30 Best Restaurants In San Diego by Neighborhood [Updated 2024]

by Hedge Metreyeon

Best Restaurants in San Diego – Recommended by a Local

In San Diego, you can find restaurants on almost every street. Us San Diegans love our grub and we love to share our recommendations for the best restaurants in San Diego with visitors and local friends alike.

I can’t speak for everyone else but I like to eat food that’s above standards and I feel the need to share my knowledge with the rest of you. As a result, I have teamed up with the best restaurants in San Diego to provide you the ultimate restaurant guide for San Diego.

A great way to explore new restaurants, whether you are a visitor or a San Diego local, is a food tour. Check out these ones in the various neighborhoods:

Gaslamp Quarter Food Tour
Taste of Little Italy & Little Italy Food & Wine Tour
Old Town Food Tour: Tequila, Tacos & Tombstones
A Food & Drink Journey Through East Village
Small Group Food Tour in Point Loma
San Diego Taco Crawl

These food tours are pretty awesome and offers some delicious treats along the way.

Burger on a metal plate with a metal bucket full of fries — Best Restaurants in San Diego

Food is so important. It’s always been more than just a way to stay alive. Every recipe can date back to an origin point. Every ingredient comes from somewhere and when everything comes together, they tell a beautiful story with their flavors. I think the food you choose to eat on vacation can speak volumes to the town you’re visiting.

Also read:
Best Downtown San Diego Restaurants That Are Not Tourist Traps
Best Brunch in La Jolla
Best Brunch in San Diego
Best Outdoor Restaurants in San Diego with Stunning Patios
Best Restaurants in Old Town
Best Coronado Restaurants
Best Restaurants in Barrio Logan

Modern Bar in restaurant. Plants line the walls of the bar, beer is tapped up to the levers and the seats are empty and awaiting guests — Original 40 Brewing Company San Diego

Best Restaurants in San Diego Downtown

Dobson’s Bar and Restaurant

956 Broadway Cir, San Diego, CA
(619) 231-6771
Reserve a Table at Dobson’s Here
$$$ | Historic | Reservations Recommended
Read our full review here>>

Entrance of Dobson's restaurant San Diego — Dobson’s Bar and Restaurant

Dobson’s Bar and Restaurant is an institution. Right in the heart of downtown, next to Horton Plaza, Dobson’s has been open since the early 80s.

Wood-paneled walls, a long and well-stocked bar, and of course the delicious food, make Dobson’s a popular lunch and dinner spot with a classic feel that makes it perfect for a business lunch just as much as drinks before a show or even a romantic date night.

One of the must-try dishes is the famous mussel bisque, served with a puff pastry shell that is absolutely divine. According to their website, they sold over 1 million of them so far.

Tags: classy, great cocktails, excellent service, fine dining, vegetarian-friendly

Open for: Lunch and Dinner

The Prado Balboa

1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA
(619) 557-9441
Reserve a Balboa Park Table Here
$$$ | Beautiful Location | Reservations Recommended

In a pool of silky yellow sauce, a perfect duck breast is slices and places over greens on a white round plate — Thai style duck breast

A dining room filled with warm colors like red on lovely wood floors brightly lit by natural light — Thai style duck breast

The gorgeous Prado at Balboa Park is a spot for people looking for great food and atmosphere. Between visiting the nearby museums and hiking the San Diego Zoo, most foodies will tell you to make a pit stop at The Prado at Balboa Park. The historic charm of their location combined with the grade A hospitality and 4-star menu creates a near-perfect experience.

The menu includes vegetarian, gluten-free, and even pescatarian options on top of their other delicious menu items. Their specialty cocktails, wine, and draft beers are well-known by the servers to ensure great food pairings. Dessert is no joke either. With a touch of Hispanic inspiration braided into their elegant concept, every taste bud is sure to be satisfied.

Tags: date night, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, great cocktails, beautiful plates, excellent service, fine dining

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Cowboy Star Restaurant & Butcher Shop

640 Tenth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 450-5880
Book Your Table for the Best Steak in Town Here
$$$ | Steakhouse | Butcher Shop

new york strip steak on iron skillet with heirloom tomatoes — New York Strip

wagyu beef steak, japanese food — New York Strip

For every person that says eating meat is inhumane, there are amazing places like Cowboy Star. Their entire concept revolves around serving humanely treated livestock and the freshest seafood with locally grown crops.

