Top 17 late night restaurants in North Park
In the vibrant neighborhood of North Park, late night cravings are satisfied at a variety of restaurants that cater to the post-midnight crowd. From greasy spoons to gourmet eateries, these late night restaurants in North Park serve up delicious dishes for those night owls seeking a satisfying meal. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, North Park's late night dining scene has got you covered.
- 1. Underbelly North Park
- 2. Rudford's Restaurant
- 3. Mabel's Gone Fishing
- 4. 619 Spirits North Park
- 5. Denny's
- 6. Redwing Bar & Grill
- 7. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
- 8. Swan Bar
- 9. Yesenia's Mexican Food & Ice Cream
- 10. Fortunate Son Chinese in North Park
- 11. Jack in the Box
- 12. Happy Medium
- 13. Jack in the Box in North Park
- 14. Mothership
- 15. Mr. Moto Pizza North Park
- 16. Roberto's Taco Shop in North Park
- 17. Los Alejandros
1. Underbelly North Park
Open until 2am on weekends, dog-friendly patio, live music and events

Underbelly North Park is an excellent spot for satisfying late-night ramen cravings. The establishment is well-known for its rich and flavorful broth, which is a crowd favorite. The service at this establishment is always friendly and welcoming, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a comforting bowl of ramen.
As a regular visitor, Underbelly North Park never disappoints when it comes to their ramen offerings. The staff is super friendly and always makes sure to greet customers warmly. Their dedication to providing excellent service and delicious food has earned them a loyal following among ramen lovers looking for a late-night dining option.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
2. Rudford's Restaurant
Family-owned and operated since 1949, using fresh ingredients and housemade recipes

Rudford's Restaurant is a classic diner that stands out with its retro style and old-fashioned atmosphere. It is known for serving generous portions of high-quality breakfast diner food, such as pancakes and bacon, around the clock. The restaurant prides itself on delivering hot and fresh meals to its customers, even during late-night hours.
The 24-hour diner is located on El Cajon and features Rudford's Restaurant, a beloved establishment for those craving delicious and substantial meals at any time of the day or night. Whether you are in the mood for a hearty breakfast in the early hours or a satisfying late-night snack, Rudford's Restaurant offers an extensive menu of tasty and filling options to satisfy your appetite. The food's impressive quality, combined with its affordability and convenient hours, makes Rudford's Restaurant a popular destination for food lovers of all ages and tastes.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Breakfast
- Dinner
3. Mabel's Gone Fishing
Cozy atmosphere with a wide range of beers

Charm and character are plentiful at Mabel’s Gone Fishing, where the name and décor pay tribute to an owner’s cherished dog. The staff is friendly and easygoing, contributing to the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere. The menu is focused on showcasing excellent local seafood, combining Californian and Iberian culinary influences to create delicious dishes.
Mabel’s Gone Fishing was recommended to me by some colleagues, and my family and I decided to have dinner there. Located in the trendy North Park area, the restaurant offered tasty food and exceptional service. We were fortunate to find street parking a few blocks away, although there is a small parking lot behind the restaurant as well. I look forward to returning for another delightful dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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4. 619 Spirits North Park
Features a lively atmosphere with live music and DJs

This establishment offers a full menu of delicious food, perfect for a quick bite or a date night dinner. They are open 7 days a week and offer happy hour specials Monday through Friday from 3pm to 6pm, as well as daily cocktail specials and late-night bites. For those who prefer a weekend brunch, they have a special menu available on Saturdays and Sundays. The restaurant is family-friendly, including a warm welcome for your furry friends. Keep the kids entertained with games, and enjoy some friendly competition among adults.
619 Spirits North Park is San Diego's first craft distillery, tasting room, and restaurant, providing a unique experience for craft spirits enthusiasts. They are the home of 619 Vodka, and also feature locally crafted spirits from other San Diego distilleries. The venue is perfect for creative cocktails, making it an excellent spot for groups and happy hour gatherings.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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5. Denny's
Family-friendly diner with a fun, retro atmosphere

