Best of 23 restaurants in Downtown San Diego San Diego

Discover our curated list of top-ranked restaurants in Downtown San Diego San Diego, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like Cafe Sevilla of San Diego, La Puerta, Herb & Wood, The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole, Sally's Fish House & Bar. Let's explore together!

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1. Cafe Sevilla of San Diego

Authentic Spanish dining experience with live entertainment

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (3136 Review by google)
  • Address:

    353 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a variety of Spanish cuisine, live music and flamenco dancing, extensive wine list
  • Cons:

    Some customers have reported slow service and high prices
  • Popular Menu:

    Paella, tapas, sangria
  • Price Range:

    $$ ( moderately expensive )
Phone Directions Website
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cafe Sevilla in San Diego! From the moment you step inside, you are enveloped in a warm and inviting ambiance that sets the perfect stage for a memorable dining experience. Indulge in delicious dishes that are a fusion of flavors, like the delectable bread with tomato - a tantalizing twist on a classic favorite. The attentive staff ensure that your every need is met, guaranteeing a top-notch service that elevates your visit.
Get swept away by the mesmerizing live music that fills the air, adding a special touch to your evening. Whether you're enjoying a quick bite or lounging for hours on end, Cafe Sevilla offers an unparalleled escape from the ordinary. Make your way to this hidden gem and immerse yourself in a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more.

TOPICS

  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Social Gatherings

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2. La Puerta

Happy hour specials, colorful decor, lively ambiance

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (4087 Review by google)
  • Address:

    560 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Mexican dishes, generous portions, friendly service, trendy atmosphere, vegetarian options available
  • Cons:

    Some reviews mention long wait times, prices on the higher side for Mexican food, limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Carne asada, carnitas, street tacos
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website
Experience the vibrant flavors of La Puerta, where each bite is a tantalizing journey for your taste buds. Savor the zesty guacamole that bursts with freshness, elevating your dining experience to new heights. From perfectly spiced margaritas to delectable fusion dishes, every detail is crafted with care to delight your senses.
Embark on a culinary expedition at La Puerta, a hidden gem that beckons travelers from far and wide. Hailing from Toronto, Canada, I made a pilgrimage to this haven of American and Mexican cuisine, eager for my girlfriend to partake in its gastronomic wonders. Join me on a quest for unforgettable flavors and discover a culinary oasis in the heart of San Diego.

TOPICS

  • Indian Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Dinner
  • Downtown Spots

3. Herb & Wood

Emphasis on seasonal, local ingredients and wood-fired cooking

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (2062 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2210 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern American cuisine with open-fire cooking, chic ambiance, popular brunch options, knowledgeable staff, extensive wine list
  • Cons:

    Reservations may be hard to get, pricey for some, limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Wood-fired ocean trout, coal-roasted squash, crispy duck confit
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in a culinary journey at Herb & Wood, where each dish is a masterpiece crafted to perfection. From the exquisite caulilini salad to the savory oxtail gnocchi and the divine raspberry soufflé, every bite is a symphony of flavors that will captivate your senses. The menu is a delightful blend of simplicity and sophistication, offering a range of vegetarian options and delectable appetizers that set the stage for a memorable dining experience.
Nestled in the heart of San Diego, Herb & Wood exudes an upscale charm that is complemented by a welcoming atmosphere and eclectic art pieces that add to its allure. As you savor the culinary delights, let yourself be enchanted by the whimsical unicorn that greets you and the golden gorilla in the kitchen, creating a dining experience that is as visually captivating as it is gastronomically satisfying. Immerse yourself in the world of Herb & Wood, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to provide a feast for all your senses.

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Asian Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

4. The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole

Known for their extensive craft beer list and comfortable vibe

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1040 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1065 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of craft beers, friendly staff, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited food menu, small space, can get crowded
  • Popular Menu:

    Burgers, mac and cheese, fish tacos
  • Price Range:

    $-$$
Phone Directions Website
The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole is a vibrant sports bar known for its lively atmosphere and decent food selection. As a popular hangout spot for fans on game days, the bar offers top-notch service and a great viewing experience. Despite the bustling crowd, the efficient staff ensured quick service, making it a promising destination for future visits.
The busy yet inviting ambiance of the place was further complemented by the delicious range of beers available. Grabbing a drink to go, I could sense the fun-loving spirit of this charming watering hole. With the anticipation of returning for a full experience during my next trip, the Local Eatery & Drinking Hole left a lasting impression as a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers alike.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Downtown Spots

