Top 14 lunch restaurants in Sorrento Valley
When it comes to finding a great lunch spot, Sorrento Valley has plenty of options for locals and visitors alike. From cozy cafes to trendy bistros, there's no shortage of lunch restaurants in Sorrento Valley to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a quick sandwich or a leisurely meal, these eateries offer something for everyone. So why wait? Come explore the delicious lunch options in Sorrento Valley today!
- 1. Gravity Heights
- 2. Park Commons
- 3. The WineSellar & Brasserie
- 4. Sue’s Korean Kitchen
- 5. The Food Court At Plaza Sorrento
- 6. California English
- 7. Centerpark Cafe
- 8. The Bistro - Eat. Drink. Connect.®
- 9. Mr Holy Gao in Sorrento Valley
- 10. moment sushi
- 11. Hawaiian Fresh Seafood At Centerpark Labs
- 12. The Grill and Deli
- 13. Tadian Cafe in Sorrento Valley
- 14. Pauly's Pizza Joint in Sorrento Valley
1. Gravity Heights
Features a bocce ball court and stunning city views.

Gravity Heights is a well-known restaurant in San Diego, praised for its excellent ambiance, food, and drink offerings. The menu features an array of delicious options, such as pizza, burgers, and various beers and cocktails. With a great location and a dedicated team, Gravity Heights aims to provide excellent service to its customers.
The falafel burger and gravity burger are popular lunch choices at Gravity Heights. In addition to their tasty food, they offer a variety of beers and cocktails, making it a great spot for lunch or dinner.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
2. Park Commons
Sustainable, eco-friendly practices and locally sourced ingredients

I visited a restaurant today and ordered a Poke Bowl. The bowl was a decent size and the poke was fresh and tasted great. It was my first time dining at this establishment and I was impressed with the large restaurant and its excellent inside and outdoor seating.
I ordered the Korean chicken sandwich and a Poke bowl. The food and drinks were excellent, but I was disappointed with the high prices. The chicken sandwich and poke bowl each cost $15, and the drinks were priced at $12.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Mid-Range
3. The WineSellar & Brasserie
Sommelier-owned, extensive wine list, and gourmet market

The culinary experience at the establishment is exceptional, offering standout dishes such as lobster bisque and sea bass. The seafood options are particularly noteworthy. Wine pairing events are a highlight, garnering positive feedback from guests.
In terms of service, the establishment truly shines. Guests consistently commend the staff for their attentiveness, efficiency, and high level of professionalism. The team responsible for service goes above and beyond to ensure a positive dining experience for all patrons.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
- Downtown Spots
4. Sue’s Korean Kitchen
Homemade recipes, Fresh ingredients, High-quality Korean cuisine

Sue’s Korean Kitchen, located in the Plaza Sorrento Food Court in Mira Mesa, is a hidden gem that serves up delicious and authentic Korean cuisine. During lunchtime, customers can enjoy a variety of options including bibimbap, tofu soup, and Korean fried rice.
The owners of Sue’s Korean Kitchen are known for their kindness and hospitality, making guests feel welcome and part of the family. Among the menu items, their kimbap and fermented radish are highly recommended for their exceptional flavor and authenticity.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
5. The Food Court At Plaza Sorrento

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
6. California English
Family-owned restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and fresh ingredients

In San Diego, my sister, mother, and I tried Richard Blais' restaurant, California English, during a recent visit. We went on a Tuesday around 6:30 pm, and it was quiet as the restaurant closes at 8:00 pm from Tuesday to Thursday. Our server, Sam, was kind, attentive, and gave excellent suggestions for our meal. We ordered all three starters, including the scotch egg, fried Brussels sprouts, and tartare, which were all delicious. For the main course, two of us had the seasonal vegetable plate, while the third person had fish and chips, which we all tried and loved. California English offers a great wine and cocktail menu, and I enjoyed their spin on the Pimm's cocktail. The outdoor area had a garden, a small patio, a croquet set, and corn hole stations, creating a fun atmosphere for guests.
Situated in Sorrento Valley, California, California English is the latest culinary creation of celebrity chef, Richard Blais. Blais aims to interpret classic British dishes using Southern California ingredients, creating a fusion of the laid-back California lifestyle and cozy pub convivial atmosphere. The menu features fresh and flavorful dishes made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients. California English offers an all-day menu, making it an ideal place for a pint after work, a client lunch, or a family dinner, providing a perfect setting to celebrate the joy of unexpected culinary matches.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
7. Centerpark Cafe
Pet-friendly patio, eco-conscious practices, and community events.

This restaurant is known for serving delicious bacon, sandwiches, and salads. They take pride in offering excellent biscuits and bagels. Their coffee is also a must-try.
The sandwiches are a highlight of their menu, known for being varied, nicely presented, and a good size. Popular choices include the Asian Chicken Salad and Centerpark Special sandwich.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
8. The Bistro - Eat. Drink. Connect.®

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
9. Mr Holy Gao in Sorrento Valley
Offers authentic Chinese dishes in a casual setting

Some guests have reported that the service at the establishment is quick, efficient, and sufficient for their needs. However, other guests have had negative experiences with slow service and poor customer service. A few guests have even reported encountering a waiter with noticeable body odor.
The menu features a variety of food options, combining Malatang and traditional Chinese dishes. Customers can choose one type of meat to be served in a spicy-numbing broth, accompanied by a choice of rice or noodles. The menu also offers family-sized options. Many guests have complimented the quality of the food, praising its taste and presentation.
TOPICS
- Hidden Gems
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
10. moment sushi
Affordable sushi rolls, good for takeout and delivery

The service at this establishment is exceptional, worthy of 5 stars and more. The food is truly outstanding and offers amazing flavors that are surprisingly delicious. This place is a must-visit and a definite win.
Moment Sushi is a top-notch sushi restaurant that is well worth the visit, despite the higher prices. The freshness and quality of their fish and sushi are immediately evident, making it an excellent choice for sushi lovers who are willing to pay a premium.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
Relate link
11. Hawaiian Fresh Seafood At Centerpark Labs
Sustainable seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and customizable meals

Hawaiian Fresh Seafood at Centerpark Labs is a popular spot, with a high rating of 4.4 (337) from recent reviews. Customers rave about their favorite dishes, including poke from the display case, California Salmon Poke Bowl, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, Ahi Belly Bomb Fries, and Poke Options. Other popular choices are Spam Musubi, Poke Plate, Poke Nachos, and Mac Salad.
Hawaiian Fresh Seafood prides itself on being a hidden gem, offering a wide variety of both cold and hot dishes. Their menu includes poke bowls, mac salad, to-go Kalua and lau lau combo, fish tacos, Kalua pork sandwiches, and bao buns. Customers have praised their excellent customer service and the spacious seating arrangements both indoors and outdoors. It's the perfect place to enjoy fresh seafood and local favorites with a touch of Hawaiian hospitality.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
12. The Grill and Deli
Family-owned and operated deli with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
This establishment is an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying lunch. The sandwiches served here are always fresh, made with high-quality ingredients, and are sure to leave you feeling full and content. The service is also a highlight, with staff who are friendly and attentive to customers' needs.
During your lunch break, this spot is an ideal destination. They offer an impressive variety of sandwiches and salads, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The extensive menu provides a range of options for different tastes and dietary preferences, from hearty meat sandwiches to lighter vegetarian and vegan options. Whether you're looking for a quick meal on the go or a place to sit and relax, this establishment is the perfect choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Asian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
Relate link
13. Tadian Cafe in Sorrento Valley
Cozy family-owned café with a welcoming atmosphere

Tadian Cafe is a well-known lunch destination, famous for its delicious and filling sandwiches. The prices at the cafe are affordable, and the portions served are generous, providing great value for money. The staff at Tadian Cafe are friendly, contributing to the overall pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. Furthermore, the cafe is kept clean and inviting, making it an ideal place to enjoy a meal.
Visitors to Tadian Cafe have reported positive experiences, praising the staff's helpfulness in recommending food options and ensuring order accuracy. Moreover, the cafe offers menu items suitable for vegetarians, which is an added bonus for those with dietary restrictions. The quality of the food and the attentiveness of the staff make Tadian Cafe a desirable location for a satisfying lunch.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
14. Pauly's Pizza Joint in Sorrento Valley
Family-friendly atmosphere, Offers delivery and takeout services.

The girl suggested ordering pizza from Bongiornos for dinner, and they decided to get the Spinach Ricotta. She called to place the order, and mentioned that it was now called Pauly's instead of Bongiornos. The girl had spoken to Pauly, who had taken over the restaurant recently, and he had changed the menu, which worried the author. However, the pizza still smelled delicious when they picked it up, and it was enormous and inexpensive. Although the author was worried that the pizza wouldn't be as good as it was before, it turned out to be even better. Pauly had improved the recipe with some delicious fresh ricotta and had replaced canned mushrooms with fresh ones.
Pauly's Pizza Joint is a small, homey restaurant located in Mira Mesa, near where the author and the girl were staying. Paul and Mona, who worked at the restaurant, were very welcoming and made the customers feel at home. The pizza was outstanding, and the customer service was excellent. The owners were happy to chat with customers during quiet moments, making the experience even more enjoyable.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
- Dinner