafted by award-winning Chef Jason Knibb and Pastry Chef Jose Alonzo III.
I had an incredible experience at Nine Ten Restaurant tonight! We indulged in the tasting menu, and every dish was absolutely delicious. Our server, Jose, was fantastic—super attentive and friendly. He made sure we had everything we needed and provided great insights about each course. The whole team was on point, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I can’t wait to come back! Highly recommend!
Roderick L — Google review
The restaurant had a sophisticated interior with a stylish, upscale atmosphere—perfect for a nice night out. The ambiance had a great start-of-the-night vibe, making it an enjoyable dining experience. The fish dish was incredibly fresh and flavorful, which made it a standout. The steak was also well-prepared and satisfying. Overall, a great spot for both seafood and steak lovers. Would definitely recommend!
Rina — Google review
Michelin Guide recognized restaurant located inside the Grande Colonial Hotel. Had a reservation for five on a Sunday for brunch and were seated immediately. It’s $10 for valet parking when you dine at the restaurant, and you need to show your restaurant receipt when picking up the car. We ordered the octopus, sourdough bread, a pecan sticky bun, and tuna crudo for starters. The octopus came with potatoes and a cheese sauce that was tasty. The tuna crudo came in 6 pieces and I liked the citrusy dressing. The pecan sticky bun was a sleeper hit (the candied pecans were particularly good); I only wish that the coffee machine was working so we could’ve had a latte on the side to accompany it. My entree, I had the huevos rancheros. It was quite filling and I took half home for leftovers. We rounded out the meal with the half baked chocolate cake, which had the consistency of a molten lava cake soaked in ice cream - definitely split this with other people. Our waitress was very nice and the vibes were chill.
Shanelle S — Google review
The food is absolutely amazing and you can tell that the chef truly loves what he does. Every bite is filled with refreshing flavors and each dish sparks a memory
Nancy N — Google review
Food was pretty good, although kind of standard brunch, but we could taste some differences in terms of paying attention to the details. Too bad, only breakfast menu was available
Qc Y — Google review
Must-have for brunch: Short Rib Toast. Recommend the egg over medium. Perfect. If you’re staying at the Grande Colonial, mention that and get 10% off.
Glenn R — Google review
This is a classical style restaurant that does seemingly simple food with great style and exceptional flavor. I had the tuna crudo as a starter and the cod as my main. Both had exceptional balance of a kind that as a European (sorry!) I sometimes found difficult to come by on my trips to the US. But this place can compete with the best of them. The service was immaculate. It was all a pleasant surprise. Happy to come back anytime!
Henri B — Google review
This is not a typical restaurant connected to a hotel! Do not skip it and assume it's a basic spot to eat. This award winning restaurant is so good, we ate here five times on our trip - which we never do. Everything is made in house - from the pastrami to the Cacio E Pepe spaghettini. The flavors here were so familiar, but you could tell they were made with love and thoughtfulness. The most amazing thing we ate all week was the short rib toast with mornay sauce! You can only get it on weekends and only at brunch. The short rib is so good, we were hoping it would be on the dinner menu - but that's how much care they put into their menu- they are making short rib from scratch - just for weekend brunch. If you are a savory fan, this is one of the best things served on Prospect Street. Second savory delight would be the jerk pork belly - flavors you rarely taste together, but oh so good! The service was also top notch - Alex, Pablo and Shelly took very good care of us and always had great recommendations for each meal. You can sit inside, on the busy Prospect St. patio, or on the back patio, with partial ocean views. There is street parking around the area and $10 valet for the restaurant. Please take care of the valet guys too - they deliver old school service, which is so hard to find these days.
J H — Google review
910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA•https://www.nine-ten.com/•(858) 964-5400•Tips and more reviews for NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar

4Callie

4.5
(1014)
•
Mentioned on 
+4 other lists 
Mediterranean restaurant
Callie, located in San Diego's East Village, is a sophisticated kitchen and bar offering Mediterranean cuisine in a classy and contemporary setting. Executive chef Travis Swikard brings his expertise from working with Michelin-starred French chef Daniel Boulud to present shareable dips and spreads, house-made pastas, grilled seafood, and the popular Aleppo chicken. The restaurant also offers a curated five-course Mediterranean Feast for an easy date night option.
Can I just put “absurdly good“ and leave it at that? The service from entry to exit was tightly orchestrated. An excellent business philosophy and experienced management makes itself obvious. Hannah was an excellent ambassador for the restaurant, and we felt well cared for. From Flatware service, drink refills to food delivery, every staff member was an absolute professional. Every dish was incredibly balanced and well prepared. Creative presentation and flavor profiles put this in the top 20 restaurants I’ve ever dined at. The one item I did not get a picture of was hands-down, the best and that is the chicken. Our party of five was unanimous that it was unquestionably the best chicken dish we had any of us ever eaten! Go Callie!
Dougsuniverse — Google review
This was a great spot for Mediterranean food with a strong Moroccan influence. The server told us that they work with local farms and producers. They have a 5 course set menu that we wanted to try but decided to go with a la carte options to try a dish that we had one eye on. In total we got 5 dishes to share - babaghanoush with pita, kanpachi, pappardelle pasta, crunchy carrots, and aleppo chicken. The standout dish for us was definitely the kanpachi which is served with a creamy green hot sauce and black lime salt which was delicious! The aleppo chicken came with a super flavorful filling, which was spicier than we expected. The charred lemon and sumac pickles balanced out the flavor really well. The carrot dish was one we would pass on since it was pretty plain for the price. The restaurant is well decorated but it gets extremely loud in there. I found it hard to hear my partner from across the table. The ceilings are pretty high so it would have benefited from the addition of more fabric/rugs to help with the sound.
Lydia C — Google review
This was my second time dinning at Callie. My first time long time ago back to when they first open. I tried to give another try now and my opinion is the same. If you are coming here for authentic food, this is not the place. It’s a huge fusion to the point where you don’t even know what kind of fusion haha! The flavor goes from Italian, Greek , Japanese , Middle Eastern… Server looked very knowledgeable of the menu, she made a huge introduction. We started with babaganoush, it was very tasty but wish they had told us one side of bread was not enough for two ppl. Ordered second side of pita meanwhile they tried to take babaganoush plate away 3 times till the 4th time the server just took it away. I was like what. Just felt like everything was very rushed, they just wanted to take the plates away for next course. The Japanese hamachi is delicious and fresh and the my fav thing from that night. I was very excited to eat dolma, my fiance is Arabic and we luv dolma. What ever it is that they served, was not it. Do not recommend it, it taste like they wrapped a whole piece of Portuguese sausage in a grape leaf. White truffled gnocchi was a special that night, it was delicious and creamy and cooked to the right point. My second fav. We also ordered the lamb chops which I asked to come with the gnocchi but server told me no that the flavor would not be good together, haha so pretty much couldn’t even chose how to eat my food that night lol anyways… they were okay. Wouldn’t recommend it. At this point we were a lil disappointed and decided not to even tried the dessert. Drinks were yummy, my friend ordered a white tequila drink that I don’t know the name but it was really good, my drink was Golden state. Some friends that I’ve talk about this place told me the chicken is good so maybe try that (we didn’t, it looked like huge portion).
Hanna F — Google review
We had mixed feelings about this restaurant. At first, everything seemed wonderful — excellent service and an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere. The Mediterranean feast started off strong with beautifully presented and flavorful appetizers. Unfortunately, the main dishes didn’t quite measure up. The fish lacked flavor, and the steak was a bit tough, with the same sauce served on both the steak and the sashimi. On a positive note, the desserts and cocktails were outstanding.
Denis M — Google review
Really enjoyed my experience here. All the staff was super nice, professional, and knowledgeable. The menu wasn’t too large but had plenty of good choices. We got the focaccia with whipped ricotta and it was unreal. The beat and rose salad was pretty amazing. The ambience was really nice and seasonal too. We also had a celebrity dining close by which was a fun surprise. Highly recommend checking this place out. Can’t wait to come back.
Adam L — Google review
Having dinner here is a super nice experience. Everything we ordered was fantastic!! Free underground parking is super convenient for a downtown location. Service was great - they helped add water/change plates/take orders in time. Need to mention they do include a 20% tip in the bill but they definitely deserve it! And the food is just amazing. Uni toast is a must - the toast is soft inside and crispy on it side, combined with fresh uni and ham gives you an amazing bite! The dry aged duck breast was surprisingly good, not something you can find in any restaurant. The rice pudding with pistachio gives the right amount of sweetness to finish! Highly recommend and will revisit if I have the chance!
Xuan Z — Google review
We celebrated a birthday here and Callie made our experience something we won’t forget any time soon. They created a hand drawn birthday card and thanked us for trusting them to create an amazing time for us. We had a good amount of questions about the menu and our waiter was really patient and walked us through the menu. We decided on the Mediterranean Feast which allowed us to try a good amount of entrees. Definitely recommend you go for that as well! Just be sure to come hungry! Be sure to make reservations in advance as there doesn’t seem to be much of a chance to snag a table without one.
Tim L — Google review
This was a 5 star meal all around. The food - incredible. We did the Mediterranean tasting menu and it was incredible. The dips, the Japanese Kanpachi, omg so flavorful. The octopus was seasoned perfectly and cooked perfectly. The pasta - that pumpkin pasta was so light and refreshing. And the pappardelle - so flavorful. The chicken was out of this world. There aren’t words to describe it. And the beets? Best I’ve ever had. And the dessert…man. So delicious. The Turkish rice pudding was phenomenal. And the pavlova was the perfect mix of sweet and tangy. And the pumpkin gelato- amazing. Service was excellent. And drinks were unique and excellent!
Trish B — Google review
1195 Island Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://www.calliesd.com/•(619) 255-9696•Tips and more reviews for Callie

5Mister A's

4.6
(2286)
•
4.3
(843)
•
Mentioned on 
+5 other lists 
$$$$very expensive
Restaurant
American restaurant
French restaurant
Mister A's is an elegant rooftop eatery in Bankers Hill, San Diego, offering breathtaking bay and skyline views. The recently renovated space features a 180-degree view of Downtown San Diego and includes an expanded bar, rooftop patio, and classic decor with sparkling chandeliers.
Exquisite ambiance doesn't even begin to describe the atmosphere and experience. This is a place near and dear to my heart. My dad used to wine & dine my mom here when they met and he used to take us here for family dinners. The views are spectacular, but still eclipsed by the quality of the food. Every morsel was cooked to perfection. The service was my favorite part of all. We were well taken care of and attended to by the kindest gentleman. He really made it a fun experience with his witty banter. Hope to be seated with him again.
Ifeanyi K — Google review
I’ve been to Mr. A’s more times than I can count—girls’ nights, romantic dinners with my husband, and most recently, a casual evening with my sister—and every single time it’s a flawless experience. The service is consistently top-notch, the food never disappoints, and the cocktails are always spot-on. The location and views are easily among the best in San Diego, which makes dining here feel special whether you’re celebrating or just indulging in a night out. On my latest visit, we shared the tuna “chips and dip,” the fig flatbread, and a round of dirty martinis—all delicious. In the past, I’ve enjoyed full dinners with steak and all the accompaniments, and the quality is always exceptional. Mr. A’s isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a San Diego institution and, in my opinion, one of the premier dining destinations in the city. I can’t wait to go back and try some of their seasonal happy hour specials.
Alli G — Google review
Good, limited menu but something for everyone. Beautiful to watch the sunset and or watch planes landing from birds eye view. $40 corkage fee. One of the best cooked ribeyes but scallops were not the biggest or have the rich flavor.
John L — Google review
I’ve been coming here for 20 years and I’ve never been disappointed. The food is simply phenomenal. The service is always of the highest quality. I’ll let the view speak for itself in the pictures below. Over the years I’ve had so many memorable and happy dinners here with my parents, and more recently with my husband. This place is very special and is one of my all-time favorite restaurants.
Lisa — Google review
My wife and I went for our anniversary and before we left, I read reviews that said you don't go to Mister A's for the food, you go for views and ambiance. But I will say that we both found the food amazing. The octopus appetizer was wonderful. The rack of lamb was perfection. The brussel sprouts and Mac and cheese were recommended and they definitely measured up. I personally found the prime rib to be a little salty but that can be subjective. I'm not a huge fan of sweets but the dessert was really good as well. Even the valet was quick and easy. After we paid online, we clicked to bring our car around before we left our table and our car was being pulled up when the elevator doors were opening. All in all, we will definitely go back for the views, ambiance, service, and the food.
Jesse Y — Google review
We went to Mister A's for an anniversary dinner and it was a wonderful time! The views outside are lovely, and we were so impressed with the professional and friendly service. We enjoyed every dish, with our favorites being the Dubai chocolate baked Alaska, pork belly appetizer, and caviar tater tots. We also got the cheese plate, braised short ribs, lobster mac and cheese, brussels sprouts, and duck breast. While it's definitely not a cheap meal, we both thought that between the consistently tasty dishes, laidback atmosphere, and beautiful view, it was beyond worth it and made our anniversary dinner feel special.
Ashley L — Google review
For starters I love a place that enforces a dress code. If you’re a hoodie and shorts guy I’m sure there is a Taco Bell in the area. The service was outstanding. Ben was great! The view is probably the best in SD. We started with cocktails. (Manhattan and Old Fashioned) They were expensive but delicious. I had the duck, my wife had the short ribs. They were both excellent. She also had the gazpacho and it was delicious. My Cesar salad was decent, not great. The only miss was the dessert. The pumpkin pecan cobbler was not good. We would definitely go back.
Gus W — Google review
Dinner at Mister A’s was solid all around. We had a table outside with panoramic views—sunset, planes landing, full skyline. One of the best views in San Diego, no question. Started with martinis, then caviar to kick things off. The lamb was cooked perfectly—rich, flavorful, no frills. Mac and cheese was a strong side: creamy, sharp, exactly what it should be. Brought a couple bottles of wine and stayed through sundown, playing cards at the table. Service was sharp, pacing was tight, and nothing felt rushed. Shoutout to owner Ryan—he’s clearly focused on keeping the place grounded in its history while still elevating the experience. You can tell he cares about the legacy.
Clayton S — Google review
2550 Fifth Ave 12th floor, San Diego, CA 92103, USA•https://www.asrestaurant.com/•(619) 239-1377•Tips and more reviews for Mister A's
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6A.R. Valentien

4.7
(324)
•
4.6
(673)
•
Mentioned on 
+4 other lists 
$$$$very expensive
Californian restaurant
Fine dining restaurant
Restaurant
A.R. Valentien is an intimate and elegant restaurant located at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, offering seasonal American cuisine with a focus on working with local purveyors. The restaurant features a craftsman-inspired interior design, live music on select days, and a deck overlooking the 18th hole of the Torrey Pines Golf Course.
The food and service really really impressed us. We were the last table sat for lunch so we had the entire restaurant to ourselves. A bit awkward as it was very very quiet but the staff were extremely attentive, friendly, and did not rush us at all. We enjoyed the drinks, salads and entrees we ordered a lot. The serving sizes were large and flavorful, making the price worth it. We came for the view, and on a cloudy day, it wasn’t quite the coastal feel that other reviewers might have given you. Instead, with a view of the pool, the golf course, and ocean in the deep background, you get the vibe that you’re at a fancy cabin retreat. And that’s also fun but a bit more serious than coastal. Note that for lunch there are no tablecloths but for dinner they dress every table up with white linens. In case that vibe affects your choice of outfit.
DC D — Google review
The food and service was on par with a Michelin star restaurant. Each dish was balanced yet bold. Many ingredients were locally sourced. The service was exceptional with every staff member having an inviting demeanor. Not only was the staff kind they were also very knowledgeable. Our waiter, Ryan, did an amazing job making our group feel like we were the most important people in the building.
Brandon — Google review
This place is amazing! The food was absolutely incredible (especially the scallops). Our server was also so sweet. I didn’t catch her name, but she was a young black woman. She deserves a raise! My boyfriend and her worked together to give me an amazing proposal and I could not be more grateful. The rest of the staff was so helpful as well. I dropped my napkin on the floor and a staff member saw from inside and came all the way outside to bring me a new one. Will definitely be returning.
V — Google review
Highly recommend AR Valentin for a wonderful fine dining experience. Service was excellent and the food was out of this world. Our cousins celebrated a 54th wedding anniversary and the Chef prepared a special dessert for them. So kind and thoughtful. Speaking of desserts.. you’ll miss out if you don’t order! delicious. Our server Joshua was the best and really knows his wines. Big thanks to him and the chef for making our evening so special.
Mary O — Google review
My girlfriend and I came for a staycation and was introduced to this place by the concierge. Our experience was fantastic and that's what it was an experience! The staff was so attentive and kind, as well as knowledgeable. The cuisine was absolutely delightful, i enjoyed a beautifully cooked rib eye, they also make the most amazing biscuits to die for... Thank you for a lovely evening of fine dining.
Tom C — Google review
I like this place a lot. Come and enjoy duck here. The service is amazing. Djumae is the best!
Konstantin K — Google review
Great food, great service with a wonderful few. We would dine here again.
Jaye J — Google review
The menu was creative, the food was delicious, and the service was professional. What else can I ask for more. If you lucky enough sitting in the outdoor patio, the sunset view in the afternoon, or the golf course view in the daytime are both stunning!! I enjoyed the live music as well. Acoustic music was played in just the right volume. Love this place and enjoy the food very much.
Weiping C — Google review
11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA•https://www.arvalentien.com/?utm_source=google-business-profile&…•(858) 777-6635•Tips and more reviews for A.R. Valentien

7The Fishery

4.6
(1208)
•
4.4
(427)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Seafood restaurant
Seafood market
The Fishery is a renowned seafood restaurant located in Pacific Beach, San Diego. It offers an extensive selection of market-fresh sushi, entrees, and seafood sourced locally. The midcentury brick-and-mortar warehouse houses a seafood market and an open kitchen where Chef Mike Reidy prepares seasonal dishes for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. In addition to its seafood offerings, the restaurant also serves excellent beef options like ribeye, filet mignon, and New York strip.
Late night dinner but glad we came! The staff was amazing including our waiter. Comfortable inviting environment that wasn’t too crowded! I usually don’t list things but it feels appropriate here! The clam chowder, and rockfish main course were both memorable dishes. I can’t think of a better chowder or whole fish I’ve had anywhere in my life . The portions were fantastic as well! The fish also came With crispy potatoes that I could literally eat everyday. It really doesn’t get much better than this. The sashimi, calamari and desert were good! But it notably lacked compared to the fish and soup but It’s hard to compare to a culinary triumph such as those. Overall a great dinner. I would definitely come back and try more times. I would come back just for those potatoes.
Daniel M — Google review
If you’re searching for a fresh seafood place in Pacific Beach, the Fishery is the perfect spot. Highly recommend ordering the Milk Punch cocktail with tequila - may be the best alcoholic drink I’ve had. So easy to drink and very enjoyable. For appetizer, you can’t go wrong with the muscles made with a basic curry sauce which has a great balance of flavors. The macadamia crusted halibut served with smashed potatoes and the lemon butter sauce is an absolute must. The handroll was also delicious and flavorful with every bite. We finished with the chocolate torte dessert and their house made amaretto - incredible!! Give the Fishery a shot, you will not be disappointed,
Lanie — Google review
The Fishery delivered an excellent experience overall. Food and ambience were top notch. The swordchop was outstanding and definitely a generous portion for 2 people. Our server was friendly, though a bit slow to check in on us throughout the meal. Seemed to give more attention to other tables.
Dylan G — Google review
Wonderful service and super fresh seafood! We loved the striped prawn and the salmon collar — both were outstanding. The cocktail was refreshing and perfectly balanced. Can’t wait to come back!
Tina D — Google review
The Fishery absolutely nailed every dish we ordered. The Pacific Bluefin steak was flawless - seared to a perfect medium rare with a crisp, flavorful crust and a soft, buttery center that practically melted on the fork. It’s rich but balanced, and you can tell the fish is top quality. The aguachile was just as impressive — bright, clean, and beautifully layered. The mix of pico de gallo, cilantro, radish, and lime gave it a perfect kick of acidity and freshness. It’s the kind of dish that feels both refreshing and deeply satisfying. And the New England clam chowder (off-menu special) was comfort in a bowl — creamy but not heavy, with tender clams and perfectly cooked potatoes. Every plate showed real care and respect for the ingredients. Easily one of the best seafood spots in San Diego. The Fishery’s cocktail program is easily one of the best in San Diego. The Fishery Milk Punch is silky, bright, and perfectly balanced — blanco tequila, yogurt, and clarified milk come together in this smooth, almost weightless texture. The lemongrass note lingers softly, adding a clean citrus finish that keeps it refreshing rather than heavy. Her Name Was Lola is tropical but refined — blanco tequila with coconut, cucumber, and lime. It’s light, crisp, and just sweet enough. The cucumber and lime keep it refreshing while the coconut rounds it out with a soft creaminess. It is a perfect match with aquachile. The lime and cucumber echo the dish’s acidity and crunch, while the coconut smooths out the spice. The City of Music is a mix of gin, spruce tip, aquavit, and spirulina unlike anything else I’ve had. It’s earthy yet bright, with a clean finish that feels both coastal and foresty at once. It pairs nicely with the Pacific Bluefin Steak - the drink’s herbal, slightly resinous notes complement the seared crust and rich, buttery tuna interior.
Joshua C — Google review
What a lovely new discovery! We enjoyed a bottle(or two) of wine, stuffed squash blossom appetizer, sea bass, smash “fish” burger, and the fish pasta. All divine! Ended the meal with the pana cotta and affogato dessert!
Rachel K — Google review
Great spot in PB with fresh, delicious seafood and cocktails. Docking one star only because the portions are on the smaller side (despite the high $$), but everything tastes fantastic.
Ingrid C — Google review
I am giving them a 4 and not 5 due to my meal. Nice and quiet during Sunday lunch. The host was cordial and offered the opportunity to select something off the dinner menu. But unfortunately, the chef said No- disappointed….only lunch menu. Which I understand, however most of their selections for lunch are sandwiches, salads, or pasta based items. I love fish and this place was my favorite to go for dinner. Our waitress Eve was cordial but failed to check-in with us. I ordered the macadamia crusted halibut which was cooked well, however it was drenched in a lemon sauce (see pic). So disappointed. I had to ask for a separate plate to enjoy the fresh fish. What they should offer is the sauce (hot temp) on a separately to allow the customer to pours as needed. Recommend dinner and ask how it’s prepared (sauce on the side).
K F — Google review
5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109, USA•http://www.thefishery.com/•(858) 272-9985•Tips and more reviews for The Fishery

8Trust

4.6
(1359)
•
Mentioned on 
+4 other lists 
$$$$affordable
New American restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Cocktail bar
Trust is a popular restaurant located in San Diego's gayborhood, offering a well-appointed space and seasonally driven New American fare. The restaurant is known for its sophisticated cocktails and wood-fired seasonal dishes, such as blistered shishito peppers and wood-grilled pork sausage with yam gnocchi. It is especially popular for brunch, featuring shareable plates like Rolled Tacos con Huevos and the Trust Way burger.
I absolutely love these smash burgers. They're are melt in your mouth delicious. I usually get these when I'm sitting at the bar because I don't think they make them for takeout. it is absolutely worth pulling up to the bar having a nice little cocktail and a smashburger also the strawberry margaritas are very delicious. I've been there numerous times ordered plenty of different items and they are always on point.
Lady B — Google review
Went here for brunch recently. The food was mediocre for brunch. I wasn't impressed. However, the ambience and service was really great. Parking is hard to find, especially on a Sunday due to the farmers market. The coffee was good. The cinnamon bun was good as well, but a little too sweet for my taste. They do rotate flavors of the cinnamon bun.
Mai V — Google review
Okay so I have to say this place is good but not over the top. The food was good again not over the top. Though my brother liked his steak. Overall it was nice. Maybe try it again and try something else, and they require a reservation.
Saba F — Google review
Every Trust restaurant is great. This one is the best. And it should be since it was the where the chef first got started. We have been coming here for dinner since they opened but this was the first brunch visit. The chicken sando was probably the best one I had. The crunch, seasoning mix of sauces were excellent. If you love Brussels and egg whites, the scramble is the way to go. We ate the sticky bun last which was the right call. If you know you want one, make sure you ask for it to be held when you sit down because they do run out. Our server brightened our day with his recommendations and attentive service.
Ken R — Google review
Quite lovely experience here. Came here for a brunch date and had made a reservation ahead of time online. They had sent out a questionnaire asking if we had any requests and I had mentioned that I needed to follow a low-fat diet and avoid oils and such. The server actually mentioned to me that he had the note and made sure to let the kitchen know when we placed our order as well. Husband and I got the baked eggs and the egg white scramble. The baked eggs were absolutely lovely. It was like a little shakshuka of your own That came in a hot mini skillet with some toasted bread on top. The server offered that he would ask for no butter on the toast because I had said to avoid oils. This was really unexpected and thoughtful. Shakshuka itself was very flavorful and spicy. The good kind of spicy where it was a creamy tomato sauce with a little bit of heat and loaded with chickpeas. I think there was just one egg on there but no complaints because it was nice overall. Egg white scramble was also yum. I asked them to put less oil and also to give the pesto on the side so that I can avoid adding extra calories. Did not end up adding the pesto but the dish itself was good on its own. The tzatziki sauce on the top went perfectly well with the goat cheese and the eggs. Really good amount of brussel sprouts inside and the greens as well. I think the only thing missing was some toast. It would have been nice to have a slice of toast along with the eggs because it was quite an expensive dish and the portion says felt quite small for that price point. Also got a side order of pancakes to share. It came with some whipped butter on top and a side of maple syrup. The pancakes were so fluffy and big and perfectly soft and so delicious on their own that I did not even need that syrup. Just a little bit of that butter and it was the perfect sweet buttery pancake! Overall really nice experience and nice Vibe with good food and service.
Haylee M — Google review
Thought my food tasted burned. The top of the order “swordfish” looked fine. I continued to try and palate the meal as the restaurant had great reviews. I couldn’t finish the meal due to the overcooked and burnt taste I was getting. I flipped the fish over to find the fact that it had been charred. The same goes for the brisket. It’s was overcooked and burnt on areas, it was bitter and tasted like it was the last parts of meat they had. Couldn’t order a smash burger either unless I sat at the bar. I felt like I was labeled immediately for ordering a smash burger and confined to an area of the restaurant because they don’t allow people that that order burgers in the common area.
Ci R — Google review
I have been wanting to try Trust since I first had Cardellino and saw it was part of their restaurant group. I made the reservation probably 3 weeks out. As soon as we got there we were seated within 5 minutes. The inside had a very nice and inviting feel to it with an open view of the kitchen and the bar. The server was very kind to us and explained that the meals come out as they are ready. But whoa.. the food came out over a period of 2 hours.. tables had came in after us and left before us. We ordered the Oakleaf Lettuce, the Crab Fried Rice, Wood Grilled Octopus, Beef Tartare, the Casarecce Pasta and the Cedar River Prime Ribeye. The Oakleaf Lettuce had such a strong sour and salty flavor that was a nice start to the meal. Then the Wood Grilled Octopus came out and it was grilled perfectly, but it was super salty.. the Crab Fried Rice was well balanced but it came out an hour before order steak and we wanted to eat it with the steak but we waited so long for the steak so we just ate our rice that had started to get cold. Then the Tartare and pasta came out and HOLY SALT! It hit us that everything was so over salted.. we asked the server for some white rice to balance the meal and she said they didn't have white rice but she could bring us bread. Unfortunatly for us, the bread was super salted too.. I looked up at the kitchen and saw one of the cooks dropping a handful of salt on a plate... my jaw dropped.. the dishes were good but by the time they pasta came out my taste buds were shot.. we were completely overwhelmed and asked the manager if she could cancel the steak because we were honestly overwhelmed and had waited so long already.. she said it was already cooking.. so when it finally came out we had a bite and again.. jusy over loaded with salt.. it was so upsetting for such a nice restaurant.. We told the server if we could get our food packed up and she asked if everything was okay, we told her everything was pretty salty and we would just like to take it to go and she said she would send the manager over. The manager never came to address anything with us and the server ended up bringing us two free desserts and said she didn't want our meal to "end on a salty note, no pun intended." Our server was honestly very sweet to us and we did not want to cause any problems. We were really just trying to manage the meal to keep things enjoyable.. It's been 24 hours and our stomachs are still upset from all the salt and it's been difficult to stay hydrate today. I really am not trying to bash on Trust. Our server was very sweet and the restaurant was beautiful with high quality ingredients. But on this day that we came (June 19) the quality assurance wasn't there in the kitchen and I dont think the manager wanted to be bothered with taking care of one table out of the whole restaurant.. understandable but it just sucks being on this side.. :/ Overall I wouldn't recommend Trust due to our overwhelming and unpleasant experience
Daniela A — Google review
My family vacation in San Diego over New Year's.We discovered Trust after having dinner at Cardellino's Chophouse, and was interested in other restaurants in the group. There was shareable portions. We shared the broken cucumber salad, shrimp & sausage andouille, foraged mushroom malfada, oak fired potatoes and the Kurobota pork chop. We were hardly through the first set of dishes before we decided we needed to come back. Service was knowledgeable about both the food and wine list, professional and friendly.
Grace L — Google review
3752 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103, USA•http://www.trustrestaurantsd.com/•(619) 795-6901•Tips and more reviews for Trust

9Kingfisher

4.6
(450)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Vietnamese restaurant
Cocktail bar
Kingfisher is a chic restaurant and bar in San Diego that offers French-influenced Vietnamese cuisine. The glamorous furnishings and stylish outdoor patio provide a trendy dining experience. The menu features dishes with flavors from Southeast Asia, such as mussels in coconut and Thai basil broth, wild mushroom congee, smoked dry-aged duck, beef tartare, and crispy chicken wings. This one-year-old restaurant has garnered national accolades and is known for its inventive Asian-inspired cocktails.
Flavor bomb dining experience at Kingfisher! Every dish we ordered was outstanding, from taste to depth of flavor, temperature, texture, and presentation. Our server Tanya was delightful. Food was served timely, allowing sufficient time between each course. The libations were an A+ (the Chè Thài was amazing if you prefer sweeter cocktails). We started with the baguette, then the crudo, Japanese eggplant & chicken wings, sea bass, then skirt steak. I’d highly recommend each one of these dishes, but the top three included the crudo, Japanese eggplant, & sea bass. Although amazing, it is pricey, considering they suggest for a party of four to share 7 to 10 dishes. When they state that their dishes are served “family style,”don’t expect huge portions. It’s more like “sampling.” The crudo allowed for each person to take one bite, which if you break it down was $7.25 per bite. The baguette is harshly priced at $14 (sized a tad bit longer than the length of my hand). Two of us only got one chicken wing. The house baguette, 5 dishes, 3 cocktails, and 1 coke= $340 including the 20% automatic service fee. It was interesting comparing their menu prices from 2-3 years ago. Just goes to show the state of inflation. I am absolutely happy and satisfied from our dining experience. It was definitely a splurge! Everyone should try Kingfisher at least once.
T L — Google review
Ate here tonight and it was up there with the best dining experiences we have ever had in San Diego. Food was delicious and interesting, and all aspects of the service were truly top notch. Highly recommend the tasting menu, especially for first timers. Will definitely be back.
Steve H — Google review
Some great meals feel spiritual, but not every 10/10 meal is spiritual. This was a 10/10 spiritual meal and we are not okay. The most delectable food in this world, lots of Southeast Asian flavors in the form of the best dishes I've had in my life. Couldn't stop tweaking towards the end (thank you to our server Kevin for understanding). Life forever changed. Beautiful interior as well -- love how open it was! I wish I lived in San Diego just for this restaurant.
Ashley H — Google review
Kingfisher is a gem of a neighborhood spot tucked away in Golden Hill — cozy, stylish, and perfect for a night out. I’m honestly kicking myself for not visiting sooner. We started with drinks, and they set the tone for the whole evening. I had the Sesame Soirée, a beautifully balanced cocktail where the sesame added a unique depth, the citrus brightened things up, and the egg whites with coconut cream gave it a smooth, rich texture. For my next rounds, I went with “dealer’s choice,” leaving it up to the bartender, and every cocktail that came out was spot on. Truly spectacular. For appetizers, we ordered the Tai Snapper Crudo, Crispy Pig Ear Salad, and Crispy Chicken Wings. All three were excellent, but the wings stole the show — perfectly crisp with a tamarind glaze that was tangy, sweet, and absolutely addictive. Our second course included the Grilled Chino Farms Baby Broccoli, House-Made Egg Noodles, and the Littleneck Clams and Mussels. Everything was fantastic, but the clams and mussels stood out thanks to the incredible sauce. It was so good we ordered extra bread just to soak it up — honestly, we could’ve sipped it straight. For mains, we went with the Snake River Farms Wagyu Skirt Steak and the Smoked Dry-Aged Duck. Both were beautifully executed, full of flavor, and satisfying in every way. We ended the night with the Warm Bread Pudding and the Vanilla Flan, paired with a bartender’s twist on a Carajillo. It was the perfect sweet finish to an already amazing meal. Kingfisher exceeded every expectation — the drinks, the food, the atmosphere — everything was on point. I can’t wait to go back and make up for lost time.
Filipe S — Google review
The smoked dry aged duck was definitely the highlight for me, especially the chimichurri nuoc mam. The house made egg noodles were nice too. Service is very attentive and friendly. The atmosphere is fun. Love the circular bar seating in the middle of the space.
Khoi P — Google review
Here’s a NED-style review for Kingfisher: --- ✅ What Works Well - Authentic Indian cuisine with a focus on bold, traditional flavors. - Wide variety of dishes from different regions of India, including great vegetarian options. - Warm, inviting atmosphere with attentive service. - Generous portions and good value for quality. - Popular dishes include butter chicken, biryani, and tandoori specialties. --- 👎 What to Watch Out For - Some dishes can be on the spicy side—ask if you prefer milder flavors. - Decor is simple and functional, more about food than ambiance. - Can get busy during peak dinner hours—reservations recommended. - Limited dessert options. --- 🎯 Verdict Kingfisher is a solid choice for satisfying, flavorful Indian food in a friendly, casual setting. Rating: 4.3 / 5 --- Want dish recommendations or spice-level tips?
Frosty F — Google review
A truly exquisite Vietnamese culinary experience located in the heart of San Diego. Our bartender, Van, was highly skilled at making well balanced drinks, offering selections, and ensuring the timing and amount of food was perfect for the two of us. The restaurant was well staffed and worked cohesively as a team to give a seemless dining experience. The only downside of the dining area is it can get rather loud with the acoustics, but sometimes it’s good to hear other people having a fun time. Each course we had was well crafted, had great color and texture, cooked perfectly to temperature. The aged duck was worth the hype we’ve heard about but our favorite were the cocktails from Van, can’t wait till our next trip here
Levi R — Google review
Honestly, the food was incredibly mid. It wasn’t bad but most certainly not great enough to warrant those prices. I’m someone who is willing to shell out money on good food and this just wasn’t it. You’re essentially paying for a nice atmosphere by coming here, I guess. Mandatory 20% service fee to sit at a bar with very uneven stools was a bit of a shocker in all honesty. It’s not a bad place, but I don’t think I’ll be returning again. If you have an unlimited budget and want a pretty place with not terrible food to take someone out on a date, this is the place for you. If you’re looking to actually fill your stomach and a great food experience, you’re probably better off going elsewhere.
Mina K — Google review
2469 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92102, USA•http://kingfishersd.com/•(619) 432-1014•Tips and more reviews for Kingfisher

10Sushi Ota

4.7
(2465)
•
4.6
(883)
•
Mentioned on 
+4 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Sushi restaurant
Japanese restaurant
Sushi Ota is a Japanese restaurant located in a modest strip mall in Pacific Beach, San Diego. Despite its unassuming exterior, it is widely regarded as one of the best sushi spots in the area. The chef-owned establishment offers premium sushi and omakase tastings, showcasing fresh and locally sourced fish with uni being a standout ingredient.
Sushi Ota is clearly one of the most popular sushi spots in town, and for good reason. The restaurant has a refined, intimate atmosphere. Reservation is highly recommended as they get very busy and usually has a wait line. All the sushi chefs are Japanese, which adds a level of authenticity and tradition that’s reflected in both the preparation and presentation of the food. Service here is top notch! Friendly, attentive, and professional. The presentation of each dish is elegant, and the quality of the fish is great. With that said, I found the prices to be significantly higher than other sushi restaurants, in some cases nearly double. While the food is definitely high quality, I personally felt that the overall value didn’t quite justify the cost. I’m not here to bash the place. I’m just giving my honest perspective. I know what great sushi tastes like, and while Sushi Ota delivers in many areas, the price to quality ratio left me a bit underwhelmed. Still, it was an amazing experience, and I’d recommend it to anyone who’s looking to enjoy authentic sushi in a more upscale setting. Just be prepared for the premium pricing.
Mike R — Google review
I can hardly conjure words befitting of such a perfect establishment. Hands-down, the most meticulously crafted sushi my husband and I have had in the States. We are foodies, and love to seek the best-o-the-best and happily found ourselves here, sitting at the sushi bar, being served by the INCREDIBLE Head Chef, Yoko! We were there celebrating our 11th marriage anniversary and are truly grateful for such an awe-inspiring experience! Every single dish was absolute perfection. Seemingly simple but you know there is an immense amount of care that goes into each piece you savor. Even our hostess was perfect in every way. The attention to detail, the care, the kindness, and hospitality exuded with genuine pride, by all the staff. We seriously can't wait to come back. I love this place. It's a wonderful gift to those who come. Please do!
Jocelyn E — Google review
I was really excited about this place. My dear fiancée and I chose Sushi Ota as our last date night before our wedding, and the fish was fresh, but so was our disappoinment. Read on, my fellow Google Maps wanderer. Atmosphere Nice but not 'I absolutely need to dress up' nice. This is a good date night spot, and I don't know if I'd rather a friend here. Good for up to 4 people, but if it's one-on-one, it might feel romantic. Is that what you want? Romance? Service Good. Not amazing, not awful. Good, to the extent that you don't think about it much, which may be ideal. Food Started off with three assorted tempura, which was a good choice. It was two shrimp, two green beans, a sweet potato, a zucchini, and an onion. Also had the spicy tuna on eggplant tempura. Good, with a generous portion of spicy tuna. I got the deluxe chirashi. The fish was good, but the rice was a little hard and the unagi was chewy. Disappointing. Recommend? I hesitate to.
Justin S — Google review
Sushi Ota is our go-to spot for high-quality sushi when we’re in the San Diego area. During our last trip in June, we made sure to include this restaurant in our dinner plans, and it definitely did not disappoint! We tend to order a lot of nigiri here, as the cuts are always fresh, with many pieces featuring extra-long slices of fish that drape over the rice. On this visit, we ordered three servings of scallop (hotate) nigiri and several other duplicates. I always make a point to order ama ebi, one of my favorites. This time, we took an Uber to fully enjoy their excellent selection of sake, which isn’t readily available at many places we visit in Arizona. We enjoyed a bottle with dinner, which elevated the entire meal. If you love sushi and don’t mind splurging, the bill here can add up quickly. However, having dined at many sushi restaurants, Sushi Ota stands out as a top choice and is well worth the premium price.
Javi C — Google review
Sushi Ota still the best food ever!!!! Every bite is like heaven, the ingredients quality simply excellent. Everyone is super friendly, they receive us with a big smile. Make a Reservation in advance. Each option on the menu is a good choice. I came the first time 15(ish) years ago, you will always leave with a happy smile of good food and happy tummy. The ambience is beautiful, nice and warm. For us, it worth the 3 hours drive to SD!
Lolita F — Google review
We really enjoyed the food everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. The hostess at the entrance was extremely kind and welcoming, which gave us a great first impression. However, the service from our waitress was disappointing. She was impatient, unhelpful, and seemed rushed the entire time. She couldn’t recommend anything from the menu, and if we took even two seconds to decide, she made us feel like we were holding her back. It was uncomfortable and definitely not the level of service we expected, especially considering how good the food was.😔
Lital P — Google review
So good so fresh. Seeing from outside you can’t say how amazing this place is, everything is so clean, fresh and amazing. Price is very fair for the quality they serve. You must try it but make sure to make your reservation they’re always busy.
Camila F — Google review
One-liner: hole in the wall japanese restaurant with true Japanese sushi chefs who serve some of the best sushi I’ve ever tasted Parking: very small lot shared with multiple stores so try parking on the streets nearby or behind the behind the building Atmosphere: unassuming store front but once you walk in you are transported to a nice but not intimidating Japanese restaurant Service: very attentive and accommodating Food: - appetizer: calamari has a light crisp but with so much flavor. I highly recommend it - deluxe chirashi bowl: includes toro besides a variety of other dishes and roe. I order it every time I go. - snow crab California roll: real snow crab. Great for those wanting to try sushi but prefer not to eat raw fish. It is also a must to try - teriyaki chicken: simple plating with juicy chicken in a light teriyaki sauce. If you cannot eat raw stuff this can work but the highlight of this place is their raw foods Tip: want to try this place without breaking the bank, try their lunch special on the days (which is not everyday) when they are open for lunch.
Stanley Y — Google review
4529 Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109, USA•https://www.sushi-ota.com/•(858) 880-8778•Tips and more reviews for Sushi Ota
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11The Crack Shack - Little Italy

4.5
(6194)
•
4.5
(478)
•
Mentioned on 
5 lists 
$$$$affordable
Chicken restaurant
The Crack Shack in Little Italy offers a unique dining experience with its stylish outdoor seating, full bar, and even a bocce court. This upscale yet family- and dog-friendly venue takes pride in using humanely raised, free-range Jidori poultry and eggs as well as top-quality produce from local farms. The menu features incredibly crunchy fried chicken with a variety of dipping sauces, along with delicious sandwich options like the Coop DeVille and Senor Croque.
Really great food. Amazing. Loved it. Sandwiches are on the large side..no fries needed, but shared an order. Nuggets are about the size of a small tender. Cookies are huge. Seating is outdoor it was a beautiful day.
Brandi S — Google review
Nice restaurant in a very nice area. It’s a huge outdoor restaurant so there is plenty of seating. Staff were very nice. Most memorable was Jon and Louie. They went above and beyond to make sure we had a good time. The food was good but the salad I had fell a little short of something. The fries are so fresh and delicious and The cookies are DELICIOUS and so are the milkshakes. Parking is a bit hard to find and it’s metered so be mindful.
Missashley — Google review
The food was honestly really really mid. The chicken seems like a decent quality, but it honestly had no taste. It needed a lot more seasoning and taste and maybe breading? The coleslaw did not taste like coleslaw, it wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t coleslaw. The biscuits were good, but really dry. The fries were good. Atmosphere was also really nice, we were there in the late late evening, so it was nice and not crowded. Parking really sucked
Nicole E — Google review
I was near convention center and in downtown San Diego and we were craving for some good fried chicken . I was googling and found this top rated place . It had about 4.6 stars and when I went there , it was crowded ! More crowd = better confidence for me about the restaurant:) The bar was good .. They had some home brewed IPAs and some bottled beers.. service was ok. Could’ve been better . It was crowded and everyone was busy with customers .. wish there were more employees in shift and making the service much better . I liked hazy IPAs . Went well with the chicken . Price wise wasn’t very expensive . Order five piece half fiery chicken .. I generally like it spicy.. the chicken was very crisp and tasted OK.. was a bit oily, and the fiery spicy flavor was like the Nashville hot chicken . Quantity was also a lot.. couldn’t finish even half of it. Thought of giving a three or 3.5., but gave it a 4 ..
Raj S — Google review
Fancy chicken sandwiches in a lively location. Great people-watching on the sidewalks of Little Italy. Plenty of places to sit, very open-air and breezy. Planes soar over head with the airport nearby but the noise isn’t too loud. We ordered the “All American Chick” and the “Cali Drip” sandwiches with an order of “Shack Fries” on the side. A small order of fries was surprisingly generous and enough for two people (or one if you’re extra hungry). The “All American Chick” was delicious and full of flavor. Even the pickles were special. It was tangy and mustard-y and messy in the best way. The “Cali Drip” was more of a panini-type sandwich since it’s served on a torta and cut in half. Good for sharing! The jalapeños add a nice kick of spice without being too much. Really good. Fries were crispy and it was fun to try the different condiments offered at the sauce station. Having a roll of paper towels on the table is great because these sandwiches were juicy! Both kid-friendly with corn hole and adult-friendly with a bar located next to the ordering window. You can catch the Padres game on the wall-mounted TVs too. Very fun very good.
Melia — Google review
They have the best fries I've ever had before. The tenders were also really good. Their Sriracha thousand island and pineapple mustard is really good. They had messed up our order and we also got a free sandwich. It was the Cali drip. It was amazing. Had a kick to it because of the jalepenos. I definitely recommend this spot.
Regina M — Google review
Their ambiance and food is great. Love their baja chop salad, fried chicken and biscuits are delicious. This is one of those rare spots that is equally great for adults hoping to enjoy food and drinks, as well as families with children. It is pet friendly.
Luz P — Google review
Excellent place to eat! Great tenders, Cobb salad and Cole slaw. So glad we stumbled upon this place. It’s also on the flight path, so lots of big planes landing right above us. We will go back!
Brenna C — Google review
2266 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://crackshack.com/•(877) 230-1835•Tips and more reviews for The Crack Shack - Little Italy

12Herb & Wood

4.5
(2390)
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4.3
(336)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Mediterranean restaurant
Californian restaurant
Fine dining restaurant
Restaurant
Located in Little Italy, Herb & Wood is an upscale restaurant known for its rustic wood-fired dishes and classic cocktails. The menu, curated by Top Chef finalist Brian Malarkey, features a California-inspired selection of fresh and seasonal ingredients. Dishes like bigeye tuna with Ethiopian berbere crust, venison rubbed with Moroccan coffee, and branzino with Castelvetrano olive tapenade showcase the eclectic yet simple flavors.
Dinner experience at Herb & Wood was very pleasant. Everything is delicious and top-notch. Service is friendly and attentive. I recommend to reserve a table and come here early before 6pm so it's little easier to find parking and quieter atmosphere inside the restaurant.
Hiep H — Google review
We had an absolutely splendid time at Herb & Wood! Everyone working here is so delightful! The babaganoush is a MUST TRY and the pita they serve with it is divine! You can tell it’s truly made with love. Don’t sleep on the broccoli either. Very flavorful with a nice spice. The happy hour is steal! Maybe one of the best secrets in Little Italy! Many delicious wines by the glass for less than $9 and real French champagne for $13! You can get a “happy meal” for $20 with a drink, fries, oysters, and burger! Can’t wait to return.
Tim F — Google review
Wanted to have a special early wedding anniversary dinner while on vacation so HERB AND WOOD was our clear choice since we love Food Network's Brian Malarkeyand Carlos Anthony - atmosphere was chic, drinks were tasty, dinner was pretty good. Not sure if we ordered wrong or our palettes weren't sophisticated enough for the elevated meal options. Experience overall was decent but not sure we would return if local.
Amburr A — Google review
An truly 5 star experience. The food was incredible. Very unique and tasteful interpretations of many cultural dishes. The Australian wagyu was tasty, melted in your mouth. The pizza was unique and phenomenal. To many dishes to even list. It was exquisite to say the least.
Jude M — Google review
This restaurant is gorgeous, and the servers are very attentive and knowledgeable. The drinks were absolutely delicious. I had the early grey vodka drink and it was the most refreshing and delicious drink. We had the special ibérico ham as an appetizer and that was absolutely delicious. For dinner we had the wagyu and the branzino with a side of baby carrots. Both dishes were great, but to me the baby carrots were the star of the meal. I also got the chocolate mousse cake (not pictured) but i thought it wasnt that good. As someone who loves chocolate i thought the cake was too dense. Definitely pass on the chocolate cake. I also got a plate with a cookie and ice cream for my birthday which was nice. This restaurant will forever be special to me because my boyfriend ended up proposing to me after i blew out my candle. Overall i loved the restaurant and will always remember the food and the place.
Stephanie R — Google review
Nice place - good atmosphere and not too loud. My daughter is vegetarian, so we got a bunch of veggie things. We started with the focaccia and we’re kind of disappointed because they were out of green blueberries, that we were excited to try. The roasted carrots with pistachio butter were freaking amazing - best thing we had. The crispy broccoli was also remarkable. I thought they were priced a little high, but then when they delivered it to our table, there was about twice as much as I was expecting. My wife got the seared tuna salad, which she thought was lovely. My daughter got the eggplant entrée, which was good but needed more sauce. I got the chorizo pizza, which was pretty good except I wasn’t expecting slices of chorizo like pepperoni. Also, my daughter got the Mezcal and mango cocktail, which was really banging.
Andrew M — Google review
First birthday dinner to start the long weekend celebrating. The team here executes with skill and enthusiasm. What a pleasure. We were on a timeline to catch a flight and food was timely to accommodate. Waitress gave us excellent recs, we said “yes” to it all: Brazino roulade is a star dish, oxtail gnocchi- omg, fresh pita and hummus - they gave us extra pita 😋 yes please! Iberico pork, a must, and dessert left us satiated. Thank you H & W 💖
Christina C — Google review
We rolled into Herb & Wood with a crew of ten for a bachelor party, ready to celebrate and eat our way into a food coma. We’d booked in advance, but the only slot they had was 8:30 PM — clearly, this place is popular. From the jump, the vibe was immaculate. The hostess greeted us like we were old friends, Justin (our waiter) instantly felt like part of the bachelor party, and our table in the big dining room was straight-up romantic — fireplace in the middle, candles glowing, and a room packed with ridiculously good-looking people. 🔥 Side note: The fireplace is both gorgeous and a potential personal sauna. One of our guys was basically slow-roasting until a staff member mercifully turned the flames down — ambiance intact, man saved. Also, the lighting is “mood” levels of dim at night. Half our table had to break out phone flashlights to read the menu. Apparently, our eyes aren’t 21 anymore. 🍹Drinks: We dove right in with cocktails — the Mezcal & Mango, Tequila & Watermelon, and the Old Fashioned (all $19 each). Every drink was a hit. I had two Tequila & Watermelons myself — picture-perfect presentation, dangerously sippable. The bachelor went for the Old Fashioned and loved its “strong in the best way” kick. At one point, someone decided whiskey shots were necessary. We ended up with Jack Daniel’s at $15 a pop… I respectfully declined. 🍽️Food (aka where the magic really happened): Hamachi ($25.19) – Buttery, flavorful, and gone in about 30 seconds. My only complaint: it disappeared faster than my paycheck. Beef Carpaccio ($24.64) – Quality meat, tangy vinaigrette, lemon breadcrumbs… this plate had more personality than half the people I know. Shrimp Toast ($24.59) – Garlic herb butter and tomato broth soaking into wood-fired sourdough. Packed with flavor! Focaccia ($18.31) – Warm, fresh, and served with apricot marmalade, green blueberries, and whipped crème fraîche. Sweet, savory, and just bougie enough to make me sit up a little straighter while eating it. Roasted Oysters & Bone Marrow ($29.61) – My friend’s main course and possibly the love of his life. He called it “11/10” and I’m pretty sure he meant it. Crispy Broccoli ($16.32) – The sleeper hit of the night. Saucy, crunchy, perfectly cooked… Note that it was normal broccoli, not broccolini. MVP status achieved!! 🏆 Golden Dutch Potatoes ($15.71) – Crispy, cheesy, citrusy perfection. I’d order these as an emotional support side any day. Woodfired Half Chicken ($34.73) – My main, and definitely a win. Flavor-packed, juicy, with a perfect sauce to complement. Lobster Mafalde ($68.21) – Whole Maine lobster, and rich tomato velouté, the person who got this said they loved it! Seared Tuna Steak ($32.57) – Three people at the table ordered this, and all three sang its praises. Gnocchi ($38.62) – Tender with oxtail and parmesan, but reportedly “not overly filling”. Parker House Rolls ($12.87) – Sweet, salty, and with garlic herb butter that I would legitimately just eat straight. Overall: The food? Incredible. The drinks? Worth ordering twice. The staff? Attentive, kind, and full of good recs (shout-out to Justin). My only complaint is that they didn’t bring out a celebratory dessert with a candle for the bachelor — a small gesture that would have been the perfect finale. Still, Herb & Wood nailed it. Great vibes, excellent food, and a setting that’s perfect for celebrations or a date night out. My wife and I already have it on our “must-visit” list for our next San Diego trip! IG: @bbnem.eats
Brendon N — Google review
2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://www.herbandwood.com/•(619) 955-8495•Tips and more reviews for Herb & Wood

13Kettner Exchange

4.5
(2202)
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4.0
(227)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$expensive
American restaurant
Pub
Kettner Exchange is a remarkable eatery in San Diego that offers handcrafted cocktails and a diverse menu of American dishes with global influences. The restaurant pays homage to San Diego's founding father, William Kettner, through its stunning 10,000-square-foot indoor-outdoor space, including a sprawling rooftop patio with private cabanas for dining. The globally inspired menu features unique items like Okonomiyaki Roasted Potatoes and Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice.
We absolutely love Kettner Exchange—it’s easily one of our all-time favorites in the area! Whether it’s day drinks on the outdoor patio, celebratory dinners with friends, or Sunday brunches just the two of us, it never disappoints. The lively atmosphere, great service, and amazing food and drinks make every visit special. Highly recommend stopping in—no matter the occasion, you’re sure to have a great time!
Sarah D — Google review
Kettner Exchange is a fun and vibrant restaurant, a perfect place to start your night or to even have your night. I was taken away by the ambience, the warm lights, dimly lit, and a dj playing house music. I absolutely loved the atmosphere. I felt that we didn’t actually have “service,” it was more of getting your order and quickly dropping it off. I would’ve appreciated if the service was more personal, but nothing was bad. The food was all delicious, but I couldn’t help but feel that something was missing from the food. Still very amazing though! I highly recommend the duck meatball, it melted in your mouth and I’ve never had grits so good! The crispy tuna was delicious, and they accommodated my avocado allergy. The lamb noodles were also yummy, the sauce just tasted warm and the lamb was so tender. Don’t skip on the molten chocolate cake!
Audrey L — Google review
Great vibe inside. We were there to dine but the patio was going off and seemed like a great place to hang out with some drinks. Wine and drink list was great. We ordered four dishes, three were good to very good (kale salad, duck meatball, tomato ceviche) and the piquillo pepper/peanut spread was honestly terrible for us. Could have been personal preference.
Daniel J — Google review
It's an Experience that's Meant to Be Shared. Top-notch Service Coupled with Great Ambiance and Paired Dishes Creates a Unique Memorable Adventure Worth Coming To. This is a 5 star Restaurant that is Fun and Serious at the Same Time. It takes its culinary delights seriously but after hours/weekends it turns into a fun social experience shared with friends and coworkers. A San Diego Must.
Michael P — Google review
Love this place. Def a great a lot to come to when in San Diego. The food, the vibes, and they even have music at night. Great drinks and bites. Love coming here and Everytime I come here I have a good time. Highly recommend coming here any day of the week and seeing what all the talk is about.
Michael S — Google review
Kettner exchange is a very bougie restaurant which gives you pretentious vibes when you enter, however the food changes your mind and it does so with a slap to your face! The ambience, decor and the service are all to the point. The lamb Sichuan noodles was exceptional and Gioia burrata is a must try. The mapo rice cake and spicy shrimp are great meats based dishes to try! We had a few vegetarians in our group and they were happy to accommodate the options accordingly. Kettner exchange is a must visit place if you are on the lookout for some interesting flavors. I would recommend making a reservation and give yourself enough time to find parking. They do have valet options if you prefer that.
Rohan T — Google review
Love the atmosphere, patio was a vibe. Very friendly staff and on point service. Food was wonderful, very much appreciate the details for our celebration!
Serge M — Google review
This place is AMAZING! Family-serving style Michelin recognized restaurant with awesome service and divine food. We had a party of 6, so we got to try a large variety of dishes: Cucumber Salad Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice Seared Halloumi (highly recommend) Filet o Fish Bao (nice and fluffy) Mapo Coconut Rice (highly recommend) Pig Mac Gioia Burrata Szechuan Frog Legs (highly recommend) Hot & Spicy Noodles (highly recommend) Szechuan Lamb Noodles Duck Meatball (Michelin Recognized! So tender and delicious) Spicy Shrimp Our favorite drinks were the Osaka Sour and the Dirty Verde. But you honestly can't go wrong with anything on the menu. We also got all three desserts, all were amazing in their own way. Everyone had a different favorite dish. Our server, Zach, was so charming, attentive, and knew the menu very well. 100/10 service. I've GOT to come back for brunch! What a lovely dining experience
Daniela J — Google review
2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.kettnerexchange.com/•(619) 255-2001•Tips and more reviews for Kettner Exchange

14Cesarina

4.7
(2422)
•
4.5
(94)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Restaurant
Italian restaurant
Cesarina is a stylish Italian restaurant located in the Point Loma neighborhood of San Diego. The restaurant features a terrace and serves traditional Italian dishes, offering a vegan menu as well. One of its highlights is the in-house pastificio, where various pasta shapes are made and paired with different sauces and toppings such as octopus meatballs, guanciale, and porcini.
This restaurant is poised for higher Michelin recognition. From the very first bite, the afternoon revealed itself as a study in precision and restraint. The polpo croccante arrived impeccably prepared—the exterior rendered to a delicate crisp, yielding to tender, almost buttery flesh. It was a dish that showcased both technical mastery and respect for the ingredient. The Paccheri Vodka e Scampi was nothing short of extraordinary. The pasta itself, crafted with evident care, offered a perfect al dente bite, while the vodka sauce enveloped it in a velvety richness that was deeply satisfying yet never heavy. Crowned with a langoustine of exceptional quality, the dish achieved a rare balance: indulgent, yet harmonious, each component enhancing the next. The finale, a tableside tiramisù, embodied both elegance and spectacle. Layered with finesse, it delivered a remarkable interplay of texture and flavor—silky, ethereal, and flawlessly executed. Service matched the caliber of the cuisine: attentive without intrusion, polished yet warm. The décor, stylish and intimate, provided a fitting backdrop for a meal that consistently aspired to—and often achieved—excellence.
Brett D — Google review
I’ve been here on multiple occasions and the food and service are always amazing. My favorites are the vodka & scampi pasta and the octopus appetizer. So delicious!! The mushroom pasta is also great if you’re a mushroom lover. I recently came here to celebrate my birthday and they were so kind to provide a complimentary dessert and a cute Polaroid to take home. Shoutout to Leo who took excellent care of us our entire meal! Would definitely recommend making a reservation if you are coming during the weekend. There was plenty of seating available during our weekday lunch. There are two parking spots in the lot.
Connie C — Google review
Cesarina absolutely blew us away! My wife and I came here for her birthday, and every detail felt special — from the warm welcome to the handmade freshly made pasta was heaven! You can actually see them making the pasta from scratch, and it makes the meal even better. As vegetarians, we were thrilled to find so many fresh and flavorful options at Cesarina! The atmosphere is cozy and romantic, and the staff made us feel like family. The tableside tiramisu was the perfect ending to a perfect evening. Easily one of San Diego’s best Italian spots!
Vijay K — Google review
"A gem of a dining experience that made our anniversary shine" Food: Every dish was excellent — from the bread and salsa, to the polpo dish, truffle mafalde, and hanger steak. I highly recommend trying the DIY pasta. Oh, and the lemon cake we had for dessert was light and delicious. Service: The staff were incredibly friendly. Their explanations and recommendations about the menu were perfect — truly seamless service. Ambiance: The atmosphere was comfortably lively and dimly lit, creating a relaxing mood. The outdoor seating also looked very charming.
Wookjin P — Google review
This restaurant is amazing. They seated us in a lovely outdoor garden with a lemon colored table. All the plates are colorful. They make tiramisu right in front of you. It tastes amazing. Not sweet at all. Their polpo croccante appetizer is great too. The octopus legs were very soft and tender.
Selena G — Google review
Reservation was easy. We were seated right away when we arrived. Service was great and food was awesome. They have big portions, we were so full afterwards even before dessert. The decorations were lovely. The tiramisu is a must. We just had to have if even if we were full. The presentation was like a show that my kids enjoyed. The drink from the kid menu wasn't included as a set; it was me that I misread the menu. They used a long pasta as the straw for the kids drinks. My kids found it fun at first but didn't like it afterwards when they can taste pasta in their drink. Overall great experience, very kids friendly, perfect for family.
Christy C — Google review
We had a lovely family meal with our 6 and 7 year old! They loved the kids menu and we all loved the homemade pasta. Our drinks were delicious and the atmosphere so cozy! I got the special (the butternut squash ravioli) with the mushroom sauce and it was our favorite!
Kayla M — Google review
Went here for my sister's birthday as a recommendation from a coworker. Oh man this place did not disappoint! Starting from the atmosphere of the restaurant, which I definitely recommend sitting in the outdoor patio. It had little ceramic roosters in the bushes and plants everywhere. Our waiter was so kind and informative. The food was the best Italian that I have had in a while. The free bread basket of assorted focaccia was delicious and the marinara that accompanied was not too sweet either. We ordered the eggplant started, pictured below, which was very delicious. My first time having eggplant and it had been cooked so well, it had the texture of an al dente piece of pasta. For my entree I got the sausage ravioli with meatballs and the arrabiatta sauce with it. The sauce was a little spicier that I was expecting but not too crazy. Meatballs were heavenly and the ravioli was filled to the brim inside. Dessert we definitely got the tiramisu, which I highly highly recommend!! I'm not a big coffee fan but that tiramisu was sooooo good. Only negative thing I would say would be the parking situation. Especially with this restaurant being so popular it could be hard to find parking. They do have a small parking lot to fit like maybe 5 cars, otherwise paid parking across the street or if you're able to find street parking. All in all I most definitely recommend coming to this place, you won't be disappointed
Jamal C — Google review
4161 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107, USA•http://www.cesarinarestaurant.com/•(619) 226-6222•Tips and more reviews for Cesarina

15Jeune et Jolie

4.8
(938)
•
4.5
(83)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Modern French restaurant
Restaurant
"Jeune et Jolie" is an elegant restaurant offering a set-price menu of creative French dishes as well as a la carte options. Chef Eric Bost presents a menu rooted in French nouvelle cuisine, showcasing seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's design features crushed velvet banquettes, pink marble tabletops, and pastel blue greens, creating an Art Deco ambiance.
We chose Jeune et Jolie for our anniversary dinner, and it was such a memorable experience. This is not your typical night out, it’s a curated culinary journey. We went with the four-course prix fixe menu and were impressed with the creativity and elegance of each dish. The halibut with vanilla foam absolutely blew me away (who knew that combination could work?), and the pigeon with leek quiche was equally interesting and delicious. Each plate looked like a piece of art, and the flavors were so thoughtfully balanced. The service was excellent, and the ambiance felt elevated without being stuffy. Also, I have to give a special shoutout to the bread...it was warm, fresh, and completely addictive. This is the kind of place where you go to treat yourself, celebrate something special, or simply enjoy a beautifully prepared meal. Highly recommend for a romantic evening or a foodie adventure.
Angela C — Google review
Overall, I’d rate the experience a 3.5 out of 5. The seafood platter was the highlight of the meal, but the courses that followed were less impressive (nothing to write home about). Things picked up again with dessert, which ended the evening on a better note. If you enjoy wine, they do have a great selection. While it was still an interesting experience (due to the 1-star fame), I don’t plan on returning.
Naomi L — Google review
I won’t go into detail about each dish we ordered from the 4 course menu because I know they change them often but I cannot recommend Jeune et Jolie enough!! We celebrated my husbands birthday here and from the second we arrived til we left, they made it so special. Each staff member was incredible at explaining the dishes and the flavor profiles. We chose to add the beverage pairing - one regular and one non-alcoholic to accompany each course and were so impressed with how much we loved every drink brought to us. It’s definitely pricey but completely worth every penny. Sit on the patio - it’s super cute.
Lanie — Google review
I highly recommend putting this place as a top priority on your list if you're considering fine dining in San Diego. The food, service, and atmosphere are exceptional! Hard to give any critiques to this place. My highlight is that their drink pairings to the menu are some of the best I've ever had. Their wine pairing is very good, but their non-alcoholic drink pairings are made in house. I can't recommend giving it a try because it's so unique compared to other places and it complements the food so well!
Jimmy V — Google review
We celebrated my husband’s birthday here today, and everything was absolutely exceptional. The food was delicious, the presentation was beautiful, and the atmosphere was perfect. The staff’s professionalism, attention to detail, and warm attitude truly made the experience unforgettable. We felt very well taken care of. An outstanding Michelin star dining experience we will definitely be back!
Maide K — Google review
A magical evening! We celebrated my partner’s birthday, and the team at Jeune et Jolie made everything feel special — from warm congratulations to a lovely chef’s compliment. Every dish was incredible, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. Truly one of the best dining experiences we’ve had!
Alona L — Google review
We had a lovely dinner at Jeune et Jolie and would definitely recommend it. If you’re looking for high-end French dining, you’ve come to the right place. We had the tasting menu and paired it with what they call the “Goldie Locks,” which was a mix of wine pairings and specialty house mocktails. Portions are smaller but pleasant, and we left feeling comfortable. I recommend this spot for those seeking ambiance and a high level of service while enjoying delectable bites.
Kelly M — Google review
My husband and I left about ten minutes ago and could not hold off one more second without expressing our appreciation for this restaurant and its staff. Every person that served us from the water to the dessert was so warm and engaged. Dan!!! Our server/host for the evening and the absolute man - he took a meaningful piece of conversation and created such a fun and heartfelt moment for us that we will literally never forget. I considered turning the car around just to give him a hug. Also the food was unbelievable. 5 stars.
Janei L — Google review
2659 State St Suite 102, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA•http://jeune-jolie.com/•(760) 637-5266•Tips and more reviews for Jeune et Jolie
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16Animae

4.6
(883)
•
4.0
(38)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$very expensive
Asian restaurant
Asian fusion restaurant
Fine dining restaurant
Restaurant
Animae is a fashionable restaurant in downtown San Diego, led by acclaimed chef Tara Monsod. It offers high-end steak and Asian fusion dishes in a luxurious atmosphere. The upscale menu features familiar Filipino comfort food dishes and flavors of common street treats transformed into a fine dining experience not commonly found in Southern California.
Wow, what an incredible experience we had this evening. Our server, McKenzie was masterful in how she handled our family-style courses. We ordered so many dishes and she brought them out in perfect combination. The coupling of cucumbers and crispy rice was exceptional. We also had the pork, wontons, salad, scallops, pig’s ear, and several other items including the green beans and rice cakes, which was a little spicy, but tremendous. Despite being full, the desserts were delicious. I can’t wait to go back to Anime the next time I’m in San Diego.
Heath S — Google review
Tried Animae for the first time with some friends, and it made a big impression right from the start. The ambiance is stunning — beautifully decorated and thoughtfully designed — it’s the kind of place that makes you pause for a moment as soon as you walk in. We kicked things off with cocktails, all of which were well made. The standout for us was the Midnight in Manila — a tropical riff on a daiquiri with a piña colada twist that was refreshing and unique. For food, we went family style, starting with four appetizers: Scallop Crudo, Cucumbers, Wontons, and Hunan Lamb Chops. Everything was good, but the cucumbers ended up being the surprise favorite. Such a simple dish, yet so fresh, flavorful, and memorable. For mains, we shared the short Rib Kare Kare and the Pork Tomahawk Tocino. The short rib, with its rich peanut sauce, was especially loved by the ladies at the table. For me though, the pork tomahawk was the star of the night. The sweet beet glaze had a char siu–style depth, and the mango sawsawan brought a briny brightness with bursts of fresh mango. It was so good I found myself gnawing the bone clean. To go with the mains, we added Charred Carrots, Crispy Potatoes, and Wagyu Fried Tice — all solid complements to the bigger plates. Overall, it was a fantastic night. The drinks were dialed in, the food was creative and delicious, and the setting elevated the whole experience. Animae is definitely a spot worth putting on your list — a place to try at least once, though you’ll likely want to come back again.
Filipe S — Google review
This place is a perfect 5 stars! The restaurant is sumptuously appointed with luxurious drapes, and brass lighting. For an upmarket place they accommodate kids very well with fun NA drink options. We had the tuna crispy rice (served fried rice style), smashed cucumbers and wagyu wontons. They were superb!! For mains we got the beef short rib, sea bass tamarind curry with sides of wagyu fat potatoes and miso cabbage. The short rib fell off the bone and the seabass paired so beautifully with the curry. Service was spot on, they even lowered blinds when the sun started coming through. Tables were cleaned after every course and we never had to ask for anything, it was always offered. Dessert was just as delightful. We had the peach sorbet and the young coconut mouse with pandan (this one is a must). Overall one of the best dining experiences we have ever had
Jenna T — Google review
Animae is a unique upscale restaurant. The food was wonderful and had many unique flavors we did not expect. Tasting the food was like going on a journey that told our taste buds fabulous stories. Our bartender Gabby was a delight. Her wonderful suggestions led to a memorable evening. Animae is truly something special in the food scene and the staff an ambiance brought it all together in a way we have not experienced in quite a while.
JB C — Google review
Great food, highly recommended. Diners often rave about the unique combinations that elevate traditional recipes to new heights. The ambiance complements the culinary experience, creating a perfect setting for both casual meals and special occasions. Don't miss the chance to indulge in their signature dessert, which is the perfect way to end your dining adventure. Each bite is a delightful surprise, blending flavors that dance on the palate. The attentive staff enhances the experience, ensuring that every need is met with a smile. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this gem is a must-visit for any food lover. Make sure to pair your meal with one of their carefully curated wines for an elevated experience.
Choucri M — Google review
This restaurant is perfect for a night out. The interior was tastefully done, giving off the Great Gatsby vibes in a good way. The restaurant also allowed us to dine family style, which I very much appreciated. All of the dishes were cooked to perfection, and I'd definitely try to come back again.
Jaewon L — Google review
Took my family here for my birthday today and was blown away. My parents doesn't normally eat a lot when I take them out but it was different today. My parents enjoyed every served dish, particularly the crispy pig ears, seared bass, tomahawk tocino, and the Kare Kare. The cocktails, Midnight in Manila and Fuji Fog were outstanding. The turon tart was exquisite. Will definitely come back here again.
John — Google review
The food was spectacular, atmosphere pleasant, our waiter was whatever, she was a bit arrogant and seemed not interested, but our second server/busser was great, very friendly and polite. Pork Tomahawk is enormous in size but tasted great, scallops and crispy pig ear were our favorites.
Mira S — Google review
969 Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://www.animaesd.com/•(619) 432-1225•Tips and more reviews for Animae

17Fort Oak

4.5
(583)
•
4.0
(30)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
Fort Oak is a modern and spacious restaurant known for its wood-fired seafood dishes and U-shaped cocktail bar. The restaurant is located in a former Ford dealership, where the space has been transformed into an inviting dining area with a horseshoe-shaped bar and a chef's table.
Modern setting. Menu is has many unique shareable plates and the entrees have limited selections but more than enough choices for everyone! Tonight we celebrate our daughter in law's birthday. We try this place for the first time. Professional, friendly service. Prices are at the high ends. We ordered the smaller seafood tower and it was good enough for 5 of us adults. The wood grilled oysters and charred caulilini are great for sharing. Very tasty! For the entrees, we had the branzino, this is the whole fish but most bones were removed. The salmon was great and we also shared the 40 days aged ribeye steak and it was just fantastic! Drinks were also very unique and very good! Great place for a celebration!
Minh T — Google review
Fort Oak absolutely crushed it. The drinks? Dangerous in the best way. The lamb kefta and pork chop were the stars of the show - flavor bombs that we’re still thinking about - but let’s be real, everything we ate was ridiculously good. The vibe is dialed, the service is on point, and we left full and very, very happy. Already plotting our return.
Connor M — Google review
Very cool experience with a dog friendly patio. Tons of heaters, we couldn't tell it was cold that night and that was after asking them to turn the heaters down! Strongly recommend you make a reservation. They had a very good drink menu. Not a lot of beer options but the focus is definitely on cocktails. The cocktails were all excellent. The food was superb. The quality matches the price for sure. The portions are generous, you won't go away hungry. Once again, all the food we ordered was excellent. Dessert is the only section without glowing praise. While the desserts were still good, they didn't feel as premium as the rest of the menu. The cookies and cream beignets tasted like deep fried Oreos, and the serving of ice cream was a little small. Skip dessert and get another cocktail instead.
Steven E — Google review
Went for an early dinner before things were too busy and really enjoyed the food and cocktails. Highly recommend. - Ahi tartare 5/5, some of the best I’ve had; capers, zest, oyster mayonnaise, egg yolk built impressive flavor - Roasted carrots 5/5, another thoughtful and delicious plate - Roasted caulilini 5/5, well executed and the char, sauce were excellent - New York strip 4.5/5, the cut could’ve been better and cooking was a bit uneven but it was overall a good entree. Yams and chanterelles were nice but I always love some sort of potato element with steak - Camaro and Durango cocktails 5/5 - Whisky sour 4/5, good cocktail but felt over price at $25 compared to other cocktails around $17
Tommy — Google review
As always, our dinner was amazing. We brought friends who had never been and they loved it! Our waiter, Johnny, made the night so much fun. He was sweet and funny, and knew everything about each item on the menu. We will ask for him every time we go! 💚
Gina S — Google review
Had an early New Years Even dinner here. Had drinks before in their pop up bar “Snowed In” it was like being in a snow globe. Drinks were amazing and festive themed. Next we ate dinner inside at the Chef’s Table. Food was absolutely amazing, and we had several courses, ending with the Prime Rib which was cooked to perfection. Will definitely be back!
Shannon — Google review
This restaurant popped up on my radar For its Christmas bar decorations. after looking more into The menu and seeing their Michelin star and bid, I definitely had to try it. I love the indoor and outdoor layout which invites a really unique outdoor setting. My fiance and I made reservations for Thursday night and it was quite packed Despite the rain. the Christmas bar is completely separate entry and section from the restaurant, fyi. also I highly recommend ubering here because parking is close to impossible. my fiance dropped me off so he could go look for parking. we ordered a variety of tasty dishes. we ordered the half lobster that was definitely top quality. I also loved steamed claims and mussels - it was one of those broths that you want to finish with dipping your bread. After we saw the table next to us order 3 pork chops we were sold to order it - it's one of there more popular dishes as well. Although I honestly thought it was just okay, nothing amazing to be signature worthy. They had an adorable holiday cocktail menu so I had to try one of them. As a tequila lover I ordered the cuffing season cocktail, it was so well balanced and tasty I ordered two! overall great spot for date night with an outdoor feel. Im sure it will be a hit in summer with warmer weather as well!
Marjon F — Google review
Visited this spot for the first time. The atmosphere is lovely and the food is absolutely fingerliking. I'll definitely be returning here soon.
Sylvia N — Google review
1011 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego, CA 92103, USA•https://fortoaksd.com/•(619) 722-3398•Tips and more reviews for Fort Oak

18Mabel's Gone Fishing

4.5
(472)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Seafood restaurant
Mabel's Gone Fishing is a popular spot with a menu featuring Iberian Peninsula-inspired seafood dishes and snacks, perfect for sharing. Getting a reservation can be quite challenging, but the wait is worth it. The Spanish gin and tonic pairs well with Baja oysters and chorizo, while the delicately fried fish and clams in ham broth are highly recommended. The cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for a date night or casual cocktail outing. Reservations are strongly advised due to its popularity.
We had the most amazing dinner tonight! The food was absolutely outstanding—flavors that instantly transported us back to Barcelona. Every bite felt so authentic and fresh. On top of that, our server, Mari, was incredible—warm, attentive, and so fun to be around. She made us feel taken care of from start to finish and really elevated the whole experience. Between the atmosphere, the quality of the food, and Mari’s amazing service, this place is truly special. Also- and I can’t stress this enough… order the gimlet. You won’t regret it:) Can’t wait to come back!
Rachel T — Google review
Overall, we had a great experience! The food was delicious—on the pricier side, but the tapas-style portions made it easy to sample a variety of dishes. The Cabo Kampachi had a strong lemony flavor, and the shrimp in the Saffron Bomba rice packed a bold garlic punch. The customer service was excellent, and our waiter had such a great personality. We’ll definitely be going back!
Car C — Google review
From the moment we sat down, we were impressed by the seasonal menu everything from the fresh veggies to the toughest decision of the night choosing between the cod or the lobster. Our server, Carter, was awesome. Super knowledgeable about every dish, he guided us through the menu and helped us decide with confidence. The oysters were incredibly fresh, sourced from Washington, and the rest of the ingredients were clearly chosen with care and a local touch. They also offer a chef’s menu with optional pairings if you’d rather let them choose your dishes for you—definitely something we want to try next time. Overall, the service was exceptional and the food was a chef’s delight. Highly recommend. Thank you, Mabel’s Gone Fishing!
Phillip N — Google review
Went for happy hour and had the oysters, almonds, olives, and bread. All were delicious but the olives and bread a definite reorder. They have a few types of G&Ts and all that we tried were tasty and the solstice spritz was so good, ordered it twice!! The staff was prompt, kind, and knowledgeable and overall atmosphere was chill Bar seating is definitely not the most comfortable so be ready for that. The bathroom was super cute!
Pavan K — Google review
Simply amazing. Food is outstanding. Service is top notch. Reservation recommended. Parking is tough because it's in North Park. Definitely pricier than most restaurants but it's worth it for the great experience. Serving size is solid considering it's Tapas style.
Darren C — Google review
I came here expecting to love the food - and I did. The real standouts were the service provided by Danny and the rest of the staff and the incredible drinks he served. I got the trout dish and the mussel appetizer and I'd absolutely recommend both. I'll definitely stop by on future trips to this city.
Derek H — Google review
Best bites during my 4 day trip to SD. I am a seafood fiend and this place was recommended by a coworker who works raw bar if anyone knew seafood at work, it’s that guy. I opted for the 4 course tasting menu on my solo trip and it was worth every penny (85$ without drink pairing). First course starts with an array of “snacks”- a bowl of green (presumably castelverano) olives, smoked salmon rilettes, mussels escabeche with aioli and grilled sourdough, and last but not least a Serrano ham wrapped date. The date was my favorite bite - who knew a piece of ham and almond would catapult a humble dried date into the stratosphere of most memorable bites? This lone bite leaves any charcuterie board in the dust with how perfectly balanced the textures and flavors are. The saltiness of the ham is counteracted with the sweetness of the date, and an almond stuffed inside complements the date beautifully, balancing out the date’s sweetness and chewiness. If I knew I was going to love that date as much as I had, I wouldn’t have eaten it in one bite. In fact, I was tempted to order the dates a la carte on top of my tasting menu but I resisted because I know I’ll have to save room for the rest of my dishes. Course 2 was followed by a big eye tuna crudo with pickled rhubarb and favas as well as a gem salad. The crudo was delicious but would fall in line with any other decent crudo. That salad however was exceptionally delicious and beautiful- the chopped pistachios worked so beautifully bun this salad alongside nasturtium pedals and leaves with the perfect amount of dressing, also laced with pistachios. Despite being obviously basque focused, Mabel’s manages to weave in California not only in their vibes (surf punk tunes and that mission-style tile bathroom and outrageous royal blue toilet … hello!) but also food and drink whether it’s the pistachios in the salad or the house made Palo Alto bitters in their fino-sherry Negroni variant, “forget me not”. The main (3rd) course consisted of baked halibut with heirloom carrot ribbons, snap peas, and a light citrusy sauce accompanied by a side of their patatas bravas y romanesco. The halibut was good but my least favorite - it was super fresh, and I particularly enjoyed the snap peas, but i thought it paled in comparison to the aforementioned salad and date. I don’t really care for baked mild white fish across the board because its comparatively bland to other preparations especially in a city like San Diego where there is no shortage of delicious, fresh fish in the form of poke and sushi. The romesco sauce was delicious and the potatoes were beautifully seasoned and plated. I wished they used a large, starchier potato over the whole yellow fingerlings in the patatas; despite being deep-fried it didn’t have that nice crunch and soft interior one comes to expect from papas bravas. I usually destroy potatoes but I managed to pack this up for leftovers. The Albariño arinto wine paired beautifully with the fish, nevertheless. The final (dessert) course consisted of basque cheesecake with a touch of caramel. This cheesecake was beautifully executed and the caramel had the perfect texture and sweetness. Overall, fantastic time, highly recommended.
Lillian C — Google review
This restaurant is super hyped up so we were kind of let down after dinner. We had the house bread, carpaccio, mussels, and paella. Carpaccio was flavorful and delicious. Paella was dry and boring, mussels were also very uninteresting. Perhaps it would've gone better if we went in a large group and were able to sample more items, but we did order the items recommended by our server who was very friendly and attentive. All things considered-probably would not return given the cost to satisfaction ratio.
Allison — Google review
3770 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104, USA•https://www.mabelsgonefishing.com/•(619) 228-9851•Tips and more reviews for Mabel's Gone Fishing

19Mitch's Seafood

4.6
(5726)
•
4.4
(1006)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Seafood restaurant
Restaurant
Nestled charmingly along the marina, Mitch's Seafood is a delightful seafood haven that showcases the best of locally caught fish. Established in 2008 by three families with deep roots in fishing around Point Loma, this eatery prides itself on serving fresh seafood sourced primarily from the bountiful waters off San Diego and Northern Baja. With a focus on simple yet flavorful California-style dishes, guests can enjoy an array of options paired perfectly with local craft beers and wines.
Had a great lunch here while in SD. Might be our new go to place as the food was excellent and service relatively quick despite being busy. Seating is limited both inside and outside but worth the wait if necessary. Reasonable prices, great selections and a variety of beverages as well.
C L — Google review
Food was okay but most was kind of greasy. Service was fast as can be expected considering how crowded it was. They have a decent selection of food and drinks. Seating is very limited. Overall, I don't think it's worth returning to eat there unless w can find a time that isn't as busy. Mostly due the restaurant size not being able to handle the crowds. That issue alone makes it overrated. They seem to be a victim of their own success. There's both and table seating as well as inside and outside bar style seating. The location is okay if you're into looking at a marina. Parking was atrocious.
Kurt W — Google review
My mom amd I decided to come try Mitch's. The Spiney Lobster was very good. Mom had the Fried Combo. She was not really liking the Crab Cake (we are from the East Coast and she is a snob about Blue Crab Lump Crab Cakes). We were told that the fish was cooked with a Panko Crust not Beer Batter. However, she LOVED the shrimp!! And apparently, so do the seagulls! Hahaha! We were seated outside facing the Harbor and 2 swooped down and 1 grabbed the shrimp right out of mom's hand! She smacked it! But he got away with the goods! LOL! One of the guys that worked there saw what happened and brought over the stickers along with a replacement shrimp (which was super nice of them). We will be back!! The staff was awesome, kind and attentive! I recommend!
Nia F — Google review
One of the only places I’ll go to for seafood! Everything is fresh, and it’s all reasonably priced. This is the place to go if you just want good seafood and a serene view without the frills of an overpriced dine-in experience. If you sit on the deck, be prepared to defend your plate. Seagulls are ruthless but the view is so relaxing and I promise your food won’t last long on your plate anyway. I love the grilled shrimp skewers and I never leave without one kind of fish taco and a golden fried fillet. Fry basket shrimp are yuge. Also Matt who works there is rad!
Marissa M — Google review
Casual spot with good quality and nice views. - Crab cakes 5/5 - these really stood out and were perfectly cooked - Fish tacos (grilled and fried) 4/5 - these were great but don’t necessarily stand out in San Diego. - Calamari 3/5 - lacked seasoning and didn’t care for the dipping sauce but was of good quality - Grilled rockfish 3/5 - cooked nicely and was high quality but also lacked seasoning and the herb verde was lackluster. Coleslaw was nice however.
Tommy — Google review
It's your typical by-the-dock dining experience. It's much better of eating outside looking at the boats than sitting inside. Yes, seating is rather limited and the tight space will get crowded during peak. If you do order fried stuff like I did, please don't have it to go. It doesn't so the chef justice. The food has great flavor and incredible portion. I ordered the seafood platter: 3 pieces of shrimps, 1 crab cake, 1 piece of fish and a lot of fries. My recommendation to the restaurant would be cut the amount of the fries by half and put in extra piece of fish. Generally, the experience was pleasant and the staff were friendly. From the pics, you can tell that they care about the environment.
Johnny W — Google review
Omg outstanding location soak up the fresh seabreeze excellent ambiance and hands down super tasty delicious food. And reasonable price. Make sure to try there superb flavorful chowder and grilled lobsters with corn Loved it and absolutely recommend it. Clean and Friendly kind staff
Ashwin L — Google review
I stopped by this place for lunch in Point Loma after seeing how highly rated it was on Google, and it definitely seemed popular. Even on a weekday afternoon, the place was bustling with people. One thing to note: there’s no free parking — the lot next to it is paid, and they do not validate, so be prepared to pay for parking. The restaurant has a very casual, self-service setup. You walk in, read the menu written on a chalkboard, place your order, take a number, and find your own seat. The menu isn’t huge, but it offers a solid mix: fried seafood plates, stews, grilled fish, sandwiches, and a few taco-style options. Everything is based on fresh catch, which is a big plus. I couldn’t decide at first — the grilled lobster and soups looked great — but I eventually chose the mixed seafood platter, which was a giant fried assortment served with coleslaw and fries. The portion was huge, definitely enough to share. It included shrimp, calamari/tentacles, a big crab cake, and a couple pieces of fried fish (likely cod or another white fish). Everything was very fresh, crispy, and delicious, but extremely filling since everything is fried. It came with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, which helped cut the richness. Next time, I might try the fisherman’s stew or one of the grilled options, but this was still a satisfying pick. The outdoor deck seating is a bonus — you get a nice view of the marina with lots of boats and ocean breeze. Just be mindful of seagulls and pigeons; they are bold and will absolutely try to steal food. The overall vibe is very laid-back, more like a seafood shack than a formal restaurant. Fresh seafood, generous portions, casual atmosphere — definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Debisree R — Google review
1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106, USA•http://mitchsseafood.com/•(619) 222-8787•Tips and more reviews for Mitch's Seafood

20CUCINA urbana

4.6
(1971)
•
4.5
(944)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Italian restaurant
Bar
Restaurant
Wine store
CUCINA urbana is a trendy Italian restaurant and wine shop in San Diego, known for its contemporary style and use of reclaimed wood in its decor. Tracy Borkum, a prominent figure in the local culinary scene, introduced the concept of combining a restaurant with a wine shop to Southern California. The menu features a SoCal twist on traditional Italian dishes, including house-made pastas, gourmet pizzas, and shareable plates.
This place is the best! The staff is so knowledgeable on the wine selection. The food selection has so much pasta, of course, with salads, pizza and good seafood. Need to say more about the service… This is my 3rd week in SD and this place is stupendous! I had the Italian salad which is chopped just right, bite size. I hate it when you need a knife to eat a salad. My wife had a pepperoni pizza. The pepperoni was so flavorful, slightly crunchy on the edges and peppery. The good bottle of pinot noir added substantially to the bill but it made the dinner!
Brian S — Google review
Staff was wonderful and ambiance was solid. Food was delicious and I would go back. They provided free cake for the birthday people along with some other goodies. Favorite foods was the lamb oscobusco and and the pizza (not crab and arugula). Stop by there for some good overall food and vibes.
Kwelis W — Google review
We stopped by Cucina after visiting Balboa park. We came early and the restaurant wasn’t fully open but they had a select menu available for happy hour. We had some drinks and tried the bread and margarita pizza. Both were very delicious! I would definitely come back if I was in the area to try their full menu out.
Dena H — Google review
A very mid experience specifically in regards to the price. Around a $200 meal (including a service charge for two people - we were not made away of until closing out the bill) for the following items photographed. Food was decent but nothing impressive, memorable, or unique. For the price point and many reviews claiming that the food is to par, I wouldn’t recommend. My experience might stem from living in LA and having higher standards for Italian restaurants. The food presentation, taste, and service were all fine but did not live up to expectations and should not be considered for a price point that could provide you a much higher quality meal and experience. Service was decent but coursing and timing of meals could be improved. Ambiance of restaurant could be improved for the price point that they place themselves in. Regarding the specific dishes, nothing was standout outside of the tiramisu - I have never had such a terrible tiramisu, I would never recommend it to anyone.
Leila C — Google review
CUCINA Urbana is one of the top three restaurants that we’ve eaten at all year! Not only was the food presented well and absolutely delicious, but the service was outstanding! Our server, Jason was personable and very friendly. He made sure that we were comfortable and familiar with the menu and restaurant. We are so happy with our experience at CUCINA Urbana. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great experience.
Sean G — Google review
Interesting food concepts! The appetizers, especially the tempura squash blossoms and the tomato peach burrata salad was really delicious. The pizzas were well made and very flavorful. The restuarant is also a wine shop and they sell them at market price which was welcome. The pasta can be a hit or miss! The food came out really quick, before the wine was served which was a bit weird to me, so the service needs some improvement! Overall great place to eat if interesting Italian fare is what you are looking for!
Rohan T — Google review
We came here to celebrate our anniversary and were honestly disappointed with the overall experience. I ordered the “Nautical By Nature” cocktail, which came with such a massive ice cube that only about a quarter of the glass actually had liquid in it. I paid $17 for what felt like just a splash of drink. Despite my husband mentioning during the reservation call that we were celebrating a special occasion, nothing was acknowledged or done to make the evening feel special. The focaccia bread was hard, and the butter that came with it looked like it had already been used , very unappetizing and concerning from a hygiene perspective. The dessert, a limoncello mousse tart, was frozen solid in the middle, which made it hard to enjoy. The bucatini amatriciana tasted like leftover pasta with way too much sauce, and the poached egg we paid an extra $3 for was overcooked. On the positive side, the giant meatball and the mushroom and goat cheese pizza were flavorful and definitely the best part of the meal. Service was friendly and quick, but overall, the food and experience fell far below expectations, especially for what was supposed to be a special night.
Sophia G — Google review
The ambiance, service and food were all impressive! Each dish had a perfect balance of freshness and flavors! Italian cuisine with a class!
Dharmesh P — Google review
505 Laurel St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.cucinaurbana.com/•(619) 239-2222•Tips and more reviews for CUCINA urbana
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21Carnitas' Snack Shack - Embarcadero

4.4
(3284)
•
4.0
(210)
•
Mentioned on 
4 lists 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
Bar
Carnitas' Snack Shack - Embarcadero is a popular eatery known for its delectable pork sandwiches and wide selection of craft beer. The restaurant, with three locations in San Diego, has recently introduced exciting new features at its Embarcadero branch. This includes an outdoor bar serving draught beers, wines, and specialty cocktails made with local spirits. The seating area is entirely outdoors in a communal dining space that can accommodate up to 50 people.
Very convienient stop before our departure. Nice selection of food, sides, drinks, treats. Plenty of seating. Very nice staff! Delicious warm churros too! Definitely trying the lobster roll next time. The portions are big too. Did not wait long for food, you can also order through their kiosk if there's a line, which we did.
Vanessa A — Google review
First off Louie is the man! Phenomenal service and took the extra time to chat with us and we had lots of belly laughs. The Nashville hot chicken was out of this world good. I've never had a Nashville that crispy it was super crispy. Double fillets and a perfect slaw to pickles to sauce ratio. Could have been a touch spicier but that's just me addicted to spice. The brioche bun was lightly toasted, and the seasoned fries were a compliment. 10/10 will repeat again. Great meeting you Louie, I'll be back!
Tom K — Google review
Authentic, Tasty, and Super Friendly! I had a great experience at Carnitas’ Snack Shack in San Diego! The place was very clean and had a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The food was absolutely delicious and authentically Mexican—you can really taste the quality and care in every bite. On top of that, the staff was super friendly and made us feel right at home. If you’re looking for tasty carnitas and a great atmosphere, this spot is definitely worth checking out! Live music and boats going in and out of the harbour
Harman G — Google review
Easy to grab a quick bite. Meat was great! Triple threat was delicious. Loaded fries were a hit with my son! Grabbed a bite before we headed out on the seal boat!
David K — Google review
Light late afternoon lunch. Dining is outdoors. Ordered at counter and found a spot at a table. Food was good. Had the chicken tacos. Someone in our group had a burger and fries. The chips and salsa was good as well. Convenient.
Lisa C — Google review
I mean I was just walking in San Diego looking for a place to eat and stumbled upon this one, I ordered the loaded quesadilla 8/10 I wish I added chicken oops anyway if I ever come back to San Diego I’ll probably try their chicken sand which next :D anyway service was good the cashier was pretty she was nice the place is pretty chill pretty nice 10/10
Ejra A — Google review
Based on all of the rave reviews, I wanted to love it, but just didn't. The marinated steak tacos were bland, and the chips tasted overdone and in desperate need of salt. Barely touched the salsa because I didn't like the flavor. Forcing down my second taco because $30 is a lot to waste on a meal. On the plus side, atmosphere is great, staff was friendly, and the service was fast.
Jennifer A — Google review
Movie night at Carnitas Snack Shack! It's their first time having movie night & they're showing The Goonies! Special menu from the outside grill guy who had pork belly (with a delicious addicting sauce) & hot dogs. Then popcorn for all movie watchers! Chairs were provided & some brought their own. People at the bar turned their chairs around to watch. Great fun along the Embarcadero!
M M — Google review
1004 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://carnitassnackshack.com/•(619) 696-7675•Tips and more reviews for Carnitas' Snack Shack - Embarcadero

22Born and Raised

4.5
(3207)
•
4.0
(200)
•
Mentioned on 
+3 other lists 
$$$$very expensive
Steak house
Born and Raised is a modern, spacious steakhouse that offers high-end steaks and cocktails in a glamorous setting. The restaurant exudes a 1920s vibe with tuxedoed waiters, opulent decor, and stiff drinks. The Art Deco-inspired entryway leads to a regal dining room with leather booths, travertine-topped tables, and brass accents.
When you come here, you absolutely must order the steak, but I highly recommend trying the hash brown. It is far exceeded my expectations. Additionally, I think the carrot cake is a standout. As someone who isn’t usually a fan of carrot cake, I found that following the staff’s recommendation was definitely the right choice this time. The cake is fluffy and the cream’s sweet-tart balance is perfectly executed. Even though I was already quite full, I couldn’t bear to leave it behind and ended up taking some home to enjoy slowly later.
Kwan L — Google review
Service was impeccable! Scott was great, very personable and knowledgeable of the menu. We began with the bread and the yellowtail crudo. The bread was the oerfect amount if garlicly and fluffy. I don't do raw fish, but tried the crudo and it was so tender! Our entree was the 20oz bone in ribeye medium rare. It was cooked to perfection! We did try all 4 of the sauces but honestly the dry-age steak needed no extra flavor. For our sides we had the mushrooms in a delicious sauce, the broccolini with a spicy chilean sauce, and the Mac and cheese. For dessert we tried the carrot cake and the cheesecake. You cannot go wrong with either. The carrot cake had a wonderful creamy cinnamon taste. The yuzu cheesecake had a distinct but not overpowering citrus flavor. The decor was very fun. The music was a tad loud, it was difficult to hear the sommelier and our server when he was explaining the desserts. The lighting at the table was slightly too dim, making it a little difficult to see what we were cutting while eating our steak.
Brittany G — Google review
I love the burgundy snail with bone marrow. The snails were on top of a huge bone. It was so delicious. I wish they could give us a large portion or more bread. I had the steak sampler which contains four types of steaks. The best is supposed to be Japanese wagyu beef which has the most fat. It tastes similar as the beef skewers.
Selena G — Google review
Went here for my sons 17th birthday. Food was so delicious, the beef wellington was so perfect and they steak sampler is a must. You also have to try the dirty hashbrown, perfect combo with steak. Service was also exceptional, they always come by and check on us. My son also got a birthday greeting card at the beggining and also got a macaron and candle for his bday.
Francis F — Google review
We celebrated our anniversary here and this was the first restaurant to actually read and take time to acknowledge my selection on open table. They wrote us the most adorable card! Our waiter was so fantastic and so attentive! The food! Oh you MUST get the Mac and cheese you will not be disappointed! The filet was delicious and well prepared I normally don’t like a lot of pink in my steak but it was cool so good that I said okay I’ll dive in and try this! All in all a fantastic place to have a delicious steak, divine Mac and cheese, and to be treated with attentive care from all staff!
Alexsandra C — Google review
Born and Raised has excellent food - every dish we tried was phenomenal, and it features inventive desserts with fun flavors. You really can't go wrong in ordering. Personal favourites from our dinner included the Japanese A5, the pear cheesecake, broccolini and the polenta that comes with the meatball appetizer. The servers were incredibly professional and made it a great experience. The only downside is that the ambiance can be very hit or miss. The dim, moody lighting is great, but the restaurant can be very loud. They also wouldn't seat us until everyone had arrived, which while I understand in theory, with a party of about ten people there was nowhere adequate to wait. The menus are also huge and we didn't really have anywhere on the table to set them down between the glasses and lamps. All small things, but at such an expensive meal, they make a difference.
Ashley L — Google review
The bone marrow with snails and the dirty hashbrowns were absolutely amazing. We also had the steak sampler and the Mac&cheese and both were great. Service (Mauricio) was excellent, all on point. We didn't care for the baked Alaska, we could have left without it. Atmosphere was also great, not too loud. We easily could keep a conversation going. We were celebrating our birthdays and everything was just perfect!!!
Andrea Y — Google review
BREATH TAKING IS THIS PLACE. there are just some experience in life which you have to try, This place is one. They bring it all to you! All to you. Wagyu, table side cocktails, phenomenal dish service, Thanks Joe ( Smart kid, can't wait till he's a server). They made me feel so special (My first time). You need to talk to Karla She will give you the lowdown on the other sister restaurants that they have. Where to go for what and what kind of setting it is so you know what kind of environment you're walking into. But the star of the show, the star. Now listen closely. You want to sit in Israel (Izzy) section if it's your first time or if you haven't had him. He makes every detail about you and your table. Not only did he walk us through the menu but he gave us a thorough recommendations that were delicious. And I'm not talking about the ones you get off of TikTok that everybody else gets. No, his recommendations were good and delicious. He made our night. We, want to say thank you so much. So, having him as a server is just a delight on a great evening and a rememberable memory. Thank you born and raised. I will definitely be going to some of the recommendations that Karla gave us. Please start selling the macaroons by the dozen or half dozen. They were the best I've ever tasted kudos to your bakery chef. I think we probably would have bought a dozen to take home.
Sunshine — Google review
1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://bornandraisedsteak.com/•(619) 202-4577•Tips and more reviews for Born and Raised

23Morning Glory

4.3
(3366)
•
4.0
(114)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Breakfast restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Cafe
Morning Glory is a trendy eatery in downtown San Diego that offers a global breakfast and brunch experience with a stylish ambiance. The restaurant's interior features Instagram-worthy elements such as rose-gold accents, tiled floors, pink booths, and unique wallpaper designs. It's a popular spot, especially on Saturday mornings, so be prepared for a wait. The menu boasts an array of pancake options, including classic and Japanese-style souffle pancakes with whipped cream.
Let's start with the bad. Uncoordinated individuals like myself, beware of the barstools. They are tippy. Other than that the service was friendly and knowledgeable. The menu was so fun and the entire esthetic of the place was just perfect. You could show up dressed to the nines or in jeans and a comfy shirt ( I even saw someone in pjs) and feel welcomed at home. The mixture of patterns and textures was eclectic but made looking around so much fun. For food I had the breakfast carbonara and my partner had the souffle pancakes. The carbonara was rich but not too heavy with flavorful pieces of pork belly and just a touch of spice. The pasta was expertly cooked and the entire dish was satisfying. My husband said the pancakes were sweet enough without syrup he added berries and cream on the side which added too the tastiness of the dish. I had the old fashion and the bananas in pajamas. Both drinks were liquor forward with sweet finishes, but the old fashion had a more deep flavor profile while the banana drink was more like a piña colada with creamy notes.
Rebecca — Google review
We visited this restaurant on a Saturday to celebrate my son’s birthday. The venue is visually impressive, with a lively atmosphere and a strong sense of energy that explains its popularity. The wait for a table was just over an hour for a party of four. In terms of the menu, vegan options were limited. I selected the pancakes, which arrived in a generous portion. Unfortunately, the texture was very dense, making them difficult to enjoy, and I was unable to finish the dish. The coffee, however, was very good, and nondairy milk was available. Service was adequate but unremarkable. While staff acknowledged our birthday celebration with a glitter-infused shot, only one was brought to the table, which felt like an incomplete gesture for a group of four. Overall, while the atmosphere was enjoyable and my son appreciated the experience, the quality of the food and the service details suggest there is room for improvement.
Magda G — Google review
Alright this is a bit of a hard one. We visited twice during Twitchcon weekend. Once on Thursday morning, and then once on Tuesday afternoon. Thursdays visit was very pleasant, delicious food, excellent service, and good drinks. Tuesday however, the day I write this, for some reason had a completely different vibe. Despite ordering the same dish, it was drastically different. I enjoyed their Steak and Eggs on my first visit, but upon second review my steak was tough and chewy, with fried onions that were completely soggy with grease. The “dirty” hash-browns gravy was thick and tasted of cream and the bottom of someone’s shoe. I really dislike leaving negative reviews, but I was really disappointed with our second visit, especially with such a stellar performance the first time around. Overall? This may be a hit or miss venue, with some stellar items and some that may fail to meet expectations. Unfortunately the bad experience sort of rained on our last day together. Not to mention syrup is a $5 up charge on dishes that really need it.
Ravenview V — Google review
They definitely pass the vibe check! So beautiful inside. Great music. Amazing staff. The food & drinks are so fire. The steak and eggs are my favorite. The fried rice smacks! The soufflé pancakes- DELICIOUS! The staff is so friendly and welcoming. Kailee was our server on our first visit. She was a delight. Our experience was so great that we doubled back a second day (before leaving SD). Jacob’s service was wonderful as well. It was a true pleasure meeting Thomas too! Very friendly & made us feel like part of the family. Can’t wait to visit again when I’m in San Diego!
Nesh M — Google review
I visited this charming restaurant with a lovely pink-themed interior that gives off a soft, welcoming vibe. The ambience is one of the highlights—really pretty and perfect for a casual brunch outing. It’s the kind of place you want to spend time in, soaking up the atmosphere. That said, be prepared for a bit of a wait—our turn took about an hour in the wait-list, which could be a dealbreaker if you’re really hungry or in a rush. The food was an absolute delight. The souffle pancakes were the standout—fluffy, light, and they practically melt in your mouth. Definitely the highlight of the meal! We also tried their orange and vanilla hot chocolate, which was comforting and a lovely twist on the classic. It had a nice balance of sweetness and flavor, perfect for sipping while relaxing. We also opted for Khachapuri, which was a nice, fulfilling addition. The cheesy, doughy goodness really hit the spot and felt hearty without being too heavy. The only downside was the service—the staff seemed quite busy and not very attentive. It wasn’t bad, but there’s definitely room for improvement in that area. Overall, I’d still recommend this place for a leisurely brunch. Great ambience, good food, and a menu that offers a nice mix of comfort and novelty.
Prachi — Google review
This was an interesting experience. The service was fantastic in my opinion. Attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly. They did joke around which was fun because I hate getting a robot when trying to order food. I ordered the morning wood old fashioned, and the chilaquiles with Birria on top. The old fashioned was perfect. It had a nice blueberry flavor you could just taste a hint of. I loved it! The chilaquiles were good, not great but good. They had a decent flavor and the chips were cooked extremely nice! However the problem I ran into was the Birria, this might have been the most bland pile of meat I’ve ever had. Even my girlfriend hated it. I had to pull it off and put it on the side of the plate. I don’t know if this was just a bad day for their Birria, but I won’t even give it another chance that’s how bad it was. Overall id come back again, the service was great, drinks were on point, and the food minus one thing was excellent. I’d love to give their other foods a chance.
Michael F — Google review
Went twice during a weekend trip to San Diego - that’s how much we liked this place! Food is yummy - got the Turkish eggs the 1st time and carbonara the 2nd and the carbonara was the winner. Super friendly service and the vibes were immaculate! Very aesthetic in there with an even better music playlist. Will say it gets quite busy but worth the wait. Will be back upon my return to SD!
Nakeisha W — Google review
Great brunch place! They have some very interesting options to choose from and does not restrict itself to one type of cuisine. The khachapuri and the lobster omelet both were pretty good. The best dish we had was the souffle pancakes, it was very gooey,warm in the middle and was very well made. A must try if you are a brunch lover. The restaurant doesn't take reservations and you have to be there to get on the list. Also the wait time can be pretty high and we had to wait 35 minutes to get in.
Rohan T — Google review
550 W Date St Suite #C, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.morningglorybreakfast.com/•(619) 629-0302•Tips and more reviews for Morning Glory

24Serea Coastal Cuisine

4.2
(445)
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4.0
(80)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
Mediterranean restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Nestled within the historic Hotel del Coronado, Serea Coastal Cuisine embodies the essence of upscale beach dining with its stunning ocean views and chic atmosphere. Under the guidance of Executive Chef JoJo Ruiz, a pioneer in sustainable seafood practices, Serea offers a menu that artfully combines Mediterranean influences with locally sourced ingredients.
Our favorite was the mushroom risotto. Our kids ordered from the kids menu but stole our risotto. They all agreed that they will order that the next time we come! Beautiful vibe with indoor/outdoor seating. And our server, Amy, gave us great recommendations. I loved that they had some natural wines on their menu.
Alison E — Google review
I came to Serẽa Coastal Cuisine for my birthday dinner, and it was an amazing experience! The seaside atmosphere is so relaxing and chill—perfect for a special night out. Our server was incredibly kind, patient, and attentive. He gave us great recommendations on what to try, and we decided to go all-in with the signature dishes. Honestly, not a single dish disappointed us—everything was flavorful, fresh, and beautifully prepared. The only small downside was that the timing between courses was a little slow, but the food and overall experience more than made up for it. For a birthday celebration, it felt special and memorable. Highly recommend Serẽa for anyone looking for delicious seafood, great service, and a gorgeous seaside setting! 🌊🐟✨
H H — Google review
Serea is my go-to brunch spot in Coronado, and I find myself returning time after time. The food is always fresh and full of flavor, the cocktails are spot-on, and the service is warm and welcoming. Paired with unbeatable views of the Pacific, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely brunch. For the best brunch experience in Coronado, Serea truly never disappoints!
Vrutti V — Google review
Had high hopes for this spot but was severely disappointed. We ordered the octopus thinking it would be a decent portion of octopus for $30. It was 4 bite sized pieces and with potatoes adding most volume. Not worth the price what so ever. Whole grilled fish was sold at market price. It was the best part of the dinner but again overpriced!!! Patatas bravas: super deep fried and filled with so much aioli of some sort that you couldn't even taste the actual potato. Drinks were solid. SARAGLI dessert was awful. After being recommended by our waitress that it was super delicious we took the recommendation. We also asked for a candle to be lit to celebrate a birthday and our waitress said it couldn't be done. Didn't even make the slightest attempt to redeem us with anything else. It came to the table super hard and had no flavor at all. Ice cream ball size felt like was feeling little dolls. The ambiance is nice. That's about it. I don't mind paying good money for food but it needs to wow me. This was not the case!
Marilia F — Google review
We chose Serea to celebrate our anniversary after reading glowing reviews, especially about the seafood. As someone who truly appreciates a well executed seafood dish, I came in with high hopes.. but unfortunately, the experience didn’t quite live up to the hype. Of the 6 dishes we tried (octopus, sea bass, beet salad, seasonal vegetables, frites, and hummus—not including the crème brûlée for dessert) none stood out as exceptional. Order the octopus, it’s very tender and the best thing we had that evening. The sea bass, which I had most anticipated, was surprisingly bland. The beet salad had such an overpowering flavor profile that it was difficult to enjoy. The vegetables were entirely unmemorable. The hummus was good, and the frites were decent, but neither left a lasting impression. We also ordered a bottle of Terlato Pino Grigio, again, disappointing. Serea should select a better PG to offer guests. One highlight of the evening was the terrace seating, which offered a beautiful view overlooking the lawn and the ocean. It really added a special touch to the atmosphere and made for a lovely setting. For a meal that totaled nearly $500 with tip, the quality of the food simply didn’t justify the cost. Based on our experience, I wouldn’t recommend Serea to friends if food is the main focus of their visit. That said, our server, Sean, was outstanding. He was warm, professional, and attentive without ever making us feel rushed or pressured. Truly A+ service, and one of the high points of the evening.
Kim B — Google review
Serra Coastal Cuisine was such a disappointment. After our first drink, the bartender completely ignored us for the rest of the night and even started cleaning up before closing out our tab. The service left a bad taste and ruined what should have been a nice evening. 2/10
Funmi S — Google review
Nice spot, good food. Worst service ever! The waiter forgot one of the plates and then the plate arrived almost half hour after the other meals… finally we asked to split the total into 4 cards and somehow the waiter decided to charge the amount of 3 parts to me, even when all my friends and I signed for individual payments. We noticed something weird and asked to the waiter and he “explained” and then made the opposite 😒. Bad experience :/.
Dra. A — Google review
I expected much more from a Michelin-star restaurant. When I sat down, my plate and forks had visible grime and bits of food still stuck on them—it was honestly off-putting. The food itself was just okay, nothing that really stood out or justified the hype or the price. The service was fine, but what really threw me off was overhearing the servers having some very strange and personal side conversations nearby. It made the atmosphere feel unprofessional and awkward—definitely not what you’d expect from a fine dining experience. Overall, I left disappointed. Cleanliness, professionalism, and attention to detail are the basics, especially for a restaurant with this kind of reputation.
Daniel S — Google review
1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118, USA•https://sereasandiego.com/•(619) 435-6611•Tips and more reviews for Serea Coastal Cuisine

25KINDRED

4.6
(2084)
•
4.5
(77)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Restaurant
Vegan restaurant
Nestled on a charming tree-lined street corner, Kindred is an extraordinary dining destination that seamlessly blends the unconventional with the culinary. This whimsical eatery offers a contemporary vegan menu that’s as inventive as it is delicious, all set against a backdrop of death-metal tunes and striking Victorian decor. The cocktail and mocktail offerings are equally impressive, featuring creative concoctions like the gin-based Spinal Tap served in a vibrant pink-hued dining room.
My second time going here and both times were phenomenal. Great food, great drinks, great vibes. Has a goth kind of vibe. Everything here is vegan. And all the food that my friends got also looked delicious. They gave me a desert for my birthday it was very nice. First time I went was for dinner and this most recent time was for brunch. Both have very good service and delicious foods. Would highly recommend to vegans and non vegans!
Dennis A — Google review
Believe it or not, a Serious meat eater recommended me to Kindred (Vegan place). My best friend came here and treated him. He had the Heart & Soul. I had the Eggroll & Burger. He said it was okay. My plate was bursting with flavor 😋 & delicious. Some cute ladies where sitting next to me and told me to try the Mind Melt, i told her don't let your mind melt biting into that. 😂. But ngl, it looked good. The Bartender 🍸 was phenomenal as I watched how skilled he was in mixing drinks. The service is top-notched with a mirrored 🪞 ceiling. And someone loves cats 🐈 as that is large murals even in the bathroom! Great atmosphere but I must warn you in South Park this place is busy a lot. Enjoy 😉
Antonine — Google review
Best vegan menu in SD. Interesting options and eye-catching presentation. Creatively named dishes. Communal seating, which isn’t for everyone. Host was absent upon our arrival and bartender didn’t even look our way, despite being right in front us. We put on the reservation that we were celebrating a birthday and were a bit disappointed that they didn’t do even a tiny desert acknowledgement. In the era of 20%+ tips, I expect a bit more.
Jon L — Google review
The ambience is nice. Their decor is interesting. The food was very disappointing. The double cheeseburger was a sad-looking small burger that looked like a cheap fast food burger. The buns were not fresh. Drinks sounded more interesting than their taste. Very small portions.
Rajalaxmi R — Google review
Visited Kindred on a Saturday afternoon with a reservation for two. We arrived a bit late, but the host was kind and still got us seated. Unfortunately, the initial table was very small and cramped, too close to other diners. We ended up moving to a bar-designated table in the center of the space, which was much more comfortable — big thanks to the staff for being accommodating. This was actually my first time trying vegan food, and I was genuinely impressed. I have Peruvian roots, so I’ve grown up with lots of traditional dishes and bold flavors. The crispy potatoes were simple but had a bright, acidic taste that really stood out. The chimichurri had a different texture than I’m used to, but the flavor still resembled the South American versions I know. The real surprise was the Warlock Bowl — as someone who’s eaten quinoa all my life, I appreciated how flavorful and well-seasoned it was. A creative twist on something familiar. We tried a few cocktails, and unfortunately, this is where Kindred really lost a point. Aside from the Espresso Martini (which was excellent — smooth, strong, and well-balanced), every other drink was almost entirely ice. We’re talking 90% ice, 10% liquid. For cocktails priced at this level, that felt pretty disappointing — even borderline deceptive. They looked great, but there just wasn’t enough actual drink in the glass. The ambiance is relaxed and stylish, with background rock music playing at a comfortable volume. It got louder between 6–7 p.m., with guest conversations completely overtaking the music. Things calmed down again around 9 p.m.. Overall, Kindred is a great spot for flavorful vegan dishes in a creative setting. Just skip the cocktails (except the Espresso Martini), and maybe ask for a proper pour next time.
Javier V — Google review
This restaurant has an incredible atmosphere, and the cocktails are delicious. Unfortunately, the gluten-free options are *very* limited, although (shockingly!) the desserts are gluten-free. So for my Celiac chicks, I'd recommend grabbing dinner elsewhere, but be sure to come here for a delightful drink and dessert by the candlelight afterward.
Laurie H — Google review
Great atmosphere with a niche hard-core esthetic that somehow really compliments the overall atmosphere very well. The food is excellent and service is quick and friendly. Great vegan brunch offers and overall reasonably priced.
Ethan S — Google review
Great place to hangout and eat some cleanish food. I’m not vegan but loved everything I ate. The broccoli was a little soggy but still delicious. Everything was top tier delicious. The cocktails were outstanding. Service was great. Awesome music. Great place. Would definitely go back
M S — Google review
1503 30th St, San Diego, CA 92102, USA•http://www.barkindred.com/•(619) 546-9653•Tips and more reviews for KINDRED
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26Tribute Pizza