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5. Sally's Fish House & Bar

Waterfront views, lively atmosphere, happy hour specials

  • Time:

    11 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1319 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1 Market Pl, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Oceanfront dining, extensive seafood selection, fresh sushi bar
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, expensive parking, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled salmon, lobster tails, sushi rolls
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website
Savor the local catch at Sally's Fish House & Bar, a top seafood spot on San Diego's scenic pier offering a diverse menu highlighted by a standout seafood tower. While the scallops missed the mark, other dishes delighted. The late lunch ambiance by the water, complete with cozy fire pits, sets the perfect backdrop for indulging in fresh fare. Treat yourself to the lobster roll and a glass of Gerard Bertrand Cote Des Rose or the Willamette Valley Vineyards Riesling for a satisfying meal.
Delight in a coastal culinary experience at Sally's Fish House & Bar, a gem nestled on the San Diego pier. Indulge in a delectable seafood tower and a refreshing glass of wine, like the Gerard Bertrand Cote Des Rose or Willamette Valley Vineyards Riesling, as you take in the charming ocean views. Despite the overcooked scallops, the vibrant atmosphere, complete with crackling fire pits, ensures a memorable dining experience. Don't miss out on the lobster roll and fish tacos for a satisfying taste of the sea.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Social Gatherings

6. The Lion's Share

Upscale American cuisine with focus on quality ingredients and exceptional service

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (1505 Review by google)
  • Address:

    629 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Extensive wine list, knowledgeable staff, popular happy hour
  • Cons:

    Limited vegetarian options, some dishes can be pricey, reservations may be required
  • Popular Menu:

    New York Strip, Lion's Chop, Mac & Cheese
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website
With its 12-year legacy, Lion's Share presents a delightful revelation for new visitors. The menu boasts delectable game options like elk, wild boar, and even camel, showcasing a commitment to culinary innovation. Embarking on a culinary adventure, a visit to this trendy downtown San Diego establishment became a memorable experience. The warm evening ambiance outside further heightened our senses, making the dining experience both comforting and exciting. Lion's Share truly stands out with its unique atmosphere and a diverse array of eclectic dishes, promising a one-of-a-kind dining journey.

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Affordable Nightlife
  • Downtown Spots

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7. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

Extensive wine list and knowledgeable staff, live music on weekends

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1885 Review by google)
  • Address:

    658 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale atmosphere, high-quality steak and seafood options, excellent service
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, limited vegetarian options, dress code enforced
  • Popular Menu:

    Prime ribeye, lobster tail, filet mignon
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100
Phone Directions Website
Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood offers a lackluster dining experience with mediocre food and subpar service, as evidenced by a recent business dinner. The set menu provided limited options, with the salad being particularly unremarkable.

TOPICS

  • Corporate Events
  • American Cuisine
  • High-End

8. Osteria Panevino

Authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of San Diego

  • Time:

    4 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1065 Review by google)
  • Address:

    722 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Raved about Italian food, extensive wine list, great ambiance and service
  • Cons:

    Somewhat pricey, can get crowded, limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Pasta Carbonara, Osso Buco, Gnocchi
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Celebrations
  • Italian Cuisine
  • High-End

9. Water Grill San Diego

High-end seafood grill with sustainable sourcing

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (2287 Review by google)
  • Address:

    615 J St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale atmosphere, excellent seafood selection, outstanding service
  • Cons:

    Pricey, limited vegetarian options, parking can be difficult
  • Popular Menu:

    Lobster rolls, oysters, surf and turf
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • High-End

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10. Juniper & Ivy

High-end dining experience with creative dishes

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (2245 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2228 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Modern California-coastal cuisine, stylish and upscale atmosphere, award-winning chef
  • Cons:

    Expensive pricing, small portions, limited reservations
  • Popular Menu:

    Uni carbonara, hamachi crudo, tender belly pork
  • Price Range:

    $$$
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Celebrations
  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots

11. Rockin' Baja Lobster - Gaslamp

Fresh seafood, lively atmosphere, popular happy hour

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (2442 Review by google)
  • Address:

    322 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Located in the heart of Gaslamp Quarter, offers live music and entertainment, fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded and noisy, limited vegetarian options, parking can be a challenge
  • Popular Menu:

    Baja Style Fish Tacos, Lobster Burrito, Shrimp Enchiladas
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Corporate Events
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

12. Las Hadas Bar and Grill

A hidden gem in the Gaslamp Quarter with a lively atmosphere and delicious Mexican cuisine.

