Best Southern American Restaurants in Old Town

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

144 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina restaurant

1. Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina

3.8

Excellent(1164)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Old Town

Booked 8 times today

Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina is an exceptional spot for authentic American cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of San Diego’s historic Old Town. Diners rave about the "great service" and "fantastic views," making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. The rooftop setting adds a unique charm, perfect for a sunset dinner. The Sunday Champagne brunch is a standout, described as "excellent" with "lots to choose from." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, the "impeccable service" and delicious food ensure a memorable dining experience.

A photo of Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila restaurant

2. Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila

4.6

Exceptional(333)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Old Town

Booked 4 times today

Casa De Freds, Tacos y Tequila, nestled in the heart of Old Town San Diego, has been the go-to spot for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine since 2001. This vibrant restaurant enchants diners with its "amazing tacos and appetizers" and "outstanding service." What truly sets Casa De Freds apart is its dedication to "quality food" made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every bite is bursting with Baja-infused flavors. Guests rave about the "pure pleasure" of dining in their dog-friendly outdoor patio, making it a delightful experience for all. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Casa De Freds promises a festive and flavorful Tex-Mex feast!

3. Starlite

4.7

Exceptional(320)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Mission Hills

Booked 93 times today

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

4. Herb & Wood

4.7

Exceptional(6774)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 92 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."

A photo of The Henry - Coronado restaurant

5. The Henry - Coronado

4.8

Exceptional(2855)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Coronado

Booked 209 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 Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

6. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.7

Exceptional(4731)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 112 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.

7. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1502)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Little Italy

Booked 57 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.

8. Fort Oak

4.8

Exceptional(453)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Mission Hills

Booked 37 times today

An ode to fire and sea, Fort Oak delivers the bold, wood-fired flavors that define Chef Brad Wise’s signature style. Centered around a live-fire hearth, the restaurant offers elevated yet approachable dishes alongside a refined seafood and raw bar. Smoke is the through line - simple, high-quality ingredients are transformed by flame into plates full of depth and character. Dry-aged ribeyes, duck, and whole branzino showcase the hearth’s intensity, while freshly shucked oysters and seafood towers bring a raw, briny counterpoint. And while the meats and seafood command attention, the vegetables have earned a reputation of their own - charred, caramelized, and layered with surprising complexity. Some say they steal the show - but that’s up to you to decide.

9. Quixote

4.7

Exceptional(1255)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Southern american • North Park

Booked 54 times today

Quixote in North Park, San Diego is a culinary gem that beautifully captures the essence of American cuisine with a delightful twist. Known for its "amazing food" and "incredible service," Quixote offers a menu filled with creative and exciting dishes that push the boundaries of traditional American flavors. Diners rave about the "best guacamole ever" and the must-try "crab corn donut," highlighting the restaurant's innovative approach. The "impeccable ambiance" and "warm atmosphere" create a memorable dining experience, perfect for any occasion. Quixote's dedication to quality and authenticity makes it a standout choice for anyone seeking a unique American dining adventure.

A photo of Cocina 35 Coronado restaurant

10. Cocina 35 Coronado

4.6

Exceptional(385)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Coronado

Booked 108 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

‘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.

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