Best American Restaurants in Harbor Island

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Regions

East CountySan Diego

Neighborhoods

Banker's HillBarrio LoganBay ParkChula Vista / BonitaCollege AreaCoronado

Top Rated

CharmingDog-friendlyFancyGood for business mealsGood for groupsGood for special occasions

Dining Options

All dining options

Delivery only

Takeout only

Seating Options

BarCounterStandardHigh TopOutdoor

Award-winning

MICHELIN

Accessibility

Wheelchair access

138 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6694)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Little Italy

Booked 86 times today

Herb & Wood in San Diego's vibrant Little Italy is a shining example of exquisite American cuisine. Celebrated Chef Brian Malarkey crafts a menu that elevates rustic, wood-fired dishes, blending Mediterranean flair with California's commitment to seasonality and sustainability. Diners rave about the "incredible dinner" experience, showcasing "amazing, flavorful food" and "outstanding service." The ambiance is described as "beautiful" and "welcoming," making every visit memorable. Signature dishes like the pork belly and filet mignon are praised for their exceptional taste. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Herb & Wood promises a "truly memorable culinary experience."

2. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1468)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Little Italy

Booked 40 times today

Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

3. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.6

Exceptional(4678)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Little Italy

Booked 109 times today

Ironside Fish & Oyster in San Diego's Little Italy is a quintessential hotspot for authentic American cuisine, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary flavors. This gem pays homage to its roots in the fishing industry with a mouthwatering menu that features renowned dishes such as the lobster roll and clam chowder, praised for being “chock full of clams.” The vibrant atmosphere and top-notch service are frequently highlighted in reviews, with one diner noting the “excellent experience, food, and ambience.” With a stellar raw bar and an enticing happy hour, Ironside promises a “delightful experience” that diners find irresistible.

4. Starlite

4.7

Exceptional(145)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Mission Hills

Booked 122 times today

Starlite: A timeless San Diego icon with a fresh future, helmed by Chef Ted Smith.Please note: Our establishment is 21+

A photo of The Henry - Coronado restaurant

5. The Henry - Coronado

4.8

Exceptional(2738)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Coronado

Booked 120 times today

The Henry - Coronado is a standout destination for exquisite Cocktail Bar cuisine, offering a vibrant and lively atmosphere that feels like a second home. Situated in the heart of Coronado, it features an inviting bar where "creative cocktails are crafted to perfection," ensuring a delightful experience with every visit. Patrons rave about the "outstanding service" and "lively vibe," making it an ideal spot for social gatherings or unwinding after a long day. Whether you're enjoying a holiday drink or a classic concoction, the bar at The Henry ensures a memorable and authentic cocktail experience that keeps guests coming back for more.

A photo of Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant

6. Rustic Root - Gaslamp

4.4

Awesome(1411)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Downtown

Booked 38 times today

Rustic Root showcases our take on New American Comfort food with a California twist. Classic dishes are rooted in tradition, including regional dishes from around the country. All reimagined with fresh and local ingredients and our Chef’s modern flair. Our Signature drink menus offer our take on timeless classic cocktails as well as Rustic Root originals using creative spirits and the freshest ingredients. Join us in our street-level dining room for dinner nightly or our award-winning weekend brunch. Our rooftop lounge is an excellent place to grab drinks & a bite with friends, enjoying the San Diego weather and our unique location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Close to the San Diego Convention Center, we're a favorite for locals and out of town tourists alike.

A photo of Cocina 35 Coronado restaurant

7. Cocina 35 Coronado

4.5

Awesome(289)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Coronado

Booked 83 times today

Our team is dedicated to bring to you the essence of Mexico, the flavors, aromas, culture, service and textures that were given to us, growing up cooking right next to our grandparents in Mexico.We are the only restaurant in San Diego that specialized in Chilaquiles the Most traditional Mexican Breakfast.#BESTCHILAQUILESINTOWN

A photo of Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

8. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.6

Exceptional(1047)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• American • Downtown

Booked 43 times today

Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a standout destination for Pizza Bar cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Known for its woodfire-oven baked pizzas, Provisional serves up authentic Italian flavors that have earned rave reviews for their "extraordinary service and quality." Guests appreciate the "beautiful venue" and "lovely atmosphere," which enhance the dining experience. The pizzas, crafted with fresh ingredients and a perfect crisp crust, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Provisional promises a memorable culinary journey with its top-notch Pizza Bar offerings.

9. Cowboy Star

4.8

Exceptional(4938)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• American • Downtown

Booked 56 times today

Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.

10. Brisa

new

4.4

Awesome(32)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Little Italy

Booked 40 times today

Brisa is a lively spot in San Diego’s Little Italy serving up bold Latin and Asian fusion flavors in a fun, laid-back setting. The menu is all about fresh ingredients and creative twists—from zesty ceviches to spicy noodles and shareable street food-inspired plates. With its vibrant, plant-filled space and upbeat vibe, Brisa is the perfect hangout for casual bites, craft cocktails, and good times with friends.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

C
christianVIP
Los Angeles •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Great food and drinks! Will have to come back asap
More info
StarlitePrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Mission Hills
•
4.7
J
JoshuaVIP
Los Angeles •17 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Outstanding food and outstanding service! Definitely a place I will come back to.
More info
Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7
O
Oscar
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Excellent food and a great Service, al in a very cozy ambient
More info
Herb & WoodPrice: Expensive• Californian• Little Italy
•
4.7
E
Eric
Las Vegas •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Over the food was delicious, made with fresh ingredients with nice side dishes. We did the short rib pot stickers and a side of double fried rice as a starter and both were excellent. We also got the Turkey dip with coleslaw bit of which I would recommend, and the pasta with burrata and chilies which was good but not very spicy which we had hoped for a little more heat.
More info
The Henry - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• American• Coronado
•
4.8
OT
OpenTable Diner
Nashville •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
The staff went above and beyond to wish my boyfriend a Happy Birthday and make our dining experience extra special. The food is always delicious and we will be back as repeat customers for the excellent service and staff. Thank you!
More info
Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
•
4.6

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