Top 14 restaurants in North Park
North Park, San Diego's vibrant neighborhood, is a foodie's paradise with its diverse and thriving restaurant scene. "Restaurants in North Park" offer a melting pot of culinary delights, from farm-to-table California cuisine to exotic international flavors. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, from cozy cafes and craft beer bars to upscale bistros and Michelin-starred restaurants. Overall, "restaurants in North Park" reflect the neighborhood's unique cultural blend and innovative spirit, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts.
- 1. The Garage Bar & Restaurant
- 2. SZND
- 3. Ristorante Lombardo in North Park
- 4. The Wellington Pub
- 5. Taisho Hertel
- 6. The Public House of Buffalo
- 7. La Pizza Club
- 8. Kostas Family Restaurant in North Park
- 9. Lloyd Taco Factory
- 10. The Burning Buffalo Bar & Grill
- 11. CRaVing Restaurant
- 12. Joe's Deli
- 13. Jim's Steakout in North Park
- 14. Ciao Ciao
1. The Garage Bar & Restaurant
Combines bar and restaurant in a unique setting

As a seasoned culinary professional, I am consistently impressed by establishments that offer exceptional service and food. Recently, I visited The Garage Bar & Restaurant, a spot I had passed by many times before. This unassuming location offered a delightful surprise, with top-notch service from every staff member and food that far exceeded my expectations.
The Garage Bar & Restaurant is a hotspot for Sunday brunch, featuring standout dishes such as biscuits and gravy and Italian chicken and waffles. The unique garage-themed decor and high ceilings create a spacious atmosphere, despite its moderate size. Servers are friendly and efficient, providing prompt and excellent service. One of the highlights of the meal is their standout fries, which add a delicious twist to classic American fare.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
2. SZND
Local craft beers, Gluten-free options, Vegetarian-friendly

Szabelowa Kitchen & Drinks (SZND) is located off the main Hertel Avenue strip, a short walk from the corner. The restaurant is small, with only a few tables, a cozy bar, and a modern, comfortable decor. SZND is a unique upscale dining establishment in Buffalo, providing a sophisticated and intimate atmosphere for its patrons.
The service at SZND is exceptional, with staff who are attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. The food offerings are seasoned to perfection, bursting with flavor and freshness. Diners can expect a memorable and enjoyable dining experience at SZND, thanks to its cozy ambiance, attentive service, and delicious food.
TOPICS
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
3. Ristorante Lombardo in North Park
Family-owned since 1954, Zagat rated, authentic Sicilian cuisine

Ristorante Lombardo in Buffalo is known for its exceptional atmosphere, personalized service, and delicious Italian cuisine. The restaurant has received high praise for its standout dishes, including grilled scallops on risotto and baked figs wrapped in prosciutto. A recent visitor celebrated their anniversary at the establishment and was met with outstanding service from their accommodating server.
The visitor was made to feel comfortable and special throughout their dining experience. One noteworthy touch was the Happy Anniversary card that was waiting for them on their table upon arrival. The attention to detail and personalized service contributed to the overall positive atmosphere of the restaurant, making it an ideal location for celebratory occasions.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
4. The Wellington Pub
Live music on weekends, Extensive beer selection

The Wellington Pub is famous for its tasty and filling meals, including standout dishes such as the pot roast sandwich, traditional beef, and highly regarded fish fries available during Lent. Their wings are another popular choice, always perfectly cooked and featuring an equal portion of drums and flats. The food at the pub is widely praised for its delicious taste, crispy texture, and generous use of high-quality ingredients. In addition to their lunch and dinner options, the Wellington Pub also offers highly-rated breakfast choices.
Diners at the Wellington Pub can enjoy a variety of delicious and satisfying meals, from their famous pot roast sandwich and traditional beef to their highly regarded fish fries during Lent. The pub's wings are a must-try, always perfectly cooked and served with an equal portion of drums and flats. The food at the Wellington Pub is known for its delicious taste, with generous and well-filled ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the Wellington Pub has something for everyone to enjoy.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
5. Taisho Hertel
Authentic Japanese restaurant in a residential neighborhood

The portions of the dishes served at this establishment are smaller compared to other places. In particular, the spicy miso ramen was not cooked thoroughly, resulting in a mixed experience. The quality of service is inconsistent, with instances of quick and attentive service, but also slow and disjointed service at times.
The spicy miso ramen was not properly cooked, with some parts undercooked. This, combined with the small portions, detracts from the overall dining experience. The service is slow and disorganized at times, contrasting with moments of quick and attentive service. This inconsistency in service affects the overall customer satisfaction.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Downtown Spots
6. The Public House of Buffalo
Features live music and trivia nights

The chicken fingers at this establishment do not live up to their description. Contrary to what the menu says, the chicken fingers are not panko encrusted and the french fries are not freshly cut. The value of the meal does not match the price, as the quality of the food does not justify the $15 cost.
The Public House of Buffalo has many positive attributes. The service is commendable, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. They offer an impressive variety of beers, wines, and cocktails. In addition to their great service and atmosphere, they also have a menu full of delicious food options. Standouts on the menu include the fried green tomatoes and honey wings. The restaurant's cozy setting and fabulous sunset view add to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Dinner
7. La Pizza Club
Featuring a wood-fired oven and specialty pizzas

The pizza offered is truly outstanding, and the wait to receive it is definitely worthwhile. There are no negative comments to make about the food or service, as both aspects were perfect and contributed to an amazing experience. The pizza is perfect in every way.
The staff at this establishment are well-known for their friendliness and prompt service. They are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure their customers are satisfied. This level of service enhances the overall dining experience, demonstrating the staff's dedication to their customers.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
8. Kostas Family Restaurant in North Park
Family-owned Greek restaurant since 1983

Kostas Family Restaurant is known for serving delicious food, although their service can be somewhat slow. The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and inviting, making it an ideal location for a weekly breakfast outing. One of the popular dishes is the Greek salad, which receives positive feedback, although some customers would prefer a moister feta cheese. The eggplant parmesan with half a pita and Greek salad is another tasty option that has been enjoyed by patrons.
Eating at Kostas Family Restaurant is a pleasurable experience due to their tasty food offerings. However, customers may need to plan for slow service. The Greek salad and the eggplant parmesan with half a pita and Greek salad are popular choices among diners. Although many like the Greek salad, some have expressed a desire for feta cheese with a higher moisture content. The inviting atmosphere and delicious food make Kostas Family Restaurant a terrific spot to dine, particularly for breakfast or brunch.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Chinese Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Mexican Cuisine
- Gluten-Free
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
- Kosher Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- High-End
- Cheap Eats
- Affordable Nightlife
- Free Events
- Happy Hours
- Mid-Range
- Waterfront
- Rooftop
- Downtown Spots
- Hidden Gems
- Suburban
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Late Night
- Seasonal Times
- Weekend Dining
9. Lloyd Taco Factory
Creative twists on traditional taco recipes, locally sourced ingredients, and a great selection of vegan and gluten-free options.

The Crack-ed Potatoes at Lloyd Taco Factory are a must-try side dish. The restaurant is known for its delicious and memorable meals that leave a lasting impression on its customers. The food served is frequently described as fantastic, fresh, and fast, offering a unique taste that is unparalleled.
Despite some reviews mentioning that the tacos are small and overpriced, the overall consensus is that Lloyd Taco Factory serves up high-quality food that is worth the cost. With its delicious offerings and impressive flavors, the restaurant is a standout choice for anyone looking for a great meal. Whether it's the Crack-ed Potatoes or any other dish on the menu, customers are sure to enjoy a memorable and satisfying dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
10. The Burning Buffalo Bar & Grill
Featuring local Buffalo bands and musicians

The Burning Buffalo Bar & Grill offers a good experience with its food and service. However, there are some areas for improvement. The cocktails, in particular, were disappointing, as they were surprisingly weak given the prices. On the other hand, the beer menu is extensive, providing a good selection to choose from. With a rating of 4.1 and 182 reviews, it is clear that many customers have enjoyed their experience at this traditional American bar and grill, which is open from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Looking at the overall experience, the weak cocktails were a letdown. However, the bar and grill's extensive beer menu offers a chance to try something new on the next visit. With a rating of 4.1 based on 182 reviews, it's clear that many customers have had a positive experience at The Burning Buffalo Bar & Grill. The traditional American food and service are noteworthy, and it's worth checking out the full menu of 209 photos to get a better sense of what's on offer.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Happy Hours
11. CRaVing Restaurant
Offers gluten-free and vegetarian options, full bar with craft beers and cocktails

The service at this establishment is exceptional, with guests frequently praising the staff for their kindness, hospitality, and friendliness. The restaurant has a charming, urban atmosphere and, despite being relatively quiet on a Wednesday evening, the kitchen was operating at peak performance.
The dishes at this restaurant are innovatively conceived, masterfully prepared, and meticulously presented. Each dish that was served tasted great, with a focus on quality and flavor. The kitchen's ability to maintain this level of performance even on a quiet weeknight is a testament to their skill and dedication.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
12. Joe's Deli
Family-owned deli with rich history and tradition

Joe's Deli is a well-known establishment for its high-quality and delicious food offerings. The deli is famous for its large, satisfying sandwiches that frequently result in leftovers. Customers rave about the freshness and great taste of the food, making it a popular destination for lunch or a quick bite.
The variety of food at Joe's Deli is impressive, with sandwiches being a standout option. The beef on weck and chicken cutlet are popular choices among customers, highlighting the quality and flavor of the ingredients used. Whether you're in the mood for a soup, salad, wrap, or sandwich, Joe's Deli has something to satisfy your cravings.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
13. Jim's Steakout in North Park
Open until late night, Offers delivery and takeout

The night before, I came across another Jim's Steakout location that had a line of customers leading to the front door. I was thrilled to see it and excited to try it out. However, my experience was just average. I'm considering giving another location a try to see if my experience differs.
The steak sandwich had a good flavor, but it came with a lot of grease, which is to be expected from a chain steak sandwich place. I tried it once, and if I don't end up returning, I won't miss it. The portion size was small compared to the value. Consequently, I wouldn't classify the food as healthy.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Ciao Ciao

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Italian Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots