50 Best American Restaurants in San Diego

“Paradisaea offers exceptional dining experiences. Accommodating servers, such as Bridget, provide top-notch service. The kitchen excels at preparing delicious meals, including Steak au Poivre with demi glacé sauce, and offering generous portions. The menu features standout dishes like the jalapeño Caesar Salad, burger, and Steak and frites. The retro 60's decor adds to the fun atmosphere.“

“Great Maple - Hillcrest is a must-visit brunch spot, but reservations are a must. The food is delicious with large portions, especially the luxury salmon toast and French toast logs. Don't miss out on the donuts for dessert. Despite the limited parking and noise level, the attentive service and unique dishes like pig on a blanket make it a favorite for many. Just beware of the wait times, as the restaurant can get crowded quickly.“

“Kettner Exchange is a highly-recommended restaurant in San Diego, offering an exquisite atmosphere and delicious food. The restaurant is known for its outstanding service, with staff providing respectful and attentive service from start to finish. The menu features a range of dishes, including the popular duck meatballs, budino, potatoes with garlic, and Molten Chocolate Cake. While the restaurant is pricey, with a minimum booking requirement for the Captain's Room, the quality of the food and service make it worth the splurge. With a limited number of tables available, it's recommended to book in advance and arrive early to secure parking. Overall, Kettner Exchange is a top choice for dining in San Diego, with a unique and memorable experience for special occasions or a night out with friends.“

“Fort Oak is a restaurant in San Diego with a classic indoor-outdoor setup. The food is good, with enjoyable vegetable dishes like roasted carrots and caulilini. However, the value may not be the best, as the portions are not very large. The service is generally great, but can be slow at times. The ambiance is nice, though some dishes may be too spicy for some diners.“

“Herb & Wood is a restaurant known for its excellent food and terrific service. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from fillet mignon and branzino to swordfish and bone marrow, which comes with fresh oysters. The Hamachi appetizer is a favorite, and the beef cheek and swordfish steak are highly recommended. The pasta and vegetables are also excellent. However, the pizza has a thick dough layer and may not be as impressive. The desserts are exceptional. The restaurant has a unique decor, with hard surfaces that create a lively ambiance. It can be a bit noisy, but that seems to add to the experience for some. Reservations are recommended, as it can get quite busy, even on weeknights. If you enjoy gin, the Old Harbor Distilling Co. gin and tonic is a must-try. Be aware that chili is a common ingredient in many dishes due to its Spanish and Mexican influences.“

“Artifact at Mingei offers a delightful dining experience with super friendly service and tasty, artfully presented food. Both carnivores and vegetarians can enjoy a variety of great options. The setting is beautiful, making it an excellent choice for a fixed-price dinner or special occasion like Mother's Day lunch.“

“Juniper & Ivy offers delightful dining with innovative flavors and attentive service. The cod fish entree is a must-try, known for being exceptionally delicious. Hostess, servers, and waitstaff, including Mallory, provide excellent service, making it a great spot for special occasions. The restaurant's ambiance, including the indoor seating and interactive counter, creates an enjoyable dining experience.“

“NINE-TEN Restaurant & Bar serves great meals throughout the day with fresh ingredients, making it a local favorite for people watching and special occasions. The professional and friendly staff provide easy in-and-out service, with valet parking available. Exceptional dishes, including the burger and cacio e pepe, are skillfully prepared and taste amazing, paired well with wine and craft cocktails.“

“The Pearl Restaurant offers a variety of experiences, with different opinions on the quality of food and service. The ambiance and vibe of the place are enjoyed by many. Prices for entrées range from $30 to $45, although some guests found the food to be just okay, with the spicy tuna sandwich being less impressive. On the other hand, other guests found the food to be innovative, gorgeously plated, and exceeding expectations, especially during happy hour. There were minor issues with missing croutons and overpriced drinks, but the babaganosh and live music were highlights. Wheelchair accessibility is considered easy. Overall, opinions on the Pearl Restaurant are mixed, with room for improvement in certain areas.“

