34 Best American Restaurants in El Cajon

Crafted Greens American • $
745 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Chimichurri Grass Fed Steak Sandwich
California Turkey and Swiss Sandwich
Grass-Fed Steak a La Carte
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts
Tomato Mozzarella Caprese
Salmon Roasted Potatoes
Grilled Veggie Sandwich
Creme Brulee Cheesecake
Mediterranean Chop Chop
Free Range Chicken Club

“The sandwich with beef and chimichurri is delicious!! Excellent service…“

4.8 Superb199 Reviews
Black Bear Diner American • $
1025 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Freshly-Brewed Black Bear Diner Coffee - 96oz
Bigfoot Chicken Fried Steak & Eggs
Cinnamon Roll French Toast
Open Face Turkey Sandwich
New York Steak & Eggs
Bob's Big Bear Burger
Denver Omelette
Steak and Eggs
Side Salad
Hashbrowns

“Our server Savanah was fantastic. Thank you Savanah, you made our evening.
Thank you Black Bear - 2 of our party of 3 had their meals "on the house." Veterans, on Veterans Day. What a nice surprise. ?
We enjoy your restaurant ?“

4.3 Superb292 Reviews
Viewpoint Kitchen + Bar American •
5442 Sycuan Rd, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Country Fried Steak and Eggs
French Dip Sandwich
The Classic Burger
Home Fries
Cornbread

“Extremely generous portion sizes. My mom had the watermelon salad which was unique and refreshing, i had the french dip which is what i always order and is how i judge restaurants, and it was great. fries are amazing and the au jus is rosemary infused which made it delightfully fragrant but not over powering. and my mom’s espresso martini came in a chilled glass which is a nice touch. the bread was also hot and very good. oh plus excellent service! and i like that you can hear the live music but it’s not so loud. highly recommend (:“

4.3 Superb37 Reviews
Denny's Diner • $
2642 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Pancakes with Extra Bananas
Philly Cheesesteak Omelette
Club Sandwich and Pancakes
Country Fried Steak & Eggs
Country-Fried Steak & Eggs
Mile High Denver Omelette
Diner Classic Patty Melt
Cali Club Sandwich
French Toast Slam
Stack of Pancakes

“Grand Slam of a place ! Been coming since childhood and never disappointed.“

4.7 Superb190 Reviews
Red Tail Bar & Grill American • $$
3007 Dehesa Rd, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Artichokes and Grilled Asparagus
Jerk Chicken Sandwich
Clubhouse Sandwich
Chorizo Flatbread
Huevos Rancheros
Watermelon Salad
Achiote Chicken
Sycuan Burger
Eggs Benedict
Avocado Toast

“I recently had the pleasure of enjoying brunch at Red Tail, and it exceeded all expectations. The impeccable service provided by Avery added an extra layer of delight to the experience. From the spot-on food to the clean ambiance, every aspect of my visit was truly enjoyable. Avery's efficiency stood out, making it a memorable dining experience. Highly recommended!“

4.1 Good46 Reviews
Applebee's Grill + Bar American • $
2508 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

New Bourbon Street Mushroom Swiss Burger
Triple Chocolate Meltdown
Sweet Honey Chicken Pasta
Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Bourbon Chicken Shrimp
Side Steamed Broccoli
Classic Bone-In Wings
Bourbon Street Steak
Neighborhood Burger

“We had the greatest server, Taylor in your Rancho San Diego restaurant, Jamacha Road,. She was so personable, efficient, friendly and extremely attentive. The food arrived hot and it was delicious. It was a party of 3, and we all agreed the meals were the best we’ve had out in a long time. We thoroughly enjoyed it and Taylor made our experience delightful!!! We’ll definitely return to this establishment.

Parking: Disabled parking is conveniently positioned.“

4 Good144 Reviews
Viewpoint Kitchen + Bar American • $$
5469 Casino Way, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Club Sandwich
Chilaquiles

“This was a lovely restaurant I came to for my friend's birthday. Every guest seemed to like their dish. I ordered a club sandwich (no bacon, no tomatoes) with a side of fries but I was a bit disappointed when they brought it with bacon and tomatoes. They sent it back and corrected the order, and it ended up being pretty good and very filling. The restaurant has an outdoor terrace that has a beautiful view on the pool area.“

4.1 Good21 Reviews
Double Down Grill American • $
5442 Sycuan Rd, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

All American Breakfast
Carne Asada Burrito
Cheeseburger
Sugar Donut
Wings

“Arrived on a Wednesday for $5 Bingo, I want to say the play started at 2pm… and since I skipped lunch, I needed a snack before dinner. The Bingo Hall offers food from Double Down Grill next door. I decided to share a cheeseburger, add fries with my partner. The burger was damn delicious, the brioche bun was so soft and the fries crispy and hot, just how I like them. It was like $16 altogether with tip! So worth it, give them a try!“

3.5 Good16 Reviews
Grand Ole BBQ Flinn Springs Barbecue • $$
15505 Olde Hwy 80, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Pork Ribs Brisket and Macaroni and Cheese
Brisket Sandwich with Mac and Cheese
Freddy Fender's Chili Verde
Brisket Pork Ribs Beef Ribs
White Beans with Bacon
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Tritip Sandwich
St Louis Ribs
Mac N Cheese
Mac & Cheese

“This place gets pretty busy on weekends! The parking lot may be full but you can still park along the street. It’s pretty large so there’s usually seats. I love the borracho fries, so good! Also the pulled pork and the cheeseburger are tasty too. The service is good as well. My one complaint is they run out of their popular items by 2pm, tri tip and hot links get sold out really fast. I know they can only bbq so much but maybe add some more of the popular meats?“

4.4 Superb220 Reviews
Urbane Cafe Sandwich Shop • $
120 Fletcher Pkwy #115, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Californian Veggie Sandwich
Cilantro Chicken Torta
Mediterranean Bowl
Chicken Sandwich
House Side Salad
Santa Maria BBQ
Chocolate Chip
The Ahi Salad
Salmon Bowl
Sandwiches

“I'm leaving a review about this place in general, and Andres in particular. I was unsure of what to order and he took his time and helped me pick a great option. Thank you for your exceptional customer service! This place is one of my favorite restaurants in EC, and employees like Andres is one of the main reasons why this place is awesome.“

4.5 Superb129 Reviews
Buckboard's BBQ & Brew Barbecue • $$
975 Greenfield Dr, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Buckboard Steak Burger
Mac and Cheese Balls
Best of Buck Platter
Baby Back Ribs Full
Mexican Street Corn
Pork Belly Sliders
Tri-Tip Sandwich
The Best of Buck
Dubba Fried Wings
Tri Tip Platter

“Loved everything we got tonight, the chicken sandwich, pulled pork, amazing! So were the fried Mac and cheese balls!!!!“

4.5 Superb104 Reviews
Janet's Cafe Family • $
1696 Greenfield Dr, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Eggs Bacon Breakfast with Home Fries and Pancakes
Bacon and Eggs Breakfast with Pancakes
Half Order of Biscuits & Gravy
Chicken Fried Steak and Eggs
Eggs Benedict Country Style
Cinnamon Roll French Toast
Bacon Avocado Omelette
New York Steak & Eggs
Mixed Berry Crepes
Biscuits and Gravy

“Great tasting food wonderful service“

4.5 Superb82 Reviews
Izzy's Cafe Cafe • $
1252 Broadway, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Chicken Fried Steak Breakfast Combo
Blueberry Stuffed French Toast
Cinnamon Roll French Toast
Biscuits & Country Gravy
Smoked BBQ Beef Brisket
Short Stack of Pancakes
Beef Brisket Breakfast
Grilled Chicken Salad
Machaca Con Huevos
Biscuits and Gravy

