Tapas Restaurants in San Diego, CA

“It’s too bad that a patron enjoying the excellent cuisine is “rushed” to finish the dining experience. They obviously want as many table “turnovers” as possible. It ruins the relaxing enjoyment a patron expects with fine dining. Such a shame…“

“**ABSOLUTELY loved coming here!**

This summer, I’ve been on a mission to rediscover great happy hours around San Diego—especially those with amazing oyster deals. I randomly heard about **Mabel’s Gone Fishing** as a spot to check out, and on a whim, my little one and I decided to stop by right at 4 PM.

We didn’t have a reservation but arrived just in time to grab a seat outside. The outdoor setup immediately gave off a charming European vibe—reminiscent of a Paris café, with chairs facing the street, perfect for people-watching. (The decor, chairs, and tables instantly brought back Paris memories!)

**Big tip: Make a reservation**—this place fills up fast!

Even though only the happy hour menu was available (dinner service starts later), it didn’t disappoint. We ordered:

* A dozen oysters (half-price!)
* The Spanish tortilla
* And we got lucky—they happened to have caviar available!

I paired the oysters with a glass of bubbly Pinot Noir Brut from Catalonia, Spain—absolutely perfect. The gin and tonic cocktail was also refreshing and well-balanced.

Now for the surprise: my 5-year-old daughter, who has a funny and ever-evolving palate, *loved* the bread and butter... but even more shockingly, **devoured the caviar**! A first for her—and possibly a very expensive new habit for me, haha! She even tried an oyster but wasn’t quite ready for the texture—still, she gave it a go.

The oysters were fresh, with a great variety from three different regions. The service was excellent—friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. The sommelier (who was also working the host stand!) was fantastic and clearly passionate about the wine list. Bonus: many of their wine selections are available for purchase next door.

I’ll definitely be coming back before summer ends—this time for dinner!“

“My husband and I had the absolute pleasure to dine at Juniper and Ivy for our 33 year anniversary. Not only did they have special menus for us, but we had a complete and very special experience start to finish.The staff were so welcoming and knowledgeable. We had what I would consider the best seats in the restaurant. We sat up at the kitchen bar, and were treated to an amazing dinner and “show “ The kitchen crew were so impressive and friendly to each other and us. We had such a great experience, that we canceled reservations at another restaurant on the same block for later in the week, so we could come back and try more. Same amazing experience at the next visit. Highly recommend, when we come back to SD we will prioritize another visit. Thank you so much for such a great experience!“

“I ordered the salmon sushi and it was so delicious, super fresh and full of flavor. I also tried some of my friend's order (I think it was fries with chicken bites) and it was just as amazing! Definitely comfort food done right.

I had a mocktail which was refreshing and beautifully presented. My friends let me try a sip of their cocktails, super tasty, though they mentioned they were pretty strong (in a good way!).

The vibe was great, the food was a solid 10/10, and the overall experience made for a perfect night out. Can’t wait to go back! 🙌🍣🍹“

“Eaten here numerous times. Excellent quality food, and service. Equivalent to San Francisco Bay Area Japanese restaurants..which are outstanding.“

“Delicious and so reasonably priced! The spicy Reese roll was so tasty, and the salmon poke bowl was fresh and filling. The service was top notch- both guys working were friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was casual and relaxed. Perfect for a nice little Sunday meal. Highly recommend!“

“I went as a solo traveler and sat at the bar. The staff was so sweet and friendly. They cleared extra space for me so I could order food (it is a pretty small bar area and I get the feeling food is not often served there) the house wine and eggplant parm were so good and again the staff were so mind and warm. Will definitely go again ❤️“

“Delicious food…all of it, the Ramen, the sushi, everything!“

“I recently moved to South Park a few months ago and walk past this place daily. Got off work early one day and decided to stop in for happy hour. The place was relatively empty but the food and service were great! The honey chili wings were perfectly crisp, saucy, and delicious! Went great with an ice cold Pilsner. Will definitely be back to try out the dinner menu soon.“

“The best dining event in a long while. Food is terrific and the beer is literally ice cold. The owner is delightful! Please visit cause it is a treat.“

“Absolutely fantastic experience at Osteria Cotto e Mangiato! The service from Andrea (owner) was warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. Every dish we ordered was incredible-from the rich, comforting Carbonara w/anchovies to the Captain's Treasure chest is unexplainable good, everything was cooked to perfection. You can really taste the quality and care in each bite. This place is a gem in San Diego for anyone craving authentic Italian cuisine. Oh, by the way, did I mention the Tiramisu... WOW!! Can’t wait to come back!“

“While in town for SDCC my husband and I took a chance here and we are so happy we did! The staff is wonderful and attentive, plus they gave great recommendations. The pork belly melted in my mouth and the salmon went down too smooth. Definitely give this place a shot!“

“All good dudes hang out at Clem’s.“

“our first time was really good, we ordered ramen. husbad said we will go back for sure. i want to try the bento ❤“

“They have a white sangria that the wife just LOVES. Have to stop in every once in a while and grab a glass“

“A must try the fig Flatbread. So good!!!“

“Wonderful atmosphere, great service!“

“Delicious food and good portions:) Great service“

“Great service! Jas and Deanna were so nice and friendly. Gotta try the Brussel sprouts.“

“Great outdoor space, very roomy, open and good for family/kid time if need be. But not kid like, very shishi if no kids. Big opening from bar to outside area, like a resort should have. The bar inside is gorgeous, super cool, and roomy too. Perfect to stow away or get together with a big group. 6 hour validation parking close to the bar!!!“

“Love going there for their happy hour. All the people that work there are very friendly and make excellent cocktails. They also have some good local beer and the food is very tasty and reasonably priced. I also like the atmosphere. Very laid back and always playing good music. I recommend it. Their happy hour is every day from 3-5.“

“Food are delicious. Good customer service.“

“Forget stuffy, pretentious hotel restaurants: this place has a relaxed, vacation vibe -- you're on the patio, overlooking a green of the resort's beautiful golf course. The food is classic grill fare done exceptionally well. Juicy burgers, perfectly seasoned shrimp tacos, a club sandwich that's big enough for two, and even a gourmet hot dog that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about hot dogs. The ingredients are clearly fresh and high-quality, but the dishes avoid unnecessary fussiness.
The service is friendly and attentive without being overbearing. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or a casual dinner with friends.“

“in love with the food! great customer service.. best paella in town... also ylu should try their wine...highly recommendations ❤“

“one of the best ramen I ever had...my two son's bring me there on my last Birthday celebration March 4 this year. the Ramen noodles and soups, toppings are so good and delicious. I recommend this restaurant.“

“What a great place. Amazing food and cocktails. Bartenders were amazing.“