Best Restaurants In San Diego 2023
San Diego is a city full of flavor and culinary delight, and if you’re looking for the very best of the best, you’ve come to the right place. From classic dishes to innovative dishes, the city offers a wide array of fantastic restaurants that will satisfy any food craving. In this guide, we’ll explore the ultimate guide to San Diego dining, as we uncover the top 10 restaurants in San Diego. These restaurants offer some of the most delicious and delectable dishes around, so get ready to experience all that San Diego has to offer!
1. Addison
Nestled in the luxurious Fairmont Grand Del Mar resort, Addison offers a culinary experience that is both elegant and unforgettable. Led by Executive Chef William Bradley, the restaurant has earned multiple Michelin stars and has been recognized by top culinary critics such as The New York Times and Food & Wine Magazine.
Addison offers a seasonal tasting menu that showcases local and global ingredients, as well as a wine list featuring over 4,000 bottles from around the world. The dining room exudes sophistication and elegance with its marble floors, high ceilings, and classic décor.
Some standout dishes from Addison’s menu include the Black Truffle and Brioche Agnolotti, the Foie Gras Torchon with fig compote, and the Kuroge Wagyu Beef with chanterelle mushrooms. For dessert, the Pear Sorbet with salted caramel and crème fraîche ice cream is a must-try. If you’re looking for an unforgettable fine dining experience in San Diego, Addison should be at the top of your list.
2. Herb & Wood
Located in the heart of Little Italy, Herb & Wood is a trendy and upscale restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Helmed by Chef Brian Malarkey, who gained fame on the hit reality show “Top Chef,” Herb & Wood is known for its rustic and modern cuisine.
The restaurant’s interior is beautifully designed, with high ceilings, wooden beams, and floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light. The menu at Herb & Wood features a variety of dishes that highlight the flavors of the Mediterranean and California. From wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas to fresh seafood and prime meats, there is something for everyone.
Standout dishes include the wood-fired bone marrow with persillade and roasted garlic, the mushroom toast with truffle cheese fondue, and the crispy duck leg confit with honey-roasted carrots. Herb & Wood also offers an extensive wine list, featuring both local and international selections, as well as craft cocktails and artisanal spirits.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a place to celebrate a special occasion, Herb & Wood is a must-visit restaurant in San Diego. The combination of delicious food, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service make it a top choice for discerning diners.
3. Juniper & Ivy
Located in the heart of Little Italy, Juniper & Ivy is one of San Diego’s most beloved restaurants. Helmed by Top Chef alum, Richard Blais, Juniper & Ivy offers an innovative menu featuring modern American cuisine with a creative twist. The atmosphere of the restaurant is contemporary yet cozy, making it a great place for both casual and formal dining.
The standout dishes at Juniper & Ivy are the inventive and visually stunning small plates. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the smoked beet tartare, hamachi crudo, and the buffalo octopus. For main courses, the wagyu beef carpaccio and the lamb neck are not to be missed. And for dessert, the bacon s’mores and the coffee and doughnuts are must-tries.
Juniper & Ivy also has an impressive beverage program, with an extensive wine list, craft cocktails, and local beer selections. Whether you’re in the mood for a celebratory dinner or a romantic evening out, Juniper & Ivy is the perfect destination. Just be sure to make a reservation, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly.
4. Trust Restaurant
Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, Trust Restaurant has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. This trendy eatery boasts an industrial-chic decor and an ever-evolving menu featuring New American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. The kitchen, headed by Executive Chef Brad Wise, serves up innovative dishes like the duck confit ravioli and grilled Spanish octopus. Their craft cocktail program is also top-notch, featuring creative libations like the Matcha Sour and the La Diabla.
But Trust is more than just a place to eat and drink – it’s an experience. From the impeccable service to the lively ambiance, every aspect of the dining experience at Trust is carefully curated. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time, as this spot fills up quickly. Trust Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the diverse and exciting culinary scene of San Diego.
5. The Crack Shack
The Crack Shack is one of the most popular restaurants in San Diego, offering a unique dining experience that combines high-quality food with a fun and casual atmosphere. This fried chicken joint was started by celebrity chef Richard Blais and features a menu filled with inventive takes on classic dishes. The restaurant’s flagship dish is their fried chicken sandwich, which comes piled high with pickled Fresno chilies, crunchy slaw, and a delicious buttermilk herb sauce.
Aside from the chicken, the Crack Shack also offers a variety of sides, such as their decadent fries with smoked paprika and maple bacon biscuits. Plus, the restaurant offers a range of craft beers and cocktails to wash it all down with. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy great food and great vibes with friends, The Crack Shack is a must-visit. Just be prepared to wait in line – it’s that good.
6. Puesto
Located in the heart of downtown San Diego, Puesto is a vibrant and popular Mexican restaurant that offers a modern twist on traditional cuisine. Known for its innovative and flavorful tacos, Puesto uses only the freshest ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. With a menu that features a variety of taco fillings, from tender short rib to flavorful seafood, there is something to satisfy every palate.
