Restaurants in Santee

“Consistently great, fresh food, generous portions, and very healthy; friendly service; good rewards program which pays off more often than most. It’s my favorite local restaurant!”

“First time to Broken Yolk Cafe. Loved the atmosphere and great food! The people who work there are so friendly makes you feel like you’re home💕Thank you Ron for my bread and the ladies behind the bar for wonderful drinks!!! We will definitely be back if I am rating it on a scale of 10 I give it a 20.”

“The low carb salmon plate was incredible. it includes soup or salad, asparagus and portobello mushrooms. I chose the salad and it was huge and delicious and all that for only $16.99! Top gourmet quality food. I will be going back. So many choices and all of it looked incredible!”

“Huge portions. I got eggplant parmigiana and another dinner plate of spaghetti... And a basket of bread. Two full meals and it was really good. Service was very good.”

“I've never had a bad cookie from here, or any location for that matter. It smells like sugar inside though the decor is off putting in my opinion, but I'm not there to look at anything but the baked goods anyway!”

“My go-to spot for pho in Santee. Their broth is savory and stands out among other local options. I also love the fresh noodles they use for both their pho and vermicelli. I always leave satisfied.”

“My mom was visiting San Diego with my neither and brought home a box. This backlava is delicious!!!! El Paso, TX approved!!!”

“Valentin was our waiter and he is excellent, the best!”

“amazing food 4 many decades in a family owned,family friendly atmosphere. a true east county gem”

“No joke the best mexican food place by far. I was questioning my choice in buying because i spent $25 for a large pacman fries which is the most ive spent on carne asada fries. But once my order came out i knew it was worth the money. This can feed a family and take days to finish by urself. Also the menu options are amazing and love the filipino additions! Would recommend to everyone.”

“the waitress was very nice and the food was good 👍 😋 👌”

“the Hawaiian with crispy chicken. omg I miss that.”

“Man I’ve been coming to this place for years now and even still it never ceases to amaze me.

Let’s just get it out the way, the food is great high quality for such a reasonable price. That’s something you just can’t find these days in San Diego. Sure there’s other BBQ places that some may say have better BBQ, but Phil’s is a staple to San Diego just like Hodads (who also some could argue there are better burgers here, but they will never be Hodads).

Once my daughter Turned one years old, I took her here on a little father and daughter date. She absolutely loves the french fries and most days likes the rib meat from the ribless tickler ( beef rib meat without the bone, easier to feed daughter). With a decent tip we both leave happy and full for around $20 depending on tip and it “da-da” gets a beer or not… which also they have insanely good drink prices ($5 rotating beers monthly, and not bud light but good ass beers).

Today was an especially good when it comes to the service. Our food buzzer was broken or was the wrong one or something like that so we waited a little bit longer for food than normal. Samuel (god I hope I remembered this name right) noticed my daughter and I waiting and figured something was wrong. Totally helped us out. He then, super intuitively asked if I wanted a separate plate for my daughter, and a kids cup full of water. He also brought back plastic utensils for her to play with which she loved.

After all of that, I find out that Samuel is 19 and doesn’t have kids of his own. That dude is on fire and is super intuitive and on his mark. I don’t know when he gets paid, but I can tell you right now if I Own the company I would hire him in a heartbeat and pay him as much as I could physically afford. He is one of those assets to companies that’s so many bosses oversee.

I recently lost my job, And with the new job having hard times to catch up on bills. these are rare times I can take my daughter out now. I would tip this guy $100 bill if I could. And one day when I get back on my feet I will. Keep going strong, sir. You are a beast and you will succeed at everything you do in this life with the attitude and work ethic that you have.”

“great food! love this place 😀”

“The cake I ordered for my husband's birthday was just what I wanted and it was delicious!”

“it's always a great place to eat. It hits the spot everytime. Dawson was so kind taking the order. I appreciate great Customer Service !”

