Top 26 late night restaurants in Downtown San Diego
Downtown San Diego comes alive at night, offering a wide range of dining options for late-night revelers. From casual eateries to upscale bistros, the area is home to several late night restaurants in Downtown San Diego that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving a greasy slice of pizza or a gourmet meal, you'll find it in the city's vibrant nighttime food scene. So, if you're looking for a place to grab a bite after hours, Downtown San Diego has got you covered.
- 1. Rustic Root
- 2. La Puerta
- 3. Cafe Sevilla of San Diego
- 4. Born and Raised
- 5. Kettner Exchange in Downtown San Diego
- 6. STK Steakhouse
- 7. The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole
- 8. Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp
- 9. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge
- 10. Neighborhood
- 11. Las Hadas Bar and Grill
- 12. The Lion's Share
- 13. Zama San Diego
- 14. Ironside Fish & Oyster
- 15. King and Queen Cantina
- 16. Lou & Mickey's in Downtown San Diego
- 17. Osteria Panevino
- 18. Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar - San Diego, CA
- 19. Water Grill San Diego
- 20. Buon Appetito Restaurant
- 21. Meze Greek Fusion
- 22. GARAGE Kitchen + Bar
- 23. Taka Restaurant in Downtown San Diego
- 24. Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine- San Diego in Downtown San Diego
- 25. Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
- 26. The Butcher's Cut
1. Rustic Root
Live music events, locally sourced ingredients, pet-friendly patio
Rustic Root, a restaurant in San Diego, is a great destination for those seeking a lively atmosphere and excellent service during late-night hours. The establishment is known for its innovative cocktails and high-quality food.
The rooftop of Rustic Root is a particular highlight, offering a beautiful view and a diverse menu of dishes and drinks. It is an excellent choice for a fun night out, providing a memorable experience for visitors looking for a memorable dining experience in San Diego.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Hidden Gems
- Late Night
2. La Puerta
Features a rooftop bar with city views
La Puerta is a popular choice for late night eating, with the kitchen open until 1AM and a great late night happy hour offering half-priced appetizers. However, the restaurant has a lively bar atmosphere and can be busy, making it less suitable for a quiet date night. Despite the potential wait for a table, the Borito and Shrimp Tacos were delicious and the margaritas were a hit, especially during happy hour with discounted drinks.
In summary, La Puerta is an ideal spot for those looking for a late night bite with great food and drink deals. The restaurant has a bustling, energetic atmosphere, which may not be ideal for all date night settings. But if you're in the mood for delicious Mexican food and a good drink, La Puerta's late night happy hour is a great option.
TOPICS
- Indian Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Dinner
- Downtown Spots
3. Cafe Sevilla of San Diego
Live Flamenco dancing performances
Cafe Sevilla, visited late at night, boasted a lively atmosphere with impressive live music. The food offerings were exceptional, with the paella being a standout dish. Attentive service was provided, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience.
A late-night meal at Cafe Sevilla was highly satisfying, featuring excellent service and outstanding cuisine. In particular, the paella left a memorable impression. This restaurant is recommended for those seeking a late-night dinner option.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
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4. Born and Raised
Authentic Indian food; Historic building; Full bar available
Born and Raised, located just a block away from Porto Vista hotel, was our dinner destination. The restaurant is known for its high-quality food and unique dining experience. We opted for the Prime Rib, which was cooked to perfection and exceeded our expectations. For dessert, we had vanilla ice cream, but it was no ordinary scoop. The waiter prepared it at our table using liquid nitrogen, cream, and sugar, adding a touch of an exciting dining experience.
If you plan to visit, aim to reserve a table in advance, particularly for busy nights. The restaurant is popular and fills up quickly, with some guests being turned away due to lack of reservations, as we observed on a Monday night. The restaurant has a bar on the second floor and an open-air dining area, offering a nice view and cozy ambiance. We celebrated our anniversary here, and the Little Italy area added to the buzzing and lively atmosphere. Overall, the vast bar selection and unique dining experience make Born and Raised a great place to dine.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- High-End
- Dinner
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5. Kettner Exchange in Downtown San Diego
Rooftop lounge, craft cocktails, and weekend brunch
Kettner Exchange is a popular drinking and dining destination located in San Diego's Little Italy neighborhood. The establishment offers a variety of dining options, including lunch, dinner, and late-night fare, as well as drinks and a rooftop patio with stunning harbor views. It is Little Italy's only rooftop patio, making it a unique and sought-after location.
The restaurant specializes in Progressive American cuisine, with critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski at the helm. Patrons can enjoy dinner daily from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and the bar is open Monday through Wednesday, Sunday from 5:00 pm to 12:00 am, and Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 pm to 1:00 am. The bar offers a wide selection of beverages, making it an ideal spot for a nightcap or a casual drink with friends. With its combination of delicious food, extensive drink options, and unbeatable views, Kettner Exchange is a must-visit destination in San Diego.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
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6. STK Steakhouse
Features a lively bar scene, intimate booths, and in-house DJs
STK is a restaurant known for its delectable cuisine and upscale cocktails, offering a memorable fine dining experience. The establishment provides an elevated Happy Hour and features an in-house DJ, creating a high-energy and infectious atmosphere for guests to enjoy. STK's chic décor and sleek environment are designed to encourage interaction and mingling, emphasizing the social experience.
World-class service is a priority at STK, as they strive to define the modern dining experience. The restaurant's vibe-driven approach to fine dining sets it apart, with every venue having a DJ to keep the energy level up. The menu includes incredible food, and the perfect ambiance is created with the help of the restaurant's design and lighting. STK is the place to be for those looking for a unique and memorable dining experience that keeps guests engaged from drinks to dinner to late night.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Celebrations
7. The Local Eatery & Drinking Hole
Featuring local craft beers and unique cocktails
The restaurant is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy happy hour, offering a laid-back and fun atmosphere for all to enjoy. The bar food is some of the best in San Diego, with standout items such as enormously sized and delicious nachos. The beer specials are also quite good, catering to beer enthusiasts of all kinds. However, it can get very loud inside the establishment.
After a long day at the zoo, this restaurant provided the perfect refuge with cold drinks and delicious food, as well as excellent service. The menu offers a variety of options, including a delicious pub burger and large portioned portabella burger with loaded fries. The atmosphere is lively and enjoyable, featuring a selection of local draft beers. All in all, it's a great place to unwind and refuel.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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8. Union Kitchen and Tap Gaslamp
Features a lively atmosphere with sports streaming
Union Kitchen and Tap is a popular spot for those looking for a late-night meal. The menu offers a variety of options, and the service is known for being friendly and attentive. On a recent visit, the outdoor seating provided a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.
The food at Union Kitchen and Tap did not disappoint. During the late-night dinner, each dish exceeded expectations in terms of flavor and presentation. The high-quality food and inviting atmosphere make it a place that I would recommend to others looking for a great dining experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- American Cuisine
- Dinner
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9. Salvatore's Cucina & Lounge
Live music and entertainment on weekends, full bar with specialty cocktails, and outdoor seating
This establishment is a great choice for dining late into the night, offering excellent service and creative cocktails. The ambiance of the restaurant is perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable evening. The staff is attentive to guests' needs, ensuring a satisfying dining experience.
In particular, the cocktails are a standout feature, with creative and unique flavor combinations. The service is also notable, with staff who are attentive and dedicated to providing a great experience for guests. Those looking for a late-night meal in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere will not be disappointed. The restaurant's ambiance is perfect for unwinding after a long day, making it an ideal spot to spend a relaxing evening.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
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10. Neighborhood
Lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and popular happy hour
Late night food enthusiasts in San Diego have a new reason to celebrate with the opening of a new Ramen place in the city. This new establishment offers a delicious and satisfying option for those late-night cravings.
One of the standout dishes at this Ramen place is their burritos, which have already gained a reputation for being awesome. In fact, customers have been known to return for seconds, even visiting the restaurant two nights in a row just to get another taste of those mouthwatering burritos. With such positive word of mouth, this new addition to San Diego's food scene is sure to be a hit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Affordable Nightlife
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11. Las Hadas Bar and Grill
Features a lively atmosphere with outdoor seating and occasional live music
After a conference, I stopped by a restaurant with my coworkers. To start, I had the chips and guacamole, which were delicious. For my main course, I enjoyed the El Jefe - Camacho Grilled Shrimp with sun dried tomatoes, mushrooms, cilantro rice in a Cajun Alfredo sauce. The dish was very satisfying and flavorful.
Later, I visited the same restaurant with a group of friends after dining at Juan Tequila. The restaurant offered a great atmosphere to relax before heading home. The TVs were playing sports, and the vibe was casual and laid-back. The service was fast and impressive, making it a positive dining experience.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Social Gatherings
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13. Zama San Diego
Offers a wide selection of sake and signature cocktails, late-night happy hour, and weekend DJs.
I had a night out with friends, and we tried out Zama, an American-Asian fusion restaurant. The establishment offers a unique blend of experiences and a lively atmosphere. One of the highlights of our visit was their sushi, which featured the freshest ingredients and provided a delightful burst of flavors. In particular, their California roll was enjoyable, but the star of the meal was the incredibly tender and juicy ribs that truly stood out.
Despite the long waits and some order mix-ups we experienced, the staff remained friendly, which helped maintain a pleasant ambience. I would still recommend Zama for food enthusiasts who appreciate unique and delicious dishes, especially their signature sushi rolls and melt-in-your-mouth ribs. The restaurant's balance of American and Asian cuisine offers a distinct culinary journey worth exploring, even if their service may need slight improvements for a smoother dining experience.
TOPICS
- Holiday Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
14. Ironside Fish & Oyster
Creative seafood dishes, extensive wine list, and pet-friendly patio
If you're looking for a great place for a late night dinner, this restaurant is an excellent choice. The clam chowder and octopus are must-try menu items, offering delicious and unique flavors that are worth the slightly higher cost.
The restaurant was bustling with energy during our late night reservation, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. The seafood platter was a standout dish, featuring a variety of fresh and expertly prepared seafood. Additionally, the cocktails were well-crafted and complemented our meal perfectly. Whether you're looking for a place to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a late night out, this restaurant is highly recommended.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Kosher Options
- High-End
- Dinner
15. King and Queen Cantina
Spacious patio, live music, happy hour specials
This dining spot is ideal for a lively and enjoyable night out with friends, particularly during late hours. The atmosphere is energetic and perfect for socializing. However, there might be a slight delay in service, but the delicious food and drinks make the wait worthwhile.
Late-night dining options are always exciting to explore, and this particular place exceeds expectations. With a vibrant atmosphere, the location is perfect for social gatherings with friends. Although the service may be slower than usual, the taste and quality of the food and drinks compensate for the wait.
TOPICS
- Mexican Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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16. Lou & Mickey's in Downtown San Diego
Features a lively atmosphere and televised sports games
If you're looking for a satisfying late-night meal, look no further. The crab cakes are a must-try, with their delicious flavor and perfect texture. Pair them with the garlic mashed potatoes for a truly delightful experience. The restaurant has a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind after a long day.
For those who prefer a hearty piece of meat, the steaks are also a great choice. Cooked to perfection, they are sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. The restaurant's ambiance is perfect for a night out, with a lively and energetic vibe that will keep you entertained. Whether you're looking to enjoy a meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two, this establishment is an excellent choice.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Celebrations
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
17. Osteria Panevino
Elegant atmosphere with a touch of Italian charm in downtown San Diego
A highlight of the dining experience is the impressive service provided by Julia and Maria, who engage with customers, creating a friendly and enjoyable atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of Italian dishes, and the Salumi pizza, as well as the squid ink seafood, beef ravioli, and sausage penne pastas, are particularly noteworthy. The wine list is extensive, with a range of moderately priced Italian options.
Located in the bustling Gaslamp Quarter, this Italian restaurant is an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. The patio tables provide prime people-watching opportunities, with a diverse crowd of people passing by. The food offerings are top-notch, making it a great spot for a meal with friends or a romantic date. In summary, this classy Italian joint delivers excellent service, food, and atmosphere, making it a recommended dining destination.
TOPICS
- Celebrations
- Italian Cuisine
- High-End
18. Claim Jumper Steakhouse & Bar - San Diego, CA
Warm atmosphere with a cozy fireplace and a lively bar scene
Upon visiting Claim Jumper late at night, we were pleased with the quality of food and friendly service. The restaurant proved to be a good choice for late-night dining, offering a cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff even close to closing time.
In our experience, Claim Jumper's late-night dining options were fantastic. Despite the late hour, the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome, adding to the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. Overall, our visit to Claim Jumper was a positive one, and we would recommend it for anyone looking for a late-night meal.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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19. Water Grill San Diego
Features a lively bar area, extensive wine list, and sustainable seafood options
San Diego's Water Grill is known for its delicious seafood, and this visit was no exception. The black cod, in particular, was a standout dish. However, the service during this visit fell short of the high standards set by previous experiences. It wasn't as attentive or friendly as usual, which was disappointing. Despite this, Water Grill is still worth recommending for the excellent food and service on most occasions.
When it came to the food, the black cod did not disappoint. Its flavor and preparation were both outstanding. However, the noodles that accompanied the dish were underwhelming. They were overly salty due to an excessive amount of soy sauce, and lacked any unique or interesting flavor. On the positive side, the chocolate ganache dessert was a hit, receiving high praise from the whole table. The service during this visit was excellent, making up for the shortcomings in the noodle dish. Overall, Water Grill remains a top seafood destination in San Diego, with some small areas for improvement.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- High-End
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20. Buon Appetito Restaurant
Family-owned with a rich Italian heritage since 1982
Buon Appetito is a great choice for a late night dinner, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. It is especially known for its pasta dishes, which are a must-try. The restaurant is located in Little Italy and is a favorite among locals for its friendly service and excellent wine selection.
Late night diners will enjoy the cozy atmosphere and tasty pasta dishes at Buon Appetito in Little Italy. The restaurant stands out for its friendly service and top-notch wine selection, making it a go-to spot for a relaxing and satisfying meal after dark.
TOPICS
- Italian Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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21. Meze Greek Fusion
Greek fusion cuisine with a modern twist
Meze Greek Fusion is an excellent choice for those looking for a vibrant and delicious late-night dining experience in the Gaslamp Quarter. The menu offers a wide variety of options, with standout dishes including the spanakopita and grilled octopus.
A visit to Meze Greek Fusion late at night reveals a lively atmosphere, perfect for a night out. The food served is impressive in both variety and quality, with options that are sure to satisfy any palate. The spanakopita and grilled octopus were among the highlights of our visit, leaving us delighted with our meal.
TOPICS
- Mediterranean Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
22. GARAGE Kitchen + Bar
Spacious garage-themed interior with a large outdoor patio and weekly events
Garage Kitchen + Bar is a popular spot in town known for its exceptional Happy Hour deals. From Tuesday to Sunday, customers can enjoy 51% off all drinks and $3 off all appetizers from 4-6pm. But the fun doesn't stop there - on Friday and Saturday nights, the late night Happy Hour kicks in from 9pm until close, offering a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience with great discounts on drinks and appetizers.
This popular venue is the perfect place to unwind after a long day, with an extensive menu of delicious food and refreshing drinks at unbeatable prices. Whether you're looking to catch up with friends over a drink or two, or enjoy a fun and affordable meal out, Garage Kitchen + Bar has got you covered. With its friendly atmosphere and generous discounts, it's no wonder that this local favorite is renowned for having the best Happy Hour in town.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Dinner
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23. Taka Restaurant in Downtown San Diego
Features an extensive sushi and seafood menu, as well as a lively bar area.
This restaurant is known for its fresh and high-quality sushi, as well as a good variety of rolls and cooked dishes. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a convenient option for those looking to dine without a reservation. The wait staff is consistently friendly and attentive, adding to the overall positive dining experience.
However, while the sushi is fresh and the chefs are experienced, the restaurant may not offer the best Japanese food in the Gaslamp area. One drawback is the high price of $8 for a small side of fresh wasabi, which some may feel should be included with the food at this price point. Overall, the restaurant is an acceptable option for those looking for sushi in the area.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Budget-Friendly Eats
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24. Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine- San Diego in Downtown San Diego
Sustainable seafood, creative cocktails, and chic atmosphere
Lionfish is an excellent choice for a late-night dinner in San Diego, featuring a perfect ambiance for an evening out. The restaurant is known for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes, making it a popular spot for seafood lovers.
The menu at Lionfish offers a variety of options, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The lively and inviting atmosphere adds to the overall dining experience. One of the standout dishes is the lionfish, which is sustainably sourced and expertly prepared. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to gather with friends, Lionfish is an excellent choice for a memorable late-night dining experience in San Diego.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Vegetarian Options
- High-End
25. Dobson's Bar & Restaurant
Features a tile fireplace and a warm ambiance
Dobson's is a popular choice for those looking for a late night dining experience. The ambiance at this establishment is warm and inviting, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy a meal. The food at Dobson's is consistently delicious, with a menu that offers a wide variety of options to suit every taste.
One standout dish at Dobson's is the mussel bisque. This rich and flavorful soup is a must-try for anyone who visits the restaurant. Whether you're looking for a late night snack or a full meal, Dobson's is the perfect place to satisfy your cravings. With its excellent ambiance and delicious food, it's no wonder that Dobson's is such a popular spot for late night dining.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Late Night
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26. The Butcher's Cut
In-house aged beef and lively atmosphere
This location is an excellent choice for a late-night dinner, offering delicious steaks cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is perfect for a romantic date or a night out with friends. The quality of the food and service is consistently high, even during late-night hours.
Couples looking for a romantic spot for a late-night date should consider this place. The food is not only delicious but also impressive, with a variety of options to choose from. The service is exceptional, with staff providing top-notch service even when it's late at night. This place is sure to impress and leave a lasting memory for any late-night dining experience.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Vegan Options
- High-End