Denny's is a popular restaurant choice for many, including the author and their companions who visited after a day at the San Diego Zoo. The food quality is consistent with other Denny's locations, but the service stood out as exceptional, even during late-night hours.
The author and their friends also frequented this Denny's after nights out at the Red Fox or downtown, although they were not aware of its reputation as the "Gay Denny's" at the time. The author admits to not being particularly observant during these visits, as they were often not sober.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- American Cuisine
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6. Redwing Bar & Grill
Offers a cozy, dimly lit environment with a vintage feel

The neighborhood bar is a fantastic spot to hang out, featuring a spacious patio that enables patrons to enjoy the sun and fresh air while being hidden from the busy street. The interior is equally entertaining, boasting a pool table, a jukebox, and a lively karaoke night. Surprisingly, the karaoke night is a hit, with a vibrant and active crowd, unlike many other bars where karaoke is often overlooked.
Upon arriving at the bar at 8 PM on a Saturday, I was impressed by the energetic atmosphere, even though the space is small with limited seating. The bar seating is the most common option, making it a bit challenging to save spots without appearing rude. However, the packed bar shows that it is a popular spot among the locals, making it a great place to meet up with friends and enjoy a fun night out.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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7. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
spicy and flavorful Cajun-style menu items, drive-thru and carry-out services

I recently visited Popeye's for the first time after hearing about the frenzy over their chicken sandwiches. However, my experience was underwhelming as the sandwich I got to go was barely warm and soggy by the time I got home. The long lines and high demand during the pandemic had led to expectations of something extraordinary, but I was left disappointed.
On the other hand, the service I received at Popeye's was efficient and the food was delicious. The mashed potatoes were a highlight, and the chicken sandwich, when fresh and hot, was quite enjoyable. The pricing was also reasonable considering the time savings of getting takeout. It's unfortunate that my first impression of Popeye's was tainted by the poor quality of the sandwich I received, but I would be willing to give them another try.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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8. Swan Bar
Cozy neighborhood bar with a swan theme

The individual arrived at the establishment with friends around 9:30 PM to have a drink. Initially, it was not crowded, but the crowd grew quickly. The bartenders were welcoming and efficient in serving the customers. The Espresso Martini, one of the draft drinks, was ordered and found to have a pleasant coffee flavor without being too overpowering in alcohol taste. The venue has a patio area with slotted walls that allow for natural air circulation. However, the atmosphere was dimly lit and noisy, making it challenging to carry on a conversation without raising one's voice or getting close to the other person. The group did not try any food; given the dim lighting, it may be best to avoid it for the time being. The individual and their friends are unlikely to return.
It is recommended to try out the establishment's happy hour, which offers $5 draught cocktails daily from 4-5 PM. Among the recommended drinks are the Espresso Martini and the Fast and Dirty (dirty martini). The cheeseburgers and onion rings are also excellent options.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
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9. Yesenia's Mexican Food & Ice Cream
Family-owned and operated for over 20 years, homemade recipes

If you're looking for a place to satisfy your late-night cravings, this spot is a great option. They offer delicious birria tacos that are a must-try. The restaurant is always bustling with people, which is a testament to its popularity and the quality of its food.
For a satisfying and quick late-night snack, consider trying their Hawaiian burrito. The service is efficient even during the late hours, ensuring that you get your food in a timely manner. Whether you're in the mood for tacos or a burrito, this place has got you covered for your post-midnight hunger needs.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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10. Fortunate Son Chinese in North Park
Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Chinese dishes since 1985

San Diego is home to several excellent Chinese food options for those late-night cravings. Two notable mentions are known for their quick service and fresh, hot food. The first spot is popular for its well-prepared dishes, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying meal. The second location also boasts good service, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
Both of these Chinese food spots in San Diego share some common qualities: they offer quick service, fresh and hot food, and a satisfying dining experience. Ideal for late-night cravings, these establishments ensure their customers receive well-prepared meals, making them popular choices among locals and visitors alike.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Chinese Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
11. Jack in the Box
Mobile ordering and customizable burgers and sandwiches