“awesome coffee, staff and quiet spot”

“Cozy little Cafe. Very clean. Friendly staff. Great coffee drinks. Delicious pastries. Love this place!❤”

“One of my favorite breakfast places in all of San Diego”

“awesome coffee, staff and quiet spot”

“ก๋วยเตี๋ยวเรืออร่อย พนักงานน่ารัก”

“The pizza was really good. It was hot tasted delicious came out quickly. The staff was fun and they had a game there for the kids to play. He was a little hot inside but all good.”

“Sandwiches are priced similar to Subway but the quality is so much higher. I always order by phone and it is ready in less than 10 minutes. Don’t forget to get the extra sweet and sour sauce on the side, it’s 10/10”

“This place is awesome. The have a wide variety of options and we went with the birra sope, birra ramen and the birra tacos. Our little guy got the cheese quesadilla. The portions are generous and the gentleman behind the register, I assume the owner, was super friendly and nice. I’d definitely come back here again. Top notch.”

“I had the pleasure of visiting BNS Brewing and Distillery in Santee, California, and it was an experience worth talking about. The brewery exudes a welcoming atmosphere with its rustic yet laid-back charm, making it the perfect spot for both regulars and newcomers. On this visit, I was there to watch my friend compete in a lively cornhole tournament, which was one of the highlights of the night. The event was impressively organized, with smooth registration, clearly designated playing areas, and a schedule that kept everything running seamlessly. It was fantastic to see a mix of serious competitors and casual players enjoying themselves and interacting in friendly competition.

The crowd added to the experience with their energy—cheering, laughing, and sharing moments that brought everyone together. Whether you were there to play or just watch, like I was, the enthusiasm was infectious. The staff at BNS played a big part in creating such an enjoyable atmosphere, always attentive and ensuring everyone had a great time.

Beyond the event, BNS Brewery’s craft beers and distilled beverages were exceptional. With a diverse range of flavors to choose from, there’s truly something for everyone. For anyone looking for a place that blends community spirit, good drinks, and quality entertainment, BNS Brewing and Distillery is a must-visit. I highly recommend it!
Shout out to AJ Bell and Emilio!”

“We had the pleasure of visiting this bar last year during our road trip from Nevada through California, Arizona, and Utah – and it truly became one of the highlights of our journey. What made this place so special wasn’t just the drinks, but the people. We had the most wonderful and inspiring conversations with the owner and his daughter about politics, society, the USA, and Germany.

From the very first moment, we felt less like guests and more like family. Their warmth and genuine kindness touched us deeply, and they even invited us to come back again. Sadly, we had to leave for Arizona the very next day, but this bar and the amazing people we met there will always stay in our hearts.

We sincerely hope to return one day and share more moments together. Wishing you all the best and sending warm greetings from Germany!”

“A little understaffed - we were told - but didn’t affect us, and the server was great. Manager stopped by near end of meal to verify satisfaction. We like that.”

“Good service good food good price just like the old days Good job”

“fun atmosphere great Boba and teas”

“Outstanding service and food was very good! Great atmosphere 😊”

“The food was amazing as always.”

“The banzai chicken and service were really great but the price of $100 for two people seemed too high for what was offered. The taste lacked in the salad, miso soup, and fried rice. Overall it was a 3/5 but the service bumped it up to a 4.”

“I have been coming here since they opened and they are the best !!!! Everything I have ordered has been beyond delicious and the owner Zak is the best !!! It’s a must try !!!!!”

“I happened upon this place today and fed our crew of workers lunch there. The pizza was fantastic. I wish they were located closer to our area. The people of Santee are lucky to have such a great tasting pizza place to go to. I will go out of my way to come back. The Man, running the counter is very gracious.”

“We picked up food yesterday during their grand opening in Santee. Best pesto I’ve ever had! Staff was great too. We will definitely be back.”

“The food is amazing, after I found this restaurant it became my go to place for Chinese food! It is a popular place and their small staff can get overwhelmed sometimes, and cause a wait, but it is always worth it!

I highly recommend stopping here if you are in town, if they are busy, that are worth the wait!”

“Great portions and great taste. Very friendly servers, I recommend.”

