Best Kid Friendly Restaurants in Downtown

Price

$$
$$$
$$$$

Cuisine

AmericanItalianSteakhouseSeafoodFrenchMexican

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

249 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

1. Cowboy Star

4.8

Exceptional(4910)

$$$$Price: Very Expensive

• Steakhouse • Downtown

Booked 36 times today

Located in the heart of the East Village neighborhood of San Diego, Cowboy Star is dedicated to providing an unmatched attention to detail and a level of service that immediately sets us apart. Cowboy Star guests are the number one priority and guest satisfaction is the base upon which our entire concept is built. Our level of service is only matched by our celebration of regional American heirloom recipes offered with genuine neighborly hospitality. We are committed to supporting local and regional farmers, fishers and producers by cooking food that recaptures the simple and pure tastes found in locally grown, natural and organic ingredients. We strive to raise awareness of a more sustainable food future, while helping to restore a sense of community that brings us back to a more homegrown time.The Cowboy Star Menu features the finest in select natural products including Niman Ranch all natural beef from the nation's leading Certified Humane Angus herd.

A photo of Fogo de Chao - San Diego restaurant

2. Fogo de Chao - San Diego

4.0

Excellent(3952)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Brazilian • Downtown

Booked 81 times today

Fogo de Chão is an internationally-renowned steakhouse from Brazil that allows guests to discover what's next at every turn. Founded in Southern Brazil in 1979, Fogo elevates the centuries-old culinary art of churrasco - roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame - into a cultural dining experience of discovery. Please join us in our dining room, in our more casual Bar Fogo, or bring the Fogo Experience to you with Fogo To-Go or Catering. Visit our website to make a reservation or place an order.

3. STK- San Diego

4.3

Awesome(3467)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Steakhouse • Downtown

Booked 32 times today

STK Steakhouse is “not your daddy’s steakhouse,” offering a high-energy dining experience that artfully combines the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse with a Vibe Dining atmosphere unlike any other. Delectable cuisine, upscale cocktails and an elevated Happy Hour, along with an in-house DJ and chic décor, all come together to offer a memorable fine dining experience that keeps guests enjoying their evening from drinks to dinner to late night. STK’s menu features reimagined classic American cuisine for lunch, brunch and dinner with unique local flair infused into each location’s menu. The brand’s beef program focuses on the highest quality, delicious and craveable steaks while emphasizing transparency and traceable sourcing practices.

4. AKA San Diego

4.2

Awesome(115)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Asian • Downtown

Booked 15 times today

Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.

5. Grant Grill

4.6

Exceptional(1689)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 14 times today

A remarkable epicurean experience awaits you at Grant Grill and Lounge. From the iconic, chic setting to our fresh California cuisine and innovative libations, Grant Grill and Lounge carries a tradition of excellence rich in history (since 1951) and history-in-the-making. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menus highlight the best ingredients of the season with a fresh approach to classics. From the bar, proprietary beverage creations are offered alongside an impressive menu of wine, beer and cocktails.

6. Bronze Bird

4.6

Exceptional(182)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Californian • Downtown

Booked 11 times today

Bronze Bird Food Wine & Spirits is a casual San Diego imbibery for the craft connoisseur, located in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter. Enjoy tasty takes on So Cal comfort fare with an impressive variety of shareable creations offered alongside entrée-driven dishes.

7. Romanissimo

4.3

Awesome(20)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 4 times today

Romanissimo, the newest restaurant in the Gaslamp Quarter, brings the bold flavors of Rome to San Diego Downtown. Conveniently located near the San Diego Convention Center, our upscale yet inviting ambiance is perfect for corporate dinners, private gatherings, and business events. Our menu features traditional Roman cuisine, from Cacio e Pepe to Oxtail Meatballs, all crafted with the finest ingredients. Whether you're entertaining clients or hosting a team dinner, Romanissimo delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Make your next event special at the top Italian restaurant in San Diego.

A photo of Zama Restaurant & Bar restaurant

8. Zama Restaurant & Bar

3.9

Excellent(345)

$$$$Price: Expensive

• Sushi • Downtown

Booked 7 times today

Located in San Diego’s vibrant downtown, Zama brings Latin American cuisine with an Asian infusion in a captivating space inspired by the Amazonian jungle. Zama will focus on Latin American cuisine with the addition of Peruvian and Mexican dishes like Carpaccio, Agua Chile and Tartar and a Japanese-inspired sushi bar created by Chef Tayuka Kudo (formerly of Nobu and Lumi) against the extravagant backdrop of the lush jungle-inspired space.

9. Asti Ristorante

4.6

Exceptional(1783)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• Italian • Downtown

Booked 10 times today

Since 1994, Asti has been serving locals and visitors authentic Italian cuisine in a unique and inviting atmosphere. Whether you dine on our lively patio, or choose to sit inside and enjoy the beautiful artwork and brick walls, you're sure to have an unforgettable dining experience.Each dish on our menu, from our selection of antipasti, handmade pastas, fresh seafood, and quality steaks, is inspired by the delicious flavors of Northern Italy. While some restaurants offer small plates, Asti continues to serve up delicious abundance, all freshly and individually prepared to order. With an extensive vintage wine selection and knowledgeable staff, we deliver a true Italian dining experience that will leave your palate asking for more!

10. Swing Social

4.5

Awesome(15)

$$$$Price: Moderate

• American • Downtown

Booked 3 times today

Swing Social is a high-energy dining and drinking experience in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter. The restaurant features three Full Swing simulators, over 13 interactive virtual sports, exciting cocktails, spirited décor, and handcrafted fare. Swing Social is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends or family. The restaurant offers a variety of menu items, including appetizers, entrees, desserts, and drinks. Swing Social also has a happy hour menu with discounted food and drinks. The restaurant is open for lunch, dinner, and brunch on weekends. Swing Social is a great place to watch sports, play games, and enjoy a delicious meal. The restaurant is also available for private events.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

J
James
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
if you desire a quiet, authentic, Europesn style hotel restaurant, this is the place. One of a kind in the midst of many local optioms. None compare. This place has grace and style, a diverse menu and a trained staff. James T.
More info
Grant GrillPrice: Expensive• Californian• Downtown
•
4.6
M
Mike
Greater Boston •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Hands down the best steakhouse experience in San Diego. Everything on the menu including the steaks is always meticulously prepared and delicious. The best wedge salad on any coast, their house made bacon is an experience in and of itself! If you’re a banana fan, their “Banana Pudding” dessert is the ultimate experience. The miso banana ice cream alone is worth the visit! Add in their always welcoming knowledgeable service and you cannot miss this spot!
More info
Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
•
4.8
L
LeilanieVIP
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Loved Lupe our server. Management was excellent as well with requested meats and coupons
More info
Fogo de Chao - San DiegoPrice: Moderate• Brazilian• Downtown
•
4
D
DeliaVIP
Los Angeles •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Had the short ribs and brussel sprouts-EXCELLENT. Wonderful service from Justin. Great music and lively atmosphere. Will definitely return.
More info
STK- San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
•
4.3
K
KimVIP
Los Angeles •11 reviews
5.0
Dined on Apr 22, 2025
Lovely place - I wanted Thai or sushi and got both! Meanwhile hubby wanted a steak, and we both won!!
More info
AKA San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Downtown
•
4.2

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