4.7
(1433)
•
4.5
(48)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Pizza restaurant
Restaurant
Vegan restaurant
Tribute Pizza is a cozy neighborhood spot located in a former post office, offering wood-fired pizza, beer, and wine. Launched in 2016 by a passionate pizza enthusiast, the restaurant pays homage to beloved pies from pizzerias across the nation. The owner has meticulously fine-tuned every detail of the operation to ensure top-quality pizza, including sourcing specific ingredients and using a 1,500-pound wood-fired oven.
From beginning to end it was a wonderful experience. We ordered the Szechuan Noodles, Kale salad, and a 13 inch half and half pizza (classic combo supreme and bees mode) with a side of their house ranch. The salad was super fresh and light. The noodles were full of flavor with a slight spice. The pizza was perfectly cooked and wonderful. We definitely favored the supreme but both sides were good. Our waitress was friendly, informative, and attentive. We will be back!
Kendal P — Google review
Amazing! We were a party of 4 and all of us are raving about the food. The salads and roast veggies were so good, you could easily just fill up on those. Which we kinda did. And then our pies came and they were so good that somehow we all crushed those too! Go here. Go here now! Everything was fresh and perfect. Cannot wait to go back!
Troy S — Google review
Tribute Pizza was recommended by a friend so we decided to try it. Best pizza experience we have had in 25 years. Dirty Danzin was Pizza Perfect. Everything fresh. Garlic & cheese focaccia romana starter was fantastic. My wife said the silverton chop salad was one of the best salads she's had at a restaurant. But that was after drinking the Sangria, which she said was delicious (turns out it's "home made", and can very day to day). The restaurant was packed so make sure to reserve a table. Free Parking is not easy to find in the neighborhood but we found public paid parking half a block from Tribute Pizza.
Ron L — Google review
This was our first time going, but it will 100% not be our last! The food was amazing! We got the Woodfired focaccia with the fancy butter and salt flakes, as well as kale salad. Then we got our son a cheese pizza, and he tore it up! My wife got the seasonal cocktail which was bourbon spiced apple cider, and I got the seasonal bourbon old fashioned and man that bartender had a good hand for pouring, because that thing was sooooo good! Lastly we got our pizza and we got the dye another day pizza, it was delicious! The crust was nice and crispy, but also soft inside, it was perfect! Add it to your list of spots you need to check out, and then go asap! Definitely recommend making reservations.
Nathan F — Google review
Be prepared to spend a pretty penny here but it’s so worth it! I immediately recommend booking a reservation since it’s always so busy otherwise you’re looking at a long wait time. They do have a few standing tables if you’re lucky enough to snag one you can stand and eat there. Came here for a birthday dinner with a reservation. For cocktails we had the Mai Tai (absolutely recommend), Sam Fleming, Paper Plane, a marg, and some special that had beet juice in it. For food we had the brussel sprouts and for pizzas we had a special with fresh ricotta and squash, pepperoni lovers, and the dye another day, and the soft serve. The brussel sprouts were ok I probably wouldn’t order again they felt too charred and small so there was a lot of the over crispy paper texture to them but the flavoring was good. All the pizzas were absolutely phenomenal. Please note you do have to pay for any dipping sauces like ranch. Our server was very knowledgeable in the menu and was helpful with drink selections that were delicious. Although this is pricier than most pizza places everything we tasted was fresh, prepared well, and the menu was intentional with specials around seasonal produce and availability which I liked. The restaurant itself isn’t very big so I’d recommend coming with a smaller group or 2 people so you can try different items. Overall a great experience I’ll definitely be back!
Ali P — Google review
We made a reservation to visit Tribute because it has become such a highly regarded pizza destination so the expectation was high. We ordered two pies. The “bees mode” and “you knew this was coming”. While the flavors on both were fantastic, they were poorly cooked! The crust was charred to the edge of burned on both. And the undercarriage was nearly raw! The Brussels sprouts were great. Service was slow and poor. Our waitress was hanging out talking to another worker most of the time and we couldn’t get her attention. And most disappointing was they allowed other guests INSIDE the dining room (not outside on the patio) to have their dogs with them sitting at the table! Gross. I am a big dog lover and dog person - but not inside at the table at a restaurant. That’s also a health code violation I believe.
Steven P — Google review
SUPPORT THIS PLACE!! GREAT FOOD AND SERVICE. Came here for a 4:15 pm reservation with wife and two toddlers. Such a nice experience! The hostess was kind and attentive. Our server, Christian, was attentive and considerate of our hands being full with the kids. Even the gents prepping and cooking the food said hi and were happy and upbeat as they passed by. They brought the food out quick and just made us feel like we were important customers. Food 10/10!! The portion sizes are MASSIVE. highly recommend the fra diovala pizza and any others on the menu.
Joseph S — Google review
i definitely loved the brussel sprout salad, not a huge fan of brooklyn best (imho sesame seeds do not belong in pizza), also got the kevin mccallister but it came out a little bit soggy T.T but it was still good tho
Abigail T — Google review
3077 N Park Way, San Diego, CA 92104, USA•http://tributepizza.com/•(619) 450-4505•Tips and more reviews for Tribute Pizza

27Wayfarer Bread & Pastry

4.7
(965)
•
4.5
(22)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Bakery
Cafe
Wayfarer Bread & Pastry is a cozy bakery located in the laid-back coastal area of Bird Rock in La Jolla. Despite its beachy vibe, it's actually known for its top-notch sourdough loaves and an array of pastries, including the decadent Kougin Amann and the delightful Passion Fruit Cream Cheese Bun. The bakery also offers pre-made sandwiches and pizzas made with high-quality ingredients sourced from California farms.
There will be a line and you will wait in it. It’s worth it. The croissants are so perfectly flaky and probably the best I’ve ever had. I’ve tried the sourdough bread, a sandwich, and 6 pastries and loved them all. The service was also great - I asked for recommendations and wasn’t rushed when choosing the pastries for my box. Highly, highly recommend!
Mercedes H — Google review
My favorite style croissant. Shiny outside, butter smell, good old school french croissant. Sourdough! Same as croissan, good old style sourdough bread, texture inside is quite perfect with little sourness and wetness that I adore. 10/10. Quite quick service as well.
Rıdvan K — Google review
Good bakery. Decent line but moves quick. Almond croissant - very dense and almost seemed like it was baked a little too long. Ham and cheese crossaint needs more ham and cheese, was also dry. Baguette was really good! Kouign-amann was great The rounded crossaint with filling was also very good. Cappuccino was also excellent.
Keon H — Google review
Words cannot describe the absolute flakiness of the croissants. I can still hear the crunch the next day. The mushroom and corn cream bun way so surprisingly fabulous; Savory, creamy, crunchy yet sweet from the corn. Chocolate croissant hands down the best I’ve ever had. We brought home a loaf of sour dough. The dark crust has such a rich flavor and great chew. 10/10!
Amy K — Google review
I took my mom to Wayfarer Bakery when she came to visit me in San Diego because it had been one of my favorite spots. Unfortunately, this time was a letdown. The $6 croissant we ordered was disappointingly small (smaller than my hand) — much smaller than expected for the price. While I understand prices have gone up everywhere, the portion size just didn’t match the cost, and it left us feeling underwhelmed. I was really hoping to share a great bakery experience with my mom, but it fell short this time.
Jean R — Google review
Such an awesome morning time stop. We grabbed some lattes and pastries.. the cinnamon bun and raspberry cream pastry. They were SO good! The staff is top tier along with all of their products. The lattes were delicious as well. There is usually quite the line so make sure to budget some time to wait, it’s worth it!
Alex I — Google review
Wayfarer has become a part of our rhythm — a place we return to week after week, year after year. For the past two years, it’s been more than a bakery to us. It’s a gathering place, a comfort, a small slice of magic tucked into our routine. Taco Tuesdays are legendary — no exaggeration. The meat is always tender, perfectly seasoned, and full of depth. Every bite speaks of care and quality. Then come Pizza Nights on the weekend, where the crust is golden and crackling, and each topping feels thoughtfully chosen. You can taste the difference — everything is made with top-tier ingredients. And then there’s the sourdough — airy, tangy, with that perfect crust. It’s bread that feels alive. But what truly makes Wayfarer special are the people. Keagan, Oz, Ashtyn, and Sarah bring warmth, kindness, and heart to every visit. They don’t just serve — they welcome. They remember. They elevate the whole experience. Wayfarer isn’t just a bakery. It’s a place that feeds the soul as much as the appetite.
Amin A — Google review
So I’ve had their incredible pastries but I had to post their pizza you can pre-order. This will change your life. The crust is as good as you would expect it to be given their pastries and the combination of flavors on this thing…no words. Order multiple because the idea of not having leftovers is devastating.
Giavanna A — Google review
5525 La Jolla Blvd, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA•http://www.wayfarerbread.com/•Tips and more reviews for Wayfarer Bread & Pastry

28Wolf In The Woods

4.7
(339)
•
Mentioned on 
+1 other list 
Restaurant
Wolf In The Woods is a popular restaurant located near Downtown with an intimate atmosphere and Southwestern decor. The menu features tapas and lighter dishes with a New Mexican twist, such as sweet corn soup with hatch chile and chilled octopus with harissa. The restaurant offers sidewalk dining that feels European, making it a unique experience in San Diego. It's known for its incredible food, wine list, and top-notch atmosphere.
Definitely love coming here for celebrations. The food is excellent and the service is more of the same. They change their menu every so often, but we usually get the potato chips, corn soup and yellowtail aguachile. This time around we got the beef tataki and the adobada. Both were amazing! Fair warning, the tataki is a japanese style dish that is served barely seared and cold. Amazing flavor, but might not be for everyone.
Sequoia M — Google review
The restaurant itself is very cute and the food was exceptional — truly delicious and beautifully presented. Unfortunately, our experience was overshadowed by our waiter, who was extremely rude from the start. His attitude made us feel uncomfortable and even a bit intimidated, which took away from what should have been a lovely evening.
Spring B — Google review
Wolf in the Woods is undeniably cute and cozy — a small, charming spot that really makes you feel like you’ve escaped into the woods. The window looking out over the canyon adds to the atmosphere and makes the space feel intimate and almost magical. That said, the space is tight — if you’re claustrophobic or need elbow room, this probably isn’t the place for you. But for a small group (no more than four), it’s a lovely setting for a relaxed evening. Service was great — attentive without being intrusive. The staff kept things moving smoothly, especially given the 90-minute dining limit (a necessity due to the size of the place). As for the food and drink: I started with the Lupo e Luna cocktail, which was refreshing and delicious — a great way to kick things off. We shared several dishes, tapas-style, starting with the crudo, which was fresh but lacked that pop of flavor I was hoping for. The meatballs were just okay for me, but the octopus was solid. It’s worth noting that most dishes had a noticeable level of spice — possibly because they were running a New Mexico-themed menu that night. I would have appreciated a bit more variety in flavor profiles. Now, the star of the evening: the corn soup. OMG. Creamy, flavorful, perfectly balanced — this is the dish you start planning your return visit for before you’re even halfway through it. I would honestly go back just for that soup. Get it with the amazing focaccia. We also had the slider, which was juicy and tasty, and wrapped up with a carrot cake for dessert. It was decent, though also carried a bit of spice (continuing the theme of the night). Still, nothing came close to the corn soup — the clear winner. This spot specializes in tapas and wine, with a few main dishes offered. We were too full to try the entrées, but it’s good to know they’re available. I’d be curious to go back and try different plates — especially if the menu changes seasonally. Just keep that soup on the menu, please. In short: I wouldn’t rush back immediately, but I definitely plan to return. It’s not ideal for big groups, but for a date night or a small dinner with friends, it’s a cozy little gem — as long as you don’t mind being up close and personal with your fellow diners.
Luna R — Google review
Tried this place for the first time after hearing a lot about it and I wasn’t disappointed! The food was delicious my favourite was the carne adovaba while my husband loved the octopus and tartar, and the fresh focaccia is a must!! The patty for the mini burger was delicious and very well sized! While the croquetas are delicious, they are a little expensive as is the aguachile… there wasn’t much fish and the sauce was a little bland for my taste. I ordered the NA gin and tonic to drink, unfortunately it tasted very flat, it was changed but the second one wasn’t much better, wouldn’t order again. We took our baby with us and were thoughtfully sat at the end of the patio so we’d have enough space for the stroller. If you have Amex platinum book through resy for $100 credit a quarter! Will definitely be back!
Nadia A — Google review
Incredible quaint and romantic spot with excellent food and service. The sweet corn and piñon soup was unlike anything I’ve had before. Unreal. The depth of flavor in the red hatch chile sauce from the Carne Adovada is 🤌🏼. Spent every piece of that fry bed mopping up every last drop of the sauce. Had the citrus marinated octopus. Love the flavor. I thought the texture of the octopus was off. I was expecting firm and springy yet tender but it was firm and mealy :( Still an excellent place
Son H — Google review
What a lovely discovery and experience. Such a cozy little place with excellent food. Perfect for a date night. Pretty much everything we tried was great. Loved the ambience and the vibe felt like we were in Europe not San Diego. Must try spot!
Kashan P — Google review
I’m French and I HATE American restaurants. I always leave feeling bloated. HOWEVER this was not the case with Wolf in the Woods!! Great quality ingredients, perfectly executed dishes, precisely portioned. Intimate yet convivial setting. Couldn’t have hoped for better! On the pricier end but truly great cuisine!
Alba O — Google review
This is one of my favorite restaurants in San Diego. The food is so delicious. Chicken liver is my favorite and the dessert is really good too.
Stanley L — Google review
1920 Fort Stockton Dr Suite C, San Diego, CA 92103, USA•http://www.thewolfinthewoods.com/•(619) 234-2597•Tips and more reviews for Wolf In The Woods

29Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy

4.5
(8476)
•
4.5
(2017)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$affordable
Italian restaurant
Family restaurant
Pasta shop
Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving generous portions of pizza and classic Italian dishes for over 60 years. Founded by the DePhilippis family, it all started with their flagship location in Little Italy, San Diego. The restaurant exudes a warm and inviting atmosphere with its red and white-checkered tablecloths, making diners feel like they've been transported straight to Italy.
This place is wonderful — it’s our second time coming back! The portions are absolutely huge. One salad, one pizza, and two pastas were more than enough for four people. The wine was excellent, and the whole experience felt cozy and relaxed. The staff was incredibly kind and attentive. Our total was $120, which I think is amazing for the quality and amount of food. Definitely recommend!
Kseniia G — Google review
We were visiting the area and we love good Italian food. We happen to find this place by chance and were exceedingly surprised and thrilled by their cheese ravioli. So we decided it was worth a sit down meal. My wife and I were absolutely blown away by everything. From their service, to their delicious food and their more than reasonable prices and generous serving sizes. Absolutely delicious and anytime we are back in SD. We will be coming back to this amazing hole in the wall restaurant.
Michael — Google review
My sister and I roamed around Little Italy to enjoy a delicious and relaxing dinner. We tried The Works pizza with anchovies, shrimp filippi, and tiramisu for dessert. The place felt so authentically Italian, it almost made me feel like I was back in Italy, even though we were just in Little Italy, San Diego. Hehe. They also have a small market where you can buy items like olive and avocado oil, which of course I couldn’t resist getting. The restaurant is spacious and filled with so much to see. The lighting is dim to make it feel more intimate (though the internet connection was pretty bad, lol). But overall, the place and the staff were wonderful, and the food, especially the massive pizza, was absolutely delicious.
Eleana M — Google review
It’s your usual mom and pop Italian restaurant. Reasonable prices with giant portions. The food while not fancy is down to earth. I could barely finish my sausage and meatball pasta, only issue is the sausage was hard and cold in the center, probably premade and was sitting in the kitchen for a while. Overall good spot if you want down to earth Italian food.
Adam D — Google review
I stopped by Fillippis Pizza Grotto for Lunch and ended up trying two different slices of pizza and their garlic knots. After trying their food, I can see why they have so many reviews and such a high rating. The pizza is so good and the garlic knots hit hard!!! I would defiantly be a regular here if I lived in San Diego! The staff were nice and there were many types of pizza slices to choose from, definitely something for any pizza lover!!
Pana P — Google review
Filippi’s Grotto is pure Italian comfort from the moment you walk in. The staff treats you like family — warm smiles, great energy, and service that feels personal. The pizza? Unreal. The crust is perfectly crisp yet soft inside, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the cheese… wow. Melted, stretchy, and creamy without being greasy — just that perfect balance that keeps you reaching for another slice. Every bite tastes homemade and full of love. It’s the kind of pizza that makes you close your eyes for a second just to savor it. If you’re in Little Italy, this is a must.
Lucas D — Google review
For the first time in my life I ate a pizza without tomato sauce! It was completely bland and tasteless. And it cost $40 including delivery. I'm Italian and I know what good pizza is. I called to try and clarify and they simply told me that Margherita pizza doesn't come with tomato sauce. Zero customer service! Very upset
Sara S — Google review
Wow, this is fantastic pizza. We visited on a Friday night and it was busy. We put our names on the list and got in about 25 mins later. Since its San Diego and the weather is just about always perfect, we sat outside and enjoyed wine, the house salad and the Special pizza. I am pretty sure my husband hummed songs during the whole meal in full happiness. Very cheesy but not too greasy, crust sturdy enough to pick up without dropping toppings and tons of flavor. It is in a busy area but that leads to its charm. Next time we are visiting, we will be back for sure.
Ashlee H — Google review
1747 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://realcheesepizza.com/little-italy/•(619) 232-5094•Tips and more reviews for Filippi's Pizza Grotto Little Italy

30Casa Guadalajara

4.4
(8827)
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4.2
(1679)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$affordable
Mexican restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Cocktail bar
Casa Guadalajara is a vibrant Mexican restaurant located in San Diego's Old Town, offering a lively atmosphere with live mariachi music and colorful indoor dining or outdoor patio seating. Voted as the Best Mexican Restaurant by San Diego Magazine, it provides an array of local cuisine options and live music performances for various occasions such as weddings, parties, or casual gatherings.
Casa Guadalajara was recommended by the missionaries at the Mormon Battalion museum and it was a perfect lunch location. Crispy chips, flavorful salsa with a perfect level of heat. The taco salad was fresh, flavorful and delicious. The appetizer platter consisted of taquitos and quesadillas and if you like meaty cheesy goodness it’s a great starter. They had live music and a fun, festive atmosphere. Prices averaged $20 per dish but they were large enough to easily share.
Kristen S — Google review
Casa Guadalajara – Old Town San Diego ⭐️ Ambiance: ★★★★★ Beautiful outdoor seating with vibrant umbrellas, colorful chairs, and a lovely central fountain. It’s a great spot to soak up the San Diego sunshine in a festive setting. ⭐️ Service: ★★★★★ Friendly and attentive service throughout our visit. Staff were prompt and helpful, which added to the overall experience. Alexandra was an incredibly friendly and attentive server. ⭐️ Food: ★★★★☆ Portions are generous and the pricing is fair. The refried beanswere the standout—. Shrimp fajitas were tasty and plentiful. However, the chips were a letdown. Burned taste and bland, even on the second try. The guacamole also missed the mark, tasting pre-made and lacking fresh flavor. ⭐️ Drinks: ★★☆☆☆ Tried the spicy cucumber margarita, but it was overly sweet and dominated by the mix. Not balanced or refreshing—unfortunately, a miss in the drink department.
Virginia H — Google review
Fun Mexican restaurant in Old Town serving traditional dishes. The servings were large. The rice and beans did lack a bit of flavor. I enjoyed the chicken chimichanga. Great chips. Queso wasn't the best. The Mariachi music was fun. Very colorful decor and staff.
Amy H — Google review
Total experience was overall satisfying here for our first time at Casa Guadalajara. I ordered the chili Colorado and wasn’t a big fan of it so I switched it for the breaded shrimp tacos and those were amazing! I’ll definitely come back and try something else on the menu. The waitress was amazing. I forget her name she was the blonde lady and her service was absolutely exceptional when we go back to San Diego will come by and try something else on the menu very lovely restaurant and a nice area in Mission Bay.
Hoser 1 — Google review
I decided to have lunch here because of the good reviews that I read. I'm sorry; this review will not be among them. I ordered breakfast. Eggs and chorizo. Kind of hard to get wrong, but this restaurant managed to burn the chorizo, scramble it into eggs and serve it to me. It was crunchy 😞. My server, Samuel, had a monotone voice paired with unenthusiasm that had me hesitant to ask for another plate. I don't know how that plate even left the kitchen 😳. I got a to-go box, filled it up, and hope someone will be hungry enough to enjoy it 🤷🏾. The patio was quaint and cozy. Perfect on a cloudy day. Overall, a disappointment. I don't recommend.
Angel G — Google review
Amazing food, vibrant decor, and friendly staff. Everything tastes good and authentic, and the atmosphere is full of energy. It can get quite crowded on weekends or in the evenings, so be prepared to wait a bit.
Connected B — Google review
My dear sister and I went! Ambience on point, food even more on point! We couldn't finish everything we ordered! And our server Raul, was great!
Opeoluwa T — Google review
Horrible Mexican food. The beef fajitas were bland. The flour tortillas fell apart too easily. The beans, rice, and salsa needed more flavor. I like that the beans are 'de olla' and not refried and pureed. But they were still bland. The guac was awful; I could hardly taste the avocados. I had to add salt to the salsa; it was so bland. If I had a wedge of lime, I would have squeezed it into the salsa along with the salt. I like to take the fajitas, vegetables, beans, rice, and guac and make a big burrito with them. I couldn't because the flour tortillas fell apart too easily; they were on the verge of being soggy. The cocktails were good, though. But we will not be back. And we can get good cocktails somewhere else. The cluttered decor on steroids made this place look like a combination of a Mexican gift shop, antique store, museum,and a haunted house. I don't care about the decor, I care about the food. Decor is for tourists, not for locals of SW United States. If you want great food with unpretentious decor, try Tommy Bahama Restaurant, Bar & Store in Palm Desert, California near Palm Springs. ago, I used to frequent a terrific mom-and-pop Mexican restaurant in Palmdale, CA, called Speedy Joe's. Best beef fajitas and salsa I have ever had. Very flavorful. It's been years since I last went, as I no longer live there, so I'm unsure if they still have the same manager or cook. I'm a Mexican food cook who learned from my Mexican Mom. She would not dare serve such bland food as I got here. I make my own chips, salsa, and guac. My chips are hard and crunchy; my salsa is simple yet very flavorful. For my guacamole, I only add salt, diced onions, and a little bit of my famous salsa. The main flavor of my guacamole is avocados, and it is not overpowered by adding foreign, funky ingredients (like lime juice) that detract from the flavor of avocados. Being in San Diego, I can't believe how busy your restaurant was (on a Wednesday), knowing that the Mexican food you serve is sub-par. At least the beef fajitas had no pink in them; we Mexicans tend to like our beef nearly well-done — no pink! I did like the generous portion of vegetables on the beef fajitas plate. I love cooked vegetables. You need to go to the San Fernando Valley, just north of LA, and visit the taco stands, try their beef tacos and salsas, and get their recipes. That's what I did. Along with what my mom taught me and the terrific recipes I've picked up here and there, and by making them my own, I've learned how to make some very flavorful Mexican food. By the way, I would like to thank you for your very level-headed and kind response to my original bad review. I could tell it was not computer-generated since you addressed my specific concerns. But, alas, I will still not be back. Thank you for your time.
Jose J — Google review
4105 Taylor St, San Diego, CA 92110, USA•https://www.casaguadalajara.com/•(619) 295-5111•Tips and more reviews for Casa Guadalajara
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31Parma Cucina Italiana

4.7
(925)
•
4.7
(1197)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$affordable
Italian restaurant
Northern Italian restaurant
Restaurant
Parma Cucina Italiana is a delightful gem nestled in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego, where the essence of Northern Italy comes alive. This charming eatery, run by a passionate husband and wife team with over three decades of culinary expertise from Italy, serves up an array of traditional Italian dishes that evoke a warm, home-cooked feel. From delectable antipasti platters to house-made pasta and hearty meat mains, every bite is infused with love and authenticity.
Absolutely amazing experience! The food and service were both incredible from start to finish. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. I highly recommend this place especially the Profiteroles alla Nutella, which was the highlight of the meal. Can’t wait to come back!
Caroline Z — Google review
Parma is an absolute gem! The Paloma appetizer with sausage was out of this world – full of flavor and the perfect start to our meal. The pasta was so fresh and delicious, it left us wanting more with every bite. The staff was outstanding – attentive, friendly, and truly made us feel welcome. The owner went above and beyond, not only with great customer service but also with his wonderful personality and entertainment that made the night extra special. We will definitely be back for more – highly recommend Parma for an unforgettable Italian dining experience!
Monica M — Google review
This place is without a doubt, one of the best Italian dining experiences San Diego has to offer. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere is warm, inviting, and authentically Italian. It truly deserves every one of its five stars. I started with the Octopus Salad, and it was an absolute revelation. The octopus was perfectly tender—a feat that so many restaurants struggle with—and paired beautifully with fresh, bright flavors that made for a delicate and memorable start to the meal. For the main course, I chose the Lasagna, and it was the highlight of the evening. It was rich, layered with magnificent, tender pasta sheets, savory ragù, and just the right amount of creamy béchamel. This is true comfort food executed with precision and passion. It tasted like it was made in an Italian nonna's kitchen. To finish, the dessert was the perfect capstone. It was a delightful blend of textures and sweetness that concluded the meal on a high note without being heavy. The service was impeccable throughout—attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely friendly. If you are looking for authentic, high-quality Italian food in San Diego, look no further than Parma Cucina Italiana. Go immediately!
A B — Google review
1. Very authentic Italian food, with classic olive oil and vinegar for the bread. All the dishes we ordered were excellent. 2. The staff were very nice and showed genuine passion and care.
Kenny L — Google review
Best 4 cheese gnocchi and tiramisu since Rome! Fantastic. Gelato is among the best we have had outside of Italy. Staff was great and spoke with the owner who spent years in Rome restaurants- it showed. Better than anything I have had in the little Italy area here in SD. You want the real thing- this is it!
Patrick M — Google review
Title: A Taste of Italy! I recently dined at an amazing Italian restaurant, and I was blown away! The authentic dishes took me straight to Italy. Each bite was packed with flavor and passion. The staff? They were incredibly friendly, making the experience even more special. This year, we are hosting an Italian girl, and she loved the food as much as we did! The warmth of the staff made her feel right at home. If you’re looking for a delightful meal and great company, this place is a must-visit! It’s more than just food; it’s an experience that inspires joy and connection.
Sara T — Google review
Food was mouthwateringly scrumdidliumptous! Lol The chicken Parm was tender, moist but fully cooked, and very flavorful. I highly recommend this place for the Italian cuisine connoisseur!
Trevor S — Google review
My husband and I had the most wonderful evening here. The food was absolutely delicious and very authentic Italian. We ordered the burrata and arugula salad that was perfectly seasoned with olive oil and balsamic drizzle. We followed that with tortellini in a prosciutto cream sauce that was to die for and ended with meatballs in a rose sauce that was also so delicious. The restaurant, knowing it was our anniversary surprised us with some vanilla gelato that was like something you’d only get in Italy. Great food and ambience is of course is what attracted us but it was the addition of the lovely Roberta who served us and the owner who is from Rome who really helped make the night so memorable. Thank you both. We’ll be back next time we’re in town!
Andrea B — Google review
3850 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103, USA•https://www.parmaitaliankitchen.com/•(619) 543-0049•Tips and more reviews for Parma Cucina Italiana