If you’re worried about any untruths, don’t because I did my research. Cowboy Star beef is Certified Humane Angus beef and all their seafood follows the Seafood Watch Standards. They not only have prime ingredients, they treat them with respect and integrity.

The stunning plates accompanied by a stunning dining room and service will knock your socks off. Guests write of nothing but great service and food. And for my extreme foodies, there is a wine and beer pairing for everything on the menu.

Tags: fine dining, family-friendly, humane food, farm to table, great service

Open for: Dinner

CUCINA Urbana

505 Laurel St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 239-2222
Book Your Little Italy Table Here
$$ | Italian | Craft Cocktails

Perfectly fried squash blossoms sitting in a yellow sauce swirled with a black sauce — Squash Blossoms

Natural wood bar with selves filled with prime alcohol lit by humble chandeliers — Squash Blossoms

I must say before I start going off about the food, it was a pleasure speaking with the restaurant’s publicist. He responded quickly and answered all my questions. He was a delight. It attests to the service you can expect to get at CUCINA Urbana. Their innovative menu and lovely California twist on Southern Italian food is refreshing.

The owner wanted to give the diners a sense of comfort when they visit the restaurant. While they have a farmhouse feel, they serve upscale food that the chefs pour themselves into, figuratively of course. The beauty and refinement can be seen all over the restaurant from how they plate your food to how they serve your cocktails.

It’s definitely a great find but try to stop by during Happy Hour (5 pm-7 pm daily) at the bar. This spot is popular so reserve your table ASAP so you don’t miss out.

Tags: family-friendly, great cocktails, excellent service, friendly management, seasonal ingredients, comfort food, instagrammable, innovative menu

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in Little Italy

Crack Shack

2266 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 795-3299
Check Out Their Menu Here
$$ | Chicken |Casual

An overstuffed chicken burger on a little silver pan lined with brown parchments — Firebird

Bacon sticking out of an english muffin with a runny egg on top — Firebird

Watch out everyone because the Crack Shack is in town and it doesn’t play around. With the famous chef, Richard Blais at the head of the culinary team each plate is treated with the utmost care and consideration. These aren’t your average fried chicken dishes.

Their philosophy is to treat every piece as if it were a $90 plate of food. The great thing is that none of their dishes will break the $30 mark and it’s only $30 dollars because it’s a big family meal.

The atmosphere is so friendly and welcoming while the food is just straight-up mouthwatering. And if you like your chicken with a little booze then drop by for happy hour Monday-Friday from 3 to 6. Beware though, expect lines. Food this good is in high demand.

Tags: casual dining, fun with friends, excellent service, great cocktails, innovative menu, vegetarian option, dog-friendly

Open for: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Juniper & Ivy

2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 269-9036
Reserve Your Table Here
$$$ | Bar | Modern

A steak on a white plate with greens and mushrooms scattered over it — Juniper and Ivy Seasonal Plates
Photos Provided by Juniper & Ivy

A gray saucer with colorful fruits lovingly arranged — Juniper and Ivy Seasonal Plates
Photos Provided by Juniper & Ivy

From the owner of the Crack Shack, Juniper & Ivy also makes my list of good restaurants in San Diego. Their classy take on the farm-fresh movement.

Their menu goes through a regular change to keep their regulars guessing and the chef more inspired. They take familiar concepts, techniques, and ingredients and push their limits. The food they serve pushes every boundary to display its full potential.

The restaurant is in a former timber warehouse that offers a spacious, relaxed, social atmosphere. So, with beautiful plates, cocktails, and venue, you are sure to have a lovely time. Please be sure to make a reservation, without one you may have a long wait ahead.

Tags: Fine dining, great cocktails, excellent service, vegetarian-friendly, bar, vegan-friendly, farm-to-table

Open for: Dinner

Herb & Wood

2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 955-8495
Secure The Best Table in The House Here
$$$ | Rustic | Upscale

Lemon vinaigrette and feta spaghetti squash salad — Spaghetti Squash
Photo is a representation of a Herb & Wood item, not the actual item

With transcendental art on the walls, gorgeously prepared food being served, and expertly crafted cocktails, it’s no wonder why I put this on my list of greatest restaurants in San Diego.

