San Diego Restaurants: All Personally Reviewed by San Diego's Dean of Restaurant Reviewers

Old Town Mexican Cafe has the Best Carnitas, Freshly made Tortillas and Frosty Margaritas
Mexican in Old Town
Old Town Mexican Cafe has the Best Carnitas, Freshly made Tortillas and Frosty Margaritas

Authentic Mexican cuisine and a festive spirit fill the air at this award-winning restaurant, celebrating its 33rd year in business this year.
Winner of the 2002 and 2008 San Diego Restaurant Association’s Gold Medallion Award for Best Mexican Casual Restaurant and rated San Diego Best’s 2008 by Zagat.
This San Diego legend is a favorite… (read more)

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1500 OCEAN at The Hotel Del Has Impressive Ocean Views and Fresh California Cuisine
California Cuisine in Coronado
1500 OCEAN at The Hotel Del Has Impressive Ocean Views and Fresh California Cuisine

1500 OCEAN, The Del’s signature restaurant, opened in 2006 to rave reviews in the Wine Spectator and Bon Appetit. Chef de Cuisine Brian Sinnott works with local farmers and producers in creating the restaurant’s fresh Southland coastal cuisine. His seasonal menus offer selections from Santa Ynez to Cabo San Lucas. In addition, the restaurant includes… (read more)

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333 Pacific Has Spectacular Seafood Overlooking the Oceanside Pier
California Cuisine in Oceanside
333 Pacific Has Spectacular Seafood Overlooking the Oceanside Pier

This is Oceanside and North County’s most spectacular new restaurant. It overlooks the Oceanside Pier and it’s breathtaking sunset view is unsurpassed! They serve fresh seafood and steaks nightly with an emphasis on presentation and innovation. For example, a sensational appetizer is their crab, shrimp and lobster cake ancho aioli with a mango salsa. It’s… (read more)

Adam’s Steak n’ Eggs is Celebrating Over 45 years of Serving the Best Breakfast in Mission Valley
Breakfast & Lunch in Mission Valley
Adam’s Steak n’ Eggs is Celebrating Over 45 years of Serving the Best Breakfast in Mission Valley

This family restaurant has been a respected breakfast destination for more than 45 years. The “namesake” steak n’ eggs is a two-inch thick, perfectly cooked sirloin steak, plus two fresh ranch eggs, cooked any style, with ranch-style potatoes or hominy grits and toast or flour tortillas.
Also try the carne asada, which is a tasty… (read more)

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Al’s Cafe in the Village Has Been a Carlsbad Local Favorite Since 1991, Serving Breakfast & Lunch Daily
Breakfast & Lunch in Carlsbad
Al’s Cafe in the Village Has Been a Carlsbad Local Favorite Since 1991, Serving Breakfast & Lunch Daily

Since Al’s opened in 1991, it has been a local favorite. And yes Al, who spent many years in Hawaii, adds a touch of Hawaii to each meal and will likely be on hand to greet you! If it’s breakfast you want, he’ll probably recommend one of 10 types of eggs Benedict or their famous… (read more)

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Albie’s Beef Inn is a Mission Valley Favorite for their Piano Bar, Aged Steaks & Succulent Seafood
Steak & Seafood in Mission Valley
Albie’s Beef Inn is a Mission Valley Favorite for their Piano Bar, Aged Steaks & Succulent Seafood

Albie’s, which has been in business for more than 45 years, is well known and highly recommended for its popular piano bar and delicious aged steaks and fresh seafood. A loyal following of San Diegans of all ages dine here often. Ask to be seated in the cocktail lounge piano bar in a comfortable leather… (read more)

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Alfonso’s has been a Legend in La Jolla Since 1971
Mexican in La Jolla
Alfonso’s has been a Legend in La Jolla Since 1971

The mood at Alfonso’s is festive with happy diners. Alfonso is there too, chatting with his guests, catering to special requests. He is a perfect host, always cordial and accommodating. If there is a secret to his success, it has to be in the well -guarded Mexican recipes that have been in his family for… (read more)

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Andrés Cuban Restaurant Has Been San Diego’s Finest Cuban & Puerto Rican Cuisine Since 1983
Cuban & Puero Rican Cuisine in Bay Park
Andrés Cuban Restaurant Has Been San Diego’s Finest Cuban & Puerto Rican Cuisine Since 1983

This family owned and operated restaurant has been a San Diegan classic for over 25 years, with a strong local following, and a favorite of many dignitaries, pro-athletes and notable figures visiting San Diego from Latin America that were in search of the best authentic Caribbean food. For the best seating, ask for table 7. An evening meal at Andrés is a delicious experience.

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Anthology is San Diego’s Award-Winning Live Music Venue Featuring Fine Dining
California Cuisine in Little Italy
Anthology is San Diego’s Award-Winning Live Music Venue Featuring Fine Dining

A perfect place to begin or conclude your discovery of romantic Little Italy is at Anthology. They were recently voted San Diego’s best live music venue and restaurant. So expect to see your favorite jazz, rock and contemporary artists perform while you are pampered with excellent service and outstanding cuisine. The per formers rave about… (read more)

Anthony’s Fish Grottos Have Been Voted San Diego’s Best Seafood Restaurants in the County
Seafood in Chula Vista, Downtown & La Mesa
Anthony’s Fish Grottos Have Been Voted San Diego’s Best Seafood Restaurants in the County

2010 marks the 64th anniversary of this San Diego institution! Since 1946, when Mama Ghio and her sons and son-in-law opened their first restaurant, Anthony’s Fish Grottos have served San Diegans delicious seafood.
Today, under the guidance of the third generation of the Ghio and Mascari families, they’re San Diego’s oldest, largest and favorite family-owned… (read more)

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Ashoka the Great Has Amazing Indian Cuisine & a Lunch Buffet That You Will Never Forget
Indian in Mira Mesa
Ashoka the Great Has Amazing Indian Cuisine & a Lunch Buffet That You Will Never Forget

This is a fabulous restaurant featuring the finest-tasting Indian cuisine in San Diego. Their all-you-can-eat lunch buffet and dinner buffet are very popular. However, it is from their extensive menu that you will find the truly memorable Indian cuisine that has made Ashoka the Great so well-known. And you can also order your meal… (read more)

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Babcock & Story Bar at The Hotel Del Features Creative Cocktails & Breathtaking Ocean Views
Restaurant & Bar in Coronado
Babcock & Story Bar at The Hotel Del Features Creative Cocktails & Breathtaking Ocean Views

Babcock & Story, often called B&S, was named after The Del’s visionary founders, Elisha Babcock and H.L. Story, two mid-western businessmen who dreamed of building a resort hotel that would be the “talk of the Western world.”
Babcock & Story Bar is designed to take advantage of the spectacular seaside setting. The original 46-foot handcrafted… (read more)

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Baci Ristorante: Italian Done Right
Italian Gourmet in Bay Park
Baci Ristorante: Italian Done Right

Baci is Bay Park’s best Italian restaurant. It’s classic neighborhood friendly gathering place where people from various cultures and economic classes find the same comfort and pleasure. Their impressive menu offers diners a hint of old world Italian charm, with plush booths, white tablecloths, and gracious servers clad in tuxedos.
In addition to the cuisine,… (read more)

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Baily’s Fine Dining Features Great Wine & Impressive Cuisine in Old Town Temecula
Continental Coastal in Temecula
Baily’s Fine Dining Features Great Wine & Impressive Cuisine in Old Town Temecula

For a special occasion or any occasion, Baily’s Fine Dining is the place to dine. Their four charming formal dining rooms offer a perfect setting for a memorable meal. The tables are beautifully set with white linen tablecloths, beautiful bouquets of flowers adorn each table and diners are pampered with attentive service.
Here in this… (read more)

Baja Cactus Mexican Restaurant: Temecula Dining Reminiscent of Old Mexico
Mexican in Temecula
Baja Cactus Mexican Restaurant: Temecula Dining Reminiscent of Old Mexico