“Addison provides an exceptional dining experience, with impeccable service that exceeds expectations. The attentive staff takes care to ensure a seamless and synchronized experience, worthy of its Michelin star. The menu offers a unique blend of Californian, Japanese, Thai, and Latin American flavors, with dishes such as caviar add-ons, lamb, and kinmedai fish being particular highlights. The restaurant's attention to detail is evident in its exquisite presentation and thoughtful touches, like heated pillows on a chilly evening. While some dishes may not impress, the overall experience is well worth the price tag. With its elegant atmosphere and outstanding service, Addison is an ideal setting for special occasions. Note that the restaurant can be drafty, and late diners may find parking and navigation a bit challenging.“

“Barrel & Board offers an amazing dining experience with delectable food, excellent cocktails and mocktails, and a wonderful atmosphere. The service is great, and the space is incredibly cozy and character-filled, with a charming back patio featuring a huge fireplace. This restaurant is perfect for both intimate gatherings and special occasions.“

“Saint James French Diner is a gem serving delicious French cuisine. The ambiance is nice, with all tables good, but window tables are extra special. The service is attentive, and the server recommends wisely. The menu offers a unique burger and steak frites, both of which are exceptional. The chocolate soufflé is a standout, making it a must-visit destination for dessert lovers.“

“Bivouac Ciderworks is a restaurant that serves amazing food and drinks in a rustic decor. The menu features new American-style cuisine, including a highly-recommended chicken sandwich that is juicy and tender on the inside with a crispy exterior. The restaurant's atmosphere is unique, with swings as seating and a themed location that adds to the thrill. The service is friendly, and the ciders are tasty. While some dishes, like the steak, may require special requests, the overall experience is exceptional, making it a go-to spot for many.“

“Pacific Social offers delicious dishes like Brussels sprout and flatbread appetizers, salmon salad, and short ribs. The restaurant features a fun ambiance, especially for sports fans, and an arcade upstairs for kids. With great food and service, it's a great spot for groups, with a spacious room for large gatherings.“

“Madam Bonnie's offers a great dining experience with delicious food, including their Caesar salad, flat iron steak, pesto pasta with chicken, and porchetta with mashed potatoes. The service is excellent, friendly, and efficient, with a welcoming atmosphere featuring live music in the bar area.“

“Arlo is a restaurant that offers great food and a pleasant atmosphere. The entrees, including the delicious filet mignon, are highly praised by the diners. The cocktails are also well-received. However, the service could use some improvement, as the waiters were not always attentive and responsive to customers' needs. Despite this, the overall experience is positive, and the customers are likely to return in the future.“

“Copa Vida Torrey Ridge is a beautiful, serene restaurant with a gorgeous interior and exterior. The ambience is high-class, clean, and spacious, with friendly and accommodating staff. They serve delicious coffee and food, including brekkie sandwiches on homemade milk buns. Customers can enjoy working or studying in the spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas. The atmosphere is quiet, not crowded, and enhanced by good quality lofi jazz music. Visitors appreciate the ring lighting in the bathrooms. Overall, a must-visit spot for excellent coffee, food, and ambiance.“

“Palmys Cafe offers a relaxed and cute atmosphere, perfect for a morning coffee and pastry before a hike. The staff is friendly and amazing, with great vibes throughout. The coffee is tasty, and the food is good, although a bit pricey. However, the servings are filling, and the atmosphere makes up for it. The staff is helpful and nice, and you can sit anywhere you like. Be mindful of the ordering process, and enjoy your meal!“

“&bar Hillcrest is a great spot for reasonably priced cocktails. The ambiance is beautiful with French-style decor and chandeliers. The bartenders are friendly and make fantastic drinks, including mocktails like "like a virgin". It's a perfect place for people-watching, and the location in Hillcrest is ideal. The only downside is the occasional DJ playing club music. Overall, it's a consistent and enjoyable place to grab a drink with friends.“

“Watercolors is a restaurant located in the Carte Hotel on Ash Avenue, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They offer a splendid variety of breakfast options, with the açaí chia pudding and avocado toast being popular choices. The service is commendable, particularly Josh at the bar who is helpful with queries about breakfast items. The lunch and dinner menu feature options such as tiger shrimp and calamari pasta, braised veal shank, and octopus. The pasta and veal shank have been praised for their excellent taste, while the octopus was not well-received on one occasion. The rooftop offers a beautiful city view with fireplaces. The service is noted to be outstanding, with staff like Jessica going out of their way to ensure a pleasant dining experience.“

“Voltaire Beach House offers delicious food like the Volt Burger and chicken and waffles. Customers enjoy the "not so skinny dip" and clam chowder. The friendly service adds to the experience, though it may be a bit pricier for a pub. The flavorful dishes make it a worthwhile treat for diners.“

“The Presley is a fantastic spot with a wonderful service and a great atmosphere. The menu offers delectable options like the Parker rolls, the Salmon Benedict, and the avocado toast. While the planes flying overhead can be loud at times, the overall dining experience is pleasant and enjoyable. The Presley is a must-try for anyone seeking a delightful culinary adventure.“

“Sunnyboy Biscuit Co. offers delicious biscuits, with options such as a biscuit with gravy, and a popular bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit. The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing quick and fresh service. The restaurant has a positive atmosphere and is a great spot for a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch. Customers have appreciated the kind service, even when ordering close to closing time.“

“The Balboa is a retro neighborhood bar in San Diego, offering a simple menu with some of the best burgers in town. The dark, windowless interior may take a moment for your eyes to adjust, but the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a great spot to hang out, have a drink, and catch a game. This casual joint is not high-end, but that's what makes it perfect. They serve delicious burgers, local beers, and even have Labatt Blue for Canadian pils lovers. If you enjoy dive bars, The Balboa comes highly recommended for a laid-back dining experience.“

“Juan Jasper Kitchen & Wine is a cozy restaurant next to Sepulveda Meat Company, known for its friendly atmosphere and engaging staff. The menu offers a variety of well-prepared dishes, including a tomato salad, cabbage rolls, and sheepshead fish. Diners can choose their own meat from the butcher for the kitchen to cook. The restaurant also has a selection of wines from smaller vineyards and is famous for its delicious fries. It has limited seating, including indoor counter seats and outdoor tables, making it a charming neighborhood hangout.“

“Bun & Patti offers a relaxed and dog-friendly atmosphere with delicious food. While the beverage selection could be improved, the friendly staff and great meals like tacos and burgers make it a must-visit spot. Perfect for trivia nights or a casual dining experience away from the usual pasta options in Little Italy.“

“Bully's East Prime Bistro Sports Bar is a restaurant known for its delicious food and amazing staff. The staff is attentive and ensures that customers are taken care of in a timely manner, making it a suitable place for work events. However, the restaurant could improve on its handicap parking availability and accommodations for dietary restrictions. One customer had a pepper allergy and was disappointed to find that the chef was not willing to remove the outer layer of pepper from the prime rib, despite the customer's request. The customer had to order a steak instead, which was cooked to their perfection. The waitstaff profusely apologized for the inconvenience. The restaurant does not have many vegetarian options, but it offers a variety of meat dishes. The parking is minimal for handicap accessibility, but there are plenty of tables for wheelchair accommodation. Despite the minor issues, customers love Bully's East for its convenience and old-school interior. A customer even celebrated Mother's Day at the restaurant and appreciated the staff's accommodations for their late dinner reservation. The restaurant is also kid-friendly, with younger kids present during the customer's visit.“

“Fig Tree Cafe Pacific Beach is a terrific spot for breakfast, offering delicious dishes like short rib Benedict and pork belly n grits. The 'Man Candy' bacon is a must-try, and the buttermilk pecan coffee cake is delicious. The staff is friendly, and the restaurant has a nice vibe. Expect a wait during busy times. They also offer good specials and have a kid-friendly and wheelchair-accessible environment.“

“Grand Ole BBQ Y Asado, a San Diego establishment, is a hidden gem for Texas-style barbecue enthusiasts. The restaurant offers a serene dining experience with swift service and a menu that is a carnivore's dream. The pitmasters' culinary prowess shines through in dishes like smoked tri-tip, slow-cooked beef brisket, and short ribs. The BBQ sauce, available in spicy and mild options, complements the meats without overpowering their natural flavors. Parking can be a challenge, but the staff's efficiency and friendliness make up for it. With reasonable prices, Grand Ole BBQ Y Asado is a must-visit for authentic Texas-style BBQ, offering a great environment and good time.“

“Trust restaurant in SD offers extraordinary food that is on another level. Dishes like wood-fired cauliflower and chicken sandwich burst with flavors. While the portion sizes may be small, the quality makes up for it. The lack of espresso or cappuccino options might disappoint some, but the overall dining experience is worth revisiting for more tempting dishes.“

