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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in San Diego

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74 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Javier's - La Jolla restaurant
1. Javier's - La Jolla
4.6
Exceptional(3883)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Jolla
Booked 162 times today
Javier's - La Jolla is a neighborhood gem because of its unique blend of authentic Mexican cuisine and sophisticated ambiance. Reviews consistently praise the restaurant's fresh, flavorful food, excellent service, and inviting atmosphere. One reviewer even described it as a 'haven for those who appreciate the fusion of exquisite taste, impeccable service, and an ambiance that transcends the ordinary.' Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a meal with friends, Javier's seems to consistently deliver an extraordinary dining experience.
A photo of The Amalfi Llama - San Diego restaurant
2. The Amalfi Llama - San Diego
4.5
Awesome(534)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • University City/Golden Triangle
Booked 29 times today
The Amalfi Llama reimagines the culinary landscape by seamlessly merging the allure of a rustic live-fire steakhouse with the flavors of Italian cuisine, a culinary haven where genuine cooking, down-to-earth cuisine and stylish flair intertwine. Guests embark on a journey from Southern Patagonia to the Mediterranean coast of Italy as they indulge in a multisensory experience that transcends boundaries – from the soothing cream decor to the intimate ambiance of crackling embers accompanied by the melodies of vintage Italian vinyls. Embracing the essence of a modern farmhouse, The Amalfi Llama revolves around an open parrilla grill and wood-burning oven, harnessing fire, smoke, coals and embers to craft dishes. The restaurant’s ethos also meets design with Latin American and Mediterranean influences, resulting in an inviting environment adorned with light woods, natural light and subtly elegant finishes, defying traditional steakhouse and Italian restaurant conventions.
A photo of California English restaurant
3. California English
4.7
Exceptional(593)
Price: Expensive
• American • Sorrento Mesa
Booked 8 times today
Located in the Sorrento Valley, California English is the newest culinary creation from celebrity chef, Richard Blais. Blais is creating an all-day menu for California English that’ll interpret classic British dishes through the lens of Southern California ingredients.The idea is a fusion of sorts: the laid-back California lifestyle that makes San Diego so unique, mixed with a cozy pub convivial atmosphere where you can meet friends (or mates) for a pint after work, set up a client lunch with fresh oysters on the menu or have a cozy family dinner over a Sunday roast. Everything on the menu is made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients that make for fresh and flavorful dishes. The effortless vibe of casual yet stylish makes for the perfect place to celebrate the joy of the unexpected coming together to make the perfect culinary match.
A photo of RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla restaurant
4. RED O Taste of Mexico - La Jolla
4.4
Awesome(2810)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary Mexican • La Jolla
Booked 23 times today
Dining at RED O is an experience like no other that offers a unique combination of Prime Steak and Seafood with Rick Bayless’ signature Mexican inspired influences. With sustainably sourced and local ingredients, RED O creates flavorful dishes true to the authentic flavors of Mexico. RED O’s team of friendly employees creates a welcoming atmosphere that parallels the luxury resort interior of the restaurant. RED O also features an impressive bar and lounge where you’ll find specialty cocktails, an extensive tequila list and an award winning wine list. The bar also offers Happy Hour from 3-6 p.m. daily and Late Night Happy Hour from 9-11pm Friday-Saturday.
A photo of The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
5. The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
4.6
Exceptional(2479)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 51 times today
The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey Pines is a restaurant that offers an exclusive view of the iconic Torrey Pines Golf Course. Guests can enjoy wood-fired dishes, craft beer choices, and an expanded patio. The restaurant is known for its decadent Drugstore Hamburger, but it also offers a variety of other dishes, including salads, seafood, and steaks. The Grill is committed to using local ingredients and sound craftsmanship. The restaurant's ambiance is welcoming and thoughtful, and the team is dedicated to providing a memorable experience for guests.
A photo of The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel restaurant
6. The Shores Restaurant - La Jolla Shores Hotel
4.2
Awesome(2496)
Price: Moderate
• American • La Jolla
Booked 33 times today
Welcome to beach dining – La Jolla style. Walk straight from the sand into The Shores Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy fantastic ocean views, our open-air patio, a casual ambiance with warm hospitality, and a family-friendly menu meant to please any kind of taste. A big part of the California lifestyle is beach-style dining. The Shores Restaurant is a perfect example with dishes designed by Executive Chef Michael Vaughn. Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beachside cocktails, the delicious fare is complimented by unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean just outside the floor-to-ceiling windows.