32Civico 1845

4.4
(2991)
•
4.5
(1025)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$affordable
Italian restaurant
Vegan restaurant
Civico 1845 is a contemporary Italian restaurant located in California, founded by brothers Dario and Pietro Gallo from Cosenza, Italy. The eatery offers a mix of traditional and vegan Italian dishes, with a full vegan menu available since 2015. The restaurant's focus is on fresh, light, and authentic southern Italian cuisine.
The food and atmosphere is superb. Lucas was our server and made the meal so enjoyable. We started with mussels and fried zucchini, which was a delicacy. We ordered the vegan lasagna, which was scrumptious, and a sausage pasta called casareccia tartufata. Flavors really sang. The pasta is homemade and even during a busy event like the Little Italy festival, the hostess and server went out of their way to take care of us.
J S — Google review
I grabbed some lasagna at Civico 1845 while traveling through San Diego and it was pretty solid. I can't say its as good as my grandma use to make but thats a hard mark to hit. The staff was nice, the space was beautiful, and the food was really good. If you're looking for a nice Italian restaurant in the area.. its an easy recommendation.
Curtis S — Google review
Perfectly cooked pasta! Servers and hosts were awesome. Great Friday date night location as a group or couple! The meatball and the calamari were the best dishes we ordered!
Jan D — Google review
What a wonderful and tasty experience I had with my best friend at this restaurant for my birthday! The staff are super friendly and accommodating! We were checked on be so many staff, and I even think the owner, making sure we had an enjoyable experience. They also have a quality selection of non-alcoholic beverages, and as I am pregnant, I thought that was so fabulous. I ordered the spare-rib stuffed ravioli (with 2 spoonfuls of parmesan cheese) and my, how delicious it was. And the tiramisu was the perfect, delectable night-cap. Such a classy joint with an inviting, down-home atmosphere. I highly recommend you check it out, whether your a local, or visiting and want to have a taste of exquisite Italian cuisine.
Christiana K — Google review
We had been craving good italian for a while and unfortunantly this didnt quite do it. We decided to go with the wild mushroom pasta and instead of a ballance of quality mushrooms and pasta it was a tone of cremini mushrooms that werent very flavorful and were a bit watery. The pasta itself was good but the ratio of mushrooms to pasta was far too high. We didnt have a reservation but were seated right away which was nice but it took a while to get our order in after that. Once we had our order in though they stopped by to fill our waters and give us bread often. The servers were pretty friendly and the atmosphere did feel like an italian dinner. The quality is usually not as big of an issue at normal restraunts but with the price or most meals being around $30 I was hoping for more.
Conner J — Google review
Service and atmosphere were lovely. Víctor and Antonio were wonderful. However, the food did not quite live up to my expectations. Free bread and pesto was delicious, the vegan calamari was good, vegan lasagna was decent, vegan vodka sauce was garlicky which I don't mind, but just extremely plain like pasta and jar sauce you could make at home in 10 min.. vegan cannolis were decent, but I've had vegan cannolis that tasted like the real thing, and these ones did not. The vegan tiramisu had a good flavor, but it was more like pudding than tiramisu. My friend enjoyed seafood dish and the brocolini. I only had water, but my friends enjoyed their wine and nonalcoholic wine. Overall I would say give it chance, but I would appreciate if they improved their vegan dishes. It's not terrible, but really expensive for mid food.
Victoria B — Google review
It was my husbands second time going but my first and we got an amazing server named Luca he was so sweet and checked in periodically even tho he had many tables. I asked for chili flakes and they brought out Calabrian chilies!! I loved it my spaghetti and meatballs was perfect my husband had the papardelle. The hostess was so nice and personable. The chef/owner is from Italy and has carefully curated the menu to be very authentic Italian cuisine. We ended dinner with an affogato and the chef gave us information on where the gelato making was originated from. It was amazing conversations we had, we loved every part of our date night there.
Katie T — Google review
I was pleasantly surprised to find out Civico 1845 offered vegan Italian food in addition traditional offerings and was the first Italian restaurant in the US to do so. The mozzarella caprese was exceptional-the mozzarella was creamy and smooth. The vegan funghi gluten-free penne also impressed me - tasted no different than regular pasta with shredded mozzarella. The staff were delightful-the hostess was friendly and accommodated our request for an outside table, our server Lucas was attentive, fun, and shared the history of the restaurant and its sister restaurant in LA, and the owner also stopped by to chat and check on us. I can’t wait to tell all my vegan friends about this gem in San Diego’s Little Italy. And I’ll be back here next time I’m in town!!
Amanda G — Google review
1845 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://www.civico1845.com/?y_source=1_OTIzMTMwNDItNzE1LWxvY2F0a…•(619) 431-5990•Tips and more reviews for Civico 1845

33The Marine Room

4.4
(1712)
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4.4
(823)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$very expensive
Restaurant
Californian restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Experience a culinary adventure at The Marine Room, an iconic La Jolla establishment with stunning views of the La Jolla Shores. This renowned restaurant has been serving up delectable seafood dishes with global influences for over 75 years, attracting locals, tourists, and even celebrities. Indulge in mouth-watering creations like Moroccan Lamb Lollipops and Dry Aged Bluefin Tuna Carpaccio while taking in breathtaking sunsets at the lounge or main dining room.
Was amazing experience and good food. We love our time there. I ordered oysters and my husband ordered tuna both was amazingly cooked. We celebrated our anniversary and they offered us a complimentary sweet. Love the sunset time if you book your reservation and hour before sunset you should be good.
Elyaa H — Google review
We visited this restaurant to celebrate our one year anniversary, and while there were some really lovely touches, the overall experience didn’t quite live up to the high expectations, especially given the price point. On the positive side, the team customized our menus with a sweet anniversary message, gave us a beautiful window seat with a view, and never made us feel rushed. The service was decent, and the overall vibe was calm and upscale. That said, for a bill that came out to over $700 for two people (with tip), I expected a higher level of attention to detail and execution. I ordered the surf and turf ($157) with my steak medium rare, but it came out medium well. I typically don’t send things back, but at that price, I wanted it done right. To the restaurant's credit, the waiter apologized, had a new steak prepared, and removed the lobster tail from the bill. Still, it left me feeling underwhelmed. There were other small misses, like the yucca fries my partner and I ordered to share. They came out with truffle oil on them, despite us asking for it on the side. Not a huge deal in isolation, but again, for a high-end experience, I expected more care. Maybe it’s my bias coming from the NYC area, where even mid-range restaurants often deliver a wow factor. While this place might be worth it for a one-time special occasion, I personally left disappointed and wouldn’t rush back.
D'ahna B — Google review
We visited there 21 years ago and we excited to bring our friends for dinner. I made reservations for 14 a week in advance and was able to get in for a sunset dinner. Located in the beach in LaJolla it is a great place to dine. The service was wonderful and atmosphere was elegant. I had the filet mignon and Cesar salad.
Amy H — Google review
I had the pleasure of dining at The Marine Room and was thoroughly impressed by the exemplary standard of service and cuisine. From the outset, the staff demonstrated impeccable professionalism, offering attentive and courteous service. The atmosphere was refined and elegant, creating a perfect setting for a sophisticated dining experience. The menu was thoughtfully crafted, showcasing exceptional ingredients and culinary creativity. Each course was presented with great attention to detail, and the flavors were memorable. I would highly recommend it to those seeking exceptional cuisine, outstanding service, and an elegant setting.
I. M — Google review
Worth every penny. From the posh neighbor it sits in next to the Tennis and Beach club to the decor to the food and of course we all go to sit in the lounge and watch the waves. Book for high tide and after the sunset. This gives less reflection while taking photos. Place is amazing. I had the blackened swordfish with an amazing cocktail made with green apples and Grey goose
6CRAN — Google review
The restaurant was absolutely amazing — I loved it! The lobster was especially delicious. Highly recommend! The service was wonderful, and the sunset view over the ocean made the experience even more special.
Olha K — Google review
We got a last-minute reservation and they were able to accommodate with a table with great views. The food was better than what I expected, and we started with beets salad, followed by tuna dish, and their famous branzino. We didn’t try any cocktails instead ordered a glass of Prosecco. Also desserts are so good. Overall pricey, but worth it. Fantastic experience and can’t wait to come back for sunset views.
Marija P — Google review
My husband and I had a great time. We had made reservations for the Rising Tide Dinner and we got such a great table by a window. The view was absolutely gorgeous, skies were clear with wisps of clouds and we enjoyed seeing the sunset and the waves. Food was incredible, presented well and it was delicious. Three course meal was so good everything sounded great. We got the Crudo and Steak Tartare to start. 2nd course we got the Chicken with gnocchi and the Spotted Sea Bass. AMAZING. The desserts were so yummy...Strawberry Cheesecake and the S'mores were great. Had a couple drinks each: Sumac Sunset and Rum for the Hills and overall it was such a relaxing outing. Valet wasn't even that expensive $15, well worth it. Will be back for sure!
Darlene B — Google review
1950 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA•https://www.marineroom.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic…•(858) 459-7222•Tips and more reviews for The Marine Room

34Extraordinary Desserts

4.4
(4676)
•
4.4
(553)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$affordable
Dessert restaurant
Restaurant
Extraordinary Desserts is a popular café celebrated for its wide selection of gourmet desserts, such as cakes and cupcakes adorned with flowers. The owner and executive pastry chef, Karen Krasne, trained at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, ensuring that the desserts are top-notch. The menu features an assortment of treats like coconut cream torte, tangy-sweet tarts, flavorful ice creams, and delectable chocolate-tea cookies.
Gorgeous looking desserts and pleasant ambiance. Taste wise it’s usually hit or miss, but it is still a place worth visiting and desserts worth exploring. Today we got a blueberry cake, a Danish Parisienne and a chocolate chip cookie. We wouldn’t recommend the cookie, but the Blueberry pie was really good. I would like to try Pavlova next time I am here.
Maria M — Google review
Nice view of all the pastries in the front. We ordered the Mixed Berry Greens (greens, butter leaf lettuce, berries, feta, pistachios and raspberry vinaigrette), a Lemon Square and Carrot Cake. I am not the biggest raspberry vinaigrette person but I did enjoy the salad a lot. Also I like the Carrot Cake but my partner did not like the fruit sauce on the bottom. I do have to say it overpowered the Carrot Cake flavor. Overall food was ok, but employees were nice!
Josh B — Google review
I honestly like the 1st location better. The outside sitting and just the over all environment. We stop at this location quite late in the evening and the dessert selection was not the great. Most of the items were not available. My husband got a lemon slice but it was too sweet. I got a strawberry truffle and we really didn’t care for the filling. In the past we really enjoyed eating dessert because they were not sweet at all . Hopefully it was because we didn’t eat what we usually order. We really enjoyed the lattes.
Lourdes A — Google review
Presentation is everything, literally. Flavor is lacking in these pastries. Seems like too much effort is made on presentation. Maybe it’s just me, but I don’t even want rose petals on a dessert, so not sure what the idea is here. The brownie was straight fudge and way too sweet. This could just be my preference for dark chocolate over milk chocolate but still did not like the texture or icing. The pumpkin cheesecake was very mid- it did not hit me in the face with pumpkin pie spices, nutmeg, allspice, etc, which is a must with anything pumpkin to bring it home. The coconut cream cake slice was okay and it was the best coconut cream I’ve had that was not homemade, so that’s something. Cake texture was fluffy and icing was not sugary. I also got a blueberry coffee cake which was the best thing I got but still only a 7/10, would’ve appreciated some lemon or other additional flavors. It tasted like St Louis gooey butter cake with a few blueberries baked in. Begging you to revisit some of these recipes, they’re not amazing yet. Also, wrapping everything individually to be placed in a box is probably not necessary and takes a lot of time when preparing an order.
Logan K — Google review
We stopped by Extraordinary Desserts to try a couple of small desserts. The presentation was definitely a highlight—each treat looked stunning, almost too pretty to eat. The portion sizes were reasonable, though the pricing felt a bit on the higher side for what we got. Not outrageous, but not exactly budget-friendly either. While the variety was impressive, the actual flavors didn’t blow me away. They were enjoyable, but not particularly memorable. The experience was nice, just not as extraordinary as the name might suggest. One downside was the wait. There was a decent line, and ordering took a bit longer than expected. If you’re visiting, plan for a little extra time. Overall, a good place if you’re looking for beautiful desserts with plenty of choices, but not necessarily a must-visit if flavor is your top priority.
Rachel E — Google review
Exceptional and extraordinary desserts. Cakes are over the top in flavor and texture. However they seem to be a bit understaffed or not on top of drink orders. We ordered drinks to go with our cake slices and they seemed to have completely forgotten about them. If we had not flagged them, I don’t think we would have gotten them. Make sure if you get drinks, to proactively check in.
Patrick W — Google review
This place is fancy with delicious desserts at reasonable prices. We went here around 7 or 7:30pm on a Saturday night and it was pretty packed, but we were still able to find a table for 2. They have so many options to choose from and the ambiance is a great place for a date or a hangout spot with family and friends. I'm not really a cake person, but the blood orange ricotta came with some sort of red and a yellow drizzle that tasted so good. The begat strawberry raspberry scone was a little dry, and so adding the drizzle to that really elevated the flavor. Vegan strawberry raspberry scone: 4.5/5 Blood orange ricotta: 5/5
Sheldon R — Google review
Best place for dessert, everything there is perfect, a lot to choose from. All beautiful and so delicious. We got 4 slices of cake all was good . My favorite was the strudel it all good . There mint tea also good . Highly recommend this place!!
Sara A — Google review
1430 Union St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.extraordinarydesserts.com/•(619) 294-7001•Tips and more reviews for Extraordinary Desserts

35Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop

4.6
(953)
•
4.5
(510)
•
Mentioned on 
+1 other list 
$$$$expensive
Steak house
American restaurant
Butcher shop
Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop is a chophouse located at 640 Tenth Avenue in San Diego, CA. The rustic-chic decor creates a Western-meets-modern vibe that appeals to both locals and tourists. The restaurant features an on-site butcher and an open kitchen where guests can witness the culinary magic firsthand. The menu offers standard meat cuts alongside offal and wild game, all of which are humanely raised.
Cowboy Star is hands down one of the best dining experiences in San Diego! The food is consistently incredible, and the service is just as amazing. From the moment you walk in, Kristal at the front makes you feel genuinely welcomed and taken care of — she remembers you and greets you with such warmth every time. Arturo and Victor behind the bar are fantastic — not only are they great at what they do, but they’re also so personable and friendly, which really adds to the overall vibe. Manager Tony also makes a point to check in and ensure everything is going smoothly, which shows how much the team cares. Truly a place where the staff goes above and beyond. Highly recommend for a night out, special occasion, or just a really good meal.
Thalia C — Google review
My goodness! What a great experience! Service was outstanding and the food was beyond great. The flank steak of all things was phenomenal. The white sea bass was fresh and cooked perfectly. The banana "pudding" dessert was incredible. Save room for that!
Tim S — Google review
What a beautiful restaurant, the ambience felt like I was in the past but with elegance. Service was superb and the food was phenomenal. My family loved it!!! We had the Porterhouse for 2, Mussels, 2 oz A5 Wagyu (melter in our mouth) and the dry aged rib eye. Every single one of the dishes was so delightfully good, it melted on your mouth. Perfect seasoning and perfect cooking on how we wanted our steak. Thank you.
Francis F — Google review
Had an amazing time at Cowboy Star! The food was spot on — my wife’s Old Fashioned was made just right, the oysters were super fresh, and the cowboy ribeye was cooked perfectly. We grabbed seats at the bar on a busy Friday night and Cassandra took great care of us. She was super professional, really attentive, and somehow kept everything running smoothly while juggling a packed bar. Great food, great service, great vibe — we’ll definitely be back!
Jheremy T — Google review
We ordered the bread service of course and then our entrees were ribeye with green beans almondine and mashed potatoes and the pork chops with braised cabbage and potatoes dauphin. The food was delicious. Potatoes crisp outside fluffy inside. Beans buttery and garlicky and both meats were perfectly cooked. The staff were so kind and generous. Chef gave us amuse vouches with a whole lot of ingredients but basically broke down as vegetable soup in one bite. Restaurant is beautiful and highly recommended.
Heather P — Google review
Here is a list of things that make me go YEEHAW: - Reflecting back on the night of my engagement - Cowboy Star’s steaks - A rootin’ tootin’ good time Cowboy Star’s name is inspired by the charm of classic Western movies and their ‘cowboy [movie] stars.’ Without knowing more about Cowboy Star, one might consider: “Wow, Justin, why did you bring your fiancée to a cowboy-themed restaurant where some guy in a tiny cowboy hat calls you Hoss and grits his teeth every time he’s forced to say ‘I reckon’?” I didn’t! Cowboy Star pulls it off in a classy, effortless way. Nothing is TOO cowboy. Instead of Wild Wild West, it’s probably just Wild West. Just one wild. Anyway, this place is perfect to celebrate a milestone in your life. For us, it was our engagement, but for you, maybe it’s an anniversary, a regular date, or you’re just celebrating how much you like steak. And really, you should. Cowboy Star has an in-house butcher, so you’re getting fresh cuts here. In my opinion, that makes it the best steakhouse in San Diego. It doesn’t need the frills of some of the other steakhouses. The beef speaks for itself. My brand new fiancée and I got appetizer of French onion soup and beef tartare. The soup was very good. The beef tartare came with amazing bread and both were so fresh. We also both got steak, which was the (cowboy) star of the show. I’m sorry for the previous sentence. I felt like I had to. The drinks were top notch too. And our server did our best to make the evening special, which made the experience stand out. Did he bring us champagne? Yes. Did he wish us a happy anniversary? Also yes. Technically, it was the year-zero anniversary of our engagement, so he wasn’t 100% wrong. The attempt was there. Anyway, I’d highly recommend Cowboy Star. The booths are large, the steaks are tasty, and the yeehaws are all in your head.
Justin S — Google review
Wow what an incredible evening! Amazing food and even better service. We sat at the bar in front of the dessert station and we had dinner and a show. It was great to see the desserts be made as we were sitting there. For appetizers we ordered the steak tartare and I was blown away at how good it was! It really was amazing. I ordered the 18oz cowboy ribeye cut for dinner and WOW! 35 days dry aged and you could totally tell! We got a side of Mac and cheese that we loved as well. I ordered a mocktail on the menu (spicy Moscow mule) and loved that as well! Cannot go wrong here!
Samuel S — Google review
We brought our team to Cowboy Star for a group outing, and it was truly an unforgettable experience! The food was phenomenal, the atmosphere was spot-on, and the service exceeded all expectations. Every team member left full and happy — not just from the delicious dishes, but from the genuine hospitality we received from start to finish. A huge thank you to Veronica, our server, who was incredibly attentive and on top of every order with grace and a smile. Also, big shout-outs to Malea and Rachel for helping coordinate all the details behind the scenes — your efforts didn’t go unnoticed. We felt welcomed and taken care of the entire evening. We’ll definitely be visiting again soon!
Rob F — Google review
640 Tenth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.cowboystar.com/•(619) 450-5880•Tips and more reviews for Cowboy Star Restaurant and Butcher Shop
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36MARKET Restaurant + Bar

4.8
(549)
•
4.7
(335)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$very expensive
Restaurant
Californian restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Sushi restaurant
Nestled in the heart of Del Mar, MARKET Restaurant + Bar offers a sophisticated dining experience that beautifully showcases California cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant's earthy decor, featuring warm tones like persimmon and sage, complements chef Carl Schroeder's innovative dishes that often incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables. Guests can indulge in culinary delights such as blue cheese soufflé paired with Bartlett pears or savor the signature Cabernet-braised short ribs alongside roasted winter veggies.
The food here is as good as it gets. Carl is absolutely brilliant in his combinations of flavors. The dishes have amazing complexity, with no ingredient getting in the way of another. The portion sizes are very generous. Chelsea our waitress was on top of all our needs, in a perfect way. Everyone was professional. The greeters, bus people and the kitchen staff. It was truly wonderful from beginning to end. We live 160 miles from here. Otherwise we would eat here at least once a week. I don’t understand Michlin not giving them multiple stars.
George D — Google review
MARKET is a 5 star restaurant in every way. Our server was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. The room was beautiful, and quiet enough for easy conversation. The four of us brought in wine which paired wonderfully with the gourmet cuisine. Everyone loved their meals. I had the apple smoked king salmon to start, and the short ribs as my entree. The plating was stunning, and the tastes were carefully chosen, woven together and prepared perfectly. Desserts were also delicious! We look forward to returning to MARKET on our next trip to southern California!
Clifford E — Google review
Not a bad meal for the price! Service is very attentive and clean. Most of the dishes were great. The bar area is also a sushi spot which is cool. They have these fancy degloved almonds from Spain on the cheeseboard too. Menu changes daily so no recommendations.
Timothy T — Google review
Market Restaurant and Bar came highly recommended to my husband and I and we could not be happier we dined there. The bartender Jay made a very well shaken martini just like my husband loves. The wine selection is great. The bar and lounge area are super inviting. The restaurant is sleek and elegant in design. The manager Umberto is the best. He brings hospitality to another level. We loved our server Lilah she was attentive and anticipated our every need. My husband started off with the Brentwood farm sweet corn soup and he loved every drop. I had the braised bacon and heirloom tomato salad then duck for my husband and tuna for me along with a braised short rib. For dessert we ordered both the chocolate and melon. We left the restaurant feeling full, satisfied and ready to return another time!
Melissa C — Google review
Market’s Pre Fixe menu is absolutely to die for. They are so incredibly consistent - I have visited multiple times in the past 3-4 years, and each visit was met with incredible food, wonderful flavors, lovely service (not too over-the-top), and just an all around stellar experience. I don’t live in the San Diego area, but every time I visit this part of the US, I look forward to coming back here. They are incredible. So consistent. Kudos to the chef and team. Keep it up. Your hard work is appreciated.
London B — Google review
The food was spectacular, just like Ted our server!! Wow! Every dish was memorable and Devine!
Elizabeth D — Google review
I came here for my husband’s birthday dinner and was completely wowed. It was one of the best meals we have had in the past year. I am not a huge prix fixe menu person because there is a lot I do not/cannot eat but there was so much to choose from with each course. Every single course was delicious. The portions I thought were quite large. My highlight was actually the dessert. I never ever order dessert. I just don’t have a big sweet tooth but, The Rhubarb Sundae. I am still thinking about it.
Rebecca A — Google review
We truly enjoyed our meal at Market Restaurant and Bar. The staff was friendly and the food was wonderful. The corn soup was our favorite with the other dishes being full of flavor. We will definitely be coming again!
Melissa A — Google review
3702 Via De La Valle, Del Mar, CA 92014, USA•http://www.marketdelmar.com/•(858) 523-0007•Tips and more reviews for MARKET Restaurant + Bar

37Ambrogio15 Pacific Beach

4.6
(687)
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4.8
(312)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Pizza restaurant
Italian restaurant
Ambrogio15 is a pizzeria with locations in La Jolla, Little Italy, and Del Mar that serves up delicious Italian food. The atmosphere is fun and hip, and their selection of drinks make it the perfect place to relax with friends. Their thin crust pizza is authentic and delicious, and you really can't go wrong here.
Cozy and small space. They’ve added baked pastas which I love even more than the pizza. Amazing caprese salad. Large portions which are great for sharing. Definitely worth checking out if you have not yet!
Debra P — Google review
Ambrogio15 Pacific Beach is a truly authentic Italian pizza restaurant. If you don’t like thick-crust pizza, come here for their super-thin pizzas—absolutely delicious! With eight people, we averaged around $25 per person, ordered three appetizers and four pizzas. Great value for money!
Momo Z — Google review
Service: Big shoutout to our server, Jacques — super friendly and attentive! Food: The house salad was really refreshing, and the pizza totally reminded us of our trip to Italy — thin crust and so authentic! The espresso and latte were both excellent. We loved everything we ordered and had such a nice, relaxing brunch on the outdoor patio. Parking: Easy to find parking in the early afternoon, just keep in mind there’s a 2-hour street parking limit.
Teadrinker — Google review
Outdoor seating was pleasant with good weather. The food definitely hit the mark for what you would expect. I got a gluten free pizza and it was good. The crust wasn't anything special but overall it was a tasty pizza. I loved the red sauce, the perfect pizza sauce
Blaine J — Google review
Pizza was disgusting. I made better pizza as a 4 year old. It was under cooked, paper thin and floppy with cold tomato sauce and cheese falling off it. This wasn’t a pizza, it was a crepe in a tomato bath with pieces of cheese on top. I truly wish I could go back to a time where I never tasted a pizza so bad.
Rafael Z — Google review
Very quiet and relaxing atmosphere. My cappuccino was delicious! Pizza was very fresh. Service was polite and welcoming.
Anna W — Google review
I met Chef Fabio after spending a month in Italy. What an evening!! Authentic Italian food prepared and served by the best Italian chef in San Diego. Fabio made our family’s celebration spectacular. Our out-of-town guests from NY made us promise to bring them to the restaurant on their next visit. We’re looking forward to it!! Grazie Fabio!!!!
Anne S — Google review
An amazing higher-end pizza spot off Turquoise. Their food reeks of quality. The pizza sauce is savory and memorable, as is the basil and mozzarella! Their salads are also super good. Service is insane here as well. The staff is very helpful and sweet. This is a great spot for a date or a small party. Can’t recommend Ambrogio15 enough! Update: Came back a couple weeks ago with my parents and grandmother for a special celebratory dinner. Hadn’t been here since my first visit a few years back. Everything was even better than I remember. The pizza and lasagna were incredibly tasty. They were very rich but didn’t feel super heavy in your stomach. Very deep flavor in the sauces for both. The cheese board was fabulous as well—it was a nice spread with a lot of variety. The Gorgonzola and Manchego were my favorites, along with the jam. This spot is still high on my list of Italian restaurants in San Diego. Certainly worthy of a visit, and an indoor reservation could work really well for a nice date night.
Christopher G — Google review
926 Turquoise St h, San Diego, CA 92109, USA•http://www.ambrogiopacificbeach.com/•(858) 291-8650•Tips and more reviews for Ambrogio15 Pacific Beach

38Campfire

4.6
(2439)
•
4.5
(294)
•
Mentioned on 
+1 other list 
$$$$expensive
New American restaurant
Restaurant
Campfire is a popular indoor/outdoor restaurant known for its wood-fired American cuisine and creative cocktails, set amidst a camping-themed decor. Housed in a midcentury Quonset hut adorned with quirky outdoor elements, the restaurant features a 12-foot wood-burning hearth that infuses smoky flavors into various dishes, such as crispy roasted broccoli with chermoula sauce and grilled octopus with Jimmy Nardello peppers.
I was told repeatedly how phenomenal Campfire was. My expectations were high, and even those were surpassed. All the food was absolutely delicious. The presentation, the service, the atmosphere. They excelled in all of these. I was extremely glad we came here for my girlfriend’s birthday. They were so kind and courteous. Absolutely worth a 2 hour drive just to dine at this establishment.
Christian N — Google review
Atmosphere - great, casual to formal vibe, natural and friendly vibe Service - really good! Food - Cornbread - mind blowing Broccoli - do not skip, especially if you like kale Chips. It’s impressive how they so evenly dehydrated the top of broccoli Fish - to be honest, fish right after the broccoli-the charcoal taste was too overwhelming for me. It’d be nice if they give tips on ordering a balanced menu! Very nice restaurant. Would recommend.
Jenna M — Google review
We went for so many things in the menu and they were all terrific! Oyster warmed over coals, smoked oxtail dashi, pickled onion Bluefin crudo, strawberry, rhubarb, mint Carrots charred, preserved huckleberry, honeycomb, fromage blanc Charred broccoli, chermoula, lime, peanut Pork belly smoked, rainbow carrot, pistachios Koji dry aged ribeye, chimichurri Potato Au gratin with double smoked bacon, charred onion and raclette cheese Passion fruit sorbet Baked Alaska to finish it off. Service was excellent, ambiance was very nice for a date. It’s mid and family friendly too.
Jarred P — Google review
I really enjoyed the smoky undertone of the menu. The dishes illustrated the combination of high quality ingredients with creativity and levity. I enjoyed my mocktail Apres ski. We had the smoked olives, bread smoked oysters and whole head of charred broccoli as starters. The broccoli was absolutely flavorful. I like my Octopus main course very much. One of our guests was vegan and there were options to adopt dishes to make them vegan. I love that they offer such flexibility.
Teresa W — Google review
We celebrated our anniversary here, and everything was truly exceptional. The food was incredible — the ribeye and the octopus were absolutely amazing! For dessert, we had the Alaska, and it was delicious. The cocktails were also on point and perfectly crafted. Our server, Jasper, made the night even better. He was kind, attentive, and provided excellent service from start to finish. The place itself is wonderful and cozy, the perfect spot for a special night. Definitely a 10/10. Highly recommend!
Alma B — Google review
Campfire was a real treat for a birthday celebration. We opted for outdoor seating, which was on a lovely patio with heated lamps — so comfy it felt like we were inside! Food was superb, the waitresses really know the menu. Got the blueberry rosemary cornbread (yummy, melts in your mouth), beet salad (so fresh, goat cheese very good), mushroom cavatelli (the freshest pasta!!!), and finished off with a decadent pumpkin baked alaska (suchhhh a treat!). Can’t recommend this restaurant enough. It was the perfect end to a fun day in Carlsbad.
Andrea Y — Google review
My wife and I just celebrated our anniversary here. It was DELICIOUS! We had the cornbread and carrots, then my wife had the fish and I had the river. Every part of this meal was delicious and we left absolutely satisfied. The cornbread was great, and my wife and I could not stop talking about the carrots. I'd order those any day of the week. The fish was a locally caught sea bass - and it was also fantastic. Perfectly cooked with a great sauce. The ribeye was cooked perfectly, generously sized with a very tasty chimichurri. Id absolutely recommend Campfire!
Connor A — Google review
This is exactly the kind of very dark restaurant I usually dislike — impossible to get decent food photos. But the food was so good, I’ll let it slide. 🤣 Among new American restaurants, this one really stands out. Nothing too salty or heavy, just beautifully fire-roasted dishes with well-balanced, flavorful sauces. The dessert was a highlight: a very creative panna cotta, layered with watermelon and bright citrus notes — surprisingly good and memorable. As untrained diners, we felt the complexity of flavors in some dishes almost hit a Michelin one-star level.🌟 For appetizers, we went with the waitress’s recommendations: cornbread, crisps, pork belly, and oysters. All amazing — I’d recommend every one of them. The entrées were a bit less exciting. Still good, just not as impressive as the starters. I liked the pasta and grilled fish, but the chicken was pretty underwhelming. All in all, definitely worth a visit — just don’t expect to come away with nice photos!
Jackie Z — Google review
2725 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA•http://thisiscampfire.com/•(760) 637-5121•Tips and more reviews for Campfire

39Pomegranate

4.7
(1748)
•
4.5
(141)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Georgian restaurant
Restaurant
Russian restaurant
Nestled in the vibrant North Park neighborhood of San Diego, Pomegranate is a delightful haven for those craving authentic Russian and Georgian cuisine. The restaurant's inviting ambiance, characterized by its warm candlelit glow and friendly atmosphere, makes you feel right at home. As you step inside, you're greeted not by formalities but with a genuine welcome that sets the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.
Continues to be a favorite! Delicious and most importantly - consistent! Can’t go wrong with several dishes but our favorites are the golubtsi (cabbage rolls) and sampler platter which is great for 2 people. Don’t forget to try Georgian wine and beer or the vodka flight. Friendly staff and unique atmosphere.
Breana M — Google review
This was our first foray into Russian cuisine. It was a refreshig surprise! The food was very tasty, and the service was great. The atmosphere was lively, and the portions were generous! The only complaint is parking can be tough, and inside dining space is tight.
Dan S — Google review
The food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented, making it really enjoyable to see and taste. The flavors were perfect and truly satisfying. The waiter was very friendly and welcoming, which made the experience even better. The restaurant was quite busy, so at times it was a little hard to get the staff’s attention, but that’s completely understandable given how popular the place is.
Pegah K — Google review
The sampler salad is great for trying out if it’s your first time there. We ordered all the popular food and everything was delicious! The sever was super helpful and friendly. Definitely must come back
Bobo F — Google review
This was my first time trying Georgian cuisine, and I’m absolutely blown away! Everything — from the khachapuri to the salads and the Georgian wine — was top-notch. The flavors were incredible, and you can truly feel the heart and tradition in every dish. The atmosphere was cozy, and the service was excellent. Thank you for such a wonderful introduction to Georgian food — I’ll definitely be back and bringing friends!
Mila D — Google review
The stroganoff was great. Enough noodles for a small child, Noodles are cheap. They weren't even egg noodles, they were rotini noodles which are cheap. You could afford to give more noodles. Enough stroganoff for double the noodles provided. The cheese boat with egg, had no egg. I had to make an egg and add it myself. It was undercooked, cheese was barely melted. I don't think it was worth the $53.88 I spent to pick this up. I'm disappointed as before Covid when I dined in at the restaurant it was amazing. No more words. I hope everyone else has a better experience than we did tonight.
Shuree W — Google review
Pomegranate – A Passport to Authentic Russian & Georgian Cuisine Pomegranate isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a rare gem where true Russian and Georgian flavors come to life without the need for a plane ticket. The borsch is the real deal: rich, hearty, packed with tender beef and vibrant red beets—just like the classic recipe. The pork shashlik? Grilled to perfection, so authentic it took me straight back to when I was grilling it myself at ten years old. And the Georgian khinkali? Juicy, fresh, bursting with flavor, and perfectly paired with their signature sauces made to order. If you’re craving bold, soulful Eastern European food without leaving town, this spot is an absolute must.
Alex S — Google review
I was craving some of the foods posted by so many who've eaten here that I finally went. Service is really good; the staff is very attentive. The atmosphere is okay, a bit dated. The walls all over the dining room had messages and graffiti scribbled on them from the base of the tables almost to the very high roof. We tried several dishes, some were I believe appetizers. First was the beet salad... it was surprisingly good despite saying it had walnuts (didn't know how they would taste with the beats. The salad was kind of pureed. Next we had pelmeni, a kind of small dumpling filled with chicken and served with a dill yogurt sauce. Very tasty. Next we tried the cachapuri (potato and cheese).served very similar to a 10-12 inch pizza. I was hoping to get the more traditional shape, although I doubt the taste is different. I had never tried it and it was quite tasty. Personal preference would have been if the bottom would have been crisper, tasted a little undercooked. The best part of our meal was the honey cake. They drizzle a pomegranate molasses on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream that is served with a very generous sized slice of this exceptional dessert. Another comment is we never got a clean plate after we were served the beet salad, suggest they provide clean plates with every dish served. Again, the staff and service were very good, food was tasty but nothing out of this world, other than the cake.
Allan H — Google review
2312 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92104, USA•http://pomegranatesd.com/•(619) 298-4007•Tips and more reviews for Pomegranate

40Sushi Tadokoro

4.7
(790)
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4.5
(110)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$expensive
Sushi restaurant
Sushi Tadokoro is a cozy and intimate restaurant located in Old Town, San Diego. The venue offers traditional Edo-mae-style sushi, showcasing the skills of Chef Takeaki Tadokoro and young chef Tatsuro Tsuchiya. Known for its attention to detail, the restaurant prides itself on homemade sauces and fresh fish delivered from Japan with remarkable speed.
Sushi Tadokoro offers one of San Diego’s most authentic and refined sushi experiences. Located in Mission Hills in a modest, intimate setting, the restaurant impresses with beautifully prepared sushi and sashimi crafted by skilled chefs who honor traditional techniques. The fish is consistently fresh, delicate, and of exceptional quality. Attentive and knowledgeable service enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for sushi purists or those seeking genuine Japanese cuisine.
Andrew L — Google review
Upon entering, it was immediately apparent that this establishment would be a delightful experience. We were warmly welcomed by the friendly hostess and promptly seated. The owner and chef were exceptionally personable and well-informed. The cuisine was simply outstanding, featuring incredibly fresh ingredients. I highly recommend the Umi and the Eel, though everything on the menu is certainly worth exploring. I fully intend to return to this hidden treasure.
Rich H — Google review
Sushi Tadakoro offers the freshest sushi in town — truly deserving of its Michelin recognition. The service is top-notch, attentive, and warm from start to finish. We started with perfectly seasoned edamame and a crisp, light tempura set — both beautifully prepared and a great way to begin the meal. For the main course, we ordered the T, K, S sashimi set (Tuna, Kampachi, and Salmon), and every piece was absolutely delicious — fresh, flavorful, and expertly sliced. The fatty tuna sushi melted in our mouths, while the Kampachi, Tuna, and Salmon sashimi showcased incredible texture and balance. The hot green tea paired perfectly with the meal, and the hot sake was outstanding — smooth and aromatic. We finished with their homemade Shiratama-Zenzai dessert, the perfect sweet ending to an exceptional dining experience. Overall, Sushi Tadakoro delivers a perfect combination of quality, craftsmanship, and hospitality. Definitely worth a visit — and well deserving of its Michelin award. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
MARVIN V — Google review
there are several popular sushi restaurants in SD but when it comes to sushi, i like mine traditional and exceptional… and edo period style sushi is my jam. after reading through reviews on google, and comparing them against instagram and website reviews (its like studying for an exam!) ive decided if i only have one meal for sushi it has to be at Sushi Tadokoro. I WASNT DISAPPOINTED. and im a big sushi snob. ordered the lunch sushi omakase and was blown away. at US$165 per pax, this was way more affordable than the S$350 pricetag i pay for sushi back home in singapore. my highlight: live spotted prawn sashimi. and trigger fish + trigger fish liver nigiri. chef tadokoro was super friendly and engaging and allowed photos - that latter’s frowned upon in traditional sushiyas in japan. 10/10 recommend. RESERVATIONS ONLY - NO WALK INS. this aint your run of mill conveyor belt sushi joint - sushi chefs of this calibre need to prep the ingredients before hand.
Rosalyn L — Google review
Course 1 appetizers - monkfish liver subbed for tofu because I asked to avoid tofu, I was surprised that it was so decadent. oyster was also really good Course 2 sashimi - all great, toro was best Course 3 Chilean sea bass with sweet miso and pickled ginger - perfect Course 4 shrimp shell - crunchy, was like a nice snack. We were wondering where the rest of the shrimp went, until course 5 :) Course 5 nigiri - perfect Course 6 salmon roe and San Diego Uni - incredible Course 7 tuna yakitori with teriyaki glaze - was good but probably my least favorite course Course 8 more nigiri - perfect Soup Fish bone soup - Clear broth with a lot of pure fish flavor. Dessert Panna Cotta - somehow tasted like a smooth chocolate. Best panna cotta I’ve ever tasted, and it was homemade
Amy L — Google review
Could hardly believe this sushi was hiding behind such a modest storefront in Old Town. The omakase was a masterclass in simplicity and detail, with each piece perfectly balanced. The uni from Hokkaido and California stood out, and even the flame touched mackerel tasted like something I will still be thinking about. The staff and chefs took care of me in a way that felt personal, not just polished, and I walked away feeling like I had something really special. Getting a reservation for Saturday can be a bit of a bet since spots fill up fast, but that little scramble in advance was definitely worth it. Parking is not spacious, with a small lot nearby, and they even sketch you a map to make sure you park right, but good luck leaving disappointed. Once I was inside, everything felt intimate and calm. The traditional approach, the chefs at the bar, and the lack of hype around the place made it feel like a genuine experience, not just another sushi outing.
Carlton S — Google review
Been to this spot multiple times and when I have the time (and the reservation!) I will make the trip. One of my favorite sushi spots that has the quality and some of the feel of an omakase place but without the pressure of needing to eat everything they give you. You order from a menu and can ask for additional things, really really great. Can't wait for my next trip to San Diego.
Jason C — Google review
Wonderful omakase experience. Explanations for each piece were thorough and the sushi chef who did our omakase was very nice! Sushi pieces (Mackerel, amberjack, toro, striped jack, etc) were very fresh! Favorite was the sushi hand roll with amazing uni (from Hokkaido) and ikura!
Miche — Google review
2244 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110, USA•http://sushitadokoro.com/•(619) 297-0298•Tips and more reviews for Sushi Tadokoro
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41Miguel's Cocina

4.4
(2013)
•
4.5
(26)
•
Mentioned on 
3 lists 
$$$$affordable
Mexican restaurant
Miguel's Cocina is a bustling restaurant chain known for its margaritas and California-inspired Mexican cuisine. The flagship location on Coronado Island offers a moderately classy dining experience, starting with warm tortilla chips, salsa, and unparalleled sour cream. The extensive menu includes soaked shrimp enchiladas and brisket-stuffed chile relleno. It's also a kid-friendly spot with appealing flavors and a welcoming patio.
Came as a large group with a reservation and they did excellent in caring for us. Drinks came out all together. Food came out in a quick fashion. It did feel very celebratory. Fajitas are good and prefer the steak. Shrimp was cooked well but I felt could be more seasoned. Chicken and pork were dry. Flour tortillas were the way to go. Carajillo was good.
E L — Google review
First time at Miguel's and hands-down best meal we've had in our week in San Diego. Promptly seated outside at table for two directly on the water at sunset. Service was extremely fast considering how busy it became shortly thereafter. Delicious food and free chips and salsa while we waited. To top it off, we asked for a box for our few remaining chips and they brought us an entire bag of fresh ones! Highly recommended.
Matt M — Google review
The food is amazing but honestly the staff was even better. We had a great time. We had fish tacos, carne asada, and taco of the month. Also Passionfruit margaritas was delicious. If you can get a outside seat do it! The views are beautiful.
Alexandria B — Google review
Miguel’s Cocina was a phenomenal experience. Came here on a Sunday afternoon with a party of 4 and requested a table outside. I was given a 30 estimated time but waited about half of that time. They brought us water right away and had children coloring page and crayons available right away. Chips and salsa came quickly as well, also cheese jalapeño sauce, yum! The food was really good as well! We ordered the kids the carnitas plate which came with beans and rice, they approved! The carne asada plate was so flavorful I like it better than any other meat I’ve had recently. I ordered the Enchiladas Sucias and was satisfied by how filling it was. There was plenty of shredded chicken in there and the green salsa was so good. Our margaritas did not disappoint as well, strong because of the reposado tequila but yum! Churros and ice cream was delicious! The harbor view was spectacular. Loved it here!
Moni G — Google review
Just walking into Miguel’s Cocina you’re surrounded by eye pleasing decoration pieces and the vibe of a waterfront restaurant. The music is very well selected, so the ambient is set up good. I sat on the outside tables next to the water and they even asked if the sun was too hot so they could bring the shade down. Initially they brought out corn chips which were warm and recently made as well as the salsa which was tomato based, tasty, and well seasoned. It wasn’t too hot, but you can feel the spice. They also brought out their signature white sauce which tastes like drippy white cheese mixed with some peppers, it’s a 10/10 sauce. I ordered the Carne Asada (Medium). The carne asada was cooked all the way through, so it wasn’t medium except on the thicker part which was maybe a bite size area. However the seasoning and marinade was tasty and the little char pieces also added flavor. The orange rice is a classic and the flavors were there, the beans with the cheese on top were also flavorful and the texture on both was great. They also serve the dish with three tortillas and they also tasted delicious. I ordered the Calamari which i’ve never tried before so I didn’t have a reference to, but it tasted bland. Not sure if the calamari itself was not seasoned correctly or if the breading wasn’t seasoned well, but it was only alright. They served the calamari with the white sauce, a lime wedge, a green onion, and some pico de gallo. Overall experience was great, but the food might need a little bit more work done. GREAT service, Mariana was keeping up with the food and her attention was amazing. Would come again mainly for the ambient and location.
Marcos C — Google review
This is a wonderful restaurant with a great view, located on the second floor of the beach. The food is delicious, the service is good, and the prices are reasonable. The most expensive dish was the fried seafood, which was around $24, but most dishes were around $18. I smiled as I watched a few people, who seemed to be friends, sitting at the bar and cheering cheerfully.
Jong K — Google review
This place is a fantastic mexican food place! The chips and salsa were amazing, my chicken fajitas wonderful, and the beer nice and cold. Mariana the bartender did a great job and took care of everything for me. This is my third time in San diego and next time I am in the area, I will definitly be hitting this spot up again! Thanks to all the staff for a great experience!
James ( — Google review
Food was good, not wow! Vibe/atmosphere 10/10. The nachos to start were 10/10. Fish tacos were 7/10, fajitas were 8/10, raspberry mojito 9/10, cake 10/10.
Patrishya A — Google review
1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.miguels-cocina.com/•(619) 719-4962•Tips and more reviews for Miguel's Cocina

42Cori Pastificio Trattoria

4.6
(463)
•
5.0
(13)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
$$$$affordable
Italian restaurant
Pasta shop
Restaurant
Cori Pastificio Trattoria, located in the lively North Park neighborhood of San Diego, is a beloved Italian eatery owned by Chef Accursio Lota. Since its establishment in 2019, this cozy yet modern restaurant has become a local favorite. The menu changes with the seasons, ensuring a delightful surprise with each visit. While there may be a wait for the made-to-order dishes, the friendly staff and delicious food make it well worth it.
While I will say that the price of my dish was very steep (risotto with prawns), It was a 10 out of 10. definitely a splurge for me but absolutely recommend this place. I wasn’t a fan of the espresso martini nor the dessert my friend chose but I know that the other dessert would have probably been much better. She had some cream puff thing that was just OK. I’m still giving this place five stars because the food is absolutely phenomenal and they are super awesome and the ambience is very chill which I love.
Eve M — Google review
Great food and great service! I had the course with the wine pairing and everything on it was a great selection and flavor. I truly recommend if you go to San Diego!
Sara K — Google review
By far one of the best restaurants in the city. I dream of this food!! It is my number one recommendation to family/friends that visit San Diego and a great place for a date night or celebration. The cacio é Pepe donuts are heaven. I order them every time I’m here. The gnocchi is another one of my favorite dishes. In the past, I’ve also had amazing short rib and fish dishes here. The staff is always kind and attentive.
Annalee S — Google review
Delicious Italian cuisine at Cori Pastificio Trattoria in North Park! Perfect spot for a date night, beautiful ambiance matched with excellent service. The agnolotti was one of the best tasting dishes I’ve had this year, and I eat three times a day. We also enjoyed the Ditalini squid ink pasta and wagyu carpaccio. Great wine too! Lots of indoor and dog friendly outdoor seating. Recommend!
Wandering P — Google review
Dining at this Italian restaurant was an absolute delight from start to finish. The moment I walked in, I was welcomed with warm hospitality and an atmosphere that instantly transported me to Italy — cozy, elegant, and full of charm. The food was outstanding. Every dish was crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients and bursting with authentic flavor. The pasta was perfectly cooked, rich yet balanced in sauce, and the wood-fired pizza had the perfect crisp with just the right amount of smokiness. The appetizers set the tone beautifully, and dessert was the perfect finale — indulgent without being overly sweet. Service was impeccable: attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, with staff who made wonderful recommendations and ensured everything flowed seamlessly. This restaurant is a true gem — whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a family gathering, or simply craving comforting Italian cuisine, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.
Rola A — Google review
What an amazing restaurant! The food is top notch and the staff is some of the best I have ever experienced. Everyone is super friendly and gives you what you need before you ask. Thanks for amazing Italian food for a date night.
Acupuncture A — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Warm atmosphere, outstanding service, and absolutely delicious food! Every time we’ve visited Cori Pacifico, we’ve been impressed, and everyone we’ve brought along has been blown away. The staff makes you feel welcome from the moment you walk in, and the dishes are consistently flavorful and beautifully presented. It’s the kind of place that turns a simple meal into a memorable experience. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a spot that combines comfort, quality, and genuine
Glen A — Google review
To the Two Moms Who Sent a Bottle of Wine 💕🍷🌈 We were a table of five lesbians (two of us recently engaged!) having dinner last night — Thursday, Nov 6 — when we noticed your beautiful family: two women and your adorable toddler, maybe around 2 years old. One of you had a red stocking cap, the other blonde, and you both radiated warmth. You sent over a bottle of wine to celebrate our friends’ engagement — the sweetest surprise and such a kind gesture. We spent the rest of the evening wishing we’d asked for your info to thank you properly (and to be friends!). If you happen to see this: thank you for making our night. We’d love to return the favor sometime — maybe a queer game night or our next dinner party.
Jesse P — Google review
2977 Upas St, San Diego, CA 92104, USA•http://coripasta.com/•(619) 573-6159•Tips and more reviews for Cori Pastificio Trattoria

43Paradisaea

4.5
(189)
•
3.5
(6)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
Restaurant
Paradisaea, a restaurant in Bird Rock, is inspired by the vibrant birds of paradise and offers contemporary California cuisine in a tropical setting. The executive chef, Mark Welker, formerly a pastry chef at Michelin-starred restaurants in New York, ensures that dessert is a must-try. The dining room is Instagram-worthy with live piano music adding to the fun and vibrant atmosphere. Guests praise the delicious food and friendly service while admiring the restaurant's architectural beauty.
Elyse Marie is the truuuuuuth as a server. She was bomb and so were all of her colleagues. The burger was an absolute delight, as was the Caesar and raviolis. The veal Milanese was fantastic and the pork chop was out of this world. The sundae was also delicious. Loved sitting outside on the patio. This is the second time I’ve been here and it was with a previous chef and the food is still outstanding and the service was phenomenal. Oh, the duck fat fries were meh.
Matthew A — Google review
We have wanted to try Paradisea for some time now, since it showed up on Michelins list some time ago with a Bib rating. I have to say, there are better options in the area in terms of food, beverage and service. The service was great. We had a very energetic and attentive server. The cocktail service was very disappointing, my wife ordered a drink on their special menu was all but water and loaded with too much ice. A generic seltzer from 7/11 would have been better. My whiskey sour was good, but not good enough coming from a Michelin watched restaurant. It also took forever to get the drinks and it was early, there were only two people sitting at the bar and the dining room was not busy. We ordered the stracchiatella to start. Really good flavor, but why would you pair it with bread to dip that was soaked with olive oil? Should be plain French bread or… you get the idea. My wife’s tagliatella was good, but way over the top with use of the saffron. I had the wagyu Salisbury steak, the sauce was very good, but it was the only flavor on the plate except the green beans. You could not tell wagyu from regular hamburger really. The sum up, Paradasea may have been an up and comer, but has not stood the test of time. There are many other, better and more memorable options in the area.
Mark C — Google review
Paradisaea We were warmly welcomed by the hostess who told us that we had been checked-in. I’m not so sure that anyone cares about this procedural matter. The desk was decorated with a large bouquet of Birds of Paradise certainly a hint to the restaurant’s name that was originally introduced in the 18th century by the Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus. Is it coincidence that the Chef hails from Denmark and the manager from Sweden? A short while later we were guided to our table and briefly thereafter offered still or sparkling water that was promptly served. Tevonne(?) asst. server was the first to see if we were comfortable and her graceful demeanor and conversation that ensured was a fine testimony to the hospitality profession. Elisa Marie was our server and guided us through the menu is a comprehensive manner. She was not pushy but had a gentle persuasion that in our opinion works miracles. We ordered a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon and a Cabernet Merlot which were excellent for the type of establishment. Here a compilation of our order and observations; Sourdough, rich and crispy baked served with a whipped butter. Easy to indulge in but don’t eat too much as there is lots of nice food to come. Steak Tartare, was made in the kitchen and not table side but a lovely experience. Chive sauce, egg emulsion and Japanese white radish accompanied the seasoned Tartare. Green onions, capers, mustard, herbs were all recognizable accompanied by slightly toasted north European style dark rye. Sage Carrot served with a buttermilk sauce made this a very rich exploit. Red Snapper was served with a fresh corn succotash in a contemporary version. The fish was very tasty and the portion closer to what one would expect in Europe. It suited us perfectly. Veal Milanese, I have to say that this was the first time that we experienced a European style veal dish that wasn’t beef but real veal! It was cooked to perfection and definitely a dish to be remembered. The portion was more than generous and would have sufficed for three. We ordered the Gateau Royal as dessert, which was a rich chocolate cream with a tiny cake layer in the bottom. Perhaps a lighter more mousse style (with some fine sugar dough layers) would have kept chocolate lovers happy and a tad kinder to the calorie count. In conclusion, this was a lovely experience of unpretentious genuine cooking of crossroads between Europe and America, while all accompanying sauces were delicious, perhaps serving them on the side would be welcomed by the lighter eaters. The nice atmosphere with superb service is surely memorable in a time where service is not always a given. The restaurant has bar seats, high tables near the bar, in-door restaurant seating and a lovely terrace with soft evening lighting. The bar had a great -somewhat convivial but contemporary sophisticated vibe. The interior itself had mainly hard surfaces where perhaps a bit more consideration for noise absorbing materials would have been beneficial. We will be back and we would recommend it to friends and family. Team Paradisaea, keep up a great job.
Herman E — Google review
My wife, toddler, and I visited on a Saturday night for dinner. We had the pleasure of service by Alyse (Elise? Sorry if we butchered the spelling) and Ethan. They were both spectacular. We are industry professionals from Las Vegas, so service is huge to us. No marks were missed by anyone who touched our table that night. The food was great. We had the steak frites, Salisbury wagyu steak, gateau royal, and a scoop of ice cream. Again, everything was spectacular and served in a timely manner. We did consume some adult beverages, which were not made with any sacrifices of alcohol. Another plus. I would like to note, our 16-month-old got a water in a plastic cup with a lid when we first sat down. The cup had a straw with a lip on the bottom which would prevent a toddler from removing a straw from the cup (which they always do). This attention to detail let us know early on that we were going to enjoy our evening at Paradisaea.
Lenny M — Google review
Paradisaea is an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in, the space feels bright, coastal, and effortlessly stylish; perfect for a date night or catching up with friends. We both did the Chef's Menu and it blew our minds..vibrant flavors, beautiful plating, and portions that feel just right. Every dish tasted clean and seasonal. Service was outstanding; warm, attentive but without hovering. Pacing was spot on, and the team checked in just enough to make sure we had everything we needed. Bonus points for a lively atmosphere that still allows for conversation. If you’re in San Diego and want the full package - great food, thoughtful drinks, and a gorgeous setting - Paradisaea should be at the top of your list. We’ll definitely be back.
Zoe S — Google review
Very fun and lively atmosphere! The design is very well done. The food was great, I personally loved the oysters as they were served differently than I have experienced. The jalapeño Caesar salad was also amazing! Had a kick! Main dishes I enjoyed were the burger, and the chicken, very good and flavorful. Very fun and different cocktails to choose from along with fun zero proof options which is great if you do not drink alcohol. Service was spectacular, very kind, professional and knowledgeable about the menu. We will be coming back!
Chris W — Google review
Was very excited about visiting this restaurant. The decor is very lovely and the atmosphere is good. The service is great but the food does not match the decor or the service or the money they are charging for it. We were highly disappointed, the drinks were less than average and the food is definitely not anything to call home about. The only thing that was good was the salad. Will not be returning unless the quality matches the price.
Dianne T — Google review
We celebrated wedding anniversary. Chefs menu was incredible
Victor K — Google review
5680 La Jolla Blvd, San Diego, CA 92037, USA•https://www.paradisaea.com/•(858) 255-8011•Tips and more reviews for Paradisaea

