Restaurants in El Cajon

Best Restaurants

Tappi's Cafe 12098 Fury Ln suite B, El Cajon Breakfast • $$
12098 Fury Ln suite B, El Cajon

“As soon as we walked in we were greeted by the friendly staff and seated right away. A great start to an even better meal! My fiancèe and I ordered the Honeymoon latte (vanilla latte sweetened with honey) and a Dirty Chai to start, both were super delicious, beautiful and handcrafted to perfection. For our meals my fiancèe ordered the Beefee Benedict which is served with Kufta (think Mediterranean "meatloaf" with robust herbs and spices) and a house blend cheese on top of English muffins and a made from scratch Hollandaise sauce. And I had ordered the Shakshuka "Special" which is on the regular menu, that's just how they named this dish and that comes with grilled onions and peppers, Kufta, two sunny side eggs in a rich and perfectly acidic tomato puree and houseblend cheese with a house made Bread dome on top of the whole dish. Delicious is an understatement, the food, the drinks the atmosphere, I mean everything fit so prefect. They have a little taste of different cultures and offer healthy alternatives and everything is made in house and I could not say anything bad about this place. 10 out of 10 recommend and we will definitely be coming back to try other amazing dishes.”

4.6 Superb101 Reviews
Grand Ole BBQ Flinn Springs 15505 Olde Hwy 80, El Cajon Barbecue • $$
15505 Olde Hwy 80, El Cajon

“Delicious Texas BBQ food, famous for being featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives several years ago. The service is super friendly (Tiffany is our favorite server) and quick. Ribs, brisket, tri-tip, smoked turkey with either sweet or spicy BBQ sauce are all delicious. Side dishes are just perfect with the smoked BBQ meats, especially the potato salad, coleslaw and white beans! Food is served in paper trays and very casual with cocktail bar service, and local beers on tap. We drive 45 minutes at least once a month from Escondido to eat here, it’s that good! Weekends they have live bands playing and fun activities for families sitting outside. This place is a little gem, and worth the drive to Flinn Springs for a delicious BBQ feast!Kid-friendliness: Great place for kids!”

4.6 Superb92 Reviews
Busy B Thai Cafe 330 Magnolia Ave, El Cajon Thai • $$
330 Magnolia Ave, El Cajon

“Best vegan Thai food in El Cajon! I definitely recommend coming to dine in I love the decor and felt a light energy. Service was prompt and courteous and the option of the all vegan menu and delicious Thai tea has now ensured I will keep coming back. Thank you thank you thank you ??Vegetarian options: New optional all vegan options !Dietary restrictions: Vegan availableParking: Parking is in the back and there are plenty of spaces.”

4.6 Superb56 Reviews
Marechiaro's 2nd Street 854 N 2nd St, El Cajon Italian • $$
854 N 2nd St, El Cajon

“I was so excited to try a family owned small restaurant and I was not disappointed! I ordered the lasagna, tortellini carbonara, tiramisu, and cheesecake. Every dish was delicious. Service was kind, friendly, and attentive. Looking forward to trying the pizza next time!”

4.4 Superb86 Reviews
Dolci Cafe Italiano 2650 Jamacha Rd #121, El Cajon Italian • $$
2650 Jamacha Rd #121, El Cajon

“Impeccable service. I love this place for date night & I always recommend it to friends and family for a nice night out. Last time I was here I got the lamb shank (incredible). Honorable mention to Tony who helped me with a special occasion!”

4.4 Superb82 Reviews
Junction Bar & Grill 777 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Bar & Grill • $$
777 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“What a great place to drink and dine at. I want to give a special shout out to the bar tender of the night Loren for unbelievable customer service and care in every drink he makes. 10/10 recommend to anyone you comes here”

4.4 Superb79 Reviews

Restaurants by Cuisine

Hooleys Public House 2955 Jamacha Road Suite 21A, El Cajon Irish Pub • $$
2955 Jamacha Road Suite 21A, El Cajon

“We enjoyed a very nice experience at Hooleys, for dinner. We were greeted promptly upon arrival and seated at a nice booth.Our server, Lexi was at our table quickly to get drink orders. Our food and drink arrived quickly. Everything was prepared well. We had a Calamari appetizer, followed by a Beef Stew Boxty and Corn Beef with Cabbage. Portions were plentiful, with leftovers for another meal. Wednesday is also half price bottle wine night, which was a big plus.”