“Me encanto el lugar que es muy familiar♥️“

4.5 Superb60 Reviews
Wing Factory Chicken Wings • $
2654 Jamacha Road #111, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Buffalo Chicken Fries Regular
Salt and Pepper Wings
Buffalo Chicken Wrap
Family Tenders Combo
Lemon Pepper Chicken
Pulled Pork Fries
Chipotle Wings
Mango Habanero
Boneless Wings
Chicken Wings

“Jenn was our server and she was so helpful! and treated us just like family. she walked us through the menu and helped us decide what to get. I got the mild chicken tenders with breadsticks (MADE FRESHLY!!!) and my boyfriend got the buffalo chicken fries. the fries are so crispy! 10/10 recommend!!“

4.3 Superb115 Reviews
Funky Fries and Burgers Hamburger • $
101 W Washington Ave, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Mac N Cheese Fries
Buffalo Chicken Tater Tots
Bacon Mac N Cheese Burger
Buffalo Mac N Cheese Fry
Philly Cheesesteak Fry
Buffalo Chicken Fries
Hangover Burger
Diablo Burger
Smash Burger
Chili Cheese

“Found Funky Burgers and Fries today. I just wanted a Strawberry Shake. It was awesome! Made with quality ingredients and care. The service was excellent. I’ll be back to try their Burgers & Fries👍“

4.2 Good187 Reviews
Bonny's Cafe Cafe • $
596 Broadway, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

French Toast with Eggs and Sausage
Pancakes with Banana Topping
Polish Omelette and Pancakes
Strawberry French Toast
Big Breakfast Potatoes
Ham and Cheese Omelet
Country Fried Steak
Biscuits and Gravy
NY Steak and Eggs
Scrambled Eggs

“Delicious breakfasts 😋 and good service“

4.4 Superb66 Reviews
Hooleys Public House Irish Pub • $$
2955 Jamacha Road Suite 21A, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Blackened Chicken Macaroni Cheese
Butterscotch Bread Pudding
Cheeseburger with Fries
Corned Beef & Cabbage
Shrimp Fish and Chips
Macaroni and Cheese
Shepherd's Pie Boxty
Shrimp & Chips
Prime Rib Dip
Fried Pickles

“Great place with great food and great service, will definitely come back!“

4.3 Superb85 Reviews
El Cajon Bistro & Bakery-Bistro Cafe • $
109 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Granola and Fresh Fruit Bowl
Cottage Cheese & Fruit Bowl
Egg Benedict Half Order
Guadalajara Chilaquiles
Smoked Salmon Scramble
Country Steak & Eggs
Biscuits and Gravy
Breakfast Burrito
Country Potatoes
Hash Browns

“Bistro Cajon is a hidden gem! The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for a relaxed breakfast or brunch. Their omelettes are simply divine—fluffy, flavorful, and generously filled with fresh ingredients. Whether you're a meat lover or prefer veggies, they have options to satisfy every palate. Pair it with a freshly brewed coffee, and you're set for a delightful morning. Highly recommend stopping by Bistro Cajon for a culinary treat!“

4.3 Superb72 Reviews
19

Denny's

Denny's Diner • $
13584 Camino Canada, Lakeside

Customers` Favorites

Country-Fried Steak & Eggs' Sizzlin' Skillet
Chicken Loaded Potato Sizzlin' Skillet
Pancakes with Strawberries and Bananas
55 Scrambled Eggs & Cheddar Breakfast
Cheeseburger with French Fries
Country Fried Steak & Eggs
Country-Fried Steak Dinner
Mile High Denver Omelette
Beer-Battered Onion Rings
Diner Classic Patty Melt

“Service was good. Food was fine, the prices were a bit high for a Denny's! Their hash browns are always tasty. Also, the manager is exceptional. She really understands customer service.