44Portside Pier

4.6
(1247)
•
Mentioned on 
+2 other lists 
Food court
Restaurant
Portside Pier, located in San Diego, is a stunning dining destination offering breathtaking views of the bay. It houses four distinct restaurants - Brigantine Seafood and Oyster Bar, Ketch Grill & Taps, Portside Coffee and Gelato, and Miguels Cocina. The ground floor features various dining options while the second level includes a brewery tasting deck and rooftop terrace lounge.
It was a perfect day to just go for a walk in San Diego. There was many cruises ship at Port. It was a busy. We stop here to eat lunch and the food was fantastic and our service was so spot on soon our drink was halfway, they were there refilling. Didn't take a picture of the food, but I'll tell you this. It was amazing. You have to come here. On a beautiful day or even rainy, be beautiful to look out into the ocean. But this place is well worth it. Cause, come on, even on the outside. They have a coffee shop that you can have and put on your Instagram and everything else, which is amazing. Then you get to see your name written on there. What are your comments that you supply about the coffee? So, it's well worth to come here to eat the fabulous food. Get a coffee and go walking out there or hot Cocoa. On a cool day.
Katrina E — Google review
A great place to stop by for foos, snacks or a drink and watch the sunset!
Autumn M — Google review
We sat at the bar big mistake too busy making the drinks to wait on us. The 7 Marie soup the shrimp was over cooked like rubber. Chips and salsa Great.
Mitch — Google review
Love it great dining options, and sunset views. Right on the water. Great views of the boats.
Jon W — Google review
What a great place for lunch and dinner. You can catch a beautiful sunset looking over the harbor. The Brigantine restaurant and Miguel's are great restaurants.
Ron E — Google review
Today, after a long flight, we decided to stop here and eat lunch. I have a Medical alert service dog and I asked our waitress if she could bring her a bowl of water. She said she could not do that due to the restaurant policy. I asked her if she just give me a plastic bowl/to-go container and I can just pour my water into it for her. She said no rudely and said again it was in the policy. This is the first time in 5 years of having my well trained service dog that a restaurant has ever declined to give me a plastic bowl for her water. Unbelievable. We paid $115 for two people for lunch and this is how they treat their customers? Do better!! I will never come to this restaurant again.
Blondie — Google review
Great place to hang out with friends, grab as drink and enjoy a meal. We just went for drinks to TopSail and really like there vibe. We will definitely come back for food. We had dinner at Brigantine that was just ok, but that's another review.
Jeremy J — Google review
A nice place for a first date. Specially by the water. I got a crab cake and it was really good. But I don't recommend the shrimp fondue. The cheese is way too thick and dry. Not all gooey and melted. The wagyu burger was juicy and tasted really fresh.
J P — Google review
1360 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://www.portsidepier.com/•(619) 719-4960•Tips and more reviews for Portside Pier

45Ichifuji Sushi

4.9
(153)
•
Mentioned on 
+1 other list 
Sushi restaurant
Ichifuji Sushi offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that rivals what you'd find in Tokyo. The food is of exceptional quality, with a focus on freshness and a seasonal menu featuring over a dozen courses curated by Hiro and his team. While the service may not be quick, the ambiance and extended service times allow for a more leisurely and communal dining experience. It's easy to strike up conversations with fellow diners, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of dining with friends.
It was an absolutely exceptional experience. The quality of the fish was outstanding, with everything imported directly from Japan, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and freshness. The owner and chef made the entire experience feel personal, guiding us through each course with care and expertise. I highly recommend this place for anyone looking for a top-tier dining experience. Can't wait to return!
Felicity — Google review
Ichifuji delivers an exceptional omakase experience with high-quality ingredients, including select imports from Japan that elevate each dish. Their attention to detail extends beyond the meal, offering a thoughtful photo keepsake for special occasions like anniversaries and birthdays. The menu evolves with the seasons—spring, summer, fall, and winter—ensuring a fresh and dynamic dining experience. We indulged in the summer course, which highlighted vibrant flavors and expertly crafted seafood selections. Driving two hours from Orange County to San Diego was absolutely worth it- every bite reflected a commitment to authenticity and excellence.
Mia L — Google review
Delicious Omakase! The food is truly delicious! Come for an amazing experience and gastronomical delight! Enjoy fresh fish from Japan and locally here in San Diego. The owners have remarkable stories too and very friendly. Support local!
Dorothy T — Google review
This is a great place to have an experience! We were served about eight courses. Everything we had was very good very fresh and well presented. The service was very good with prompt course servings and a kind waiter. The price was quite high with it being around $150. I think the price is about normal for this experience. I think the only downside for me was we didn’t get any interaction with the chef. And that’s the experience of being on the patio, which is different from being inside. Overall, it was a great experience.
Rashaad F — Google review
One of my absolute favorite sushi experiences anywhere. Excellent sake options to taste and pair. Menu changes seasonally. Chefs absolutely love the craft and are lots of fun! Small parking lot on site. Reservations required.
Shane C — Google review
Absolutely amazing. Having eaten here and at Soichi, I can honestly say that the two are on the same level. In fact, I fail to see where either one has an edge. The sushi chefs at Ichifuji were engaging with everyone at the sushi bar. The servers were quick to ensure everything in front of you was perfect, from clearing the empty plate to making sure your drink was always full, the team was on point. The omakase is a must. Everything was perfectly thought out and coherent throughout the meal. The sushi rice was light and delicate with the perfect amount of vinegar. The fish was fresh and bright. I have no complaints what-so-ever aside from the fact that I don't live in the San Diego area to enjoy Ichifuji more often. Phenomenal.
O S — Google review
This is my third time at Ichifuji which has been my favorite omakase spot in San Diego. They have a seasonal menu so you will get something different every season. Hint hint, you’ll want to try it 4 times to get the full experience. The chefs are knowledgeable on what they are making and you even get to compare uni one of them being from San Diego. There are alot of items and we end up being full at the end. The finisher desert is my favorite in the summer. The sorbet/ice cream they make is to die for! There were so many items to talk about but they are all delicious. Check out the best omakase in town when you are in San Diego!
Kentaro M — Google review
We came Ichifuji Sushi for dinner last night with my family to celebrate my birthday . (In the Patio table) The price was $524 for 3 people( not including tips). the food was delicious, very fresh, I think it was worth the price, but my husband and my son disagreed with me. The amount enough for me, but not enough for my son and husband. ( they had to eat some snacks after we get home) But the service is very disappointed. In the beginning was ok, but after half way of the dinner , we had waiting for little white to get next dish , there was even a 20 minutes interval in between. My husband almost fall in asleep, my son was complaining about the slow service. It made me feel anxious. In the end of the dinner, two chef came to the patio say hello to the next table , they are talking, laughing and taking pictures together, then they ignored our table, I didn’t understand why. ( I remember last year my friend and I were here for dinner, everything is great, especially the two chef came to our table say hello and thanks to support theirs business etc. I had such a beautiful memories, that’s why I decided bring my family to celebrate my birthday here) But unfortunately, the experience was not as good as the last time. Btw, during 2 and half hours dinner time , I didn’t receive any birthday treats even a simple “ happy birthday “ word. Disappointed experience, wouldn’t come back again.
Emily R — Google review
〒92111 California, San Diego, Mesa College Dr, USA•http://ichifujisushi.com/•(858) 565-1179•Tips and more reviews for Ichifuji Sushi
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46Georges at the Cove

4.4
(4172)
•
4.3
(3531)
•
Mentioned on 
+1 other list 
$$$$expensive
New American restaurant
Bar
Event venue
Restaurant
Georges at the Cove is a renowned restaurant in La Jolla, California, known for its New American cuisine and elegant ocean-view setting. The restaurant has gained recognition locally, nationally, and internationally for its gourmet dishes, beverages, and exceptional service. Using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, Georges offers innovative and unique dishes that have earned them a stellar reputation.
If you want to enjoy a delicious meal overlooking an absolutely stunning ocean view then make a reservation at George’s at the Cove We were lucky to snag a table just at the edge of the upstairs balcony, but to be honest, when you’re up there, there really isn’t a bad seat. Even aside from the incredible views, the rooftop restaurant offered a solid ambiance/vibe. The decor, fixtures, bar, etc were all trendy and clean The staff were great. We didn’t have to wait long to be seated, we ordered almost immediately, and our food came out in a timely manner. We also sat and enjoyed the views and conversation a bit after we finished eating, and our server came by to check on us but we never felt pressured to leave The menu offers something for everything. We shared the rock fish tacos and their burger. Both were hearty and very flavorful. I would also recommend the chips and guacamole/salsa. I didn’t love the salsa flavor, but the guacamole was solid Some tips: Definitely consider making a reservation and ask if you can request a table that overlooks the water. There is only street parking and garage parking. We circled around a few times before parking at the nearby parking garage. But be warned, it’s $30 to park there. But after you eat, walk down to the cost and explore the La Jolla cove, the sea caves, see the seals, and explore some of the parks along this scenic stretch of coastline Cheers!!
Nicholas S — Google review
Go for the view, food maybe! They have the right combinations, right ideas however food sometimes felt like it missed the mark. Cocktails are decent. I would recommend the spicy pina margaritas and you cannot go wrong with the watermelon feta salad. Optimally priced for California standards.
Rohan T — Google review
Always enjoying George’s and this time was great as well. We always order the Famous Soup. Cocktails were wonderful and chocolate desert was fantastic. View doesn’t disappoint. However, the city really needs to clean the pelican droppings from the cliffs below, the smell is out of control. Thank goodness the wind changed before our food arrived.
Cheryl F — Google review
Delightful Saturday lunch in La Jolla! The food was delicious and delightful for the tastebuds. I was glad to see the variety of items they had on the menu as there was something for everyone. And the homemade ice cream for desserts was amazing and had such a light flavor. Thank you for the wonderful birthday surprise and excellent service! I look forward to returning again when I visit San Diego.
Elena R — Google review
Amazing view of the beautiful ocean and what a sunset!!! The option to dine out is perfect! Bring a coat but their heat appliances are good. The food is delicious. I had of course the meat it was so tender, filling and well cooked. Creme brulee did not disappoint plus that side cookie...
Maria — Google review
We hosted the Rehearsal Dinner for our son and future daughter in law at the Event Center. It was absolutely perfect! The service and food is spectacular. Highly recommend for a special occasion.
Susan M — Google review
Shoutout to Tina for doing a phenomenal job catering and serving my family. I forgot the manager name but he also gave some great recommendations to eat. This is a special place I bring special people who have visited me in San Diego over the years. The view …..wooow the atmosphere is the same as I remember years ago when I stayed here. You see the seagulls flying waves crashing and every once in a while a sea lion shouting to the rooftop!! Food and customer service let’s just say there are levels when it comes to dining establishments. This place is a gem not just in La Jolla but in SD county Our order: George Special Soup 7 out of 5 I’m from and have stayed in some bbq places TX NC MS smoked meat is smoked do not expect a smoked bbq flavor. I digress because doesn’t have a smoked flavor doesn’t mean it doesn’t taste good it Fuego! Lots of depth to the soup amazing broth flavor and it’s worth every dime Lamb Chops 5 out of 5 Crazy outrageously tender flavorful. The couscous is delightful super light and refreshing perfect I mean perfect for a summer dish. Pomegranate and plums as an element I was not expecting. Only downside to the dish was the crunch of the seed I could have done without but the freshness and playful flavor it adds is nice tho! Yellow Fish with Green beans 4 of 5 Fish was tasty and also refreshing more citrusy like flavor. Green beans were basically raw not cooked. Ooooooou we that grilled eggplant was seared and flat out delicious Great experience overall nice weather cool breeze and conversation. This spot can easily be considered fine dining but they make it feel casual and laid back like San Diego truly is!
Monroe C — Google review
Beautiful ocean view, delicious food, and friendly staff. They even helped me and my fiancé take a few photos together. Recommend making a reservation in advance
YY — Google review
1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA•https://www.georgesatthecove.com/•(858) 454-4244•Tips and more reviews for Georges at the Cove

47Old Town Mexican Cafe

4.4
(8901)
•
4.0
(1830)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$affordable
Mexican restaurant
Restaurant
Old Town Mexican Cafe has been a beloved San Diego establishment for over 40 years, serving up authentic Mexican cuisine and hand-pressed tortillas made fresh daily. The restaurant's signature dish, the Carnitas Plate, pairs perfectly with their renowned Pico Pico Margarita or one of the 115 varieties of tequila available. In addition to its culinary offerings, Old Town Mexican Cafe is also known for its intimate music venue that has hosted performances by renowned artists.
Authentic Mexican Experience – A Must-Visit! If you’re looking for truly authentic Mexican food, this place is a hidden gem! The atmosphere feels like you’ve stepped straight into Mexico – even most of the staff speak only Spanish, which adds to the charm and authenticity. The menu is huge, with an incredible variety of dishes to choose from. Everything is made fresh to order, and you can absolutely taste the difference. The tortillas are handmade right on-site, and they’re some of the best I’ve ever had – soft, warm, and full of flavor. It does get very crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends, so I definitely recommend making a reservation if you want to avoid a long wait. That said, the food is more than worth it. Highly recommended – this spot is a must for anyone who loves real Mexican cuisine!
Michael P — Google review
It's been several decades that I have been coming to this restaurant. It's large (both patio and indoor area ) and it has a variety of tables and chairs to choose from. Mexican decor is timeless at this place. Our server was welcoming and attentive. Didn't have to ask for water refill. The food is definitely authentic, but its portioning compared to other similar places in the neighborhood, is on the skimpy side. I did not feel I got my monies worth with my machaca dish. The albondigas soup could have used a little kicker. It was missing something. Nonetheless, both dishes were good to go. Fresh corn tortillas freshly made. They were good!
M A — Google review
We went on a Sunday morning.There was no wait. We were fortunate to get parking, sometimes it's pretty crowded. We had excellent service.The food was delicious, the homemade tortillas are soo good and to top it off, we were celebrating a birthday and the mariachi's came and sang at our table. It was beautiful.. this is definitely one of our favorite spots. We never miss going here whenever we head to San Diego.
Shanna P — Google review
OMG!! Where do I start! First we arrived here because a friend recommended it and we were not dissapointed. The atmosphere was relaxed and not crowded (we had dinner here on a Sunday evening). The FOOD WAS OUTSTANDING! We had the mini molcajete which there are many pics to see and also 2 tacos (Adobada and Carnitas-Rice and Beans) OH MY! SO YUM. THE TORTILLAS was super delicious and service was quick and kind. Please visit this place, it is soooo good. Located at Old Town San Diego and after this grab some ice cream and walk the Small Cementary (Campo Santo), try this at night - super awesome.
Veronica R — Google review
Almost like a spot across the border without going into Mexico. Freshly made tortillas made and you can watch them make. Margaritas were kinda too good so beware! Food is always great and staff were nice. Great spot to take visitors!
Rodney R — Google review
Came here on a recommendation and they didn't disappoint. the molecahete was delicious , the flavor of the sauce and meat was the best I've ever had. My wife had the carnitas tacos, very moist and flavorful. Will be coming back, and I highly recommend this place.
William R — Google review
Old Town Mexican Café not only serves delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine, but the service is outstanding. The staff is attentive, friendly, and always ready to make your experience enjoyable. From the moment you sit down, you feel welcomed and well taken care of. Combined with the vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes, the excellent service makes this café a must-visit in San Diego!
Shining S — Google review
Totally swept away with the ambience, good food and great service. With a selection of craft beers to go with authentic mexican food. Went back for few days in a row. Affordable pricing with huge servings. Best part is free nachos with an order of beer.
Soonheng T — Google review
2489 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110, USA•https://oldtownmexcafe.com/•(619) 297-4330•Tips and more reviews for Old Town Mexican Cafe

48The Cottage La Jolla

4.5
(2765)
•
4.6
(1623)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$affordable
Californian restaurant
American restaurant
Breakfast restaurant
Nestled in downtown La Jolla, The Cottage is a cozy eatery housed in a vintage home with a charming brick patio. Renowned for its delectable Californian daytime cuisine, this friendly neighborhood spot offers a warm ambiance and excellent service. Whether you choose to dine on the patio or inside the quaint Victorian-style interior, you can savor farm-fresh eggs, oatmeal pancakes, Belgian waffles, and other breakfast delights.
Really great spot for brunch. We had a seat inside and as soon as you walk inside you are instantly smacked with a sugar high from all the beautiful sweets and baked goodies. Staff is have attentive to everyone including each other. Even if you don’t have brunch here would recommend stopping in to get some tasty and fun desserts or baked goods.
Keah G — Google review
The BEST French toast I’ve ever had!!! Soft moist and didn’t need a lot of syrup. Emphasis on the soft the bread was so darn fluffy and good!
Pink ( — Google review
We recently hosted our daughter’s wedding reception at The Cottage and it was nothing short of spectacular. We had the entire restaurant to ourselves (40 guests) for under $5000 -that is hard to find in La Jolla. They created a wonderful food & drink menu for our guests that included appetizers, entrees, beer, wine and 2 specialty cocktails. The food was phenomenal—fresh, beautifully presented, and raved about by all our guests. The atmosphere was warm and elegant and the service throughout the evening was flawless. The tables were decorated beautifully, the layout was perfect -we even had a space to dance! From the moment we started planning, the staff was attentive, professional, and genuinely invested in making the day special. We are so grateful for Una, Jason and entire staff for helping us create such a magical and memorable evening. It was everything we hoped for and more.
Jacquelyn G — Google review
Nice little brunch spot. We dropped in Friday morning and it wasn’t busy at first but the place filled up quickly. Service was great and the food was very good but could use a little more seasoning. I had the house Benny which looked great and tasted fine but was just a little bland but still very good.
Rick K — Google review
Lovely. Attentive servers. Food was great. Everything was cooked to perfection. Fun spot in LaJoja for brunch while on vacation in San Diego. Short wait. Street parking. Quaint. Clean.
Lisa C — Google review
Such a cute restaurant. Our server was absolutely amazing! Had a great system going with someone running waters and food! Best French toast I’ve ever had! Will definitely be back when I’m in the area again.
Jenna R — Google review
I came to visit from the mid-west and let me just say this place was by far the highlight of my trip. My food was absolutely delicious! I have a dairy allergy and the crew was so amazing with working around it, they even made it possible for me to have french toast dairy free. The waitress was so kind and informative! Definitely a place that will make you smile, enjoy a good meal, and be happy you came!
Taylor T — Google review
This place was highly recommended to me, and it didn’t disappoint. The cinnamon swirl pancakes, which were a must-try, were absolutely delicious. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a sweet treat. I also tried the Morning Glory sandwich, which was recommended by the staff and was quite high on the menu. The service was great, and the hot sauce they gave us was incredibly spicy and flavorful. I’ll definitely be back when I’m in the area.
Quinn D — Google review
7702 Fay Ave, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA•https://www.cottagelajolla.com/•(858) 454-8409•Tips and more reviews for The Cottage La Jolla

49Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.5
(4818)
•
4.3
(1047)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$expensive
Seafood restaurant
Bar
Ironside Fish & Oyster is a seafood restaurant located in a renovated warehouse with a quirky nautical design. The place offers an impressive raw bar with platters of various sizes, including the extravagant "Holy Sh*t" assortment featuring oysters, shrimp, mussels, lobster, caviar, and more. Chef Jason McLeod, known for his Michelin-starred background, oversees the seafood menu which includes Kusshi oysters and a delectable lobster roll.
I love sitting at the bar, the chefs are very social and kind. I’ve had great conversations with them. Best fish and chips I’ve ever had. The chowder fries are a must have, you can’t go there and not order them. All staff members have a smile and genuinely enjoy their job. Best restaurant I’ve ever been to. 10000/10 recommend
Jordan R — Google review
Lots to like about this spot, with many interesting details in the decor, natural skylights, bay doors that open up to the outside dining…almost like being inside the dining room of an old steamer. Their oyster offerings are great, with some serious horse radish which is a must, and they have a selection of spirits that is just crazy in a good way. Enjoyed the blue cheese olives w my martini which I think is the best pairing w oysters on the half shell. The dishes we had were all fresh and thoughtfully presented and nice temps. I wish my pesce had been medium rare as requested and not medium well, but the flavors were still nicely paired on my plate. I’d also suggest that the broccolini is seasoned perfectly and doesn’t need the added sauce swirled across the top, but that’s just me…less can be more w great ingredients. Solid service and glad they were recommended to us.
RenegadegeeK — Google review
I don’t give out 5 stars lightly, so please take this as the highest compliment I can offer. We have been here many times in the past because the food has always been top tier quality, however the hospitality seemed to be hit or miss.. until tonight. From the time I made the reservation to the time we left, every detail was so thoughtful. I made a reservation for my fiancé‘s birthday and was contacted one day later to confirm there were no allergies in our party and to see how they could make the night more special for us. (Love that) When we arrived, we were shown to our table immediately- and shortly after ordering oysters we noticed the menus were custom printed with my fiancé‘s name on them. (Photos included) our waitress Geena was genuinely so happy to help us. She was attentive and kind and so wonderful to work with. When we finished dinner, dessert was brought to our table including an espresso martini with my love’s name PRINTED on it. I was blown away! From start to finish this was an incredible experience. It was refreshing to see the hospitality match the quality of the food. Wether you are celebrating something or simply a seafood fanatic, do yourself a favor and make the reservation. You won’t regret it!
Rachel T — Google review
I loved everything about our evening at Ironside Fish & Oyster. It's San Diego, what else can you say? Regardless, the ambiance strikes a perfect balance between lively and relaxed (harmonious murmurs as white noise, warm lighting from half-exposed sun rays, and an easygoing coastal vibes) and once the sun started to set, they opened the doors so the cool bay breeze could flow through. Sitting there with that breeze on your face felt like an added bonus to the meal. We shared the "Bigger" platter and it was outstandingly fresh: every aspect of the platter was aesthetic and delicious. They bring you the names of the oysters that are at the bottom, the shrimp are cut in a way that is easy to peel (peeling shrimp for other means you love them!), and dishes on the top layer really takes your tastebuds on a ride. They also provide tortilla chips and colorful puffs as complements to the top layer of the platter (rockfish ceviche, tuna tartare, shrimp aguachile). We also added on the Swordfish Birria tacos just in case, but they really stood out. It was meaty, well-seasoned, and unexpectedly addictive. Each bite played a beautiful note, and the whole dish made for a fun experience. Service was excellent from start to finish: attentive without hovering, knowledgeable about the menu, and great to recommend pairings. They timed everything really well, knowing when to bring out the dishes at their respective time periods, which made the culinary experience even better. A few tips: parking can be a bit of a task in the area, especially at peak times. If you arrive early, you'll have a much easier time finding a spot, and it's worth leaving a little extra time to walk and explore the neighborhood afterward, especially the bay, with ice cream in hand.
Tim L — Google review
Really good. Lots of attention to fine details, good service, fine locally sources seafood. We shared everything and it was plenty. The Mussels Verde were spectacular, and we sipped the pozole Verde as another course with our bread. The chewy hominey in the rich broth was amazing. The salad (buttery rich burrata and crisp sweet pears) and Crudo were good and not overwhelmingly huge. Just enough. The bread was the child of milk bread and the best dinner rolls you've ever had.
Phyllis R — Google review
Ironside welcomes you with a friendly sailor clothed staff and a dope aquatic decor. Of I were to just go for the vibe it would still be a 5 star review. I ordered the chowder fries and fried fish. I don't think I have been this excited about fries since I was a child. The chowder fries were phenomenal and the fried fish was prepared perfectly. My partner got the lobster roll. Oh my lord was that the best damn hot lobster roll I've ever tried. 10 outa 10! I highly recommend iron side and will be visiting this place anytime I'm in town.
Alex P — Google review
We discovered this place on our second visit to little Italy and stopped in for some refreshments, boy were we surprised at the attentiveness, the speed and the quality of the food and the service at the bar. I ordered 3 happy hour oysters and 3 happy hour peel n eat shrimp while my wife had a ceviche tostada, while we sipped Tito’s martini’s and Ironside Mia-Tai’s. Loved it so much we came back a couple days later, ordered more shrimp and a sweet potato appetizer, shrimp were perfect but the sweet potato was out of this world “good”, finished up with an order of clams casino and a lobster roll, you can’t go wrong, the food and service here is fantastic! We will be back!
Scott C — Google review
If you like a place with a cool vibe, nice staff and good food, you can’t miss checking this spot out. In the heart of Little Italy, in between pasta and pizza shops, this is a delicious spot for delicious and unique seafood. From the usual options of clam chowder, lobster rolls and fish and chips, you can’t go wrong if you like seafood and oysters. A great pick for a fun night out in Little Italy!
Maria C — Google review
1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•https://ironsidefishandoyster.com/•(619) 269-3033•Tips and more reviews for Ironside Fish & Oyster

50Hodad's Downtown

4.6
(4368)
•
4.5
(727)
•
Mentioned on 
2 lists 
$$$$cheap
Hamburger restaurant
American restaurant
Brewery
Hodad's Downtown is a popular spot in San Diego known for its oversized, messy burgers with a variety of toppings and sides like shakes and onion rings. The restaurant has gained fame after being featured on The Food Network's Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. Its California-themed decor features skateboards, surfboards, and license plates adorning the walls. With a humorous touch to its branding, Hodad's offers generously portioned burgers that are described as more like doubles than singles.
My favorite Burger place All Time. We've been away for 3 years now. I had to come here and have a Burger during our San Diego vacation. I had the Blue Jay Burger; bacon cheeseburger with Blue cheese sauce and grilled onions. So Tasty. My wife had the Chicken Burger Fried with Crispy Bacon. It was very delicious. I always recommend this restaurant. The staff is Awesome and super Cool. The place has a Down to Earth San Diego Vibe.
Ronald F — Google review
I’ve been eating at Hodad’s for years, whenever I visit San Diego. I still believe that this is the best burger you can get in SD. You can taste the freshness and tenderness in the beef and vegetables to a whole other level. The atmosphere can be polarizing but I’m a huge fan of the plastered stickers and license plates everywhere. The service every time has been wonderful, too. It’s a great spot. That being said… they are just getting way too expensive. $21 for a double burger with no sides or a drink, is a bit much. There is a service charge of 3%, but then you are also expected to leave a tip. I don’t get that part at all. I get that these days prices are high, but so is the competition, and for $20+ my burger should at least have a side order and a small soft drink. I don’t remember them being this expensive in the past. Overall, amazing food and great service/atmosphere, so they deserve the 5 stars, but the menu prices and additional service fees are far too high. As much as I love the food, I probably won’t be returning until these prices are figured out.
Zane M — Google review
Stopped in while visiting the area to get a burger and I'm glad that I did. I ordered a single patty bacon cheese burger which was more than enough for me along with onion rings. Both items were delicious and the service was great. If you're looking for a good burger you can't go wrong with this spot.
LaJuan D — Google review
I arrived for a pretty late lunch since I was in the area for a conference and have been meaning to try out Hodads. I came around 3 PM on a Monday and there was no one else in the shop but me which meant I got super quick service. I opted for the single cheeseburger with onion rings and a Dr. Pepper. The burger was pretty good and the onion rings were amazing. It was definitely worth the 20 minute walk that it took to get there. I'd go back in the future just for the onion rings alone! The best part is that they give you 2 stickers at the end of your meal! I'm pretty sure you're supposed to stick the stickers on the walls of the establishment somewhere but I wanted to take mine.
Jean T — Google review
We visited this place on a whim. Didn't look into it before hand. Just basically googled burgers near us and we were like ten minutes away in car. Once we got there and did some more research (while looking at the menu) it appears this 'franchise' is very popular in the area. And honestly, the burgers we ordered were so good, it's no wonder its a local favorite. One of the best burgers I have ever had and would visit here many times if I lived in the city. I would recommend this place if you are hungry and looking for a good hardy burger to enjoy. Place was super busy but ordering/getting our food went pretty fast. Staff was super friendly and helpful with the menu and we are glad we visited. Parking is a bit tricky, there is some street parking but more then likely you will have to find a spot in a parking garage nearby. It's in downtown so super busy area. Will definitely find myself here again if I am ever back in SD!
Cristian V — Google review
Saw them on Triple D, and had to try. It definitely lived up to the hype. Burger was great, the atmosphere was fantastic (be on the lookout for the “run forest” license plate). We ate in the car, and had a great time. Staff was friendly and attentive. Burger was a GREAT size. Definitely coming back!
Danielle P — Google review
Like many, I’m just in town for a work trip. I’m always looking to try new spots when I’m traveling. This one was great! My kind of music (hard rock, indie, hip hop) a great mix of tunes, great vibes, super nice staff. I am going to make it a point to go back (after a few more runs) this week before I leave! Also, the food and beer were delicious 🤤 (Guido burger and both IPAs on tap)
Jason S — Google review
Incredible burgers with vegan options. Onion rings were absolutely fantastic. Service got a little slow for paying the bill, but otherwise we had an excellent time. Looking forward to trying a beer!
Dillon S — Google review
945 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101, USA•http://hodadsdowntown.com/•(619) 234-6323•Tips and more reviews for Hodad's Downtown
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