4.4 Superb77 Reviews
Sultan Baklava Mediterranean Grill 169 E Main St, El Cajon Mediterranean • $$
169 E Main St, El Cajon

“I was in El Cajon for a work trip & staying at a hotel nearby. I found Sultan on maps, saw the reviews, & opted to try it. & oh my god. I'm sitting in my hotel room alone giddy with joy eating this baklava. It is so, so good. The man that helped me answered all my questions & steered me towards great choices! I can't recommend enough!!!”

4.3 Superb109 Reviews
Burning Beard Brewing Co. 785 Vernon Way, El Cajon Brewery • $$
785 Vernon Way, El Cajon

“Okay, four stars isn’t really fair because the beer was amazing. Great brewery, great music but no fries?!!! If you have food at your brewery always have and never run out of fries. If you’re looking for good beer this is the place, if you need fries with that beer they don’t have them. At least not the day I was there. Sorry dudes, step up the French fry game. You should actually get rid of everything on the menu and focus on French fries.”

4.4 Superb65 Reviews

Restaurants with Delivery

Fatboy's Deli & Spirits 13305 Hwy 8 Business, El Cajon Deli • $$
13305 Hwy 8 Business, El Cajon

“Once you try fatboys deli, you will never want another sandwich from anywhere else! They have, by far, the best sandwiches and the best selection! Service is always amazing!”

4.4 Superb45 Reviews
Xtreme Wings 740 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Chicken Wings • $$
740 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“I gotta give this place a five star rating cause the service was great and the food was delicious. Comparing it to Epic Wings, I can honestly say this place might even beat it, especially cause the strips were more crispier.One thing is for sure, I will be returning and choosing it over Epic Wings. Oh, and this place has way more options with food and sauces.”

4.4 Superb31 Reviews
Hana Sushi 749 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Sushi • $$
749 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“The food and the variety of rolls are very good. I tried the toro and it was so fresh and melts in the mouth. The restaurant is located in a busy plaza, so recommended for dinner more than lunch to find a spot for your car. Their service is fast and they have that nice ship which gives an amazing presentation to ”

4.1 Good79 Reviews

Outdoor Dining

Daymar Artisan Coffee Roasters 460-B Cypress Ln, El Cajon Coffee Roasteries • $$
460-B Cypress Ln, El Cajon

“I've gotten my coffee beans from several roasters in my area. Daymar is my favorite by far. Great taste, plenty of different styles and roasts to choose from, and it's roasted in premises which gives you the freshest beans. This is more of a wholesale type business, don't expect to just show up and walk out with a bag of coffee. You can go there and talk to them, see the options, but it will take some time for them to package what you decide on. Now that I know what I like I call ahead and pick it up later the same day.”

5 Superb12 Reviews
Texas Roadhouse 103 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon Steak House • $$
103 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon

“If you're craving a juicy steak, look no further! Plus, their addictive bread is a must-try. Our server was incredibly kind, and they even treated us to a complimentary bag of peanuts and an appetizer for our next visit. Needless to say, we'll be back soon!”

3.9 Good502 Reviews
Red Tail Bar & Grill 3007 Dehesa Rd, El Cajon American • $$
3007 Dehesa Rd, El Cajon

“The service was amazing it was a first for my girl and I and they gave us a tour even though they didn't have too the food was amazing and the drinks were on ”

4 Good62 Reviews

Online Reservation Available

Nahrain Fish & Chicken Grill 1183 E Main St Suite A, El Cajon Middle Eastern • $$
1183 E Main St Suite A, El Cajon

“Best place for Masgouf fish (Iraqi wood grilled fish) in San Diego.Simple, reasonably priced and authentic. Highly recommended if you are in the mood for a grilled cheese fish or chicken.”

