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Best Authentic Restaurants in Hillcrest

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A photo of Parma Cucina Italiana restaurant
1. Parma Cucina Italiana
4.8
Exceptional(139)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Hillcrest
Booked 15 times today
Known for the Best Lasagna in San Diego, Parma Cucina Italiana is a charming and cozy family run Italian restaurant in the heart of Historic Hillcrest. Our traditional Italian cuisine is inspired by generations of home cooking, fresh ingredients, and simple presentations. Our specialties originate from Northern Italy. The must try lasagna is decadent layers of Bolognese and béchamel sauce. Or try our tortellini with cream and prosciutto, or our pappardelle pasta tossed with slow braised short rib and porcini mushrooms. We have an extensive wine collection with wines from the best regions of Italy. And an Italian meal wouldn’t be complete without our homemade desserts. We suggest tiramisu and profiteroles alla nutella.
A photo of Cocina de Barrio restaurant
2. Cocina de Barrio
4.7
Exceptional(431)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Hillcrest
Booked 10 times today
*Brunch hours are on a walk-in basis only. Thank you for your cooperation & support during this time!Cocina de Barrio by Chef Jose J. FloresBienvenidos a Cocina de Barrio, the newest modern-urban Mexican restaurant located in Hillcrest, San Diego! We are proud to feature the culinary richness of Oaxaca as well as other Mexican regions. Stop by and enjoy our bar stocked with plenty tequila and mezcal selections, MUCHA cerveza, and wines sourced from Valle Guadalupe. Don't forget to join us during our daily brunch (where we add a Mexican kick) and our happy hour every Tuesday-Friday from 3-5pm! Stay Chido!
A photo of Frenchy’s Hideout restaurant
3. Frenchy’s Hideout
4.8
Exceptional(24)
Price: Expensive
• French • Hillcrest
Booked 6 times today
Welcome to Frenchy’s Hideout, where Parisian elegance meets San Diego's vibrant taste for great food, wine, and unforgettable experiences. Treat yourself to a carefully curated selection of exquisite wines and authentic French cuisine, designed to create a dining experience you won’t soon forget. Whether you're here for a cozy dinner, a celebratory evening, or just a great glass of wine, our inviting atmosphere and passionate team are dedicated to making every visit special.Our menu blends approachable elegance with the rich traditions of French cuisine, offering both regular dinner service and immersive coursed tasting menus. Each dish is carefully crafted and paired with wines that tell a story.Join us for our weekly wine dinners, where we explore unique wineries and pair them with delectable dishes, all led by Head Chef Pedro Lugo Brito and Owner/Sommelier Michael Simpson. Whether it’s famous wineries or hidden gems, we’ll take you on a gastronomical journey like no other.
A photo of Ortega's A Mexican Bistro restaurant
4. Ortega's A Mexican Bistro
4.4
Awesome(1030)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Hillcrest
Booked 10 times today
Ortega's Mexican Bistro is a true gem in San Diego, serving authentic flavors of Puerto Nuevo. Reviewers rave about the Baja style lobster, table side guacamole, and the festive ambiance. They even mentioned the 'beautiful surroundings' and 'great service'. The menu also features flavorful dishes like Banana Crusted Huachinango and Flat Iron Steak Burrito. This place is the real deal!
A photo of La Bonne Table restaurant
5. La Bonne Table
4.9
Exceptional(1468)
Price: Moderate
• French • Hillcrest
Booked 3 times today
LA BONNE TABLE is a cozy and intimate restaurant in the heart of the bustling neighborhood of Hillcrest. We serve country french food in a bistro fashion. Our menu consists of classic french dishes, a modest but excellent selection that will change with the seasons. We offer a romantic atmosphere and elegant setting, full bar and french beer on tap. Reservations are recommended as seating is very limited in this exclusive restaurant. ​Bon Appetit!
A photo of Huapangos restaurant
6. Huapangos
4.8
Exceptional(4)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Hillcrest
Huapangos, a family-owned gem in the heart of San Diego, invites you to experience authentic Mexican cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by the haciendas of the Yucatan Peninsula, our dishes combine traditional flavors with local ingredients, creating a unique culinary journey that celebrates Mexican heritage.Step inside and be transported to a lively fiesta. Colorful décor, vibrant murals, and the warm aroma of spices fill the air, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Our friendly staff, often family members themselves, will greet you with genuine hospitality, making you feel right at home.Don't miss our delectable breakfast and brunch options, perfect for starting your day with a taste of Mexico. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or a festive gathering with friends and family, Huapangos offers the perfect setting.
A photo of Taste of Denmark restaurant
7. Taste of Denmark
4.9
Exceptional(40)
Price: Moderate
• European • Hillcrest
Ever had a Danish meal ?We welcome you to Taste of Denmark. We are excited to offer you a culinary trip to Denmark. Have a seat on the dog friendly patio or retreat to our indoor setting with dimmed lights. Whatever the occasion you can be sure to experience our warm hospitality known as “hygge” accompanied by the Taste of Denmark treats, light dishes and hearty comfort food. Gluten free dishes, vegetarian options and a fantastic beverage menu, we stand ready to give you memorable dining experience.You will find Taste of Denmark convenient located in Hillcrest close to the airport and balboa park.
A photo of NOLA on 5th restaurant
8. NOLA on 5th
3.9
Excellent(96)
Price: Moderate
• Creole / Cajun / Southern • Hillcrest
Booked 7 times today
NOLA on 5th brings the flavors and spirit of New Orleans dining to San Diego. You will find a casual bar and outdoor patio downstairs, with a more upscale experience in our upstairs room overlooking bustling 5th Avenue in San Diego's famous Hillcrest neighborhood. We've been featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, as well as on A&E and The Travel Channel.Chef Andrew Boyer, a long-time New Orleans resident, has left no detail untouched in our food, from ingredients to presentation. You will find all of the traditional NOLA favorites here like jambalaya, gumbo, po'boys, red beans and rice, and more. We fly our bread in from Leidenheimer's bakery in Louisiana, and we'd love to serve you a delicious Abita beer with your meal. And while they are in season, be sure to stop by for one of our Louisiana crawfish boils, which are some of our busiest and most fun days of the year.
A photo of LEILA restaurant
9. LEILA
4.8
Exceptional(1233)
Price: Expensive
• Middle Eastern • North Park
Booked 120 times today
A tribute to the Middle East by CH Projects. Reservations recommended , walk-ins welcome at the bar. Leila welcomes you.858-SAFFRON
A photo of Starlite restaurant
10. Starlite
4.7
Exceptional(229)
Price: Expensive
• Steakhouse • Mission Hills
Booked 92 times today
Starlite: A timeless San Diego icon with a fresh future, helmed by Chef Ted Smith.Please note: Our establishment is 21+

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Discover best authentic restaurants in Hillcrest

Discover the vibrant dining scene of Hillcrest, San Diego, where authenticity shines through in every culinary experience. Our handpicked selection of restaurants in this eclectic neighborhood promises to transport your palate with genuine flavors that are as diverse as the community itself. Each establishment has been chosen for its commitment to authenticity, offering dishes that are not only true to their roots but also skillfully prepared with high-quality ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Mexican, time-honored Italian, or any other genuine ethnic cuisine, Hillcrest's dining options will not disappoint. The area is renowned for its lively atmosphere and warm hospitality, making it the perfect backdrop for both casual meals and special occasions. Enjoy dining experiences where every meal is served with a side of authenticity, ensuring a memorable and truly local culinary adventure.

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