This delightful medium-sized restaurant has a loyal following of happy diners. And once you dine here, you will undoubtedly become a regular too! Baja Cactus has a loyal following because the food is exceptional, the atmosphere is as authentic as that of old Mexico, the decor is upscale and the service is prompt and friendly.… (read more)

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Bali Hai Restaurant Features Excellent Dining, Mai Tais & A Spectacular View of the San Diego Bay
Polynesian in Shelter Island
Bali Hai Restaurant Features Excellent Dining, Mai Tais & A Spectacular View of the San Diego Bay

Bali Hai has been a San Diego favorite for seafood fine dining since 1954 because of their delicious seafood served with a breathtaking view of San Diego Bay. If you want to impress your out-of-town guests, bring them here. Entrées to rave about are their Chicken of the Gods, which has been a best seller… (read more)

Barra Barra Saloon and Restaurant in Old Town has “the Best margaritas in San Diego for $5″
Mexican in Old Town
Barra Barra Saloon and Restaurant in Old Town has “the Best margaritas in San Diego for $5″

Open daily 11 a.m.–9 p.m. and Fri.–Sat. until midnight. Happy hour Mon.–Fri. 4 p.m.–7 p.m.
Featuring “the best margarita in San Diego… for only 5 Bucks.” It’s served in a tall glass and is sure to grab your attention! Add quick service and excellent tasting Mexican food for good reasons to dine here.
Ask to… (read more)

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Bistro 39 Offers A Savory Selection of Bistro Classics with a California Twist & Great Decor
American in Carmel Valley
Bistro 39 Offers A Savory Selection of Bistro Classics with a California Twist & Great Decor

This place is a favorite dining destination for residents and out-of-towners alike. The reason for its local appeal is that it’s surrounded by apartments, condos and single-family homes. Plus, their chef, who graduated from a famous culinary school, creates memorable entrées at affordable prices. It’s an unbeatable combination. And their menu which changes every three… (read more)

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Bombay Exotic Cuisine of India: Wonderful Indian Cuisine with Upscale Decor
Indian in Hillcrest
Bombay Exotic Cuisine of India: Wonderful Indian Cuisine with Upscale Decor

From the moment you enter, you know this restaurant is special. The graceful waterfalls, the upscale decor, the gracious staff and serene atmosphere welcome you. And the cuisine is equally as wonderful with a delicate blend of spices that tantalize and please the palate.
Curry never tasted so good. There are 10 different curry dishes… (read more)

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Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant: Traditional Family-Style Dining with Italian Flare
Italian in Carslbad, Downtown & Mira Mesa
Buca di Beppo Italian Restaurant: Traditional Family-Style Dining with Italian Flare

This is not just another Italian restaurant. It’s a dining destination! You can even get a table in the kitchen with early reservations. Or if you are coming with a group of people, reserve the Godfather room. As for the decor, the walls are filled with photos of famous Italians and candid photos of daily… (read more)

Bully’s East is Well Known for Their World Famous Prime Rib and Steak Specialties
Steak House in Mission Valley | Happy Hour Menu
Bully’s East is Well Known for Their World Famous Prime Rib and Steak Specialties

Winner in 2010 for Best Steak House Casual at the Gold Medallion Awards. Here, the locals have been gathering for four decades to enjoy this restaurant and popular cocktail lounge. It’s also the perfect place to view sporting events. Since its establishment in 1971, Bully’s East has served more prime rib than any other San… (read more)

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Buster’s Beach House Features Island Style Cuisine in a Casual Setting & Hawaiian Decor
Hawaiian Fusion in Downtown
Buster’s Beach House Features Island Style Cuisine in a Casual Setting & Hawaiian Decor

Catch the island spirit at Buster’s with its romantic tropical decor, friendly service and great menu. With pastas, fresh fish specials, burgers, salads, wraps and ribs, it’s hard to decide which great-tasting entrée to select. An extra plus is dining on their terrace with its romantic bay and marina view.
Now offering Sunday Brunch. and… (read more)

C Level Lounge: Casual Dining with Breathtaking Bay Views
California Cuisine in Harbor Island
C Level Lounge: Casual Dining with Breathtaking Bay Views

At the eastern tip of romantic Harbor Island are two restaurants under one roof, Island Prime and C Level Lounge, which offers dazzling views of the bay and the downtown San Diego skyline.
For spectacular seating at C Level Lounge, ask for table 212 or ask to sit outdoors on their bayview patio. The key… (read more)

Cabana Cove Bar & Grill: The Vibe and Flavors of the Sea, the Sun and the Surf
International in Valley Center
Cabana Cove Bar & Grill: The Vibe and Flavors of the Sea, the Sun and the Surf

The creators of this theme restaurant traveled to six locations in the world in search of awesome surf and full plates of food that tasted unusually delicious. From Hawaii comes the Hukilau Pipeline, which is an ahi steak seared rare and served with rice and stir-fried vegetables.
And don’t miss the Devil’s Break rib eye… (read more)

Cafe Coyote & Cantina Serves Delicious Food, Great Margaritas & an Amazing Taco Tuesday!
Mexican in Old Town
Cafe Coyote & Cantina Serves Delicious Food, Great Margaritas & an Amazing Taco Tuesday!

Winner of the San Diego Restaurant Association’s 2005, 2006, 2008 and 2009 Gold Medallion Award for Best Mexican Restaurant. Café Coyote in Historic Old Town is celebrating its 21st anniversary and would like to thank San Diego and its visitors for 21 wonderful years.
The restaurant continues to be a landmark of the San Diego… (read more)

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Cafe Sevilla Restaurant is Home to the Flamenco, Tango and Salsa Dinner Shows
Spanish in Gaslamp Quarter | Happy Hour Menu
Cafe Sevilla Restaurant is Home to the Flamenco, Tango and Salsa Dinner Shows

They have been voted best Spanish and Tapas restaurant in San Diego numerous times. Enjoy the spirited music and flavorful cuisine of Spain. Their popular Gypsy Fusion Dinner Show ($47.50) is featured Sat. 7 p.m.–9:30 p.m., and their Classical Flamenco Dinner Show ($39.50) is performed Fri. 7 p.m.– 9:30 p.m. in the downstairs nightclub. The… (read more)

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Caffe Bella Italia Features Fresh Italian Cuisine by the Beach
Italian Gourmet in Pacific Beach
Caffe Bella Italia Features Fresh Italian Cuisine by the Beach

When you’re driving on Garnet Avenue, this restaurant is easy to recognize. This is because the building is circular, which adds to its uniqueness and charm. This local beach area favorite is one of two great Italian restaurants owned by the same family. The other restaurant is Solare Ristorante Lounge at historic Liberty Station in… (read more)

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Carol’s Restaurant at Baily Winery is Fine Dining and a Temecula Wine Country Favorite
California Cuisine in Temecula
Carol’s Restaurant at Baily Winery is Fine Dining and a Temecula Wine Country Favorite

Carol’s Restaurant is perfectly situated in a high-ceiling room dominated by a huge fireplace, the restaurant seems to be of another, perhaps medieval, time. Ask for seating inside next to the fireplace or on their delightful terrace overlooking their Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard. Their patio is covered by a pergola and nestled between the restaurant and… (read more)

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Casa de Bandini is Carlsbad’s Favorite Mexican Restaurant with Lively Decor and Delicious Dining
Mexican in Carlsbad
Casa de Bandini is Carlsbad’s Favorite Mexican Restaurant with Lively Decor and Delicious Dining

Festive south-of-the-border cuisine served by attentive servers in colorful attire has made Diane Powers’ Casa de Bandini the most popular Mexican restaurant in North County. Adding to the ambience are strolling mariachi that seranade you at your table while you dine.
A great beginning to any meal are warm tortillachips and a frosty margarita. Their… (read more)

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Casa de Pico is A Local Favorite for Over 30 Years
Mexican in La Mesa
Casa de Pico is A Local Favorite for Over 30 Years

They are home to the world famous bird-bath sized margaritas. One of the most colorful and enjoyable Mexican restaurants in San Diego County is Casa de Pico, which for 35 years was in Old Town’s Bazaar del Mundo. Now, by popular demand, it has relocated to La Mesa.
More than 40 Mexican meals are featured.… (read more)

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