“Counterpoint offers a welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of a small town bar, with friendly and attentive bartenders. The restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including burgers, Cubanos, chicken chipotle pasta, and Mac and cheese with Nashville fried chicken. Meals are cooked to perfection, with options such as crispy fries and perfectly cooked burgers. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, making it a great spot for dinner. Overall, Counterpoint provides a great dining experience, with delicious food and excellent service.“

“Working Class is a fantastic spot for delicious meals and a cool vibe. The breakfast burrito is a must-try, while the fish and chips are also highly recommended. The Table sandwich and Reuben are favorites for breakfast. The fried pickles are a hit, along with excellent beer options and dog-friendly patios. With friendly staff and a great atmosphere, it's a perfect place to meet up with friends.“

“Pitchers Sports Bar is a cool spot to catch a game or fight with friends. The clean and lively atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a burger and fries after a workout or watching a UFC fight on one of the many screens. The staff is friendly and attentive, with servers who can remember orders even on busy nights. The pub offers a great selection of craft beers and delicious nachos, with the option to customize with extra cheese. With its welcoming vibe and communal seating, Pitchers is a great place to meet new people or catch up with friends, and its clean bathrooms are a bonus.“

“Charles + Dinorah at The Pearl Hotel offers a unique dining experience with a lively vibe. The menu, while limited, features dishes such as the spicy tuna sandwich and beef Ragu pasta. While some dishes, like the calamari, receive praise, others, like the tuna sandwich, receive mixed reviews. The service can be inconsistent, with some reviewers noting long waits for drinks and poor attention from staff. However, the ambiance and food quality can make up for these shortcomings. With prices ranging from $30 to $33 for an entrée, some diners may find better options elsewhere. Despite this, the hotel's nostalgic charm and memorable experiences make it a worthwhile visit for special occasions.“

“The Rose Wine Bar is a great spot for drinks and food, offering an impressive wine selection and unique, scrumptious dishes. It is perfect for friend meet-ups or dates, and the patio provides a nice ambiance, especially on a nice day. However, while service is generally fantastic, some customers have experienced a change in service quality, feeling overlooked or unwelcome. Despite this, the food and wine remain top-notch, making it a worthwhile visit. It is recommended that employees keep in mind the impact of their energy and service on the overall customer experience.“

“Karl Strauss Brewing Company is a hidden gem with a beautiful Japanese garden featuring a Koi pond. The restaurant offers great service and a fantastic atmosphere, perfect for enjoying their delicious food and beers. Customers recommend trying the Mac and Cheese, which is considered the best in the US, along with locally crafted sausages and ahi nachos. The Buffalo wings may not be a hit, but the overall experience of sitting outside under a cozy heat lamp by the pond is highly recommended. The homemade sauces and dressings add an extra touch to the flavorful dishes. Wheelchair accessibility is also noted to be very good.“

“Fathom Bistro, Bait, and Tackle offers a variety of dishes, including burgers, breakfast plates with homemade sausage, and sausages. Customers can enjoy a range of beers, including craft beers. Notable menu items include chicken pot pie sausage, lumpia, and brats with homemade kraut. The restaurant has a great location and plenty of parking.“

“Corbin's Q is a BBQ haven with a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of brews. The moment you step in, you're greeted by the irresistible aroma of smoked BBQ. The menu offers customizable options, including the loaded mac and cheese with shredded cheese, bacon, and pulled pork, which is a heavenly combination. The Beast Feast is another popular choice, offering a taste of everything, including tender ribs that fall off the bone. The potato salad and beans are also delicious, and the BBQ sauces are a must-try. While some dishes may have inconsistencies, Corbin's Q is a BBQ joint that's hard to resist, with friendly staff and a genuine BBQ experience.“

“The Regal Beagle in Mission Hills is a fantastic bar known for its great beer selection, typical of San Diego. The $1 wings on Thursdays are a hit, with flavorful options like Thai chili and a quick service. While the lemon pepper was a bit too sour for one reviewer, the overall experience was enjoyable. The bar also offers a variety of beers at reasonable prices, making it a great spot to pair your wings with a cold drink. With great service and a tempting wing deal, it's definitely worth a visit.“

“The Rabbit Hole is a charming restaurant that serves a variety of dishes at reasonable prices. The menu offers a range of options, including nachos, fish and chips, chicken wings, and burgers. The staff is friendly, and the atmosphere is cozy. The restaurant has a nice selection of beers, tequilas, and bourbons. The Hole salad with blackened Ahi and the Chuck Norris burger are popular choices. The portions are large, and the food is tasty. The restaurant also has a private outdoor room available for rent. Parking can be challenging, but the restaurant is located in a convenient area.“

