Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Kensington, San Diego

Price
Cuisine
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

87 restaurants available nearby

How are Featured results ranked

A photo of Quixote restaurant
Icon
1. Quixote
4.6
Exceptional(1867)
$$$$
• Mexican • North Park
Booked 82 times today
La Única Manera De Hacer Cara Cruz Es A Través DeLa Intuición
A photo of Bleu Boheme restaurant
2. Bleu Boheme
4.8
Exceptional(3696)
$$$$
• French • Kensington
Booked 18 times today
Bleu Bohème is a charming French restaurant in San Diego, with a unique twist. It offers an immersive experience that transports you around the world through its simple yet delicious recipes. Reviews rave about the superbly cooked and presented food, great service, and wonderful ambiance. It's an excellent spot for special occasions and is highly recommended by many.
A photo of Madi restaurant
3. Madi
4.6
Exceptional(598)
$$$$
• Breakfast • Kensington
Booked 51 times today
Bringing all-day brunch and grab-and-go coffee to Normal Heights, Madi is the upcoming daytime counterpart to Madison on Park, the well-established mid-century modern restaurant and bar that opened in University Heights in 2015. Offering a quick-service coffee counter fueled by Heartwork Coffee out of Mission Hills that’ll feature the full range of espresso drinks, specialty beverages, and tea as well as fresh pastries, Madi will also be an anytime option for sit-down breakfasts, mimosa-powered brunches, and casual lunches.Its breakfast menu ranges from waffle churro sticks and breakfast burritos to skirt steak eggs Benedict and a variety of pancakes based on a 60-year-old recipe from Madison co-owner Matthew, whose family runs a century-old breakfast spot in the midwest.Lunch will hinge on build-your-own grain and salad bowls along with lettuce wraps, ceviche, a burger, and a classic Tuna Melt!
A photo of Alexander's on 30th restaurant
4. Alexander's on 30th
4.8
Exceptional(3438)
$$$$
• Italian • North Park
Booked 52 times today
Neighborhood gem located in the heart of the Historic North Park District, adjoining Balboa Park and the world famous San Diego Zoo. Specializing in homestyle Italian with Gourmet Flair. Hand made Pastas, Award Winning Pizza and Voted Best of Restaurants by San Diego Magazine "Most Romantic". Listed as Top 25 Places to Eat in San Diego "Before You Die" by San Diego Union Tribune. Make memorable celebrations on our beautiful patio, the perfect ambiance for any occasion. Remember to try our diners favorites, The Theodore's Fix Pizza and Baked Vodka Bolognese.Look forward to serving you soon!
A photo of Herb & Wood restaurant
Icon
5. Herb & Wood
4.7
Exceptional(7290)
$$$$
• Californian • Little Italy
Booked 135 times today
Herb & Wood is a wood-fired restaurant in San Diego’s Little Italy. Led by Chef Brian Malarkey the restaurant is known for its ingredient-driven menu, seasonal cooking, and warm, design-forward dining experience.The menu centers around live-fire cooking, with signature dishes like housemade pastas, roasted vegetables, and wood-grilled meats and seafood that highlight the quality of locally sourced ingredients. Partnerships with nearby farms and fisheries shape a menu that evolves with the seasons, balancing simplicity with bold, satisfying flavor.Inside, Herb & Wood blends rustic warmth with modern elegance—featuring an open hearth, natural textures, and a spacious dining room that feels both inviting and refined. The restaurant also offers private and semi-private dining spaces, making it a go-to for group dinners, celebrations, and special occasions in Little Italy.
A photo of Origen restaurant
6. Origen
4.8
Exceptional(92)
$$$$
• Contemporary Mexican • North Park
Booked 46 times today
Inspired by the Mexican coast, Origen offers a contemporary dining experience where bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and handcrafted cocktails come together in a warm, design-forward space. Our menu highlights fresh seafood, premium meats, house-made tortillas, and modern interpretations of regional Mexican cuisine. Whether you're joining us for date night, cocktails with friends, or a celebration, Origen is designed to be an experience worth shari
A photo of Allegro restaurant
7. Allegro
4.3
Awesome(1617)
$$$$
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 35 times today
Allegro Restaurant and Bar in Little Italy San Diego offers a true Amalfi coast Italian dining experience. Featuring a combination of traditional and modern Italian cuisine, Allegro San Diego is the perfect venue for your special occasions and party celebration.
A photo of Lala restaurant
8. Lala
4.7
Exceptional(389)
$$$$
• Italian • Little Italy
Booked 37 times today
From the Owners of Barbusa .we bring you "Lala" a captivating blend of modern and classic Italian cuisine, paired with handcrafted cocktails in a cozy, sexy-chic ambiance. Our menu showcases timeless Italian flavors with a contemporary twist, from traditional Stuffed Shells to inventive loaded potato gnocchi. The intimate atmosphere, with dimmed lights and plush furnishings, sets the stage for romantic dinners or vibrant gatherings.Our bar is a haven of mixology artistry, featuring classic Negronis and signature creations like the "Lala Martini." Sustainability is a core value—we source responsibly and implement eco-friendly practices in both the kitchen and the bar. "Lala" isn't just a restaurant; it's a community that appreciates culinary excellence, inviting you to savor the extraordinary in every bite, sip, and moment. Join us for a celebration of Italian cuisine, crafted with contemporary flair, and served in an ambiance that exudes romance.
A photo of Puesto Mission Valley restaurant
9. Puesto Mission Valley
4.6
Exceptional(2341)
$$$$
• Mexican • Mission Valley
Booked 63 times today
Mexico City born. California raised. Puesto brings the vibrant soul of CDMX through a Southern California lens-bold, modern Mexican with an edge. Seasonal menus, creative takes, and the best ingredients in the hands of better chefs. Every tortilla starts with organic blue corn, made in-house like it's been since 1200 BC. Puesto is family-founded by the Adler and Lombrozo brothers, first-gen Mexican Americans raised on tamales and tradition. It's a love letter to the flavors they grew up with, reimagined with Mexico City energy and SoCal spirit. Made by food people. For food people.
A photo of Little Frenchie restaurant
Icon
10. Little Frenchie
4.6
Exceptional(2137)
$$$$
• French • Coronado
Booked 112 times today
Little Frenchie is a chef-driven approachable bistro modeled after Parisian neighborhood cafes. Enjoy our rotating menu of Provencal classics, our immense selection of unique cheeses imported from France and our extensive wine collection from both France and California. We take pride in the imported and local ingredients we use; our produce is sourced from regional farmers, and our seafood from local area fisherman.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Kevin
    Sacramento / Sacramento Valley •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Hostess was extremely inviting and welcoming…………….
    More info
    Bleu Boheme$$$$• French• Kensington
    •
    4.8
  • Tom
    New York City •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Piatti never fails whether seafood, steak or chicken are all prepared to perfection. Of course lasagna and pasta are their specialties. Patio or indoor dining choices provide the different ambiance but again that’s personal. We always have a special memorable dinner or lunch at Piatti. We recommend reservations.
    More info
    Piatti - La Jolla$$$$• Italian• La Jolla
    •
    4.7
  • MLGold
    San Diego •101 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Always great to. Service is so friendly and efficient. Good is consistently good.
    More info
    Siamo Napoli$$$$• Italian• North Park
    •
    4.6
  • Ravi
    Dallas - Fort Worth •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 3, 2026
    Wonderful experience here! Came for breakfast & really enjoyed the chicken fried steak & eggs. Nice outdoor seating to enjoy the beautiful weather!
    More info
    Madi$$$$• Breakfast• Kensington
    •
    4.6
  • Tom
    New York City •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jul 1, 2026
    Food and service were great. Carrot cake is a must
    More info
    Cardellino$$$$• Contemporary Italian• Mission Hills
    •
    4.8

Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Kensington

Discover the culinary treasures of Kensington, San. Diego with restaurants that are truly "worth the drive." This vibrant dining scene boasts an array of eateries that stand out for their unique culinary offerings and exceptional dining experiences. Whether you're seeking innovative cuisine, traditional flavors, or a memorable atmosphere, these restaurants offer something special that makes the journey worthwhile. Each establishment has been carefully selected to provide both locals and visitors with unforgettable gastronomic delights, underpinned by quality service and a welcoming ambiance. Perfect for food enthusiasts and adventurous diners alike, these spots in Kensington not only meet but exceed expectations, making them must-visit destinations on your culinary map. Experience the essence of San Diego's diverse food culture in Kensington, where every meal is an opportunity for a delightful adventure.

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
  • Press
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Restaurant Management Solutions
  • Restaurant Reservation Software
  • Restaurant Marketing Software
  • Restaurant Event Software
  • OpenTable For Restaurants
  • OpenTable For Restaurant Groups
  • Restaurant Resources
  • OpenTable Pricing & Plans
Join us on
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Accessibility Statement
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2026 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo