Restaurants in San Diego

“Amazing omakase, friendly and knowledgeable staff”

“First time there for lunch and I'll be going back again. Food was tastey. I had the Oklahoma onion burger and fries... tasted similar to a patty melt in best of ways. Friend had the Madi wrap and enjoyed it. It was loud with all the tables filled but could still have convos. Sat on the patio.”

“The best tacos I have had in San Diego . Great service and really good food”

“Freshly caught options. Minimal seating- but something opens up by the time your meal is done. Highly recommend.”

“Normally I like to keep gems like this to myself, but walking through literal back alleys in San Diego to be introduced to this incredible Hi-Fi listening speakeasy was just too awesome and I hope everyone I love gets a chance to get on the reservation list, stat. I'm a speakeasy veteran with a coast to coast cocktail sipping resume that spans from SF to Boston and New Orleans to Chicago, and this spot has definitely landed in my top ten. The atmosphere, the staff, the tunes, and the drinks are all so special and perfectly curated for maximum delight. Every aspect of CMB is comfortable and balanced, and so very easy to enjoy. They found a great groove and kept it going.”

“Excellent service great food always a pleasure to dine here”

“I knew I wanted to move to San Diego the second I arrived… but I was planning to take my sweet time. Then I ate the chocolate croissant and their sandwich, and now Zillow is open on my phone and I’m emotionally packing boxes. I might be moving next week.

This place is dangerous. Every bite felt illegal like I should have needed a permit to enjoy food this good. The chocolate croissant alone deserves its own national holiday, and the sandwich? I experienced a full body spiritual awakening somewhere between the first and second bite. I saw colors. I forgave people. I briefly considered texting my ex just to thank them for leading me to this moment (I didn’t, growth).

The staff was incredibly kind, welcoming, and patient while I stood there chewing dramatically and whispering “wow” to myself like I had never eaten before.

If I disappear from my current city, please check here first I’ll be the person eating pastries like it’s my full time job.

Would be down to get a job here too, as long as you dont count my pastry intake”

“Absolutely worth the wait, this place is amazing. Not only is the food over the top great but the staff is super friendly and the service is top notch. I highly recommend and I will always be a customer!!!”

“We visit the “Little Lion” on every trip to San Diego. It’s the absolute best brunch spot on Point Loma!”

“Food always on point!!!!”

“Always an amazing experience at Animae!”

“Amazing food. Delicious & unique drinks. All very reasonable. Will definitely return & highly recommended!!”

“Best food, drink, service and atmosphere I have experienced in a long time. Rivals Michelin restaurants.”

“Excellent food and very good service. Everything was delicious and the portions were huge. It was expensive for breakfast, but great for a special occasion.”

“I am delighted with my experience at this Italian restaurant! From the moment I walked in, I was transported to Italy with a warm ambiance and friendly staff. The food was extraordinary; each dish burst with authentic flavors that joyfully made my taste buds sing. The attention to detail in every plate was evident, showcasing the chef's expertise and dedication to traditional Italian cuisine. The pasta was cooked to perfection, sauces were rich and flavorful, and the ingredients were fresh and high-quality. Not only was the food exceptional, but the service was impeccable. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable and made the entire dining experience even more delightful. I wholeheartedly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience in San Diego. In my opinion, this establishment undoubtedly deserves the title of the best Italian restaurant in town.”

“If you are looking for a true Italian experience in San Diego, look no further than Vinarius! We worked with Giuseppe (owner) to host our wedding celebration here back in March, 2023. From the beginning, he was amazing to work with. Incredibly positive and accommodating from the start, we couldn’t have asked for more. The wedding ceremony was planned to be outside and of course, it rained that day. Guiseppe and his staff went above and beyond to accommodate us, allowed us to have the small ceremony inside the restaurant on short notice and made an incredible meal to follow. Our guests were blown away and we couldn’t have been happier. We recommend Vinarius to everyone we know and that is thanks to Giuseppe and his awesome staff. Grazie mille!”

“I've been to this place a half-dozen times, and they always deliver. I haven't had a taco from there that I haven't enjoyed, and their drinks and other food items are great as well. Highly recommend checking them out if you love tacos.”

“what a wonderful experience. they are so well cared for. beautiful cats that are so friendly and need so much love very clean and the cats have so much to climb on, play with, see and sleep. the hosts were amazing and even let me stay a bit longer. I had the best time. I'm coming bk!!!!!!”

“We had the best team dinner at Elvira and such a wonderful experience from start to finish! The atmosphere is beautiful, the food was incredible, and everything felt so thoughtfully curated.

Andreea, our server, truly made the night. She was so fun, warm, and attentive, and brought the best energy to our table. You can tell she genuinely loves what she does and wants everyone to have a great time. She made the whole evening feel extra special and memorable for our team.

Highly recommend Elvira for a group dinner, celebration, or just a fun night out. We’ll absolutely be back!”

“Great all around dining experience.”

“Loved it. Had many shops inside, places to eat,”

“Outstanding staff! Great food! A must go!”

“Great service & good menu options! I’ll come back 😁😁😁”

“Omg what a quaint and cozy spot! Our server was the most helpful and friendly server we've had in a while. She gave us excellent recommendations. The vibe was candle lit european bistro style with shareable plates. Perfect for a date night. Cannot wait to return.”

“We absolutely loved our dinner at Monzu in the Gaslamp! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the staff struck the perfect balance of being friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. We started with the tartare di tonno, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful—an excellent beginning to the meal. The housemade focaccia deserves a special mention: airy, perfectly seasoned, and quite possibly the best I’ve ever had. For the main course, I enjoyed the bucatini all’amatriciana. The pasta was clearly house-made, cooked to perfection, and the sauce had that authentic depth of flavor that only true Southern Italian cooking delivers. We finished with an affogato, which was the ideal ending—simple, rich, and satisfying. Monzu offers authentic Southern Italian fare with genuine hospitality, and everything we tried reflected both freshness and craftsmanship. I would 100% return and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience in San Diego.”

“This places was very good! Yes it was expensive but I was also feeding 6 people!! But it was really good food! Definitely a place I would visit again and recommend!!!”

“Amazing food chef is incredible great drinks too”

“Such a cute little place with amazing owners. Had lunch here and knew nothing about Danish food. The owner was so informative and we went with her suggestions. I loved the rye bread but my son said he wasn't sure it had enough bread to be called so 😆 Do make sure you end your meal with a danish. And make sure to order it at the start of your meal so they can get it into the oven. If I'd known how delicious they would be I'd have ordered more to go. I had planned to share the one I ordered but it went directly into my mouth. The chocolate milk typically drank in Denmark with the hotdogs was so good. I'm looking forward to going back and trying more items on the menu. And the juices! My son is already planning to take his wife so you know it was good. Parking can be difficult. You will pay for it. In the heart of Hillcrest. We strolled over to No 1 after. So fun! Tables inside and out. And other bakeries nearby if you have a sweet tooth like me”

“Excellent food at reasonable prices (which is highly unusual these days), lovely servers, and nice ambience outside (not crazy about inside). Cocktails are a bit disappointing though - muted in flavor”

“Happily went to the wrong location! Awesome beer!”

“Fantastic fresh food; great sushi bar. Wonderful service from Kaz. I highly recommend..best sushi and sashimi around!”

“Absolutely amazing atmosphere, 10/10 service, and bomb drinks. What more could you want. Easily one of the best tiki bars period.”

“Great chefs, great staff, great food, great sake… what’s not to like when everything was great!?!?”

“Such a wonderful vegan oasis in the San Fernando Valley! As locals know vegan offerings in the valley are limited compared with the rest of the city. I am so happy that I found this place I will be coming here often! Great food and atmosphere all around!”

“David was an excellent waiter and a credit to Garibaldi. He was very responsive and quick with specific recommendations when asked. The food is Mediterranean. The appetizer of fresh-baked pita bread with whipped feta is not to be missed.”

“Our server Cam was awesome and food was great! Got to try it. Great dumplings!!!”

“Max and Alejandro defined the service here. Not only were they attentive and kind; they went out of their way to make this a superb experience.

The restaurant itself is amazing and quite chic. Do not miss this.”

“Wonderful ambiance and even our great VP of the US came to eat there. Compliments 👏 🙌 Sashimi and homemade ice cream 😊”

“Service and ambiance, exceptional service and night life… live dj, good musical and still able to have conversation”

“The shrimp head moving scared the crap out of me but everything was delicious and awesome”

“Great food and great service! Food was fresh and expertly prepared! Probably the best service I have ever experienced and the place was busy at the time we were there!!”

“Such a cool and unique setting for dinner! The menu is very old-school Americana with dishes like pickle dip and chicken kiev that are all delicious. The service was the standout, though. The host took our order since our waitress was busy (never seen that before!) and at one point when we'd finished our drinks, 3 separate people asked if we wanted another. Also, because our entrees took what they determined to be a long time (I hadn't even noticed a delay), they comped both! Highly recommend checking out this spot”

“In town for the weekend and came across this speakeasy! Love that it was a true speakeasy with a hidden entrance. The hostess was super friendly and was able to seat us at the bar within just a few minutes (we didn’t have a reservation). It was a little snug and it took one of the two bartenders some time to acknowledge us and take our orders both times so I’m giving 4 out of 5 stars for these reasons. The hostess really set the bar because she was so nice but the bartenders were just too busy. However the drinks were worth the wait! Great price point and even better taste. We got the pandan and banana cocktails. Will definitely visit when in town and try the food next time, plus more yummy drinks!”

“On 12/29 at 4pm, we got married in Alcazar Garden! At 6pm, we had a reservation at Mabel's Gone Fishing for our party of 13, and it was the perfect first meal of the rest of our lives. The dinner was in the Fish Bowl, the private dining area next to the main one, and we had a prix fixe meal coordinated between us their event coordinator, Everything that came out was perfectly portioned. I never had a passionfruit mignonette, and I appreciate them opening my mind to a sweet thing with the savory brine of the oysters. Course after course, it just kept getting better. Our conservas platter with smoked and oil tinned mussels and mackerel, the roasted beets with the chili and goat cheese, the broiled cod in garum butter and sunflower...I can't believe we ate so much and still had space for cheesecake. This says nothing of the drinks we had, that we probably drank too much of, but they all went down so smoothly! Much praise for our two servers, one of whom was the coordinator we'd been chatting with via email for a month. When we come back to San Diego, The FIRST place we go to dinner will be Mabel's Gone Fishing...ok, maybe it will be Del Taco depending on when we land, but the SECOND place we go will definitely be Mabel's Gone Fishing.”

“Fabulous food served in a no-frills, casual atmosphere. The service was excellent and Chef Luciano Cibelli comes out of the kitchen and checks with every table to see how diners are doing. Great place to celebrate a special occasion. We enjoyed the seafood fettucini, chicken parmesian, and the catch of the day, which was sea bass on a bed of roasted vegetables, with beet purée and a delicious beurre blanc. Delish!”

“I like the attention , i like food desserts the place looks very clean”

“Delicioso y muy bien servido”

“I haven't been to rudfords in years, do to moving south. I was so hungry for the outstanding split pea soup on Saturday, still the best ever. So glad jordan is still working there, he is so delightful and and friendly, he is definitely a keeper. So glad exmanager jose is gone,. What a scan. K sorry about Diane's passing, I really liked her. Keep up the good work. Spinach omelette for awesome, wow.”

“Food was good other than the lettuce on the burrito and enchalidas. Woman was a great host and had excellent customer service. First time there and well be back soon! Thank you”

“My dogs love all the goodies from Real Dog Box and I am so glad that I subscribed! If you are thinking about subscribing, it has definitely been more than worth it to me. Their customer service is the absolute best and they have been so awesome to answer all my questions and are so quick with their responses. Also a perk that they are woman owned and operated. I also love all the education they post on their social media. 10/10.”

“Carne Asada Chimichanga....
Great taste and great flavors....
Green sauce is really good..
1st time at this spot and definitely returning when i am in the area...”

“Happy to dine in again. great to see staff and great service as always.”

“We were pleasantly surprised by our quick, late night trip to this convenient spot. Food came out quickly and the gentleman at the window was kind, courteous and answered some questions without being put out!

To make things even better, the food was beyond our expectations! My daughter was battling some nausea so she stuck with a plain quesadilla but we ordered sides of guacamole, pico, and sour cream. I personally love pico by the heaps in my tacos/burritos (anything really!)Theirs was heavy on the onions, which I fully enjoy, but also appreciate some balance with equal parts tomato. Could’ve used a bit more cilantro as well but that’s just not picking. It was super tasty and made my surf and turf burrito complete! I probably could’ve inhaled the whole burrito but having a second meal later on sounded like a better idea 😋

Definitely a solid place for some quick Mexican and genuine/friendly service. Would’ve loved to try more from the menu. There will be a next time!! Go check it out!!”

“John Husler, founder of Lestat's is the most important artist in San Diego, in my opinion, having given us disaffected intellectuals and marginalized individuals a safe haven.”

“I Love This Place Best Food”

“Great food good service. Always busy which means good food totally satisfied ! Thanks Colima’s see you again soon”

“The food at this Denny's is just regular Denny's food. Not amazing but still good. Servers at this location are generally VERY nice. I usually come after work so very late into the night and theyre always friendly.”

“I'm picky about food cause not everyone prepares Mexican food the same way and I have food allergies. I stopped by for a quick lunch break and the cashier was so nice and polite with out giving me attitude broke down what was on the food before I paid for it. The food did NOT disappoint. It was so good and the portions were large. I was full the rest of the day. Thanks. Be back for sure.”

“I only do drive through for this pace because it's not near my home. I will go out of my way to pick up their breakfast burrito called Breakfast California. It is not a typical breakfast burrito. They add pico de gallo to it which hits different in a most splendid way. I recommend it 100%.”

“I come here every day in the evening after finishing my work. I get to eat my favorite Subway here. The staff here is very nice. I want to say a special thank you to Alison and Sophie. She’s is making my food so nicely. I recommend to Please give them a chance to serve you once. thank you”

“Our server Trinity was super friendly and welcoming! I tried the egg rolls, chicken wings and got short rib boneless pho. The egg rolls and chicken were crunchy and delicious, and the pho was really good. Overall 10/10 food and 10/10 experience!”

“I was nervous about the flavors, mostly because I didn’t know what they were! But was able to taste test and decided on the Quattroberry and stracciatella. Delicious! Great price- $6.50 for two big scoops! Definitely wanted to go back. Try the dragon fruit/lemon one- super tart and so good!”

“No lie- Its rare to see a restaurant that can keep a high level of reviews. This is no lie! Steamy Piggy was FIRE. Ramen was TOP 10 hands down. A Creamy smooth slightly sweet pork tonkotstu. perfectly cooked thin Chasu pork medium noodles. the egg was not marinated well but if u let it sit til the end it absorbed the broth well. The pineapple fried rice was also spot on perfectly cooked shrimp and the hint of sweetness from the pineapple hit.

Will return!”

“Great dining experience for hot pot.”

“Thhheeeee absolute BEST pizza on the west coast HANDS DOWN!! Im from Brooklyn, NY and they definitely brought the authentic expirence and taste from home!!! I bring all my friends here! This is one of my happy places! Food-10 Service-10 Location-10 Price-10 😀”

“I tried this place after a news article on them. The sparkling rose cardomom lemonade is nothing like I’ve ever had before. So refreshing and unique. I highly recommend! The Knafeh is a must try. It’s made fresh to order and is sweet cheesy goodness. I’ll definitely be back.”

“Excellent food, the flavor isn't lost even with the ingredients you add to your dish. One recommendation, even though it's at least a pound of food plus noodles, don't use two packets; one is enough and you'll enjoy your meal perfectly. just one think Parking is terrible!!!”

“I’ve never heard of this place, but it had good review so I decided to check it out. I can say one thing the food mac & cheese is fantastic. The Dave’s hot chicken sandwich sandwiches and the chicken tenders are amazing. The real star of this place are the french fries not sure why but they are amazing. Just one thing you should know I always mobile order and it seems to take forever so if you go in there and order right off the street, expect kind of a longer weight than any fast food place.”

“Our experience at Alforon Mediterranean Lebanese Cuisine was truly exceptional. From the moment we walked in, we felt the big hearts of the owners and their genuine love for what they do. Their hospitality is warm, personal, and sincere. They make you feel like you are a guest in their home, not just a customer in a restaurant.

The food is incredibly authentic, rich in flavor, beautifully prepared, and made with such care. Every dish tastes homemade, fresh, and comforting, like you’re enjoying a meal at your family’s table. You can also tell how clean and well-maintained everything is, which makes the experience even more enjoyable and reassuring.

The location is in an amazing spot, easy to access, and perfect whether you’re dining with family or friends. I also love the variety on the menu.

If you’re looking for authentic food, exceptional hospitality, and a place that truly feels like home, Alforon is a must-visit in San Diego. Highly recommended! 🤍”

“In a city where coffee is mediocre and the shops are performative, Saigon Coffee stands among the few offering truly delicious selections. I ordered their original and was delighted and how bold and rich the flavor is. As someone who suffers from phlegm coughs, the drink gave me no such issue.”