Some customers have reported quick and efficient service, accompanied by staff who are polite and friendly. However, there are also complaints about excessive wait times at the drive-thru, which can be frustrating for customers.
In addition to long wait times, some customers have experienced issues with incorrect orders, which can be concerning. This suggests a need for improved quality control and accuracy in order fulfillment. Overall, it seems that while some customers have had positive experiences, there are areas where the service could be improved.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
12. Happy Medium

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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13. Jack in the Box in North Park
Offers mobile ordering and rewards program for frequent customers.

Jack in the Box, a popular fast food restaurant in San Diego's North Park neighborhood, offers a diverse menu that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, including breakfast combos, substantial burger combos, and late-night snacks. Customer favorites include the Build Your Own Munchie Meal, Two Tacos, Large Curly Fry, and the Jumbo Jack® Cheeseburger, with Large Curly Fry and Two Tacos often ordered together.
Unfortunately, my personal experience with this location has been less than satisfactory. Despite hearing that the restaurant was under new management and that service had improved, I still encountered issues with my order being incorrect. The food was not up to par, and they even failed to include all the items I had ordered. As a result, I do not recommend this particular location and will not be returning.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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14. Mothership
Features a full bar with unique cocktails and a retro gaming lounge

The ambiance at this bar is described as cool and out of this world, with a fun and well-decorated interior that adds to the overall experience. It's a great spot for creative cocktails and innovative small plates. In fact, Esquire Magazine named it one of the Best Bars In America in 2023, attesting to its popularity and high quality.
This establishment is known for its cutting-edge cocktails and unique small plates, which make it a standout choice for a night out. Its recognition as one of the Best Bars In America by Esquire Magazine in 2023 highlights its reputation as a premier destination for cocktail enthusiasts and foodies alike. The trendy and otherworldly atmosphere, combined with its innovative offerings, make it a must-visit spot.
TOPICS
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- Downtown Spots
15. Mr. Moto Pizza North Park
Voted San Diego's Best Pizza, unique sauces and toppings

The menu offers a wide variety of delicious food and their kitchen remains open late into the night. A highlight of the menu is their breakfast selection, which is available all day for those early risers or late-night food lovers. The restaurant features a diverse selection of beers and other beverages on tap. The staff is notably hardworking, dedicated, and add to the overall positive atmosphere.
The service at this establishment is highly regarded for its friendliness, professionalism, and attentiveness. However, some reviewers have noted that the service can be slow during busy hours due to high demand. Nevertheless, the quality of the service is generally considered to be top-notch, adding to the overall positive dining experience. It is recommended that you visit this establishment for a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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16. Roberto's Taco Shop in North Park
Family-owned local favorite with generous portions

Roberto's #10 is a well-known location in San Diego for obtaining delicious California burritos. It's an excellent choice for a late-night meal because it stays open until 3 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Their Carne Asada burrito, filled with tender beef, sour cream, and guacamole, is a popular choice among customers.
The California burrito is a local specialty, and Roberto's #10 is one of the best places to try it. The restaurant uses high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques to create a burrito that is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat after a night out or a delicious meal to cap off your day, Roberto's #10 is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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17. Los Alejandros
Open until 2 AM on weekends, family-owned restaurant since 1980
Los Alejandros is renowned for its excellent service and friendly staff who are always ready to help. The restaurant's atmosphere is charming, making it a popular spot for dining. Prices are reasonable, adding to the appeal of the establishment.
If you're looking for a place to satisfy your late-night cravings, Los Alejandros is an excellent choice. The food is delicious, and the service is swift, ensuring that you won't be kept waiting. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a full meal, Los Alejandros is a great option for late-night dining.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Personal Celebrations
- Vegetarian Options