Wheelchair accessibility: There is ADA accessibility.“

4.1 Good179 Reviews
20

Denny's

Denny's Diner • $
665 N Mollison Ave, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Country Fried Steak & Eggs
Country-Fried Steak Dinner
Cheddar Cheese Hash Browns
Jr Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Beer-Battered Onion Rings
All You Can Eat Pancakes
Mile High Denver Omelette
French Toast Special
Double Cheeseburger
T-Bone Steak & Eggs

“I love Dennies. Lol 1000x better then ihop“

4.1 Good162 Reviews
Kelly's Pub, El Cajon Bar • $
719 E Bradley Ave, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Shot of Jameson & Pint of Guinness
Guacamole Sour Cream
Surf and Turf
Fish Burrito

“Been going to Kelly's for a few years now and mad a few friends here. The ladies behind the bar are all friendly, gorgeous and good people. I never have an empty glass when at Kelly's and prices are affordable.

Kelly's has fresh popcorn but doesn't serve food. There is a Mexican Take-out next door though if you get hungry.

-Tiny-“

4.3 Superb42 Reviews
22

Denny's

Denny's Diner • $
2691 Navajo Rd, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

55 Scrambled Eggs & Cheddar Breakfast
Berry Banana Pancakes with Eggs
Mozzarella Sticks and Marinara
Philly Cheesesteak Omelette
Country Fried Steak & Eggs
Biscuits and Chicken Gravy
Loaded Breakfast Sandwich
All You Can Eat Pancakes
Bacon Breakfast Burger
Bourbon Bacon Burger

“El cajon trash working at this restaraunt!!!“

4.1 Good103 Reviews
Dickey's Barbecue Pit Barbecue • $
2959 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Pulled Pork Brisket and Jalepeno Cheese Kielbasa
Build Your Own Big Yellow Box
Brisket Burnt Ends Sandwich
Texas Brisket Sandwich Combo
Big Yellow Box Pulled Pork
Half Rack Pork Rib Plate
Pit Dip Sandwich Plate
Baked Potato Casserole
Pork Rib Combo Plate
Sweet Barbecue Sauce

“I always like great ribs and like coming here but unfortunately today's service wasn't very satisfying no side orders drinks no eating inside I can't give a great review until you fix this easues 🤔“

4.1 Good79 Reviews
Sycuan Casino Resort American • $$
5469 Casino Way, El Cajon

“Sycuan is 2 minutes from my house, I'm always there, I go with my Family or my husband on staycations at the resort, enjoy the spa, the massages, the lazy river , the music, the food, it's all good!!! highly recommended 👌🏽“

4 Good660 Reviews
The Pancake House Breakfast • $
1000 N 2nd St, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce and Chilli Cheese Fries
French Toast Special Eggs and Bacon
California Chicken Sandwich
Fish and Chips Dinner
Sweet Potato Pancakes
Country Fried Steak
Machaca Con Huevos
Dude Ranch Platter
Breakfast Sampler
Ham Steak & Eggs

“Very nice people and the food is really good.“

4 Good83 Reviews
Applebee's Grill + Bar American • $
107 Fletcher Pkwy, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Fettuccine Alfredo with Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
Bacon and Cheese Burger with Fries
Brew Pub Loaded Waffle Fries
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Boneless Wings Applebee's
Triple Chocolate Meltdown
Applebee's Riblets Plate
Oriental Chicken Salad
Blackened Cajun Salmon
Side Steamed Broccoli

“The food was hot and good. We shared the full rack of ribs (a bit tough but great flavor), mashed potatoes, broccoli and the Spinach dip with chips. The price was very fair as we split a full rack of ribs.
PARKING IS AWFUL. Had to circle 3 times to find a spot.“

3.2 Average126 Reviews
Downtown Cafe Bar & Grill Bar & Grill • $$
182 E Main St, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Guacamole Pico De Gallo and Chips
Carnitas Flatbread Pizza
Fish and Chips Basket
BBQ Chicken Flat-Bread
Big Downtown Nachos
French Onion Soup
Carnitas Fajitas
Calimari Tacos
Chicken Tacos
Chicken Wings

“My wife and I like it here. Have been here with daughters and sons in-laws. Have shared a table with a larger group of friends a couple of weeks ago where we were all taking advantage of happy hour. Five dollar tacos and cheeseburger. We did Taco Tuesday yesterday and had the fish and calamari tacos and took two Birrea tacos to go. Excellent tacos waitress did us well in the past and bartender took care of us yesterday.“