“Good service, good atmosphere, great food”

“This is a must visit when in San Diego! The best food! Everyone is kind that works here and even with waiting once an hour and a half in line I was not disappointed. Highly recommend Oscar's of Emerald in SD🥰”

“Authentic middle eastern food. We ordered a bowl and a wrap of falafel and both were delicious. The service was great and they inquired if the food was good. We found the bowl to be a little dry so they brought extra sauce.”

“as I walked in, I noticed the cleanliness of the restaurant. Then the visual menu helped me with what I wanted to order. The ambiance is perfect! The assistant from the young man was awesome! The food!!! MashaAllah! It is Soo good. I love spicy 🌶️ The chili naan. mmmmm”

“garlic noodles with Pollo. first timer. absolutely delicious. we came right after their lunch rush and sat in their outdoor patio. Kylie, our server was so sweet & cute. She was very attentive and knowledgeable. I'm Asian, my boyfriend is white/Mexican ( he does not like Asian food) he ordered pork tacos yum! flama llama was perfect for us Asian/Peruvian infusion? who'd have thunk. I definitely recommend this place.”

“Definitely expect a wait unless you arrive exactly at open. This restaurant is the turn & burn type. They are very fast at getting tables seated. We waited around 40 minutes for a table and it was SO worth it. The gyoza was so crispy and delicious and the sushi was very fresh.
We can't wait to come back here. One of my favorite hidden gems in SD!!”

“Their food is amazingly delicious!!! They have great customer service and place is clean. To bad they are only in San Diego 😞”

“Great place, great food, service is excellent, everybody is having a good time and it shows, this place is a must in SD, whether you go as a couple or with friends, definitely recommended!!!”

“Fantastic food quality. Purist food.”

“My husband and I had the absolute pleasure to dine at Juniper and Ivy for our 33 year anniversary. Not only did they have special menus for us, but we had a complete and very special experience start to finish.The staff were so welcoming and knowledgeable. We had what I would consider the best seats in the restaurant. We sat up at the kitchen bar, and were treated to an amazing dinner and “show “ The kitchen crew were so impressive and friendly to each other and us. We had such a great experience, that we canceled reservations at another restaurant on the same block for later in the week, so we could come back and try more. Same amazing experience at the next visit. Highly recommend, when we come back to SD we will prioritize another visit. Thank you so much for such a great experience!”

“Hey I just want to say the Luna grill down in Carmel valley was amazing and I want to give a special thank you to Athena for helping me out with my order she was polite and made sure i got everything I needed I recommend anyone that loves Mediterranean food check out this location 2 thumbs up will be back”

“Best food, best service!!”

“Got a torta al pastor, absolutely delicious. Thanks yall!”

“cordialità,buon cibo e ambiente raffinato”

“I ordered the Oaxaca (washed) and Puebla roasts for espresso. Both are out of this world! Hands down some of the best coffee I’ve ever enjoyed. I can’t wait to order more! (Photo taken before opening the second bag)”

“Good restaurant, delicious food. I recommend everyone to try it”

“This is as mom and pop is as good as you can get for 2026. Dad works the floor, summer the daughter helps dad out and mom and other family members work the kitchen. Regardless of what people say about “women in the kitchen” you know the food will be the best food when a restaurant is this way. The food here has soul out into every dish and the consistency is amazing. One of the best restaurants to come to Point Loma. It can get busy from 6-8pm most evenings.

This hard working family is doing an incredible job to bring authentic Chinese to us. Ignore the bad reviews, people have no idea how hard this family is working. The place is small, but thats what makes it so amazing.”

“Great food and drinks! The service is superb!”

“Delicious malts and delicious food! Homemade French fries and home made ranch dressing”

“Ok, I am from NY and love pizza. I am not a NYC pizza snob though and welcome all iterations of 'za! I have to say that this pizza is probably the best I have ever had of its type. They are "Roman" slices, meaning focaccia crust. Variety of slice options are insane with creative combinations that are not only imaginative, but insanely delicious. Slices are cooked upon ordering for supreme freshness. I especially like the Lussuria - prosciutto, black pepper, mashed potato, mozzarella and olive oil. (I NEVER thought I would like mashed potato on a slice, but it's insanely good.) The help here is amazing as well. Caesar was working the oven and he gave great suggestions and explained the product well. Very inviting and definitely steered me in the right direction. Need gluten free? They got it! Will make a GF slice for you right on the spot. I challenge anyone to have just one slice. I had to go back for 2 more. Enjoy!”

“Ichifuji Sushi was a major highlight of our family trip to San Diego. The atmosphere is very friendly and the shop itself has a great feel to it.
The chef was exceptional—not only was he incredibly kind, but he was also extremely good at explaining the details of every dish. One technical detail I really appreciated was his use of a 30-day fermented ponzu sauce. It effectively balanced the richness of the fish and acted as a perfect palate cleanser between courses.
The food was unforgettable, specifically:
• Lobster Sashimi: This was unbelievable and easily the best thing I had. I never realized lobster could be so naturally sweet.
• Sea Urchin: The uni was my second favorite—superb quality and very fresh.
I highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for top-tier sushi and a warm, personal atmosphere!”

“The skirt steak will make you cry. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️”

“My husband and I savored every bite. It was amazing and I will seek out this restaurant again. Blew away our experience at another pricy well known dinner location.

The service was excellent. The drinks came out quickly. I had the Legends Only and my husband had an Old Fashioned. I loved mine!

Started with the Parker House rolls, worth it. Went to the steaks next. I had the Denver and my husband had the Filet Mignon. Both were exceptional but that Denver - I didn't want to share. We also split the broccolini which is normally not my first choice in veggie but this one I will make an exception for in the future from Rare Society.

Finally we went a bit rogue on dessert and ordered the new Brookie tart which was chocolate heaven.

We did a ride share so didn't have to worry about parking which looked to be a challenge.

Overall, recommend! Go eat here!”

“Lovely staff and delicious food”

“Dining at Addison is an experience I recommend as something everyone should enjoy at least once! The food is unlike anything I’ve ever enjoyed before paired with service that is second to none! Chef Bradly and his entire team are warm and welcoming in a way that makes you feel like you’re the only person in a restaurant full of people. I cannot wait to go back! Until next time!”

“This was the BEST sushi we have ever had. The entire experience was so wonderful. We left feeling relaxed and happy. Highly recommend this place and the staff were all fantastic and very attentive.”

“Fabulous oysters! Definitely worth the wait!”

“I’ve tried just about every Omakase spot, big and small, in San Diego—and this one is by far my favorite and the most delicious yet! You need to book and pay in advance through the official website. Right now, it’s $225 for the meal, plus $45 gratuity and $20 tax. Reservations are available at either 5 pm or 8 pm. When you arrive, you can find street parking nearby. The restaurant opens promptly on the dot, and once you’re seated, you can order your drinks—then you’ll wait about 20 minutes before the meal officially starts.

Food Review: The ingredients are super fresh and top-quality, and the menu changes with the seasons. The chef explains each dish before you try it. Most ingredients are sourced from Toyosu Market in Tokyo, Japan, as well as local suppliers right here in San Diego. The presentation is exquisite—every single dish looks like a work of art. The flavors strike a perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. Standout dishes include A5 wagyu beef served with seasonal vegetables and Japanese mackerel nigiri. My personal favorites this time were the smoked sashimi and A5 wagyu tartare puffs—they were absolutely amazing!

Service: Three chefs work in perfect harmony, preparing the dishes right in front of you. There are also two servers standing by at all times, ready to hand you plates, clear away used ones, and refill your water. They’re incredibly attentive and thoughtful—you basically don’t have to lift a finger to handle any dishes yourself. They anticipate your needs before you even ask, making for a seamless dining experience. Case in point: if you step away to use the restroom, you’ll come back to find your napkin neatly refolded for you.

Atmosphere: The vibe is elegant and cozy. It’s a high-end sister restaurant of Azuki Sushi, dedicated to showcasing the elegance and seasonality of kaiseki cuisine. There are only 10 seats in total, though they occasionally squeeze in one extra guest. All in all, it’s a really intimate spot.

As a nice final touch, the staff sees you off at the door when you leave, and even gives you a little greeting card and a copy of the menu to take home as a souvenir. It boasts a solid 4.8-star rating on Yelp and has been around for three years now. If you’re a Japanese food lover, I highly recommend this place!”

“We are from “the beef capital” of Australia and discovered The Lion’s Share during SDCC 2023. My husband has very high standards when it comes to meat (his family owned a cattle property) and he could not fault a single dish. We tried camel sausage for the first time and were amazed at the flavor. Every dish was delicious, and make sure you try the brussel sprouts. A restaurant that specializes under exotic meats that can make brussel sprouts that delicious is doing something right! It is our must visit restaurant when we visit San Diego”

“Gorgeous view and atmosphere”

“We had a great time here tonight. The restaurant staffs and the sushi chef were friendly and the omakase dinner course portion was generous and super delicious. :)”

“The food is SO good. The chef was super friendly and nice. We can’t wait to go back. 😄”

“The food was amazing, with the exception of the mashed potatoes. The consistency was soft, smooth, and airy, however, there was absolutely no taste. No seasoning, no salt pepper no butter no nothing. Really bland would not order again. The service and staff were absolutely amazing. Only suggestion other than mashed potato fix is the ambience or the inside decor reminds me of late 1990s Seattle grunge. It just seems like the restaurant is stuck in the 90s decor wise. Food was absolutely phenomenal and staff as always were amazing.”

“Arrived for our anniversary to find a wonderful card, red rose petals and confetti on the table. Class Act. Food, drinks, service and live jazz on a MONDAY NIGHT... were excellent!”

“This place was definitely a 10/10?✨”

“The beef noodle soup was super delicious and was enough to feed me and my mother. It contained tone of meat which was really tender and the broth was overall phenomenal. The popcorn chicken was also really good as it wasn’t too big and served as a great snack I would highly recommend coming here.”

“Great burgers, quick service. Good value for money.”

“Awesome food, great service, perfect location”

“Love their new location downtown. More space with the same high quality croissants and sourdough loaves. Chocolate croissant and olive pecan sourdough are my favorites.”

“We have came twice from Denver Colorado and we loveeeeee this pizza! Mike is so welcoming as everyone else is please open one in Denver!!!”

“It’s a beautiful restaurant in Carmel. It’s delicious. Serving sizes are huge and healthy. I loved all the healthy choices they had. I ended up trying the beat salad. It was amazing!”

“Between the customer service, the food the cleanliness and the atmosphere, this place is a one of a kind. I highly suggest making this part of your dessert rotation.”

“Asada, fish and shrimp tacos were all very good. Small place with seating in and out, you order at the counter and they bring your food when it’s ready. The woman at the counter was very kind.”

“We tried Mike’s over the weekend & it was absolutely delicious! Definitely would recommend it if you like birria!”

“Great atmosphere & amazing sours.”

“I get the pleasure of coming here frequently for meetings and absolutely love the staff! Highest quality coffee I’ve seen locally and my body appreciates that 🫶”

“Best chicken shawarma wrap I’ve ever had in my life, and the nicest people serving too! Definitely should try this food truck if you are downtown!”

“Good food, warm coffee, and three friends who make any table feel like the best seat in the city. We laughed over brunch, shared bites (because that’s mandatory), and let time slow down for a bit.
There’s something special about a cozy café where the conversation flows as easily as the coffee. It wasn’t just about the food — it was about the energy, the connection, and being fully present with people who feel like home.
Grateful for spontaneous plans, full plates, and friendships that make ordinary days feel meaningful. 🥐🤎”

“My vegan lox and bagel was the 💣!!!!”

“Para toda la gente de México ,Centro y sur América nuestra comida Potosína una de las mejores de México y para muestra Birrieria & Taqueria la Huasteca recomendada 100%”

“Usually like their pizzas. Seems like there is no much flavor like before. No taste of spices. But they are very quike and curtious”

“The OFF SHORE TAVERN AND GRILL located on Morena Blvd in Bayshore San Diego is very good place. All of the staff are exceptional. MGRs have welcomed me & all others since day one and continue to provide fantastic service. Doug & Dan just could not try harder to make this establishment succeed any better. Them and all the servers could receive a higher rating as personable and attentive people. They ALL make Everybody welcome . Major Kudos to Doug, Dan, Ramy and ALL of the crew”

“Always GREAT service, food and clean dining area. Lots of options, food is created right in front of you, so piping hot when served. Very friendly environment”

“I have been eating here for years and it's always good.”

“By far the best donuts in San Diego, especially their Apple Fritters!! Very nice family running this shop ... for many, many years. They have watched my kids grow up since they were toddlers, and now my youngest is almost 19 and my oldest is 24!”

“supper frash meat wonderfull customer service specaially the lady she is supper nice”

“There was a time when this was my “go to”place for Italian food. Unfortunately after the first owners sold (back in the 80’s or 90’s I think) they went to a “conveyor oven” for cooking pizza. The people who bought Etna’s owned several other Italian restaurants around town and seemed to be successful. Unfortunately they took out a couple of “deck ovens” to streamline the kitchen, like their other restaurants, and quit cooking pizza in those ovens. What they didn’t understand was the pizza bread used to make Etna’s unique pizza was formulated to be cooked in a deck oven. It’s like the difference between a grilled cheese sandwich and a toasted cheese sandwich… it’s just not the same. The caramelization of the sugars in the dough enhanced the overall texture and taste of the pizza when cooked in a deck oven. I’ve lived in San Diego my whole life and have been going to Etna’s since 1976. Etna’s Pizza dough seemed to be the same when the new owners took over and when they changed the way they cooked it ruined the original flavor. I quit going as often as I used to and eventually after several owners later and never going back to using deck ovens the writing was on the wall. The last owners and employees were rude and unattentive. I was hoping they would return to using deck ovens for their pizza but they did not. I tried to explain the reasoning but was rebuffed. So now another San Diego institution has passed into history. The late night (open til 3:00am) seven days a week only Italian restaurant way back when is gone. It’s a shame this new generation will never know the flavors and history of some of these old and iconic family owned and operated businesses.”

“Our server Cam was awesome and food was great! Got to try it. Great dumplings!!!”

“Tired of the same old dining experience? Craving a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds? Look no further than Sattvik Foods, where every meal is a standing ovation for your senses. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with the warm, aromatic embrace of spices that promises a culinary adventure. The decor? A tasteful blend of modern chic and traditional charm—think Bollywood meets Broadway. Now, let's talk food. All curries here are so velvety smooth. The Samosas are crisp little parcels of joy, hiding spiced potatoes and peas that pack a punch. And the service? Impeccable. The staff navigates the bustling dining room with the grace of seasoned performers, ensuring your glass is never empty and your plate is always full. Whether you're a spice novice or a seasoned curry connoisseur, Sattvik Foods' consistently scrumptious offerings will have you singing its praises. Just be prepared to book your encore performance—you'll definitely want to return for an encore!”

“My favorite cafe in San Diego. I had an Iced Mexican chocolate mocha is out of this world. My boyfriend had an Iced horchata matcha dirty latte, he absolutely love it. The atmosphere is truly familia and festive. Don't miss this hidden gem.”

“Nico's is the best taco shop in San Diego! When you're craving a delicious taco and horchata, there's nothing better than Nico's.”

“I was there at a conference with a friend of mine. Their outrigger sandwich was one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had. I’ll take my wife and some other friends there for sure.”

“I had the spicy beef soup It was excellent, top quality. You have to taste it to believe it. I also had the fried chicken wings . This is a hidden gem of San Diego.”

“You can create your own drink even if its not on the menu. Sweetness level is adjustable. Great place to study since they have WIFI.”

“I've only been here once...and I came away VERY impressed...food was VERY tasty and FRESH... service was wonderful and they were so eager to have you enjoy their food. A lovely small neighborhood restaurant. I'll go again!”

“Delicious food and great atmosphere”

“The food was delicious, we love the vibe and customer service was fantastic. We thought we got lost when we get out of the elevator, instead of looking for directions we were too busy taking photos instead lol 😂. We just fall in love with the forrest scenery.”

“We were a party of five at your Le Mesa location on 3/22/26 and I believe our server's name was Diana. Our experience was absolutely fantastic! The food was superb, the facility was spotless and every member of the staff that interacted with was professional, helpful and friendly. Diana was fantastic! She has the perfect balance of friendly efficiency, light humor to match our personalities and spot on timing to check in with us. We can't wait to visit again! Thank you.”

“Had lunch with my sister. Great food and portions. Kyle our waiter was friendly and attentive.”

“Beautiful location and set up. Food was well above expectations. A beautiful fusion of traditional Mexican flavours with a modern twist. Very good service to top it off! Highly recommended”

“Had lunch with my sister. Great food and portions. Kyle our waiter was friendly and attentive.”

“Overall excellent steak dinner”

“We had a really amazing experience, the food and service is spectacular and they made my birthday really special with a complimentary dessert Thank you and we definitely want to go back.”

“Enjoyed my short visit to San Diego with lunch here. The food was great and cocktails, plentiful. Will definitely go back. The staff was friendly as well”

“I am late to reviewing and forgetting the servers name. She was from Maryland, and the reason we ordered more than just a pick me up coffee before the Japanese Friendship Gardens. Our server (delightful as can be and a great conversation partner) encouraged us to try the Spicy Calamari and Aquachile. It's not the best flavor pairings with coffee. So, stick with a bubbly libation when ordering these delightful dishes. The flavors, however, are divine. Fresh ingredients that remain high quality! We enjoyed a table overlooking the gardens and lucked into it without a reservation. Although, I recommend reserving in advance for optimal seating and table assurance.”

