Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Southwest American Restaurants in College Area

Discover the best restaurants in College Area

Explore must-try spots, new openings, and hidden gems.

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

148 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Casa Gabriela restaurant
1. Casa Gabriela
4.6
Exceptional(844)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 29 times today
Casa Gabriela in Downtown La Mesa is a breakfast haven that seamlessly blends authentic Mexican flavors with a modern twist. Chef Gabriela Lopez masterfully infuses her Guadalajara roots with Tijuana influences, offering a breakfast menu that stands out for its quality and creativity. Guests rave about the "best brunches in SD," highlighting dishes like the scrumptious breakfast burrito and the delightful chilaquiles with salsa verde. The ambiance is equally enticing, with a charming garden patio that enhances the dining experience. Casa Gabriela's breakfast offerings are a symphony of flavors that promise to transport you to the heart of Mexico with every bite.
A photo of Flora - North Park restaurant
2. Flora - North Park
4.3
Awesome(94)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 21 times today
FLORA NORTH PARK BRUNCH: the latest refuge for brunch lovers and those daring enough to explore themselves—Flora, a cosmopolitan, farm-to-table gem that elevates each dish into an invitation for self-discovery. Flora North Park is an experience woven from thoughtfully curated ingredients, each food group inspiring you to explore different facets of yourself. Choose from dishes with classic, golden yolks to the unexpected.………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………………………………..…… FLORA NORTH PARK DINNER: Everyone who’s anyone is positively buzzing about our After Hours. Flora will transform into an intimate soirée—a world of small bites and artfully crafted cocktails. Imagine slipping into a scene where laughter mingles with the clink of glasses. Flora will be open from Thursday to Saturday, for those who want to linger a little longer.
A photo of Louisiana Purchase SD restaurant
3. Louisiana Purchase SD
4.4
Awesome(798)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 30 times today
At Louisiana Purchase SD in North Park, San Diego, authentic Creole cuisine takes center stage, delighting diners with "flavor-packed, perfectly seasoned" dishes that transport you straight to New Orleans. Executive Chef Quinnton Austin, a New Orleans native, infuses each dish with his extensive knowledge and passion for Southern flavors, ensuring an experience that is both genuine and unforgettable. Guests rave about signature items like the "Alligator Cheesecake" and "Rasta Pasta," applauding the rich, bold tastes and generous portions. With its warm, vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, Louisiana Purchase SD promises a truly memorable dining experience for anyone craving a taste of the South.
A photo of Farmer's Table - La Mesa restaurant
4. Farmer's Table - La Mesa
4.4
Awesome(2050)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 13 times today
Farmer's Table - La Mesa is a true gem in the heart of La Mesa, offering an authentic American dining experience with a modern twist. This family-run eatery is renowned for its farm-to-fork approach, crafting dishes with locally sourced organic ingredients that elevate traditional American flavors. Guests rave about the "wonderful omelets, salads, and mouth-watering pizzas" that consistently impress. The inviting, family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for gatherings, whether it's a magical brunch or a cozy dinner. With "excellent food and service," Farmer's Table stands out as a delightful destination for anyone seeking honest, high-quality American cuisine.
A photo of The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room restaurant
5. The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room
4.7
Exceptional(47)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 3 times today
The Riviera Supper Club and Turquoise Room in La Mesa offers a captivating grill experience that sets it apart as a top-tier destination for Grill cuisine. Diners rave about the option to "grill your steaks yourself at the communal grill," creating a unique and engaging dining atmosphere. For those who prefer their meals prepared, the restaurant boasts expertly grilled steaks with an array of mouthwatering entrees. Guests frequently highlight the "amazing seasoned meat" and impeccable service, making every visit memorable. With live jazz music enhancing the experience, the Riviera Supper Club is not just a meal, but a full sensory delight!
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
6. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2703)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 10 times today
The Smoking Goat Restaurant in North Park, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Contemporary French / American experience that has garnered rave reviews and awards, including the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego three years running. Executive Chef Fred Piehl's masterful blend of classic French techniques with the fresh, sustainable bounty of San Diego offers a "rustic, yet refined" culinary journey. Diners have lauded dishes such as the "perfectly cooked" duck l'orange and the "delicious" prime rib, each beautifully presented. With an attentive staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft cocktails, The Smoking Goat promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of El Torito - La Mesa restaurant
