Best Restaurants in San Diego

Famous for its sunny weather, miles and miles of stunning coastline and an abundance of attractions, San Diego is a mix of historic influences, cultures and ethnicities that is only matched by its ever-expanding culinary landscape. From top-notch restaurants to quaint taco shops, the city has a reputation as one of the top dining destinations in the U.S.

Whether you just want to grab a quick lunch while searching for an apartment in San Diego or you’re a local foodie looking to explore the city in search of swanky venues, we got your back! These culinary hotspots make the best restaurants in San Diego, reflecting its rich and expanding dining scene.

Nine-Ten

If you’re a food aficionado looking for sophistication in a casual ambiance, there’s no better place than Nine-Ten, located in the iconic Grande Colonial Hotel in La Jolla. The restaurant focuses on a farm-to-table approach — aptly called “Evolving California Cuisine” — in which the menu is created daily based on fresh products provided by local farms. What’s more, Nine-Ten earned the prestigious Michelin California Guide “Plate Distinction” in 2019 and then again in 2021.

 

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Oscars Mexican Seafood

With three breezy locations to choose from — two in Pacific Beach and one in Hillcrest — this one is a classic surfer snack shack. Known for mouthwatering fish tacos, grilled octopus tacos, tangy ceviche and smoked fish burritos, this laid-back restaurant was included as an honoree in the Michelin California Guide for 2021.

 

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Rare Society

This retro-fancy steakhouse led by chef Brad Wise is a San Diego staple. Despite the glitzy name and neon marquee sign, the restaurant still has a neighborhood joint vibe to it — the perfect recipe for a cozy dinner in a classy décor. From charred steaks to swanky cocktails, gourmands are guaranteed to find something to please their palate.

 

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JRDN

Want to catch up with friends over brunch on a sunny Sunday morning? Look no further than JRDN (pronounced Jordan), a Pacific Beach hotspot with views of the ocean and a menu that reflects San Diego’s blend of cultures. Located within the Tower 23 Hotel, JRDN boasts a classy interior and serves a chef-crafted menu completed with an impressive list of cocktails and West Coast wines.

 

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Addison

Led by chef William Bradley, this is one of Southern California’s iconic fine dining restaurants — and San Diego’s only two Michelin-star restaurant. Addison is located within the palace-like Fairmont Grand Del Mar, a luxury golf resort and spa close to Del Mar City Beach. Reservations are a must here, but the service is top-class, so if you’re looking to spend a quiet evening in a luxurious setting, you’re in for a treat! The staff will even print out a customized copy of the menu for you to take home as a keepsake.

 

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Jeune et Jolie

Foodies looking for a French culinary experience with a SoCal twist will definitely enjoy this restaurant in Carlsbad Village! Jeune et Jolie, helmed by chef Eric Bost, offers delightful dishes based on locally sourced ingredients, including four-course tasting menus. This celebrated restaurant has been a busy spot for fine food lovers since it opened a few years ago. In 2021, it was awarded its first Michelin star, so make sure you book a reservation to get a table there — and save room for their sensational dessert!

 

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