Best Family Style Restaurants in University Heights

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchJapanese

Regions

San Diego

Neighborhoods

Banker's HillBarrio LoganChula Vista / BonitaDowntownHillcrestKearny Mesa

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

30 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Seneca

4.7

Exceptional(4512)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 119 times today

Roman trattorias are a timeless expression of simplicity. Immune to the lure of gastronomic experimentation and ego. In Rome, no chef can cook better than the mothers and grandmothers before them. Our goal is to merge the dogmatic approach of Roman cooking with the amazing abundance of ingredients available to us in San Diego. A True Roman Holiday In SD. A 4% surcharge is added to all guest checks.

2. Lala

4.6

Exceptional(192)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Little Italy

Booked 23 times today

From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.

3. Callie Restaurant

4.8

Exceptional(451)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Mediterranean • Downtown

Booked 61 times today

Callie represents Chef Travis Swikard's debut solo project after spending a decade working alongside the esteemed Chef Daniel Boulud in New York City. The restaurant’s name, "Callie," comes from the Greek word "kallos," meaning "the most beautiful," and embodies its blend of Mediterranean cuisine with local ingredients and terroir, from sea to land from San Diego, Swikard's hometown. In 2022, Callie was acclaimed as one of America's top new restaurants by Esquire and Robb Report, and received both a Bib Gourmand and a Plate from the Michelin Guide. Callie is a dedicated supporter of Feeding San Diego, having contributed over 1 million meals to those in need in San Diego since its launch. Swikard is set to open his second restaurant in La Jolla in 2025.

A photo of Ironside Fish & Oyster restaurant

4. Ironside Fish & Oyster

4.6

Exceptional(4672)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Seafood • Little Italy

Booked 105 times today

Little Italy was built by the fishing industry. Ironside attempts to continue that narrative. It's our contemporary interpretation of the classic fish house and oyster bar. Located in a historic auction house on India St we did a full comprehensive restoration of the building, with three open-air culinary hubs featuring an expansive raw bar, chefs table, and bakery. We tried to be mindful of the past while looking towards the future. Groups of 6 or more will be charged an automatic 20% gratuity. A 4% surcharge will be added to all guest checks.Ironside is now taking reservations for patio and dining room seating. We are now offering Happy Hour MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY FROM 3:00PM - 5:00PM.

5. Kettner Exchange

4.7

Exceptional(1452)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Little Italy

Booked 52 times today

Kettner Exchange boasts two levels of indoor/outdoor drinking and dining and Little Italy’s only rooftop patio with spanning harbor views. We feature Progressive American cuisine from critically acclaimed Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski. In 2019, Kettner Exchange was named to Michelin Guide's prestigious Bib Gourmand list. Kettner Exchange has proudly maintained this award every year thereafter. Originally introduced in 1997, the Bib Gourmand category highlights restaurants that serve high-quality meals which include two courses and a glass of wine or dessert for $40 or less.

6. Wormwood

4.6

Exceptional(869)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• French • North Park

Booked 24 times today

Wormwood invites you to step into a bygone era, where poets, artists, and dreamers found inspiration in the Green Fairy. Tucked between North Park and University Heights, our whimsical corner of San Diego offers a French dining experience like no other—where each dish is crafted with passion, paired with curated wines and signature cocktails, and brought to life by exceptional service. Whether in our cozy dining room, enchanting patio, or hidden Secret Garden speakeasy, every evening is a journey of flavor and hospitality.Now, we welcome you to experience Wormwood’s weekend brunch, every Saturday and Sunday. Indulge in a refined menu, sip handcrafted cocktails and artisanal coffee, and embrace a slower, more romantic pace to start your day. On Sundays, live jazz fills the air—transporting you to Belle Époque Paris with every note.Brunch at Wormwood is a celebration of indulgence, connection, and the art of hospitality. A morning affair you won’t want to miss.

7. Cellar Hand

4.6

Exceptional(150)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Farm-to-table • Hillcrest

Booked 26 times today

Nestled in the heart of Hillcrest, San Diego, Cellar Hand embodies a commitment to sustainability, craftsmanship, and community. Through a farm-to-table approach, our menu showcases hyper-local seasonal fare. Our extensive wine list highlights the diverse terroir of California, serving as an extension of founder’s Pali Wine Co. Santa Barbara County winery. By fostering deep connections with local artisans, farmers, fishers, and stewards, Cellar Hand strives to be a destination where guests can savor the essence of California’s bounty in every bite and sip.Enjoy our exposed kitchen, an indoor-outdoor bar, outdoor fire pits, and artwork by Nick Perr. Opened Wednesday - Sunday with daily happy hour specials and weekend brunch!

8. CUCINA urbana

4.7

Exceptional(7168)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Banker's Hill

Booked 72 times today

We are a wine shop inside of a restaurant | Dining and design form the perfect union at San Diego's highly acclaimed CUCINA urbana, a California-inspired Italian kitchen and wine shop, located in the heart of Bankers Hill since 2009. The restaurant boasts comfort and familiarity, welcoming diners to a country farmhouse with the added whimsy of a contemporary art installation.CUCINA urbana is the originator of the CUCINA retail wine program where each dedicated shop allows guests to hand select wines at a retail price, either to enjoy with their meal for a minimal corkage fee or for purchase to-go. The wine list is comprised of many familiar labels as well as rare and small-batch gems, with an emphasis on Italian varietals.

9. Huntress

4.7

Exceptional(886)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Steakhouse • Downtown

Booked 29 times today

Huntress is the most adventurous and energetic modern steakhouse in downtown San Diego, offering the finest cuts of meat, one of the largest collections of Japanese whisky brands in California, and a contemporary, lively atmosphere where music elevates every dish.

A photo of Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant

10. Rustic Root - Gaslamp

4.4

Awesome(1395)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Contemporary American • Downtown

Booked 77 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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Ashley
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
The food was absolutely delicious!! And the server was amazing too , the only complaint I have is the seating , why are they so small
More info
Ironside Fish & OysterPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Little Italy
•
4.6
K
KevinVIP
Tampa / Central Florida West •40 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Food was amazing! We did the tasting feast and have never seen so much food! The hummus was amazing, right along with the octopus, hanger steak and even the Aleppo chicken!
More info
Callie RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Mediterranean• Downtown
•
4.8
M
MattVIP
Vancouver / British Columbia •45 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Really fun atmosphere, great ambiance. This is a fun restaurant with delicious food!
More info
LalaPrice: Moderate• Italian• Little Italy
•
4.6
E
ElcimVIP
San Diego •20 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Seneca San Diego is a true gem. From the moment you walk in, the design takes your breath away! Stylish, vibrant, and full of character, with stunning views that elevate the entire experience. The food is absolutely delicious, thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented. Service is attentive and friendly without being intrusive. The ambience strikes a perfect balance between lively and relaxed, making it ideal for both special occasions and a memorable night out. Highly recommend!
More info
SenecaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Downtown
•
4.7
M
melissa
California Central Coast •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Fun vibe, great ambience and eclectic and delicious menu. Great for brunch!
More info
Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
•
4.7

Explore OpenTable

Neighborhood
Family style

University Heights

Kearny Mesa
Grantville
Linda Vista
Hillcrest
Scripps Ranch
Ocean Beach
Cardiff By The Sea
Oceanside
La Jolla
La Mesa
Sorrento Mesa
Vista
Downtown
San Marcos
Sorrento Valley
Mira Mesa
North Park
Banker's Hill
Point Loma
Carlsbad