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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Cardiff By The Sea

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65 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Chart House Restaurant - Cardiff restaurant
4.4
Awesome(7421)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Solana Beach
Booked 45 times today
Chart House Restaurant in Cardiff is a beacon of authentic American cuisine, offering an exquisite dining experience with a stunning oceanfront view. Known for its unparalleled service and ambiance, it has captivated diners for over 50 years. Guests rave about the “delicious brunch” and the “filet and shrimp combo prepared to perfection.” The Thanksgiving dinner is a standout, with “turkey that is moist and plentiful,” echoing traditional American flavors. The menu, featuring fresh seafood and slow-roasted prime rib, is complemented by signature cocktails and the irresistible Hot Chocolate Lava Cake. Chart House truly embodies the essence of classic American dining.
A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(240)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Encinitas
Booked 67 times today
Waverly Restaurant & Lounge, nestled in picturesque Cardiff by The Sea, offers an exquisite take on Contemporary American cuisine with a unique European twist. Diners frequently praise its innovative dishes, with the duck meatball and whipped ricotta receiving standout reviews for being "delicious" and "super tasty." The atmosphere is lauded as "lively and fun" with an inviting indoor-outdoor setup, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests are treated to top-notch service, often described as "informative and friendly," contributing to an overall "5-star experience." Whether for a casual outing or a special celebration, Waverly consistently delivers excellence in every culinary aspect.
A photo of Jake's Del Mar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(10765)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 138 times today
Jake's Del Mar is a seafood lover's paradise, offering an authentic California coastal dining experience right on the stunning shores of Del Mar. Renowned for its "amazing" halibut and "perfect" Mahi Mahi, the dishes here are meticulously prepared to highlight the freshest flavors of the sea. Guests rave about the "amazing" spot for sunset dining, where the breathtaking ocean views complement the delectable seafood dishes. With attentive service that goes above and beyond to accommodate dietary needs, Jake's Del Mar ensures every dining experience is memorable. Indulge in their delightful seafood offerings while soaking in the "unbeatable" coastal atmosphere.
A photo of Rustic Root - Solana Beach restaurant
4.2
Awesome(194)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 58 times today
The concept behind Rustic Root is simple: Create the kind of neighborhood place you can eat at every week and never get tired of going back.
A photo of Poseidon restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(5766)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 76 times today
Poseidon in Del Mar offers an outstanding American dining experience with its prime beachfront location and breathtaking ocean views. Celebrated by locals and tourists alike, Poseidon is described as a "neighborhood gem" that never disappoints with its delicious American cuisine. Guests rave about the "drool-worthy dishes" like the Mahi fish tacos and the expertly cooked wild salmon. With a setting that captures stunning beach sunsets, Poseidon promises a memorable ambiance, further enhanced by attentive and friendly staff. Whether you're enjoying a cozy dinner by the firepit or a casual lunch with beach views, Poseidon's American fare is truly exceptional.
A photo of Nick's Del Mar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1524)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 65 times today
Classic American comfort food, crave-able bar snacks, plus unique cocktails & an extensive wine list in an upscale yet casual environment. Our intimate restaurant features a chic island bar, walls of glass and a spacious covered patio, perfect for people watching. Our exhibition kitchen highlights the talents of our passionate culinary team.Nick’s is dedicated to perfecting the dining experience through continuous innovation, offering the highest quality food and beverage, and executing impeccable standards of hospitality. The deeply instilled Nick’s culture is personified by its Ladies and Gentlemen – professionals who share a single focus and are inspired and committed to offering great service and creating positive memorable experiences.
A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(811)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 67 times today
Nestled in the heart of Del Mar, San Diego, South of Nick's stands as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine with a tantalizing Southern California twist. This lively eatery has earned rave reviews for its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service, where "Jordan was the best" and "Chase was phenomenal." Diners are consistently delighted by classic favorites like the "Cabo Shrimp" and "toasted coconut drink," which are celebrated for their authentic flavors and creative flair. With high praise for its rich, flavorful dishes and top-notch hospitality, South of Nick's promises a dining experience that's "always consistently good" and utterly unforgettable.
A photo of Pacifica Del Mar restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4948)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Del Mar
Booked 32 times today
Pacifica Del Mar is a shining star in the heart of Del Mar, offering an exquisite Contemporary American dining experience that has been delighting patrons for decades. Elevated above the Del Mar Plaza, the restaurant boasts "spectacular ocean views" that perfectly complement its delicious and inspired menu. Renowned for its casual yet refined offerings, Pacifica Del Mar excels in crafting dishes that are both "exceptional" and "super tasty," featuring fresh seafood, tender steaks, and creative pasta options. The award-winning wine list and inventive cocktails enhance the dining experience, while the attentive and "wonderful service" ensures a memorable evening for all.