The restaurant also offers a selection of mouthwatering appetizers, such as their famous guacamole with crispy melted cheese and chicharrón. The atmosphere at Puesto is lively and energetic, making it the perfect spot for a casual dinner with friends or a fun night out. The bar offers an extensive list of craft cocktails, tequila, and mezcal, as well as a variety of local and Mexican beers. If you’re in the mood for tasty Mexican food with a twist, Puesto is a must-visit restaurant in San Diego.
7. Carnitas’ Snack Shack
Carnitas’ Snack Shack is a hidden gem in the heart of San Diego, offering a unique dining experience that is sure to satisfy any food lover. Known for their mouthwatering carnitas, this casual eatery serves up delicious, pork-centric dishes that are packed with flavor.
The menu at Carnitas’ Snack Shack features a variety of tempting options, from their signature carnitas tacos to their indulgent Triple Threat Sandwich, which includes pulled pork, bacon, and ham. Each dish is crafted with care and made from locally sourced ingredients, ensuring freshness and quality.
One standout dish that should not be missed is their famous Pork Belly App, featuring crispy, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly topped with jalapeno jam and picked red onion. The combination of savory and sweet flavors is truly divine. And for those looking for a lighter option, the Snack Shack Salad with mixed greens, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette is a refreshing choice.
Not only does Carnitas’ Snack Shack deliver on taste, but it also offers a laid-back and inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose to dine inside or relax on their outdoor patio, you’re sure to feel right at home. With its friendly staff and casual vibe, Carnitas’ Snack Shack is the perfect spot for a relaxed and satisfying meal in San Diego.
8. Cafe Chloe
Cafe Chloe is a French-inspired eatery that brings a touch of Paris to downtown San Diego. This charming bistro is the perfect spot for a cozy brunch, lunch, or dinner. Cafe Chloe’s menu features classic French dishes like Croque Madame and Quiche Lorraine, along with unique takes on traditional American fare like a Croissant Breakfast Sandwich.
One of the standout dishes at Cafe Chloe is their Pain Perdu, or French Toast, made with brioche bread, seasonal fruit, and house-made vanilla syrup. For a lighter option, their Nicoise Salad is a fresh and flavorful choice. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails or a glass of French wine.
The atmosphere at Cafe Chloe is equally delightful, with its cozy indoor seating and charming outdoor patio. The decor includes vintage Parisian posters, twinkling lights, and lush greenery. Overall, Cafe Chloe offers a delicious and enchanting dining experience that will transport you to the streets of Paris.
9. Cucina Urbana
Cucina Urbana is a stylish Italian restaurant that features a contemporary twist on classic dishes. Located in the Bankers Hill neighborhood of San Diego, Cucina Urbana has become a popular dining spot among locals and visitors alike. The menu boasts an impressive selection of small plates, pizzas, pastas, and entrees. Not to be missed are their housemade pastas such as the ravioli with spinach and ricotta, or the spaghetti alla chitarra with pancetta and egg yolk.
Cucina Urbana also features an extensive wine list with options for every palate and budget. Guests can choose from an impressive selection of Italian and California wines by the glass or by the bottle. The restaurant’s decor is modern and sleek, with exposed brick walls, industrial lighting fixtures, and colorful accents throughout the space. With its welcoming ambiance and flavorful dishes, Cucina Urbana is a must-visit for anyone looking for a taste of contemporary Italian cuisine in San Diego.
10. Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine
Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine is a restaurant that has it all: great views of the San Diego skyline, a chic atmosphere, and most importantly, delicious food. Chef Jojo Ruiz is known for his innovative takes on seafood dishes, using locally sourced ingredients to create vibrant, flavorful plates.
The menu features a mix of classic seafood favorites and unique, creative dishes. The yellowtail crudo is a standout, with tender slices of fish paired with bright citrus and spicy serrano pepper. For something heartier, the grilled octopus with chorizo and fingerling potatoes is a must-try.
Lionfish also has an impressive selection of cocktails, with both classic and original recipes on offer. The Hemingway Daiquiri is a refreshing choice on a hot San Diego day, with rum, grapefruit, and lime. Overall, Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine is a perfect spot for a special occasion or a fancy night out. With impeccable service and stunning presentation, every visit is a treat for the senses.
The Bottom Line
San Diego’s culinary scene is vibrant and diverse, and there’s no shortage of great restaurants to choose from. From fine dining to casual eateries, there’s something for everyone in this city. Our list of the top 10 restaurants in San Diego includes some of the best places to dine in the area. Whether you’re in the mood for creative small plates or classic comfort food, these eateries won’t disappoint. So if you’re planning a trip to San Diego, be sure to check out one or all of these fantastic dining destinations.