This Little Italy restaurant has the pleasure of having Chef Brian Malarkey on staff cooking meals. Let’s not forget the fabulous pastry chef, Adrian Mendoza who makes all the bread and desserts. Because of their creativity and perfection, people can enjoy the delicate notes of their food.

The restaurant has a jungle vibe with a modern chic twist. There’s plenty of room at the bar and around the dining room. But it does fill up quickly, so be sure to make a reservation. If you’re looking for an event venue, they are happy to accommodate so just ask!

Tags: fine dining, great cocktails, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, excellent service

Open for: Brunch, Dinner

Kettner Exchange

2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 255-2001
Make Sure You’re Guaranteed A Table Here
$$$ | Global American

Aburi engawa sushi - Grilled flatfish (Fluke fin) on rice topping with salmon roe (Ikura) served with wasabi and pickled ginger, Japanese traditional food. — Fluke Sashimi

Avocado and Radish toast on wood background — Fluke Sashimi

This wonderful restaurant is dedicated to our town’s founder, William Kettner. The decor around the two-story restaurant gives nods to key elements of our city such as the bay and seafaring history.

The loveliness of the Kettner Exchange doesn’t stop there either. Their bartender and Beverage Director is award-winning while the food itself is made by an expert chef and his crew of cooks.

Rooftop cabanas are available so guests can enjoy beautiful views as they sip on carefully crafted cocktails and perfect platters of food. Be sure to set up your reservations early, especially if you want a spot on their stunning rooftop.

Tags: fine dining, vegetarian-friendly, great cocktails, excellent service, wonderful location

Open For: Brunch, Dinner

Born & Raised

1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 202-4577
Set Up Your Reservation Here
$$$$ | Steakhouse

Woman using her chef knife to carve into a raw hunk of meat with power and determination — Michelle OrenciaCredit: Anne Watson

A filet mignon rested on a bed of sauce with truffles shaved over the tops — Michelle OrenciaCredit: Anne Watson

This is the absolute place to be if you’re looking to satisfy a luxurious palate with steak. Their humanely treated meats are sure to melt in your mouth then set your palate ablaze when paired with an expertly crafted cocktail.

The price is most definitely worth the quality of food and service according to the past guests. I highly recommend setting up a reservation, especially if you’re bringing a date. Waiting for a table on a date is no bueno.

Tags: fine dining, steakhouse, gluten-free option, amazing cocktails, date night

Open for: Dinner

Civico 1845

1845 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 431-5990
From Brunch to Dinner, Secure Your Table Here
$$ | Italian

Man rolling out fresh spaghetti with a cluttered work space — Fresh Pasta

fried calamari squid appetizer on wooden serving tray — Fresh Pasta

Personally, I have been to this restaurant a couple of times. I love it based on the fact that they use authentic techniques and fresh ingredients to bring the palate to Italy. It’s owned by two brothers who were born and raised in Italy and they want to bring their home to the states.

When I ate there, the food spoke to me and told me about their gorgeous country. The interior was comfortable and humble as to not draw away from the food. On top of all that, they even have a vegan menu so everyone can be happy.

Tags: authentic, vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, excellent service, great wine & beer selection, date night

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Ironside Fish & Oyster

1654 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
(619) 269-3033
Reserve a Nautical Table Here
$$ | Seafood

In a simple white bowl, beer braised mussels sit in their juices with two slices of crostini lay atop it

A monochrome bar in the corner of a restaurant, brightly lit with nobody around

Brought to you by the owners of Born & Raised, Ironside is its opposite. Serving some of the finest seafood around for a fair price, this Little Italy spot is sure to make the seafood lovers swoon.

Much like its sister restaurant, the menu changes daily to keep things fresh. I’ve dubbed it one of the best restaurants in San Diego because of the endless praise it receives for its service, food, and venue. Be sure to make a reservation stat.

Tags: date night, fun with friends, seafood, great bar service, excellent employees, innovative menu

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in Carlsbad

Jeune et Jolie

2659 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008
(760) 637-5266
Book Your Table Now
$$ | French

Beautiful fruits and foods of pastel colors neatly arranged on a white plate — Photo Credit: Lily Glass

Roasted carrots on top of roasted lamb with a touch of greenery and sauce — Photo Credit: Lily Glass

This quaint little French restaurant recently received its first Michelin Star. It has a lovely ambiance with soft pastel colors all around and a gentle touch caring for the food. While they serve bold and rich flavors in the form of reimagined French dishes, the owners aim for a relaxed environment.

The little diner is unpretentious yet sophisticated with its environment. It’s a great spot to get a taste of France so far to the West. Truly one of the best restaurants in San Diego.

Tags: date night, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, authentic French, excellent service

Open For: Brunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in La Jolla

La Jolla has some of the best restaurants in the city, as well as some of the top Brunch spots. Here are some of our recommendations for restaurants in La Jolla.

A.R Valentien

11480 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 777-6635
Secure Your Table Here
$$$$ | Californian | Reservations Recommended

Roasted duck breast with couscous, carrots and a gold sauce on the bottom — Roasted duck breast and confit leg

A hobbit house looking entrance with a warm light glowing from it, vines overhead — Roasted duck breast and confit leg

Settled in the Lodge Torrey Pines and among their other luxurious dining options, the best would have to be A.R Valentien. They highlight the beautiful fresh flavors of California.

Tables overlook the hotel golf course greens but the real sight to see is the whole reason for the restaurant’s name. Works by A.R Valentien, a 20th-century Californian artist, are displayed on the walls. It gives the restaurant the same air of elegance and freshness as the food they serve.

Tags: fine dining, hotel & restaurant, seasonal ingredients, vegetarian-friendly, date night

Open For: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The Marine Room

2000 Spindrift Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 459-7222
Start Planning Your Perfect Dining Experience Here
$$$$ | Seafood

It is a well-known fact that the Marine Room is one of the best restaurants in San Diego. For over seven decades, they have welcomed everyone to enjoy their elegantly and carefully made seafood.

Eating here is a dream for many and a renaissance of flavor for those who have. If you’re looking for a primo spot to have an anniversary or date, go here.

Tags: fine dining, date night, pescatarian-friendly, beautiful views, excellent service

Open for: Dinner

George’s at the Cove

1250 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 454-4244
Get Your Ocean View Table Here
$$$ | California | Reservation Recommended

A beautiful white tableclothed table is adorned with plates of food while outlooking on the beach — Restaurant Table

Two small fish tacos on a wood plank at a table — Restaurant Table

I really love the practices of George’s. They approach every day as if it were a special occasion. With their locally sourced and harvested products, they make some really special dishes.

The contemporary dining room overlooks the beautiful ocean and the employees are so helpful and knowledgeable that it’s hard to not enjoy yourself. They embrace the flavors of San Diego, like fish tacos, and treat their ingredients with so much respect that their dishes turn out amazing.

Tags: date night, innovative menu, great cocktails, pescatarian-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, small plates

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar

910 Prospect St, La Jolla, CA 92037
(858) 964-5400
Make Your Reservations Here
$$ | Seasonal Cuisine

In a small pile, there is pasta, cheese, mushrooms, and cured egg yolk — Pepe Porcini spaghettini with cured egg yolk, parmesan, crushed black pepper, and shaved mushrooms

Lovingly lit empty dining room with art all over the walls — Pepe Porcini spaghettini with cured egg yolk, parmesan, crushed black pepper, and shaved mushrooms

In the Grande Colonial Hotel, there is a Michelin-reviewed restaurant named Nine-Ten. They interestingly don’t have a set style of cuisine. They rely on what the season offers in an effort to keep up with the evolving San Diego.

The decor is a casual take on an elegant contemporary style. Everyone who works there is well-trained and enthusiastic to help with anything you need. And the ocean views is the cherry on top of this Michelin praised sundae. Make Your reservation right now so you don’t miss out.

Tags: innovative menu, vegetarian-friendly, specialty cocktails, vegan-friendly

Open for: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in Pacific Beach & Mission Bay

The Fishery

5040 Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 272-9985
Select Your Oceanview Table Here
$$$ | Seafood

A fillet of fish laid over a corn salsa and a red sauce — Fish Dish

Two pieces of toast placed on the side of a bowl of mussels in a colorful broth — Fish Dish

Opened by former fisherman, Judd Brown, the Fishery is a place where seafood can be highlighted and presented as its best self. The Fishery prides itself on paving its own way in the industry and creating a collaborative space.