A photo of Grand Social at Fairmont Grand Del Mar restaurant
7. Grand Social at Fairmont Grand Del Mar
3.6
Very Good(94)
Price: Moderate
• American • Carmel Valley
The fine unwinds into the fun across three distinct levels at Fairmont Grand Del Mar’s outdoor lounge, Grand Social. Relax over a late afternoon apéritif and spirited games of bocce on our new courts situated on the second level. As evening unfolds, venture to our newly installed ground-level lawn to savor irresistible wood-fired dishes and skillfully crafted cocktails.
A photo of North Italia San Diego - One Paseo restaurant
8. North Italia San Diego - One Paseo
4.5
Awesome(1655)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Del Mar
Booked 48 times today
At North, we focus on what we do best: Italian from scratch. Enjoy any of our handmade pastas and pizzas, created with seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors. Or, try a different signature dish, prepared with our fresh flavors from the garden, farm, and sea. We’ve hand crafted seasonal cocktails that pair great with our food, creating a real modern Italia experiences perfect for any occasion.
A photo of AR Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines restaurant
9. AR Valentien at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
4.7
Exceptional(2532)
Price: Very Expensive
• Farm-to-table • La Jolla
Booked 20 times today
A.R. Valentien, the signature restaurant at the AAA Five Diamond resort The Lodge at Torrey Pines, features innovative California cuisine served in a breathtaking setting overlooking the Torrey Pines Golf Course and Pacific Ocean coastline. Executive Chef Kelli Crosson uses only the best local provisions, and the menu changes daily depending on what's offered at local farmers' markets, as well as from other local growers, ranchers and fishermen. The restaurant's wine list features California wines exclusively, including a variety of boutique wineries from throughout the state. A.R. Valentien’s sophisticated design includes artwork from the restaurant’s namesake, Albert Robert Valentien, and a spacious outdoor terrace. Special events include the seasonal Artisan Table dinner series and Celebrate the Craft, an annual charity event benefiting The Ecology Center.PLEASE NOTE: We will be temporarily closed starting Dinner, October 13 - March 2025, due to kitchen enhancement renovations
A photo of True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC restaurant
10. True Food Kitchen - San Diego UTC
4.5
Awesome(1116)
Price: Expensive
• American • La Jolla
Booked 12 times today
True Food Kitchen in San Diego's UTC neighborhood is a gem. Known for its creative, health-focused dishes and friendly service, it consistently receives glowing reviews. As one reviewer put it, it's 'the perfect restaurant for any occasion' with 'excellent food and service'. With its warm ambiance and innovative menu, it's a local favorite that keeps customers coming back for something new and delicious.
‘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
  • JohnVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Wonderful experience at Amalfi Llama! We celebrated our friend's birthday and everything was fantastic. This was our first time there. The ambiance was nice, the service was A+, and the food was Delicious! We ordered the crab cakes, burrata, and prosciutto pizza to start. And for dinner we had the lamb chops, T-bone steak, branzino, filet and chicken. All were amazing food!! Our server was Brian. And he was absolutely Amazing!! Top notch service! Can't wait to go back again.
    More info
    The Amalfi Llama - San DiegoPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• University City/Golden Triangle
    •
    4.5
  • SueVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    The food and service were both outstanding. My husband had the Lamb with Mole sauce. Beautiful presentation and delicious. I had the 3 tacos - chicken, carne asada and fish. Also delicious. Atmosphere very upscale Mexican. Lovely experience.
    More info
    RED O Taste of Mexico - La JollaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Mexican• La Jolla
    •
    4.4
  • Zoe
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    My friends and I had a really good experience and excellent treatment, definitely would recommend.
    More info
    Javier's - La JollaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • JoanVIP
    San Diego •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We had a delicious Mediterranean Dinner ordering both the sample plates for appetizers and main course both samon & steak kabobs. The food was delicious the atmosphere charming we all felt transported to a different country! This combined with ambient lighting, creates an elegant ambiance that feels like stepping into a a night market!!
    More info
    The Grill at The Lodge at Torrey PinesPrice: Moderate• American• La Jolla
    •
    4.6
  • JamesVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    From the moment we walked in, we were blown away. This restaurant from Chef Blais was absolutely beautiful—every detail in the décor created the perfect ambiance for a memorable evening. The food? Incredible. Every dish was flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. What truly elevated our experience, though, was the fantastic customer service. Our server, Abraham, was amazing—attentive, warm, and genuinely welcoming. He made sure everything was just right throughout the night. Highly recommend this spot if you’re looking for great food, stunning aesthetics, and top-notch service. We’ll definitely be back!
    More info
    California EnglishPrice: Expensive• American• Sorrento Mesa
    •
    4.7

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