3.9 Good82 Reviews
The Burger Den Meal Delivery • $$
665 N Mollison Ave, El Cajon

“Excellent service real good food“

3.3 Good4 Reviews
Main Tap Tavern Bar • $
518 E Main St, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Carne Asada Nachos
Chicken Wings
Fish Tacos

“My friend and I were looking for a bar and grill in El Cajon the other day and came across this place and I'm so glad we did! Food was so delicious, drinks were nice and cold AND they have a great happy hour selection! Definitely going back!“

3.8 Good36 Reviews
Rank & File Bar • $$
5469 Casino Way, El Cajon

“Alex is absolutely legendary. This guy provides upstanding customer service, made my family feel right at home and delivered incredible 5 star hospitality. His food recommendations were spot on and even turned us on to the dessert brownie. We will be back here based on his service alone. 10/10“

3.7 Good52 Reviews
Broken Yolk Cafe Breakfast • $
2963 Jamacha Road, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Belgian Waffle with Chicken Tenders
New York Steak and Eggs Breakfast
New York Steak & Eggs
Classic Eggs Benedict
Stuffed French Toast
American Breakfast
Caprese Benedict
Chilaquiles Bowl
Rancher Omelette
Huevos Rancheros

“Had a great brunch today with my daughter!“

3.7 Good111 Reviews
32

IHOP

IHOP Breakfast • $
1286 Oakdale Ave, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Pancake Creations Family Feast with Sausage
Chocolate Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Strawberry Banana French Toast
Double Blueberry Pancakes
Spicy Poblano Omelette
French Toast Breakfast
Stuffed French Toast
Spinach and Mushroom
T-Bone Steak & Eggs
French Toast Combo

“Food was good. I was able to get a nice, very full, 3 egg white omelet with spinach mushroom tomatoes and a pretty topping of Avocado slices.
(The old cholesterol needs to come down, so it was my best bet)
Decent size fruit cup.
Didn't have that "cooked on a grill with layers of grease from a hundred other breakfasts" taste.

Also added the Fluffy French Toast, which seems to be my "latest craving - could eat it anytime food." (I cheated. Just half the slice)

And the bread is "fluffy!" At least the size of 2 big slices of regular bread. Different & good.

I loved my waitress, Lizzie. She had the sweetest smile and was very attentive to our table and extras we would need.

The menu looks newer and it's a nice upgrade they did. Also, a nice change from eating at another
Diner favorite a lot.

This IHOP on North Second Street/Oakdale, El Cajon, is my favorite one & I would recommend it.
It can be noisy when the kids are eating, but, hey, so is Disneyland!“

3.6 Good87 Reviews
Retreat Pool & Cabanas Lounges • $$
5469 Casino Way, El Cajon

“The LAZY River. So many pools/jacuzzis to choose from. Staff always cleaning 🧼!👍🏽“

3.6 Good91 Reviews
Black Angus Steakhouse Steak House • $$
1000 Graves Ave, El Cajon

Customers` Favorites

Wedge Salad with Blue Cheese Dressings
Big Mountain Chocolate Fudge Cake
Chocolate Chip Cowboy Cookie
Steakhouse Bacon Cheeseburger
Wagon Wheel Sampler Platter
Ribeye Steak Mac N Cheese
Square Cow Caesar Salad
Badass BBQ CHX Salad
Loaded Potato Skins
Warm Molasses Bread

“We hadn't been to Black Angus for many, many years. On a whim we decided to go check it out due to wanting a good steak. We had reservations and were seated right away. Our server Laura was absolutely fantastic. She was polite, patient, and informative. She checked on our table many times. We received our food in a very timely manner and it was exactly what was ordered. Steak was perfectly cooked, lobster was delicious. Overall this turned out to be a wonderful experience. We will definitely be back soon.“

3.7 Good278 Reviews