The new executive chef, Mike Reidy, takes a fresh spin on the menu regularly so everyone can have a different taste of greatness. The servers and barkeeps are friendly people on top of everything. It truly makes it one of the best restaurants in San Diego.

Tags: pescatarian-friendly, sushi, seasonal, farm-to-table, vegetarian-friendly, great wine selection, date night

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Rocky’s Crown Pub

3786 Ingraham St, San Diego, CA 92109
(858) 273-9140
Check Out Their Menu Here
$ | Bar | Cash-Only | 21+| Hidden Gem

Rocky’s Crown Pub is a super straight forward spot. They only have a couple of burgers on their menu and an order of fries. This bar serves up quality beer, wine, and other boozy drinks to their guests who must be 21 and over to enter.

Those who work there are friendly, taking care of everyone who walks through their doors. With fresh ingredients, cold beer, and an awesome ambiance, there’s no chance you wouldn’t enjoy yourself. But remember, this is a cash-only joint.

Tags: excellent service, great liquor, burger joint, late-night, fun with friends

Open For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in Point Loma

Mitch’s Seafood

Address: 1403 Scott St, San Diego, CA 92106
Phone: (619) 222-8787
Website
$ | Seafood

grilled swordfish fillet with coleslaw and charred lemon

Mitch’s is not fancy, but serves some of the best seafood in San Diego. Overlooking the fishing boats in the harbor and the skyline of San Diego in the background makes for a stunning view as you chomp down on some mussels, seafood stew or grilled fish. They also have fantastic fish sandwiches and of course, fish tacos. Read our full review here>>

Cesarina – Italian

Address: 4161 Voltaire St, San Diego, CA 92107
Phone: (619) 226-6222
Website
4.8 ⭐️ (1250+ reviews) – $$ – Reservations recommended

Cesarina is this little Italian place that hits all the right notes. The food, obviously, is fantastic. They offer all the classics like “real” Carbornara, but then also fun new things to try, like the Gnocci with clams and friarelli.

Going with a mixed crowd of vegans, omnivores, gluten-free, and picky-vores? Cesarina is the place! They have an extensive vegan and gluten-free menu to choose from that will make everyone happy.

“Really enjoyed our evening over at Cesarina. The atmosphere was great, food tasty, and service very attentive. The place itself has a nice whimsy and charm. It feels homey but still modern with fun touches like the rooster water pitcher and pickled vegetable wall.”
Josh L.

Spaghetti with tomato sauce, basil leaves on a colorful plate — Photos provided by Cesarina’s

Wall with glass jars of colorful preserved vegetables on shelves — Photos provided by Cesarina’s

Best Restaurants in Normal Height

Et Violà!

3015 Adams Ave, San Diego, CA 92116
(619) 209-7759
Make Your Reservations ASAP Here
$$$ | French Bistro

Classic coq au vin with a pot of mashed potatoes behind it — Coq au Vin

homemade ravioli stuffed with ricotta cheese cooked in creamy garlic mushrooms sauce in a skillet, close-up — Coq au Vin

If you’re looking for some classic French cuisine with a touch of flair, then look no further than Et Voilà! Chef Vincent Viale takes seasonal ingredients and his French training to make each dish an absolute delight.

Guests rave about the perfectly cooked seafood and duck. The ambiance is serene while the employees are catering. It’s a pretty popular spot though so make sure you reserve one of the rustic tables ASAP.

Tags: date night, classic bistro, very responsive owners, great service, lovely ambiance, vegetarian-friendly, happy hour

Open for: Brunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in Hillcrest, Bankers Hill, Mission Hills, South Park & North Park

Black Radish

Address: 2591 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
Phone: (619) 269-1980
Website
$$$ (Prix Fixe is $ 89 + $ 49 for wine pairing)
Read our full Black Radish review here>>

Lilac Gin Cocktail with egg foam and cherry

Closeup of french merengue dessert with citrus and flowers and blood orange sauce

Black Radish is a cozy yet elegant and sophisticated bistro in North Park that has everything a bistro should have. It has soul and heart. The food is delicious. The service is outstanding. In short: If you like good food in a warm ambiance, try this restaurant.