A photo of Tavern restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(620)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Solana Beach
Booked 15 times today
Newly remodeled, the much airier Tavern is all about art, music, and above all great food. Open for lunch and soon to include evening dining, the Tavern adds a distinctly Mexican/Pacific Coast set of flavors to the local fine dining scene.We are located in the heart of the Cedros Design District, within walking distance of the Amtrak station. The style is casual with indoor and outdoor dining ( plus bar seating). The patio, which can accommodate 18 guests, looks out onto the shop-lined Cedros Avenue and can be separated from the main dining area for private events.*Please note* Our restaurant welcomes walk-ins during our Lunch hours from 11:30 am- 3:30 pm. *Tavern restaurant will be closed for dinner (Lunch will remain open Monday and Tuesday when the belly up is dark)*Please check our website for the most up-to-date hours*
A photo of Haven restaurant
4.5
Awesome(279)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Encinitas
Booked 19 times today
Haven Farm + Table in Encinitas is a beacon of exquisite American cuisine, seamlessly combining farm-to-table freshness with innovative culinary artistry. Diners rave about the "divine food" crafted by Chef Kelston Moore, with standout dishes like the Jerk Pork Belly Mole and a "juicy, flavorful" Bison Burger. The lush, three-acre regenerative farm just steps from the kitchen ensures that every dish is as fresh as it is delicious. Guests are enchanted by the "amazing farm-to-table dishes" and the vibrant ambiance. With its "stunning views" and "phenomenal service," Haven offers a truly exceptional American dining experience that leaves guests eager to return.
‘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
From verified diners like you
  • GuzmansVIP
    Las Vegas •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Spent the afternoon here for brunch with my girls looking at a gorgeous view. Always a fun and yummy experience!
    More info
    Cocina 35 CoronadoPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Coronado
    4.6
  • Paul
    Baja California •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    First time here , service was great ! Food delicious ! Everything was point on . I didn’t have to wait even tho there were very long lines . Reservation was respected .
    More info
    Cocina 35 - DowntownPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Downtown
    4.5
  • Andrew
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 29, 2025
    We started with the Fritto Misto. Perfectly fabricated bite sized light pieces light of squid and shrimp, instead of the large cumbersome chewy offerings at most places. Smaller pieces = more surface area= more tasty light batter to dip in the delicious aoili. The pickled Bermuda was a lovely garnish. (Although my wife snagged most of that) The massive ribeye almost made me want to disgorge the appetizer to make room. The presentation was flawless. Chef Cameron outdid himself on the rub and preparation. Cooked perfectly to medium rare. Somehow he was able to pyrolize the fat so that I ate all of it. The little red vegetables on top we're also exquisitely sweet and tasty. I can only assume that they were some type of neonatal peppers. The shrimp were also fantastic. I believe Chef Cameron told me there was some blackening and something else that caused the malliard reaction to occur that gave it a sweet flavor. The roasted salsa verde acted as a perfect "gravy" for the potatoes and the broccolini which were crisp and tasty. There was nothing left on my plate except a little bit of the gristle expected from a steak taken from Bob's. I also tasted some of my wife's halibut which she adored. It was cooked to perfection and had just the right amount of cilantro flavor. (Although I can't get too much of that on non-shellfish seafood) I had to cut her off after 5 oz of my steak. I don't know if I can get through the whole menu because I may have to keep coming back to the surf and turf.
    More info
    Vue - Omni La Costa Resort & SpaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    4.5
  • SamVIP
    Phoenix / Arizona •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 20, 2025
    The restaurant has a great atmosphere and ambiance. The food and drinks were very good. The chicken flautas on the seasonal menu were so light and tasty, hope they add to the menu permanently. Would definitely recommend!
    More info
    Jalisco Cantina - CarlsbadPrice: Expensive• Mexican• Oceanside
    4.6
  • S
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 19, 2025
    Tasty tapas style plates. Little pricey. Service started off good as we went early in the evening but as we neared the end of our meal, took some time to find out server for the bill. Seemed like there may have been a large party outside so not a big deal, just seemed a little understaffed as there were barely any tables inside. Would go back for drinks!
    More info
    Camino RivieraPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• Little Italy
    4.7
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