Antica Trattoria

Dining

Street food in San Diego is synonymous with fish tacos, and most locals couldn’t enjoy a Padres game without one. Although numerous food trucks specialize in this delicacy, the city boasts a plethora of other tempting dining options. For those craving contemporary Italian cuisine, Little Italy is an excellent destination, whereas the Gaslamp Quarter attracts avant-garde chefs seeking to create culinary masterpieces. If Mexican fare is more your style, head to the Old Town area. Don't forget to explore the local drinking culture by visiting the wine-making district (situated in North County, just a 45-minute drive from downtown) and the numerous artisan breweries.

Copyright: Kamil Kalbarczyk/Unsplash.com

A.R. Valentien

Located at The Lodge at Torrey Pines, A.R. Valentien is a fine-dining restaurant with breathtaking views of the Torrey Pines Golf Course. The contemporary Californian menu serves regional San Diego cuisine and it changes …

Read more

Copyright: Lisa Fotios/Pexels.com

Antica Trattoria

Food critics have called Antica Trattoria “the best Italian” in San Diego, and with reviews that describe the dishes as “sensuous to the point of sin,” it's hard to stay away. The Sicilian-born chef is known to use the best Italian ingredients, such as San Daniele prosciutto and imported Fontina …

Read more

Copyright: Skitterphoto/Pexels.com

Nobu

Even though Nobu has become a chain restaurant, it's still an excellent choice for exquisite sushi, sashimi, and Asian fusion dishes. One is located at the heart of the Gaslamp …

Read more

Copyright: Lizette Carrasco/Unsplash.com

Taka

Located in the heart of the famous Gaslamp District, Taka offers a dining experience that combines the best of Japanese and American cuisine, resulting in a mouthwatering selection of sushi, sashimi, and appetizers that are sure to delight your taste buds. Its intimate setting makes it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or …

Read more

Copyright: Tono Balaguer/Shutterstock.com

Las Cuatro Milpas

People of all ages and walks of life line up every day outside this legendary Mexican restaurant that has been operating for more than 85 years. Known for having the best tamales in San Diego, Las Cuatro Milpas features an inexpensive menu that includes items like burritos, chorizo con huevos, and, of course, tacos. …

Read more

Copyright: stockcreations/Shutterstock.com

Island Prime

Island Prime hovers above San Diego Bay on stilts, overlooking the city skyline and Coronado. The stunning panoramic view is matched only by the delicious steaks, their seafood dishes, and the great selection of …

Read more

Copyright: Robyn Mackenzie/Shutterstock.com

Roy's Restaurant

Come for the view and stay for the food! Situated on the waterfront and signed by the Japanese-American celebrity chef Roy Yamaguchi, this Pacific restaurant has been made famous for its fusion cuisine, which mixes traditional Hawaiian recipes with modern and unexpected …

Read more

Copyright: Foodio/Shutterstock.com

Bali Hai Restaurant

A staple in San Diego since its opening in 1954, Bali Hai Restaurant delivers exquisite Polynesian-inspired cuisine, including fresh seafood, aged beef, soups, and salads. Come for the happy hour and enjoy a beautiful sunset with their famous Mai …

Read more

Copyright: Viktor Tasnadi/Pexels.com

Tom Ham's Lighthouse

This restaurant claims to serve the best seafood in San Diego, and that might not be far from the truth. Back in 2016, Tom Ham's Lighthouse was the winner of the OpenTable Diners' Choice Award. On top of that, the views of the sea and city skyline make it a top choice for dining …

Read more

Copyright: Pixabay/Pexels.com

Mister A's

Located on the 12th floor of a building right next to Balboa Park, Mister A's is a beautiful rooftop restaurant with splendid 180-degree views of San Diego's downtown & the ocean. Its New American and French Cuisines consistently reward Mister A's with rave reviews and awards, both locally and …

Read more

Copyright: SharkPaeCNX/Shutterstock.com

Aroma Thai Restaurant

If you're in the mood for some tasty Thai cuisine, head on over to Aroma Thai - a small restaurant located in the scenic Imperial Beach. This charming eatery boasts quaint decor and a warm ambiance that instantly makes you feel at home. The extensive menu of Thai staples includes dishes such as Tom …

Read more

Copyright: Artem Bali/Pexels.com

Blue Wave Bar & Grill

Experience the ultimate dining pleasure with a mesmerizing view at the Blue Wave Bar & Grill. Savor the taste of delectable California coastal cuisine and fresh seafood while immersing in the breathtaking marina views. It's the perfect spot to unwind and revel in the charm of San Diego's …

Read more

Copyright: Hans Geel/Shutterstock.com

Charles + Dinorah

Located inside The Pearl Hotel in a 60s California setting, Charles + Dinorah serves up seasonal, Californian coastal cuisine that perfectly complements the laid-back atmosphere of the poolside bar. Don't forget to try out their creative cocktails, which are sure to impress even the most discerning of cocktail …

Read more

Copyright: AS Food studio/Shutterstock.com

Top of the Market

Located directly above the Fish Market and with views from Point Loma to the Coronado Bridge, this award-winning restaurant is widely regarded as one of San Diego’s finest. The kitchen showcases a seasonal menu of the freshest and highest-quality …

Read more

Copyright: Julien Sarazin/Unsplash.com

George's at the Cove

Situated in the vibrant heart of La Jolla, Georges at the Cove is a highly acclaimed dining destination offering fresh and delectable New American cuisine along with one of the most awe-inspiring coastal views in Southern California. Complement your meal with their signature cocktails or a glass of wine from their exceptional list. And …

Read more