4.1 Good36 Reviews
Di Leone's Italian Restaurant 1480 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Italian • $$
1480 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“Food is outstanding with choices of different sauces, pasta, and a wide variety of wines to choose from. Staff very friendly and polite. The restaurant is very nice environment with some of the original Italian rat pack playing in the background.”

3.9 Good61 Reviews
Black Angus Steakhouse 1000 Graves Ave, El Cajon Steak House • $$$
1000 Graves Ave, El Cajon

“My friend and I were celebrating both of our birthdays at Black Angus for lunch. We decided to have the Campfire Feast - both had the filet mignon, loaded baked potato (she had the brussels sprouts, and I had the salad. A bottle of wine was half off! (I myself had an Angry Orchard). Our starter was the cheesy garlic bread (you can never go wrong with that!) And for our desert that was included we chose the Mudpie. And then, Robert, our amazing waiter brought out the Birthday Cowboy cookie with the ice cream to the side for each of us (he knew we were taking our cookies home). If you haven't tried this...omg! That entire meal for two (including the wine) was only $105 before tip. We did have to pay $5 each extra for the filet mignon and I believe the loaded baked potato was also a few extra dollars. Yes, we took leftovers home. In fact, I had enough for two more meals! So worth it and still so delicious. Robert, our waiter was very friendly and help. Helped my friend pick out the wine she wanted and gave us other suggestions while trying to select our meal options. He was very helpful. Black Angus is one of my favorite restaurants and they made our birthdays celebrations even more special!”

3.8 Good373 Reviews

24 Hour Restaurants

Bull & Bourbon Steakhouse 5469 Casino Way, El Cajon Steak House • $$$
5469 Casino Way, El Cajon

“Our server ,Daniel was excellent. Went above and beyond. Attenntive and very knowledgeable about the food. Our steak while good was a little tough. Rest of the meal was 5 star. A great dinner for our 55 th anniversary!”

3.8 Good340 Reviews
Outback Steakhouse 722 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Steak House • $$
722 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“Amazing!!! So thankful for such a wonderful and tasty community partner for our elementary school. Truly appreciate all they do for teachers and all the delicious food!”

3.8 Good118 Reviews
Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill 182 E Main St, El Cajon Bar & Grill • $$
182 E Main St, El Cajon

“My food was great, my husband thought his food needed more seasoning. But the atmosphere was great and the music off the charts wonderful!! We'll go back!!-”

3.8 Good78 Reviews

Takeout Restaurants

Suerte Cantina 5459 Casino Way, El Cajon Mexican • $$$
5459 Casino Way, El Cajon

“Listen ... this place has sooo much potential they NEED TO ADD BAND AND BACHATA NIGHTS !!! It will be OFF THE HOOK. Think about it a place to stay, drinks and bachata nights omg. The drinks are so creative and embrace the Hispanic culture. Apparently it's only been open 4 months but it is my new fave at Sycuan Casino!”

3.8 Good27 Reviews
Round Table Pizza 2650 Jamacha Rd #143, El Cajon Pizza • $$
2650 Jamacha Rd #143, El Cajon

“The lunch buffet is awesome and appreciate them bringing it back! Really liked them asking if we had any preference on pizza toppings as well.Parking: Plenty of spots”

3.7 Good64 Reviews
Ali Baba Family Restaurant 421 E Main St, El Cajon Middle Eastern • $$
421 E Main St, El Cajon

“This place is truly a jewel to your palate and pocketbook! Delicious food, ample serving, personal family service, and all at a fair price! The place could use some cleaning up, fresh paint, putting someone on regular bathroom detail, but that aside I do recommend this place to anyone looking for that Middle East charm!! We ordered the feast for 4, but it could easily feed 6 starving students!”

3.7 Good84 Reviews

Drive-Thru Restaurants

“Everything was delicious!!! I had the whole tandoori chicken plate and a harthiya burger. I HIGHLY recommend both. The restaurant is super clean so the new management does wonders! All of the workers were so kind. I'm coming back to try all of the appetizers and the chicken escalope sandwich! Will be back this weekend.”

3.6 Good57 Reviews
Tabu Sushi Bar & Grill 2986 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Sushi • $$
2986 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“I'm a BIG sushi lover and I was impressed by how delicious the food was here!! Everything was delicious from the sushi rolls to the miso soup. Order the lemon cilantro rolls!!! They were mind blowing good! Place is kind of small but there were people in and out. It's clean and plenty of parking. No loud music thankfully! They were showing a basketball game. People were eating, chatting, watching the game and drinking their saki. Very friendly service. Very good vibe. Plenty of parking. I will be BACK!!”

3.6 Good65 Reviews
Deli Belly 1530 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Deli • $$
1530 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“This is a great sandwich spot. The staff is friendly and quick. They have a very large selection of sandwiches, salads, sodas, ice cream, and pie slices as well as at least 1 to 2 soup(s) to add to your order. They offer a military discount and a punch card that if you go 8 times your 9th sandwich is free. I highly recommend this company not just this location. Thank you again for the great food and conversations. I will be coming back anytime I am looking for a great sandwich.Parking: Parking is right up front. Only one Handicap accessible spot. The spots are slightly too small. Watch out for broken wheel stops.”

3.5 Good25 Reviews

Cheap Eats

Zarzour Restaurant 293 El Cajon Blvd, El Cajon Middle Eastern • $$
293 El Cajon Blvd, El Cajon

“We had chicken tikka, chicken kabob, chicken shawarma, and beef kabob, and everything was delicious. We also had a soup that was superb (but no idea what it was called). Our server was very friendly and accommodating. We did not feel rushed at all. And prices were extremely reasonable.”

2.3 Poor3 Reviews
Pizza Hut Express 2911 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Pizza • $$
2911 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“Thank you pizza hut. Placed a order for delivery, so I thought. But it was for pick up. They still delivered my pizza in great time. And now I'm full just that fast ???”

2 Poor4 Reviews
Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers 2991 Jamacha Road, El Cajon Fast Food • $$
2991 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

“Place was very crowded. Left restroom was out of soap and paper towels. App told me my order was ready but it still took 10-15 more minutes to actually be ready. I get it, 5 minutes is too soon for an order and not realistic, but then another 15 minutes more? Place was packed and drive thru line was long, so I do get it.”

3.5 Good118 Reviews
Flame Bar & Grill 3773 Willow Glen Dr, El Cajon Bar & Grill • $$$
3773 Willow Glen Dr, El Cajon

“Great atmosphere. The food was so good pricing of menu items was so affordable and great service. Thanks Raad for taking care of us. I would totally come back. Best spot in rancho san diego by far!”

3.3 Good52 Reviews
Kako Dates & Nuts 1154 E Main St #113, El Cajon Health Food • $$
1154 E Main St #113, El Cajon

“If you love dates then this place is heaven.... Dates are prepared and stuffed with all types of nuts and fillings. The staff are very friendly and accommodating to how you prefer your boba prepared. If you dig great middle eastern desserts (dates) with a service with a smile then come here to satisfy your sweet tooth. I will update with pictures next time I am in. I will be back for more gluttony....”

2.7 Average14 Reviews
Albertsons Deli 1608 Broadway, El Cajon Deli • $$
1608 Broadway, El Cajon

“this month has been really hard for me. I have a stroke and been having money taken out of my purse in the hospital. I was short on cash. We ran out of food so I went to the store and got sell items. I counted the money and thought I had enough but when I got to the register I was $10 short so I was taken out items to return to the store and the manager came up and gave me a $10 coupon so I could get everything that was in my basket. This is why I always shop this Albertson's. They are the best when I get home my brother and I ate good for the first time in days , thank you Albertsons”

2.1 Poor10 Reviews

34
Jamba

Jamba 225 Jamacha Road Ste 102, El Cajon Juice • $$
225 Jamacha Road Ste 102, El Cajon

“Nice folks working. Great, quick service. Delicious choices, got the go-getter, satisfied combinations??.Kid-friendliness: Great interactions with the young ones.”

2 Poor23 Reviews

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