“Great place, delicious stake”

“The Carbonara & garlic bread was BOMB, service was excellent too, will be back!”

“Dining and sight-seeing... Delicious and Beautiful”

“As a professional DJ, photographer, and videographer, I love working at Tom Ham's Lighthouse. The panoramic views of San Diego Bay provide a stunning backdrop for wedding photos and videos, and the natural light enhances every image. DJs will appreciate the superior acoustics. The staff is always helpful and accommodating, making the experience seamless for vendors and bringing the couple’s vision to life effortlessly.”

“It had been a while, and now I don't know why. We had a party of 4 last night with reservations using OpenTable. It all went smoothly. The minute we pulled up to valet through to the time we got out car from valet, it was excellent and we all had a good time, great food, and excellent service from Jeremy and his team. Talked briefly with at least 2 managers. Both were checking up on how everything was. I like that!!! One came by the table, and the other was just inside the door as we were leaving. Ask Jeremy. He and his team were great!!!”

“Had a work brunch at Madi in Pacific Beach today, and it was a hit with all six of us. It wasn’t busy when we arrived, though I’ve heard it gets packed on weekends. Parking was straightforward with a small lot and plenty of paid street spots nearby.

Dakotah took great care of us. She handled our group’s quirky requests with total composure, checked in at all the right times, and even sent a couple of coworkers off with to-go refills.

The food was outstanding. One of my coworkers ordered the Poke Bowl Surf Shack, and it looked as good as it tasted — bright, fresh ingredients piled around a scoop of rice and a side of spicy mayo. Another went for the Surfer Breakfast Burrito, which came with black beans and a choice of salsas. I had the Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger with bacon, served with crispy fries and a cold Mexican Coke. Everything at the table landed well.

Coffee was excellent, too. They also add a 5% hospitality fee to the bill, which seems to be a growing trend in San Diego.

Overall, a great spot for brunch with friendly service, good vibes, and food that delivers. I’d happily come back.”

“Hands-down, the best meal I have had in a long time! The food is so authentic and delicious. The service is impeccable. The cocktails are delightful. I cannot wait to come back!!”

“I absolutely love the cozy vibe, the warm welcome from the baristas, and the coffee -honestly one of the best I’ve tried in the area. This is officially my new daily go-to coffee shop. I recommend it 100%!”

“My partner and I were so excited when this place open. I think we heard that it was coming to San Diego at least 6:00 to 8 months before it actually arrived. To have a non-alcoholic bar in San Diego is such a wonderful thing and I hope that people choose to follow suit. The inspiration behind this establishment is wonderful, and their intentions to bring sober and mentally helpful cocktails to San Diego is beautiful. I highly recommend looking them up, reading what they're about on their website and giving them a visit. They have a wide variety of adaptogenic cocktails, CBD cocktails, and standard non-alcoholic cocktails that are still quite imaginative. There are also open during the day with entirely different menus etc. I still have not managed to make it down from Encinitas to go there in the morning but we plan to. We have been several times at night at it is one of our favorite hangouts. Being able to go to a bar without drunk people stumbling around making lots of noise and messes is a wonderful thing. As someone who got sober myself a little while back, it is utterly refreshing to see other people dedicated to having you sober evening.”

“Had a great meal and our server (Kezi) was super cool, very friendly and attentive. Food was so good. Got the spicy cucumbers, little gem Caesar, Blitzkrieg, and Margherita. Everything was very tasty! I loved the Caesar, my friend loved the cucumbers. The pizza: crust was on the thin side but sturdy, nice chew and char, pepperoni was perfect (cup peps, crispy, yummy); Margherita was an excellent of the classic.

Sat outside and it was very lovely, and they have lots of seating inside. Will definitely go again, and if they deliver, will absolutely order!”

“We had a great dining experience at Urban Plates in Long Beach. Mariana explained the menu choices in a very unrushed manner, and we decided on the steak. I ordered the Chimichurri grass-fed steak with balsamic brussel sprouts and herb-roasted potatoes. All of it was delicious ( and healthy too!). The deserts were absolutely killer too. We will definitely eat here again next time we're in Long Beach.”

“Fantastic ice cream and very unique flavors! Was my first time visiting and wanted to try all of their flavors. Will definitely be back. Don’t miss out on this little gem!”

“A Culinary Masterpiece: An Unforgettable Evening with Chef Jiwoo Choi From the moment my girlfriend, Kassandra, and I stepped into the Choi’s in downtown San Diego, we knew we were about to experience something truly special. What followed was an extraordinary seven-course tasting menu crafted by the incredibly talented Chef Jiwoo Choi, a chef whose passion for food is evident in every detail of his dishes. Chef Choi created the menu around several questions sent via email before the date. He truly took his time to understand his customers and who they were. The dinner was designed around my girlfriend, for whom the night was centered around for Valentines Day. The customer service was impeccable from the start. The hostess greeted us warmly, immediately making us feel at home, and the entire staff was attentive yet unobtrusive throughout the evening. We were sat at an oval table exclusively to ourselves with candles and wonderful ambiance. Included was a little note card that read “A Dinner Written By You” . Wow. Our server was Chef Choi himself. He was incredibly knowledgeable about the ingredients, offering insightful explanations of each dish, telling the story of the meal, and even sharing about the inspiration behind his creations. The entire team worked seamlessly together, ensuring that every moment of our dining experience felt effortless and elegant. Now, onto the food—a true work of art. Each course was not just a meal but a beautifully presented masterpiece that engaged all the senses. Chef Choi has a remarkable ability to balance flavors, textures, and aromas in a way that leaves a lasting impression. Every dish had a story, each bite revealing new layers of complexity and creativity. Some standout dishes included: A delicate amuse-bouche that set the tone for the evening, bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. Inspired by Kimchi, a sauce enveloped the bits of tofu with a fried rice cake. A The main course was an Australian Wagyu with fingerling potatoes in a chile con carne sauce based from my girlfriend’s childhood. The wagyu melted in our mouths. Potatoes so crispy and delicious you forgot what other potatoes tasted like. A sauce so savory, bursting with tomatillo, garlic, and other flavors. Perfectly balanced as all things should be. The unexpected dish that left me in so much shock was the Greek wedding soup. A cold dish that is better experienced than explained. If I could eat that everyday for the rest of my life it would never be enough. Nothing I could say would live up to the incredible flavors. I ate mine and half my girlfriend’s portion. Finally, a dessert course that was as stunning as it was delicious, showcasing unexpected flavor combinations that worked in perfect harmony. A hot desert, a play on sticky rice. Cardamon, sugar, a small stone fruit with rich notes of raisin and plum. The second dessert was unexpected and intended for my likes (which I found to be such a class act). A ferment plum wine reduction that he infused into a frozen dish (somewhere in the realm of sorbet meets gelato) with a crème brûlée top. Amazing, outstanding. Chef Choi himself took the time to visit our table, a gesture that truly elevated the experience. He shared his inspiration for the menu, spoke about the ingredients, and genuinely wanted to ensure that we were enjoying ourselves. This level of dedication and personal touch is rare and speaks volumes about his commitment to his craft and his guests. He even orchestrated a surprise set of roses for my girlfriend and played it off like I planned it. By the end of the evening, Kassandra and I were completely in awe. The attention to detail, the passion behind every dish, and the warmth of the staff made this one of the best dining experiences we’ve ever had. Chef Jiwoo Choi and his team went above and beyond, creating an evening we will never forget. Five stars are simply not enough!”

“I want to try everything on the menu. Got the highland burger with Mexican poutine. Delicious! Will return again. Very friendly staff and their music/game room is really cool.”

“I've been following their IG for months and was so happy husband brought me here to start off my birthday celebration!

Top fav item - Tiramisu Croissant! 12/10
Crispy and flaky pastry with the vanilla bean mascarpone filling and espresso-soaked nilla wafers
And the cocoa niba and dusting of cocoa powder! There was also a mini Easter egg nest on top since we went on Easter.
What a phenomenal combination! 3 of us shared this one and it was all our favorite. And we could all have gone for more!

Chicken Tetrazzini Chef's (chef's special) 11/10
My favorite among the savory croissants!
It had leeks & chicken in fondue sauce + roasted red pepper hot sauce on top.
It was actually the perfect balance of crispy and the right amount of spicy sauce and I think this this croissant set such a high bar that everything else in the savory menu felt to plain haha.

Soy Glazed Short Rib 10/10
Wow!! Definitely was surprised by that whole chunk of short rib right in the middle of the croissant. Was actually cooked perfectly well and had a really lovely flavor! The herby topping was also really delicious and everything went well together.

Summer Squash (spring special) 6/10
(summer squash, olive oil, salt, pepper, taleggio cheese sauce, and dill green garlic chimichumi)
Honestly was not as much a fan of this one. I think the squash and fillings overall were a little too soggy for my liking. Nice flavors though. Sister in law liked it.

English muffin sandwich with turkey 8/10
Swapped out the sausage in the sandwich for turkey to get some lean protein. I think the sausage would have added a lot more depth of flavor because the turkey made it a little plain but it would be lovely with a little bit of hot sauce. Big highlight though was the natural English muffin! So soft!

Sourdough hot cross bun 8/10
Lovely flavor here! It had that spiced flavor and the dried fruit inside which was yum.
Knocked off points because it was just fine. No wow factor to get it again.

Crunch Wrap Supreme Croissant
Very creative one! Had a flavorful beef filling and gave all the vibes you expect, but personally not my favorite.

Caesar Salad 3/10
Honestly something was a little off here. Not sure if it was the actual lettuce leaves. Most of the bites felt quite bitter.. the grated Parmesan and black garlic dusting on top was lovely though. We had asked for the dressing on the side and dressing itself was quite tasty. So overall probably just the lettuce leaves themselves which were bitter.”

“Fantastic food. Servers and chefs are very knowledgeable about the dishes, and each dish is unique. The atmosphere is great, with dishes being prepped in a kitchen in view of the dinning room.”

“It's legitimately a gourmet sandwich, with very premium toppings. The fresh focaccia is a rare treat. But I cannot give 5 stars, as everything was too oily and they lack any vegan protein offerings. (Mozzarella available for cheese eaters.) This is just a sandwich stand, you eat at outdoor tables in front of an office building. I was there early and they were very fast. Ignore the printed menu prices, as my $12.50 sandwich was actually just under $17.”

“Got the short rib pho and it was really good, one of the better phos I have had at a restaurant. Place is super cute and so is their tableware! My server was Jason and he was sweet and quick to serve us.”

“Lita was amazing ! She helped us order a delicious meal and everything exceeded expectations
This place is really slept on .. it’s also a good spot for a date night or casual lunch. the food looks perfectly plated and tastes better than it looks!!!! Seriously 1000/10 I’m coming back again.
The iced thai tea was one of the best I’ve ever tasted as well. Super delicious

I got the fried pork belly brown rice and egg in yellow sauce
And crispy duck brown rice with khao soi”

“My husband and I have been coming to Alchemy since they've opened, and watched them grow as they've gained their footing and flow. Edwardo, Hector, Leo, Ben, everyone who works here, you can tell how passionate and proud they are of their space and community. Their Ceviche is my favorite Ceviche that I've ever had, and it's always consistent. Their other food and drink offerings are carefully constructed. You can taste the love in every dish, and I highly recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a hidden gem, with a very exclusive, intimate and cozy vibe.”