Top 20 late night restaurants in Clairemont
Welcome to the night owls' guide for Clairemont! If you're searching for a late-night dining experience, look no further. This neighborhood offers a variety of late night restaurants in Clairemont that cater to all tastes and cravings. Whether you're in the mood for mouthwatering burgers, spicy tacos, or authentic Asian cuisine, Clairemont has got you covered until the early hours. Get ready to discover your new favorite late-night dining spot in this vibrant San Diego community.
- 1. Palmitos Mexican Eatery
- 2. Roberto's Taco Shop Clairemont
- 3. Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery
- 4. Krispy Kreme
- 5. Cotixan Mexican Food
- 6. Denny's
- 7. Del Taco
- 8. Domino's Pizza
- 9. Burger King
- 10. McDonald's
- 11. Cotixan Mexican Food in Clairemont
- 12. Papa Johns Pizza in Clairemont
- 13. Taco Bell in Clairemont
- 14. Jack in the Box
- 15. Panda Express
- 16. Jack in the Box
- 17. King's Bistro
- 18. Taco Bell
- 19. Pizza Hut Express
- 20. The Meltdown
1. Palmitos Mexican Eatery
Family-owned restaurant serving authentic Mexican food for over 20 years.

Taco Tuesday is a highlight here, offering authentic and delicious food at a reasonable price. The seating area is pleasant, making it a great place to enjoy your street tacos. The food's authentic taste and the value of the Taco Tuesday deal make it a popular choice among customers.
The tacos served at this establishment are a favorite, known for their excellent taste and affordability. Taco Tuesday is a standout, with many people taking advantage of the deal. With seating that is comfortable and a menu that is both tasty and authentic, this establishment is worth a repeat visit.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
2. Roberto's Taco Shop Clairemont
Family-owned and operated since 1964 with a wide selection of Mexican dishes

Roberto's Taco Shop is a great option for satisfying your late-night cravings for Mexican food. They offer a variety of tasty items on their menu, such as rolled tacos and carne asada burritos. The service is efficient, ensuring that you won't have to wait too long to enjoy your meal.
If you're a fan of California burritos, Roberto's is a must-visit. Their version of this popular dish is delicious and worth trying. What's more, they operate until late at night, making them a convenient choice for those late-night hunger pangs.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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3. Vallarta Express Mexican Eatery
Their salsa bar allows customers to customize their meals with a variety of sauces and toppings.

If you're looking for a satisfying late-night snack, the carne asada fries are highly recommended. This popular dish stands out with its delicious taste and generous portion, making it a great option for late-night munchies.
The restaurant is open 24/7, making it a convenient choice for those late-night cravings. However, it's worth noting that the service can be inconsistent, especially during the late-night hours. Despite this, many people still flock to the establishment for its tasty offerings.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
4. Krispy Kreme
Over 80 years of doughnut-making experience, Iconic brand with a loyal following

This location is ideal for satisfying late-night cravings, as it remains open and serves fresh donuts even during the late hours. The staff at this establishment is consistently friendly and welcoming, contributing to a positive experience for customers.
In particular, the original glazed donut is a popular choice, highlighting the quality of the offerings at this establishment. Whether looking for a classic or something unique, this donut shop is an excellent option for those late-night sweet tooth moments.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Cheap Eats
5. Cotixan Mexican Food
Homemade recipes, fresh ingredients, and friendly service

Cotixan Mexican Food, commonly known as Coti's, has been a popular late-night spot for generations of customers. Open 24 hours, the restaurant attracts a wide range of clients, but it is especially popular among young adults.
My personal connection with Coti's began over two decades ago during my freshman year of college. Late one night, friends introduced me to the Genessee location, where we indulged in delicious Mexican food. This wasn't merely a case of drunk munchies - we were a group of wide-awake and hungry eighteen-year-olds seeking a tasty meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
6. Denny's
Open 24/7, offering a variety of American diner classics and vegetarian options.

The food served at the establishment is predictable and satisfying, offering options such as fluffy buttermilk pancakes that leave guests feeling content. However, some guests have reported slow service during their visit.
On a positive note, guests generally describe the service as good, praising the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff. However, some have noted that slow service can be an issue, which they attribute to understaffing. Efforts to improve staffing levels may help enhance the dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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7. Del Taco
Early morning hours and drive-thru availability

One of the few businesses in the area that operates late into the night. Their tacos are a popular choice among customers, known for their delicious taste. The service is efficient, ensuring that even during late hours, customers are served in a timely manner.
Its late-night hours make it an ideal spot for those experiencing hunger pangs at unusual hours. The staff is praised for their friendliness and contribute to the overall positive atmosphere. Importantly, the food maintains a high standard of quality, making it a reliable choice for a satisfying meal.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Suburban
- Lunch
8. Domino's Pizza
Offers contactless delivery and online ordering

The food ordered arrived without any disturbance, as the delivery personnel considered the note requesting not to ring the doorbell. The service and food quality have consistently been satisfactory. Pizza is a popular item, often available at discounted prices, making it a fresh and affordable choice. However, there have been occasional complaints from some users about receiving burnt pizzas or ones with terrible tastes.
In summary, the delivery service is commendable, with considerate attention to special requests, and the food usually meets expectations. Pizza, in particular, is a budget-friendly option, but there have been rare instances where the quality did not meet the standards.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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9. Burger King
Playland for kids, mobile ordering, and delivery services

Burger King is a fast-food chain that provides a typical fast-food experience. While some locations may offer better service than others, the food is generally adequate and the restaurants are typically clean and family-friendly. Parking is usually accessible, and the establishments are wheelchair-friendly as well. Some locations have been recently renovated, offering a more pleasant dining atmosphere. Customers can enjoy popular menu items like the Whopper and sides like French fries and onion rings.
Burger King also provides delivery service through partners like Grubhub. Customers can order online from the Burger King Delivery Menu and have their food brought to them. The delivery experience varies, with some customers reporting good food, on-time delivery, and correct orders. However, there are also reports of issues with delivery, such as late or incorrect orders. Overall, Burger King can be a convenient option for fast-food delivery, especially for those who live near a restaurant.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Cheap Eats
- Lunch
10. McDonald's
PlayPlace for children, Free Wi-Fi, Self-serve kiosks

McNuggets are a popular late-night food choice, known for their delicious taste. When it comes to picking up your order, the parking situation is excellent. The parking lot has stalls that are easy to figure out, making it simple to park and pick up your food. There is also plenty of parking available, ensuring that you will always have a spot to park. Handicap parking is plentiful as well, making the restaurant accessible to everyone. Another convenient option is the availability of two drive-thru windows. One window is dedicated to paying for your order, which helps streamline the process and get you on your way more quickly.
The first drive-thru window is for payment, which makes the process of ordering and picking up your food more efficient. This is especially helpful during busy hours when the restaurant is crowded. The drive-thru allows you to stay in your car while you wait for your order, which is a convenient option for those who want to avoid the crowds inside the restaurant. Additionally, the restaurant's parking lot is designed in a way that makes it easy to navigate and find a parking spot. Whether you choose to park in a stall or use the drive-thru, you'll find that the restaurant has taken steps to make the ordering and pick-up process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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11. Cotixan Mexican Food in Clairemont
Family-owned and operated with a welcoming atmosphere and authentic Mexican dishes.

Cotixan is an excellent choice for satisfying late-night cravings, particularly for Mexican food lovers. Its carne asada fries are a must-try, and the drive-thru is open late, making it an ideal spot to grab a quick and tasty snack after hours.
The carne asada fries are a standout menu item at Cotixan. Fresh and delicious, they make for a satisfying meal or snack, even at night. The restaurant is open until 1 AM on most days, making it a great spot to stop by for a bite when other dining options are closed. Whether you're looking for a quick and tasty treat or a satisfying late-night meal, Cotixan is the perfect destination.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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12. Papa Johns Pizza in Clairemont
Customizable pizzas, garlic knots, and wings

Papa John's, located at 4089 Genesee Ave, receives high ratings with an overall score of 4.1 out of 5, based on 49 reviews. The pizza chain is praised for its "good food" which receives an impressive rating of 84. One of the main strengths of this pizzeria is its "on-time delivery," rated at 89. Customers appreciate the quick delivery service, resulting in hot and fresh pizzas upon arrival. The restaurant also boasts a remarkable rating of 93 for its "correct order" reliability, reinforcing the trust customers have in their services.
The pizza chain stands out because of its efficient delivery and accurate orders. Deliveries are said to be "usually real quick," leaving customers highly satisfied. Additionally, Papa John's has an impeccable record of "never making a mistake on an order" for its customers. This solid performance in delivery and order accuracy ensures that customers can enjoy their meals worry-free. Papa John's ability to consistently fulfill orders accurately strengthens their reputation and trust among their clientele.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Hidden Gems
13. Taco Bell in Clairemont
Drive-thru and delivery services available

If you're looking for a place to satisfy your late-night cravings, this Taco Bell is a great option. The drive-thru is open late, making it convenient to grab a bite to eat after hours. The staff is known for being friendly and welcoming, which adds to the overall positive experience.
As for the food, it is consistently delicious. This particular Taco Bell is my go-to spot for late-night snacks, and I have never been disappointed with the quality of the food. However, the service can be hit or miss. Despite this, the quick and convenient drive-thru option makes up for any inconsistencies in service. Overall, this Taco Bell is a solid choice for anyone in need of a tasty and satisfying meal, no matter the time of night.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
14. Jack in the Box
Features 24/7 service and a wide range of classic American fast food
Inconsistent behavior and attitudes have been reported amongst the staff at the establishment, with some customers experiencing rudeness and a lack of professionalism. Instances of staff drinking while on the job have also been noted, contributing to a negative atmosphere for patrons.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
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15. Panda Express
Authentic American Chinese cuisine, offering bold flavors and fresh ingredients

The food, ordered late at night, arrived still hot and delicious, indicating quick delivery and efficient service. The restaurant is a reliable option for late-night cravings, as the food is always fresh and satisfying.
The staff at this eating establishment provide great service, even during late hours of the night. They are friendly and contribute to the welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a satisfying and enjoyable late-night meal.
TOPICS
- Chinese Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
16. Jack in the Box
Offers mobile ordering and delivery services

Southern California, or SoCal, is known for its late-night food scene, and Jack in the Box has been a staple in this culture. The fast-food chain has built a reputation for being open 24/7, providing great food and breakfast options at any time of the day or night. Customers rave about the menu, giving it a five-star rating for its taste and variety.
For many, Jack in the Box is more than just a fast-food restaurant; it's a trusted companion that's always there when you need it. This is especially true for late-night crowds and stoners, who find comfort in the fact that they can always rely on Jack in the Box to satisfy their cravings. The 24-hour availability of the restaurant has earned it a loyal following of customers who have made it their go-to spot for a satisfying meal, no matter the time.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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17. King's Bistro
Romantic atmosphere, extensive wine list, and knowledgeable staff

King's Bistro is a great choice for anyone looking for a satisfying meal later in the evening. The food is consistently delicious, making it a popular spot for late-night dining. However, the quality of service can be inconsistent, which is something to keep in mind. Despite this, the restaurant's convenient street parking and outstanding food make it a popular destination.
The scallops are a standout menu item that is not to be missed. Overall, King's Bistro is a solid choice for anyone seeking a tasty meal after dark, with the occasional variation in service being the only potential drawback. If you're in the mood for some delicious scallops and a convenient dining experience, King's Bistro is definitely worth checking out.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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18. Taco Bell
Customizable options, vegetarian and vegan-friendly selections

The drive-thru service operates beyond regular business hours, offering a convenient option for those experiencing midnight cravings. Despite this advantage, the speed of service can be slow, which may test the patience of some customers. Moreover, the quality of the food can be inconsistent, which affects the overall dining experience.
On the positive side, the food served is typically hot and fresh, which bodes well for those seeking satisfying late-night munchies. However, there have been instances where the order was missing a few items, which can be frustrating for customers who have placed a specific order. This inconsistency in food quality and service delivery requires improvement to ensure a positive customer experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
19. Pizza Hut Express
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
20. The Meltdown

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Breakfast