The menu is small but mighty. You can choose between a 4-course prix fixe menu (with or without wine pairing), or a la carte (also with or without wine pairing). The menu changes frequently and focuses on local, in-season ingredients. The wine pairing was out of this world and the best I have experienced. The wines were exciting and fresh, not the same old, same old.

What makes this place so special? The owners are always there. You can taste their passion in the delectable dishes and feel the care of the servers that make your evening extra special.

KINDRED

1503 30th St, San Diego, CA 92102
(619) 546-9653
Check Out All Their Merch Here
$$ | Innovative Menu

Maïs Grillé au Barbecue Sauce Chimichurri — Corn

Gourmet mac and cheese with breadcrumbs served in a black pot on a dark table. — Corn

When you think of vegan, you often think of something extreme or boho. This is not the case with KINDRED. They are very much the opposite. KINDRED is an eclectic vegan spot where they play some headbanging death-metal.

Yes, you read right. Death-metal. They make it a point to clear the stigma around being vegan. From their big brunch plates to their awesome sandwiches, you would never know such delicious food was vegan if you didn’t look at the menu.

Their ambitious menu and style are not the only thing people come for at KINDRED. Their merch is a big hit too. You can find it in the shop and on their website. But people praise them most on the team’s great attitude and dedication to providing an exciting experience. Their cocktails aren’t too shabby either with the fresh herbs and interesting flavors. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Tags: vegan-friendly, vegetarian-friendly, late-night dining, innovative menu, dive-y, interesting concept, outstanding service, great cocktails

Open for: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Buona Forchetta

3001 Beech St, San Diego, CA 92102
(619) 381-4844
Reserve a Table for 6 or More Here
$$ | Pizza | Fresh Pasta

Italian dessert tiramisu. Traditional Italian cuisine, selective focus. — Tiramisu

Wood fired pizza with red sauce, slices of mozzarella and basil — Tiramisu

Funny enough, this Italian restaurant is not in Little Italy. I think that’s a good thing since very few amazing Italian restaurants are in that area. Buona Forchetta serves up amazing authentic pizza baked in their wood-fired oven and fresh pasta. Their fresh authentic Neopolitan pizza is given high praises along with their great neighborhood charm.

Guests rave about their authenticity and atmosphere. They’ve set themselves up very professionally. However, it’s more than just that. The servers will gladly help you pair your awesome lunch or dinner with the perfect beverage, alcoholic or not.

Tags: fun with friends, date night, family-friendly, gluten-free options

Open for: Lunch, Dinner

Fort Oak

1011 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 722-3398
Set Up Your Reservations Here
$$$$ | Surf & Turf

Incredible burly man carrying a beautiful tray of sourdough bread loaves — Sourdough Bread

A sushi tray with 3 canoli cones filled with white and green cream — Sourdough Bread

This is where rustic meets elegance. At Fort Oak, everything that can be made from scratch is made from scratch with prime ingredients. Each plate shines with Chef Brad Wise’s personal finesse.

The dining room speaks of the famous oaks in Presidio Park nearby where you can take a leisure stroll before or after your reservations. But make sure to make them because they do get busy.

Tags: vegetarian-friendly, pescatarian-friendly, innovative menu, date night

Open For: Brunch, Dinner

Trust Restaurant

3752 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 795-6901
Pick Your Table Here
$$ | New American

a black bowl filled with colorful food neatly placed in broth — Photos by: Haley Hill

a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on a bed of banana slices and whipped cream next to bread pudding — Photos by: Haley Hill

From the owners of Fort Oak comes this New American restaurant named Trust. They named it this because you can trust that their food will be delicious and innovative in both presentation and flavor.

Chef Brad Wise continues his culinary innovation at this restaurant and continues to bring a rustic elegance to the Hillcrest community. It’s not just about the food to them but also the atmosphere, service, and drinks. You can get the whole package at a pretty reasonable price.

Tags: seasonal food, date night, great service, excellent cocktails, vegetarian-friendly, pescatarian-friendly,

Open For: Dinner

Starlite

3175 India St, San Diego, CA 92103
(619) 358-9766
Secure Your Lounge Spot Here
$$ | Gastropub | Hidden Gem | 21+

A sparkling chandelier hangs above an open bar area, chairs empty but the threads of a party still lives. the liquor is neatly placed on the back wall for guests to choose from — Bar

A hexagonal entrance opens up to an illuminated bar with white countertops and a dazzling chandelier — Bar

This 21+ hidden San Diego gem is serving up some fabulous innovative dishes. Not very many know about the Starlite Lounge but those who do know about its elegance and coziness. Guests have not only raved about the service, food, and drinks but also of the great decor that really ties the whole place together.

The fact that it’s a hidden gem further proves that it’s one of the best restaurants in San Diego. There’s a little something for everyone here food and drink wise but check out the regularly changing specials to get a real treat.

Tags: date night, night with friends, excellent cocktails, great service, vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options, pescatarian-friendly

Open For: Dinner

Original 40 Brewing Company

3117 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 255-7380
Read About Their Journey Here
$$ | Brewery

Plants line the walls of the bar, beer is tapped up to the levers and the seats are empty and awaiting guests — Original 40 Brewing Company San Diego

Several ribs are lovingly placed on the white plate then sauced over and garnished with greenery — Original 40 Brewing Company San Diego

Disclaimer: When I visited I was provided complimentary service. My opinions are my own.

When I walked into Original 40 Brewery I was greeted right away by a very nice man. He immediately told me a little bit about the beer on tap and handed me a menu that was straightforward and simple. Every question I asked, he answered politely and confidently.

Most of the beer they have is house-made as well as the hard seltzer they rotated in and out. The food was flavorful and well cooked but my favorite, by far, were the ribs! They were juicy, fall off the bone, saucy ribs. I definitely recommend them.

They also have vegetarian and shareable options. If you aren’t a big beer person then feel free to look at the wine list as well. They even have a charcuterie plate to cater to my wine lovers out there but no worries beer-fanatics, you can pair beer with it too. Just ask the knowledgeable employees. It’s most definitely one of the best restaurants in San Diego.

Tags: craft beer, fun with friends, date night, vegetarian-friendly, great service, patio available

Open For: Brunch, Lunch, Dinner

Best Restaurants in Old Town

Sushi Tadokoro – 1 Michelin Star

2244 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110
(619) 297-0298
Check Out Their Menu Here
$$$ | Sushi Bar

Shrimp head with sashimed shrimp and shinso leaves on a black plate — Photos Provided by Sushi Tadokoro

Two different pieces of sushi one with urchin and the other with fish eggs — Photos Provided by Sushi Tadokoro

As a San Diegan, I know great sushi places can be hard to find in the midst of all the low-quality places there are. Sushi Tadokoro in Old Town San Diego is one of those amazing sushi gems that you can’t really find anywhere except Japan.

They use homemade ingredients and fresh fish to bring integrity to the sushi they serve. They also offer a selection of Japanese liquor to pair with your sushi order. Really a diamond in the rough.

Tags: sushi, pescatarian-friendly, excellent service, authentic, great drinks

Open For: Lunch, Dinner

No great restaurant is just about food. The people are what make restaurants great. There may be some terrible people that go out to eat. Everyone has an entitled person story. But these restaurants make the most of every customer that walks in.

Yes, their food is monumental and that’s part of why I put them on this list. I also added these places because of their reviews and some of my own experiences. They aren’t just food. They’re real people serving stories and beauty on plates. Visit them and enjoy it!

And remember to book a food tour, it is such a great way to explore a city and try some local eats.

Disclosure: Most photos belong to the according restaurants as stated

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Are you looking for the actual best restaurants in San Diego? Well, look no further! Discover the best place that fits your taste and budget. #sandiegotrip #sandiegotravel #sandiegoitinerary #traveltips #travel #californiatrip #californiatravel #socallifestyle #socaltravel #sandiego #sandiegocalifornia #california #southerncalifornia #sandiegorestaurants #sandiegogrub #sandiegoexplorer #sandiegoeats #foodie #restaurants #food #socalfood #sandiegochefs #localfood #eatlocal

Best Restaurants in San Diego by Neighborhood was written and edited by Hedge Metreyeon. For more San Diego Explorer posts, check out our homepage. For more of their articles visit here. Follow them on social media here.

Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Maria Haase

The post 30 Best Restaurants In San Diego by Neighborhood [Updated 2024] appeared first on San Diego Explorer.