“Great staff and atmosphere. Fun little gem in Santee Love the Drunk Monkey I give this place a 3 Frogs rating. lol”

“Picked up some catered food (entrée: bbq chicken plus Kalua pork, sides: macaroni salad and rice. Also got the green salad w/mango dressing), for a gathering of about 40 people. Everyone raved about the food a lot. The Kalua pork was a hit.
Thanks to Terri, Juan, and their staff and the great food they make.”

“We used to live here in Santee 3 yrs ago. We moved to Chula Vista but we still come down every Sunday and order pizza. It the best pizza in San Diego. All the employees are very good people along with Sam. Thank you so much for being here every Sunday.”

“10/10 I love it. After our hike my family and friends stop by for some breakfast and it hit the spot.”

“Love they're food and prices are reasonable. Especially with discount of you eat in the restaurant. My favorite sushi restaurant!”

“If you like a small mom and pop shop with good quality food, this is the place; I love chilaquiles when they are crunchy and not many people get c it right.. this place did great ! ?”

“I’ve been going here since 1987. The Estrada family are amazing. Always the best food.”

“Fernis is classic in Santee. If you haven't tried their food, you probably live out of east county. Great food, great people, great atmosphere in this small restaurant off Mission Gorge.”

“great spot to eat, delicious sandwiches, the ya mama's special is awesome!! highly recommended, haven't had a bad experience, thank you to all the staff your awesome”

“We have been a frequent customer of Nothing Bundt Cakes for a long time and they never disappoint! We were in to get some bundts last week and Zoey took great care of us - even gave us a freebie when I mentioned my daughter’s birthday. Highly recommend NBC’s for special occasions or just a special treat!!!”

“Yummy chamangos and amazing fruit trays!!”

“The sushi here is always really good. The tuna nigiri is always a stand out for us. This is always a treat on a night we have it. You can call an order in for pickup amd eat your sushi anywhere in the city.”

“Everything I've tried here is yummy. you know it's a good place when there's always a full line of cars in the drive thru. I really like the potato rolled tacos.”

“I absolutely love Marieta's in Santee. The food is delicious and the service is amazing. I have been enjoying this place since I was 16 years old and I have always felt like part of their family. Be sure to visit Pedro in the bar!”

“Best ice cream in the country!”

“I went to the Full Circle Saloon and they played this degrading song that said “A lap dance is better when the stripper is crying. Well I find it quite a thrill when she grinds me against her will.” More lyrics from this song say ” I told Bambi I wanted to skin her….. and wear her face like a mask. I have to admit it was even more of a turn-on when I found out she was doin’ me to buy baby formula.” This is a a song appropriate for serial killers and John’s who rape sex workers who are forced by their situation to work against their will. The bartender was angry and irritated with me when I asked to him to please turn it off. Two other female workers were unconcerned. The Female owner Michelle Bailey said she will not be a song N*** and did not offer to do anything about it. Oh She said there is a guy there that likes to play this song when he plays pool. If people there accept this happening I will vote by not going there.”

“Great food and personal service. I commented that I was sharing the burrito with my bride and was asked if I’d like them to cut it in half for me. 👍”

“Having spent 20 years exploring the vibrant culinary scene in San Diego and visiting over 200 restaurants, I can confidently say that Emma’s Mexican Restaurant stands out as one of the best, hands down.

From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with the warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a genuine slice of Mexico. The décor is charmingly authentic, and the staff exude a friendliness that makes you feel right at home.

But it’s the food that truly sets Emma’s apart. Every dish is a celebration of traditional Mexican flavors, prepared with the freshest ingredients and a meticulous attention to detail. Whether it’s the perfectly seasoned carne asada, the rich and flavorful mole, or the mouth-watering enchiladas, each bite transports you straight to the heart of Mexico.

What truly impresses me is the consistency and quality of their offerings. Emma’s doesn’t just serve food; they craft an experience. The tortillas are handmade, the salsas burst with freshness, and the portions are generous without compromising on quality.

If you’re a San Diego native or just passing through, Emma’s Mexican Restaurant is a must-visit. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico and a shining gem in San Diego’s dining landscape. Emma’s has earned its place as a top-tier restaurant, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

“Love this location. No matter the line we always experience fast service. The food of course is delicious! I really like that they have some healthy alternatives like a fruit cup instead of fries and multi grain bread for the buns.”

