If you’re a foodie, you need these 25+ great restaurants in San Diego for your bucket list trip. Get hungry for some fresh seafood, ocean views, and unique dining experiences on your beach vacation.
The San Diego area has over 8,000 restaurants spread over the 18 cities in San Diego County. You will definitely work up an appetite while exploring America’s finest city, so I’m here to help you pick the best restaurants to add to your San Diego bucket list.
I'm hungry, Andrea. Here's what I'm searching for...
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I spent 8 full days with non-stop exploring, eating, and drinking to create this list of 25+ great restaurants in San Diego for your bucket list trip. When you see this cute icon, it means this was one of my favorite places, and I highly recommend checking it out (even if it’s just for a quick drink).
Restaurants in San Diego: Ocean Beach
Ocean Beach has some of my absolute favorite restaurants! This area is perfect for walking and trying small plates and drinks at several locations. The Ocean Beach area is a “must-visit” for your list of restaurants in San Diego, CA.
Breakfast Republic
Location: Breakfast Republic 4839 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107-3110
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, and Brunch
American, vegetarian-friendly, and gluten-free options
The shrimp and grits are highly recommended!
Vibe: Modern, fun, and casual. I loved the vibe at Breakfast Republic. The staff was so friendly and helpful.
It’s a good pick because… the vibe is cool!
There are some restaurants in Ocean Beach with a great view that you can’t miss. OB Surf Lodge is one of my top picks. It’s a perfect place for date night.
On the first floor, sit outside by a fire pit and see views of the ocean, or sit on the second floor and watch the sun set over the ocean right from your table.
OB Surf Lodge
Location: OB Surf Lodge 5083 Santa Monica Ave, San Diego, CA 92107-2883
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch, Dinner
American, fresh, made-to-order food with vegan and gluten-free options.
Vibe: 1960’s SoCal surfer vibe. Outside seating with fire pits and a great spot for the best views.
It’s a good pick because… the food, drinks, and the spectacular view of the sunset over the ocean.
If you only visit one restaurant in Ocean Beach, then OB Surf Lodge should be it! It’s my favorite.
PRO TIP: Sit on the 2nd floor by the open windows for the BEST sunset ocean views!
The Joint
Location: The Joint 4902 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107-3113
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner
Japanese, small plates, and a great happy hour. They are well known for their delicious sushi.
The Joint has vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Vibe: Simple Asian-themed decor with inside and outside seating available.
It’s a good pick because… the happy hour is great and they have tapas!
I just love a good rooftop bar and restaurant. It’s a fun vibe and in Ocean Beach, there are unparalleled views. Here are some of the top rooftop bars and restaurants in San Diego…
Sunshine Company Saloon
Location: Sunshine Company Saloon 5028 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107-3010
Budget: $-$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner
The menu is simple. They serve quick bites of Mexican cuisine with tons of drink options and daily specials.
Vibe: Casual and fun San Diego restaurant with pool tables, sports TVs, arcade games, and rooftop seating on the open deck with ocean views. It’s a perfect spot to hang out on weekend nights.
It’s a good pick because… this fun sports and gaming bar with cheap drinks NEVER has a cover charge!
FUN FACT: There's a smoking area at the Sunshine Company Saloon.
The Holding Company
Location: The Holding Company 5046 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107-3010
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Dinner, Drinks
French influence with Asian fusion.
Vibe: Three-story restaurant with a trendy vibe, great drinks, and an amazing rooftop with firepits, music, and great ocean views!
It’s a good pick because… the rooftop oasis is awesome and the drinks are fun!
This was my favorite rooftop bar in San Diego because they had fun cocktails, great music, and nice views.
FUN FACT: There's a live music venue on the 1st floor.
South Beach Bar & Grille
Location: South Beach Bar & Grille 5059 Newport Ave Ste 104, San Diego, CA 92107-3019
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, and Late Night
American food with the best fish tacos and fresh seafood. They have a great happy hour menu from 3-6 Monday through Friday. It’s an ideal spot if you love craft beer!
Vibe: Casual restaurant to relax, watch sports TV, or check out the great ocean views!
It’s a good pick because… this restaurant with a view has world-famous Mahi-Mahi fish tacos!
Restaurants in San Diego: Old Town
San Diego County has over 1,700 Mexican restaurants. Old Town San Diego has some award-winning Mexican restaurants, and it is just a really fun Mexican-themed area to visit.
Casa De Reyes
Location: Casa De Reyes 2754 Calhoun St. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, San Diego, CA 92110-2706
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, and Late Night
Large portions of traditional Mexican food with great vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Vibe: Casual Mexican theme with beautiful courtyard dining. Mariachis walk around for fun music and dancing.
It’s a good pick because… the authentic Mexican food is delicious and there is free live entertainment!
Cafe Coyote
Location: Cafe Coyote 2461 San Diego Ave, San Diego, CA 92110-2877
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, and Late Night
Mexican, southwestern food with great vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Vibe: This popular Old Town restaurant has a fast-casual Mexican theme with indoor and outdoor dining options.
It’s a good pick because… they have delicious fresh handmade tortillas and cheap eats!
Restaurants in San Diego: Little Italy
Little Italy was one of my favorite spots in San Diego, California. India Street is a MUST for your San Diego Bucket List because all the Italian restaurants are right next to each other. You can easily eat and drink your way through Little Italy while enjoying the best al fresco dining!
PRO TIP: Little Italy has a farmer's market on Saturdays so make reservations in advance.
Davanti Enoteca
Location: Davanti Enoteca 1655 India St, San Diego, CA 92101-2515
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, and Late Night
Delicious Italian food with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. It’s ranked #90 out of 4,440 restaurants in San Diego! This is a perfect place for happy hour and an Aperol Spritz drink.
Vibe: Casual with indoor and outdoor dining options.
It’s a good pick because… they have lunch specials and happy hour EVERY day!
Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar
Location: Crudo Ceviche & Oyster Bar 1608 India St. Little Italy, San Diego, CA 92101-2599
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner
Unique tostadas and authentic ceviche oyster bar serving fresh seafood. This Baja-style restaurant is ranked #805 out of 4,440 restaurants in San Diego.
Vibe: Trendy, beautiful modern ambiance with indoor and outdoor dining options.
It’s a good pick because… they have the best ceviche!
Solunto Ristornate & Bakery
Location: Solunto 1643 India St, San Diego, CA 92101-2515
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch
Classic Italian dishes with handcrafted bread, pastries, pizza, and gelato. It’s hard to decide what to get because there are so many great choices on the menu! They also have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Vibe: Casual, funky atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining spaces.
It’s a good pick because… they have good portion sizes and amazing dessert options!
PRO TIP: The happy hour menu is provided by request so make sure you ask.
Coco Maya By Miss B's
Location: Coco Maya By Miss B’s 1661 India St, San Diego, CA 92101-2515
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Brunch, Lunch, and Dinner
American, Caribbean, Latin, and Spanish-style cuisine. They serve delicious food, and the portions are generous!
Vibe: Beautifully modern ambiance with indoor and outdoor picture-perfect dining options.
It’s a good pick because… it’s the best rooftop restaurant to enjoy the beautiful weather in Little Italy!
For help finding all the best things to do, read my Bucket List of Things to Do in San Diego, California!
If you’re looking for a restaurant to celebrate your birthday then I’ve got the perfect place for you. The large private dining areas at Vincenzo’s make this a great birthday restaurant in San Diego.
Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge
Location: Vincenzo Cucina & Lounge 550 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101-2688 92101-2599
Budget: $$$-$$$$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, and Drinks
Delicious family-style Italian food and amazing cocktails. Vincenzo’s Cucina has San Diego’s only cheese-wheel pasta bar. Don’t forget to order their signature cocktail at the Aperol Spritz bar outside.
Vibe: Elegant fine dining ambiance with picture-perfect indoor dining spaces.
It’s a good pick because… the food and atmosphere are equally amazing. This Italian restaurant was so nice, I went there twice!
Restaurants in San Diego: Coronado Island
Hotel Del Coronado: The Sun Deck
The historic Hotel Del Coronado is an amazing hotel that you should add to your San Diego bucket list, even if it’s just for a tour and some dining. There are 9 dining options with different menus and different price points. You really can’t go wrong with ANY of the Coronado Hotel restaurants!
Location: The Sun Deck at Hotel Del Coronado 1500 Orange Avenue, Coronado, CA 92118
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Brunch, and Drinks
This was my favorite place for delicious, clean eating. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are available. You can expect great craft cocktails and generous portions.
Vibe: Beautiful ambiance full of pretty food presentations, fire pits, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s an ideal place to watch a San Diego sunset.
It’s a good pick because… it’s the BEST spot for lunch + breathtaking views!
Mc P's Irish Pub & Grill
Location: Mc P’s Irish Pub & Grill 1107 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118-3406
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, Late Night, and Drinks
American and Irish-filled cuisine on the menu. Happy hour Monday through Friday from 4-6 pm.
Vibe: Casual, Irish decor with indoor, and dog-friendly outdoor, dining options. Sports on the big screen TVs and live music on nights and weekends.
It’s a good pick because… they have live music and they are open till 2 am!
If you are looking for a fun Irish Pub (with a lively atmosphere), then Mc P’s Irish Pub & Grill is a great choice. It’s a great place for that “party” atmosphere later at night. If you are looking for good Irish food, without the crowd, go during lunchtime.
Clayton's Bakery & Bistro
Location: Clayton’s Bakery & Bistro 849 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118-2603
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly cafe with a great food menu and delicious drinks.
Vibe: Clayton’s Coffee Shop has an elegant space with a beautiful presentation and adorable indoor and outdoor dining options.
It’s a good pick because… they have fresh-baked treats and a super cute atmosphere!
Michelin Star Restaurants in San Diego
There are a total of 9 Michelin-starred restaurants in San Diego and 39 restaurants listed in the Michelin Guide. The guide has restaurants with different types of cuisine and different price points so it’s worth checking out for more ideas and finding new restaurants.
Mabels Gone Fishing
Location: Mabels Gone Fishing 3770 30th St North Park, San Diego, CA 92104-3632
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Dinner
This Michelin-starred restaurant serves a blend of Californian and Iberian cuisine. It’s one of the best places to go for great seafood and fresh fish. They are known for their amazing fresh oysters.
Vibe: Charming and casual ambiance. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available.
It’s a good pick because… they have some of the best seafood you will find in San Diego!
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Morning Glory
Location: (Little Italy) Morning Glory 550 West Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Breakfast and Brunch
This Michelin-starred restaurant serves delicious American food with vegan options, so you can expect a wait any time you visit.
Vibe: Trendy hotspot with beautiful modern ambiance. Indoor and outdoor dining options are available.
It’s a good pick because… they have great decor and great food! Even the bathroom was a whole different experience.
PRO TIP: I do NOT recommend this restaurant for children because the music is not "kid-friendly".
Lola 55
Location: (East Village) Lola 55 1290 F St, San Diego, CA 92101-6676
Budget: $ – $$
Food: Lunch and Dinner
You will find tasty quick bites of delicious Mexican food at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
Vibe: Trendy casual ambiance with Mexican decor.
It’s a good pick because… they have quality quick bites with a great price point!
Unique Places to Eat in San Diego
Balboa Park: The Panama 66
Location: Inside Balboa Park at the San Diego Museum of Art, The Panama 66 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, Sunday Brunch
American food with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Fresh, local ingredients are used to create a variety of menu items like salads, sandwiches, and boards.
Vibe: Great casual outdoor dining space with views of the sculpture garden. They have live music from Wednesday through Sunday.
It’s a good pick because… they have healthy food choices, great cocktails, and a cool atmosphere.
PRO TIP: If you only want drinks you can skip the line and go straight to the bar.
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Balboa Park might seem like an unusual place to add to a list of the best restaurants in San Diego, but here are a few reasons why it makes the list…
First, Balboa Park is one of the must-dos of San Diego. Second, they have 11 restaurants inside the park. Third, you are allowed to bring food to the park. That means if you want to create a picnic by bringing food and adding some extras from a restaurant in the park, you can have a great meal on a small budget.
As I mentioned in my bucket list of things to do in San Diego, you can spend a full day at Balboa Park, so meal planning is essential.
PRO TIP: Alcohol is only allowed in certain areas of the park so check before you plan your picnic.
Do you want some of my top tips on how to find great restaurants when you travel? CLICK HERE to read about how I found all the best restaurants in San Diego!
This isn’t your typical “vineyards” wine-tasting experience. It’s a unique wine-tasting option that’s great for groups where some people don’t drink wine, because they have lots of other options.
This is where I spent my birthday afternoon. It didn’t come up when I searched, “birthday in San Diego”. I had to use my tips on how to find great restaurants to find it.
My favorite spot is the 21+ older wine deck, which is great for large groups.
Oasis Under the Sun
Location: Oasis Under the Sun 671 Turquoise St, San Diego, CA 92109
Budget: $ – $$
Food: Breakfast, Lunch, and Drinks
Coffee, curated wines, craft beers, and other drinks. Lite bites like charcutterie.
Vibe: This is a really cute, trendy spot. They also have little boutiques where you can shop. It’s a perfect place for a girls’ night or reserving for private events.
It’s a good pick because… it has ALL the feels for a girls’ day!
Point Loma Seafoods
Location: Point Loma Seafoods 2805 Emerson St, San Diego, CA 92106-2716
Budget: $$ – $$$
Food: Lunch, Dinner, Late Night
Specialty seafood market serving American food. This is where you want to get a seafood sandwich!
Vibe: Fast casual, with indoor and outdoor dining options that overlook the Marina Bay.
It’s a good pick because… they have delicious, fresh seafood at great prices!
There are quite a few great seafood restaurants in San Diego, but Point Loma Seafoods is a unique experience. It might feel confusing at first because you have to order at the seafood counter (similar to a deli counter). You get your food and then go find a seat anywhere you want.
I found two cool speakeasy restaurants in San Diego. They are smaller spaces and they get busy. The best way to make sure you will get in is to make reservations in advance!
PRO TIP: The speakeasy restaurants are 21+ older.
Raised by Wolves
Location: Westfield UTC Shopping Mall Raised by Wolves 4301 La Jolla Village Dr, San Diego, CA 92122
Budget: $$
Food: Only serving delicious drinks
This cocktail bar has a great drink menu. Try the cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and mocktails.
Vibe: Charming Old World Decor, similar to 1900s Paris or London
It’s a good pick because… this is a unique place to grab a great drink!
What You Need to Know: Reservations are recommended, and you can schedule them on OpenTable. It’s located on the second level of a strip mall. To get to the speakeasy, you check in with the hostess, who looks like a cashier at the store. To access the speakeasy, they will tell you when to sit in the chair, and you will spin through the fireplace to the other side.
Realms of the 52 Remedies
Location: Located inside the restaurant Common Theory, Realms of the 52 Remedies 4805 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Budget: $$$ – $$$$
Food: Dinner, Drinks
Craft cocktails and small Asian-inspired plates. They have a great happy hour.
Vibe: Upscale Chinese medicine-themed speakeasy with a secret entrance. It’s a perfect atmosphere to get some beautiful pictures.
It’s a good pick because… it’s an unforgettable experience in a unique atmosphere!
What You Need to Know: Reservations are required. There was no sign for the speakeasy, so I was confused about being at the right place. You will go to the restaurant Common Theory and check in with the hostess to access the speakeasy.
PRO TIP: Early bird specials and happy hour specials are served daily from 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm.
Food Tours
I always say that one of the best ways to make fun experiences and memories when you travel is to go on a tour. Participating in one of the 30+ food tours in San Diego is a great way to try good food, especially if it’s your first time in San Diego.
Make the Most of Your Beach Vacation
I’ve got great news… I created a simple way to document your trip with a beach-themed DIY travel activity journal.
Most of the work is already set up for you ahead of time. You just need to have a great time on your trip and fill in the blanks.
Here’s what you can expect to find in my ultimate travel journal activity books:
- Journal Pages – lined pages and journaling prompts to help get you thinking
- Activity Pages – themed travel games and activities to help pass the time during flights and drives
- Scrapbook Pages – attach photos and keepsakes like ticket stubs and mementos
The most important thing is to make the most of your great experience by documenting your lasting memories for your travel legacy! Your travel journal scrapbook will be a treasured keepsake.
Are you a beach lover? Check out more great beaches...
If you liked 25+ Great Restaurants in San Diego: For Your Bucket List Trip, then you might also want to read 7 Amazing Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii
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LET’S CONNECT: Which one of the restaurants from the list of 25+ Great Restaurants in San Diego: For Your Bucket List Trip do you think you’d definitely want to try? Comment below!