“Fernside is a great local restaurant and bar in South Park, offering tasty food and a friendly atmosphere. Must-try dishes include the Fried Chicken Sando and Crusty Cauliflower. The restaurant features a nice bar, outside seating, and a self-service setup. The staff is friendly and efficient, making it a great spot to chill and catch up with friends.“

“Abnormal Heights Rooftop Bar in San Diego offers a chill, laid-back atmosphere with upbeat music, perfect for date nights or hangouts with friends. The rooftop, overlooking the city, features an abundance of plants and twinkling lights, making it incredibly charming. Enjoy fast and efficient service, delicious drinks, and tasty dishes like steak, all while taking in the unique view.“

“Vistal Bar + Restaurant offers stunning views of the marina, with a cozy outdoor seating area equipped with heat lamps. The service is praised as excellent, with attentive and personable staff who are knowledgeable about the menu. The food is described as filling and served in perfect portions, with creative cocktails and delicious, beautifully presented dishes. This stylish location is recommended for a special night or any occasion.“

“Midway Classic Malt Shop is a cozy, old-time charm restaurant with welcoming staff that provide excellent service. Customers can enjoy watching their fresh, made-to-order food being prepared. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, including burgers, hand-cut fries, Cobb salad, and tasty milkshakes and floats made with real ice cream. The owner, Jeff, ensures a great experience for families, with special attention to kids. Convenient parking and wheelchair accessibility make it a hassle-free dining spot. A definite recommendation for those looking for quality food and a warm atmosphere.“

“Mister A's offers amazing food with impeccable service and breathtaking views. Known for their delicious pork belly, crab cakes, fried chicken sandwich, and Americana breakfast, this restaurant is perfect for any occasion. The attentive and friendly staff, including Colby and David, make diners feel special and welcome. The tasty drinks and great prices add to the overall wonderful experience. Whether for a special occasion or just a casual visit, Mister A's is a must-try dining destination with a view of the airport and planes landing.“

“The Wine Vault & Bistro offers exceptional food and wine pairing dinners with exceptional taste and presentation. The intimate dining room provides an inviting atmosphere, making it easy to strike up conversations with fellow diners. The three-course menus feature new and delicious combinations, paired with wine flights. Regular wine maker dinners offer innovative delights. The staff is knowledgeable and engaging, making the dining experience truly enjoyable.“

“Fairweather Rooftop Bar is a hidden gem in East Village, offering a great view of Gallagher Square. With outdoor seating and a nice atmosphere, it's perfect for enjoying drinks and good food. The bar has a decent beer selection, wine, and strong cocktails. Customers love the chicken tenders and Carne Asada nachos. The second-floor outdoor seating area is a favorite spot for many, especially when it's not too crowded. The staff is friendly and the location near the stadium adds to the appeal. Fairweather Rooftop Bar is a must-visit for a relaxed evening with friends or out-of-town guests.“

“STK Steakhouse is an upscale restaurant with a great vibe and creative layout, featuring a mix of music genres that can get a bit loud at times. The service is excellent, with attentive servers like Jordan and Matt who ensure a memorable dining experience. The food is delicious, particularly the bread and butter, Brussels sprouts, filet, braised beef, and fresh vegetables. The steak is cooked to order, but the taste may benefit from the sauce, and the radish can be a bit chewy. The Happy Hour menu is highly recommended, and the staff handles large parties skillfully. However, the price is more for the service and ambiance than the food quality. Overall, STK Steakhouse offers a memorable dining experience with superb service and tasty food.“

“The Smoking Gun SD offers a great experience with no wait or long lines. Drinks are cheap and well-made, and the service is good. The restaurant serves exceptional food, including out-of-this-world chicken nugs brined in pickle juice and fried in buttermilk batter. With arcade games, pool, and ping-pong, it's a fun spot for all.“

“Wild Hare bar garden offers a delightful dining experience. The accommodating and gracious hostess ensures guests feel welcomed, even after the typical breakfast/brunch hours. The servers are engaging, offering suggestions on local sights and providing excellent service. The bartenders are attentive, even in a crowded setting, and are happy to share drink recipes.“