“doggggggs & more doggggggs”

“I’ve been going here since 1987. The Estrada family are amazing. Always the best food.”

“Carlton Oaks is a gorgeous venue with a wonderful staff. Gwen is a cheerful and fun server and my new friend💃…PLUS the food is delicious!”

“This was a great experience! From the guy who answered my questions over the phone and to the girl who gave me the cake at pick-up. Great staff, great cake, great experience. I placed the custom order online and they came through! The cake was beautiful and delicious.”

“We go to Donutopolis a couple times a month and they are always so friendly and the donuts are delicious! ❤❤”

“Okay, the only reason I am giving the food a 3 is because..we hut this place after a ballgame. It hit the spot. It was what I wanted at the time, you know. Service was GREAT. They took our order with 10-20 mins to close. Come on, it doesn't get better than that. Carne asada Chips were great, from what I recall. So were the roll tacos. Next time, we'll have to stop by before the game for an update. Thank you Cazadores.”

“We have been there a few times.Great food. And very polite staff.Tonite we had the pleasure to have Gabriel has our waiter.He was so polite and very respectful. YOU DON'T find to many young people with respect .You have a keeper in that your man..thanks KERRY &NANCY CHASE. PS see you next time”

“Relaxed atmosphere, and quick service. Server took and delivered my order fast, and made sure had everything I needed.”

“This place needs to go viral. The burritos are worth hundreds. I would eat them 24/7 if I did not get the runs from overeating them. I dream of them and wake up sometimes wishing they were open 24/7. Seriously, the best food place ever with the best staff. I want to be friends with the cook! What a kind chef.”

“Best food and experience I’ve had at a Dennys for a while. Food was extremely quick and a little better than expected. Our server was very kind and attentive. No complaints, which I consider rare at Dennys. Definitely the best location I’ve been to in a while.”

“Great atmosphere and better beer! Love this place.”

“Delicious! Recommend 10/10 🤤🤤”

“Food was expensive the quality was not good will not be returning and the quality of the size of the sandwich was ridiculously small”

“It’s now one of my sons favorite places”

“Hiberto's is on prospect in santee California. Its a nice restaurant. They have amazing food. I highly recommend them.

I stopped in for lunch while my car was being worked on. I order the carne asada plate and 3 rolled tacos. Came with rice and beans.

5 stars for food staff and clean restaurant. The staff went above and beyond friendly professional and polite. They made sure it was cooked perfect and all was good.
I be back again. Thank you”

“1st time here, very good burger, will be back, and recommend to others”

“Great place for coffee and friends.
Great staff, Clint is always a pleasure.
I would highly recommend it.
Great place to meet with other motorcycle riders”

“Highly recommended, best deli shop. The workers are so friendly. One of the best deli. I want to try all of their sandwiches”

“Love the passion fruit tea with golden boba it's the best......”

“Fantastic wings place in Santee. We've been going here for years. Their wings are juicy and their ranch and bread sticks are the best around! This Tuesday 7/29 is National Chicken Wing day so they are doing a buy one meal, get one free if you order on the app. Great deal and Great place. My son even had a summer job here one summer and we are still going back. Yum!”

“El mejor pollo del mundo Pollo Loco, siempre rico”

“Great recommendation to help me on the drive back home to Yuma, 2 1/2 hours. I told the Barista I am not a coffee drinker but needed something to help me stay awake. She recommended a Doppio! I made it home safely. Never heard of it before, grateful I know about it now!”

“Great customer service! I go every day”

“First off, we LOVE the lady behind the counter. If you don't like her, you don't appreciate the hustle. And furthermore, the food is delicious.”

“Good sandwich, great service. First time having Jersey Mike's, and I will be back!”

“Ordered a pizza today for New Year’s Eve. The service was awesome! Everyone was friendly and courteous! The pizza was delicious! This will be one of our regular places to eat out! Thank you!”

“I went to the Full Circle Saloon and they played this degrading song that said “A lap dance is better when the stripper is crying. Well I find it quite a thrill when she grinds me against her will.” More lyrics from this song say ” I told Bambi I wanted to skin her….. and wear her face like a mask. I have to admit it was even more of a turn-on when I found out she was doin’ me to buy baby formula.” This is a a song appropriate for serial killers and John’s who rape sex workers who are forced by their situation to work against their will. The bartender was angry and irritated with me when I asked to him to please turn it off. Two other female workers were unconcerned. The Female owner Michelle Bailey said she will not be a song N*** and did not offer to do anything about it. Oh She said there is a guy there that likes to play this song when he plays pool. If people there accept this happening I will vote by not going there.”

“It’s now one of my sons favorite places”

“Everything I've tried here is yummy. you know it's a good place when there's always a full line of cars in the drive thru. I really like the potato rolled tacos.”

“I've never had a bad cookie from here, or any location for that matter. It smells like sugar inside though the decor is off putting in my opinion, but I'm not there to look at anything but the baked goods anyway!”

“We have been there a few times.Great food. And very polite staff.Tonite we had the pleasure to have Gabriel has our waiter.He was so polite and very respectful. YOU DON'T find to many young people with respect .You have a keeper in that your man..thanks KERRY &NANCY CHASE. PS see you next time”

“Relaxed atmosphere, and quick service. Server took and delivered my order fast, and made sure had everything I needed.”

“Dine in, Saturday night.

No one at front desk. Sat ourselves, after 15 minutes with no one saying anything, eventually an employee moved us to another section because this area was closed? I was near other customers.

In new area, no one comes over. I’ve now been here for 20 minutes with no server acknowledging me.

Move to the bar. Sarah, the bartender, was super helpful. There clearly aren’t enough employees, as everyone had long wait times.

Eventually ordered food. I ordered MILD wings. 10 wings came out. I suffered through 3 and thought that they must have changed their recipe (I haven’t been in a few years). After 3 wings I couldn’t eat anymore, they were too spicy. I then noticed a sticker on the wings tray and the recipe, that said WILD. I ask Sarah and it turns out B Dubs has wings called WILD and MILD, with drastically different spiciness levels. She promptly removed my wings order from my tab. It turns out WILD is the second hottest wings they sell.

I’m sure this mistake has to happen, franchise wide, numerous times per day. Dear Mr. Buffalo, please consider renaming your WILD wings to ‘insane’, ‘crazy’, ‘extreme’, just anything that doesn’t rhyme with MILD.

Luckily, Sarah (bartender) and the great reverse happy hour made up for the seating and spicy issues. I’ll be back, but I hope they clearly denote “closed” sections in the restaurant in the future.”

“Outstanding service and food was very good! Great atmosphere 😊”

“staff was warm and welcoming as we walked in. Super fast service, 3 different staff check on us to see if we needed anything. food came out in correct order, fresh, and hot! was a nice time. They even said thank you and goodbye on the way out which was nice. first time my hubby and I ate here, we will be back 😋”

“Best ice cream in the country!”

“We picked up food yesterday during their grand opening in Santee. Best pesto I’ve ever had! Staff was great too. We will definitely be back.”

“Love this location. No matter the line we always experience fast service. The food of course is delicious! I really like that they have some healthy alternatives like a fruit cup instead of fries and multi grain bread for the buns.”

“On my way to the emergency room, I figured we better eat because we would be there for a while. Not the best move with very high blood pressure but I've been having a big Mac attack so I had to get one with a cheeseburger. My wife had a cheeseburger and we shared fries. It was freaking delicious and a treat because we don't do this often. The only problem was the big Mac should be called a big Mac slider now. Maybe 1/2 the size at best compared to the old big mac. 2 may be equal to 1 without exaggeration.”

“Fernis is classic in Santee. If you haven't tried their food, you probably live out of east county. Great food, great people, great atmosphere in this small restaurant off Mission Gorge.”

“Love the passion fruit tea with golden boba it's the best......”

“Best food and experience I’ve had at a Dennys for a while. Food was extremely quick and a little better than expected. Our server was very kind and attentive. No complaints, which I consider rare at Dennys. Definitely the best location I’ve been to in a while.”