  • Time:

    3 PM to 1 AM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (1213 Review by google)
  • Address:

    558 Fourth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers happy hour specials, live music, and outdoor seating with a heated patio.
  • Cons:

    Prices can be on the higher side, service can be slow during peak hours, and parking can be challenging.
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled Mahi-Mahi Tacos, Chiles Rellenos, and Carne Asada Burrito.
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Social Gatherings

Relate link

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13. The Blind Burro

Known for its lively atmosphere and Baja-style Mexican food

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (1787 Review by google)
  • Address:

    639 J St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers happy hour specials, offers outdoor seating, Vegan options available
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, some dishes may be too spicy for some, can get crowded
  • Popular Menu:

    Baja fish tacos, carne asada fries, margaritas
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Hidden Gems

14. Roy's Restaurant

Signature Hawaiian-inspired seafood dishes in a fine dining setting

  • Time:

    4 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.2/5 (1244 Review by google)
  • Address:

    333 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale dining experience, great seafood options, magnificent harbor views
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, dress code enforced, small portions
  • Popular Menu:

    Hawaiianmisoyaki butterfish, blackened ahi, lobster pot pie
  • Price Range:

    $31-$60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Waterfront
  • High-End

15. Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp

Features a rooftop patio with stunning views of downtown San Diego

  • Time:

    11 AM to 12 AM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (2518 Review by google)
  • Address:

    333 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Spacious location with a great ambiance, extensive menu options, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Prices can be on the higher side, some dishes may be too salty for some palates, limited parking options
  • Popular Menu:

    Burgers, wings, and craft beers
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Downtown Spots
  • American Cuisine
  • Dinner

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16. Born and Raised

Established in 1909, serving traditional Italian cuisine

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (2612 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1909 India St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Rich history, located in Little Italy, offers a variety of dishes, good for groups
  • Cons:

    Some reviews mention slow service and hit-or-miss food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Margherita Pizza, Lasagna, Bruschetta
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Social Gatherings
  • High-End
  • Dinner

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17. Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine – San Diego

Unique and artistic presentation of dishes

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (710 Review by google)
  • Address:

    435 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Stylish and modern decor, innovative fusion cuisine, extensive cocktail menu
  • Cons:

    Prices on the higher side, small portion sizes, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Ceviche, lobster mac and cheese, miso-glazed black cod
  • Price Range:

    $30 - $60
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • American Cuisine
  • Waterfront

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18. Nobu San Diego

Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa's signature dishes and elegant ambiance

  • Time:

    5:30 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (758 Review by google)
  • Address:

    207 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale atmosphere, Celebrity chef-owned restaurant, Exquisite Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine
  • Cons:

    Pricey menu, Limited vegetarian options, Dress code enforced
  • Popular Menu:

    Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeno, Sushi Rolls
  • Price Range:

    $50-$150 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Celebrations

19. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge

Famous for its homemade pasta and wood-fired pizzas

  • Time:

    5 to 11 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (516 Review by google)
  • Address:

    750 Front St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a variety of Italian dishes, has a cozy atmosphere, and good for groups
  • Cons:

    Prices can be on the higher side, some dishes may have strong garlic flavor, and service can be slow during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Margherita pizza, eggplant parmesan, and linguine with clams
  • Price Range:

    $20-$50
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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20. Dobson's Bar & Restaurant

Known for their extensive beer list and classic American dishes

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (408 Review by google)
  • Address:

    956 Broadway Cir, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide selection of beers, friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly high, limited vegetarian options, parking can be difficult
  • Popular Menu:

    Dobson's Burger, Fish and Chips, Clam Chowder
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner
  • Late Night

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21. Huntress

Unique selection of sour beers and collaborations

  • Time:

    6 to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (375 Review by google)
  • Address:

    376 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide range of sour beers, knowledgeable staff, dog-friendly atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can get crowded, limited food options, prices on the higher side
  • Popular Menu:

    Huntress IPA, Berried Alive Sour, La Flama Blanca
  • Price Range:

    $6 - $12 per pint
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Celebrations
  • American Cuisine

22. Bayou Kitchen

A taste of the Bayou in the heart of San Diego with a lively atmosphere and delicious Southern cuisine.

  • Time:

    Closed

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (641 Review by google)
  • Address:

    815 F St, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers Cajun and Creole dishes, live music events, outdoor seating with a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Cons:

    Prices may be slightly high for some, service can be slow during peak hours, and the location may be difficult to find for first-time visitors.
  • Popular Menu:

    Jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish etouffee.
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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23. Table 509 Bar & Kitchen

Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • American Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

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