7. El Torito - La Mesa
4.1
Excellent(480)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Mesa
Booked 9 times today
The authority in great Mexican food for more than 65 years. Offering a memorable experience to make each guest feel like family.
A photo of One Door North restaurant
8. One Door North
4.5
Awesome(542)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 8 times today
At One Door North in North Park, San Diego, seafood enthusiasts are treated to an exceptional culinary journey that exudes freshness and authenticity. Known for its farm-to-table ethos, this New American Bar and Eatery delivers seafood dishes that are nothing short of spectacular. Diners have raved about the "crispy octopus served with a delicious aioli sauce," a standout favorite that captures the restaurant's innovative flair. The salmon and trout dishes also come highly recommended for their exquisite flavors and freshness. With its adventurous spirit and top-notch service, One Door North is a seafood haven that promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of KnB Bistro - College Area restaurant
9. KnB Bistro - College Area
4.6
Exceptional(1)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • College Area
Delicious Food, Strong Spirits, And Bubbling Brews All In One Unique Experience.BISTRO | BAR | BOTTLE SHOP | BREWERY | BANQUET ROOM | 32 BEERS ON TAP | IN-HOUSE TASTINGSWe are a bottle shop, brewery, bistro, and bar. Our selection is MASSIVE and there's nothing we can't do
A photo of LIPS - San Diego restaurant
10. LIPS - San Diego
4.9
Exceptional(133)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 10 times today
Lips has been San Diego's ULTIMATE in Drag Dining for 25 years! Dinner, Drinks & fabulous Drag Shows, as well as Brunch on Saturdays & Sundays. Enjoy a great meal & cocktails served up by over-the-top Drag Queens. DIFFERENT SHOWS WEDNESDAY THRU SUNDAY. Wed: Bithcy Bingo; Thur: Dining with the Divas; Fri: Glitz & Glam Dinner; Sat: 2 Dragalicious Brunches & 2 Glitz & Glam Dinners; Sun: 2 Gospel Brunches & Sunday Nite Showstoppers. ***Prices- Wed/Thur/Sun Dinner: $35.95(shoe & 3-course dinner, drinks additional); Sat/Sun Brunch: $42.95(Show, meal & bottomless Mimosas/Champagne/Bloody Mary; Fri/Sat Nite: $49.95(show & 3-course dinner,drinks additional) All shows subject to 7.75%sales tax & 20% suggested gratuity; $12 celebration package for Birthdays/Bachelorette/Anniversary/Promotion/Graduation. 16+ to enter; 21+ to Drink. GOVERNMENT ID REQUIRED-ALL IDS CHECKED AT THE DOOR
‘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
  • Katie
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    I can’t count the number of Mexican/ Latin American restaurants I’ve tried in the US that have failed to live up to anything you’ll ever get in Mexico and beyond, but that said, overall I give this place a thumbs up. Food = solid. No complaints in our party who ordered everything from fajitas to kids menu items. Vibe =nice, relaxed. ( Coronado standards) Prices = Again, decent by Coronado standards.. Customer Service =Great. Our server was really helpful and low pressure. We felt the staff was really attentive, ALMOST crossing the line to too attentive, but happy to give some grace as we know the alternative is less ideal.
    More info
    Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
    •
    4.8
  • GREGVIP
    San Diego •24 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 13, 2025
    Overall a very good experience. Carne Asada and Shrimp tacos were delicious. Cocktails were great and overall the value was very good comparatively. Will be back!
    More info
    Blind BurroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Downtown
    •
    4.4
  • Annette
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Apr 9, 2025
    The absolute best experience at Blanco Fashion Valley. I took my staff there for birthday celebrations. I first had to call because we were late for our reservation due to meetings and traffic. The lady on the phone, Olivia, was so nice and helpful. Then the food was all amazing!! Service was amazing. And even when they called the manager over so I could get everything settled, he was great. Usually there’s one person that’s not the best, but everyone was so great and I would definitely recommend this place to anyone. The drinks were yummy and so pretty too. 🙂
    More info
    Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
    •
    4.6
  • karil
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 25, 2025
    We love Ortega’s! We meet friends there regularly for the fabulous margaritas, nice ambiance, and delicious food. The staff is friendly and efficient.
    More info
    Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
    •
    4.5
  • HHoney
    Atlanta •19 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 10, 2025
    Excellent food all around - even the kids burger and fries were substantial. Our server was very attentive! Highly recommend
    More info
    Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
    •
    4.7

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Restaurant reservation software
  • Industry insights
  • Hospitality resources
  • Marketing resources
  • Operation resources
  • How to open a restaurant
  • For restaurants
  • For restaurant groups
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2025 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo