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Kettner Exchange

Name: Kettner Exchange
Address: 2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA, United States, 92101
Telephone: (619) 255-2001
Price range: $31 to $50
Rating: 4.7

Visa Dining Collection

$31 to $50

Contemporary American

2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

Make a reservation

2 people

Jun 29, 2025

9:00 PM

Booked 47 times today

Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

Good for special occasions
Lively
Good for groups

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.

Why they're an Icon

Executive chef: Brian Redzikowski

MICHELIN Bib Gourmand2023
MICHELIN Bib Gourmand2022
MICHELIN Bib Gourmand2021

From the OpenTable editors: Anchored by a striking 20-foot eucalyptus sculpture, this two-story, indoor-outdoor showstopper has been a Little Italy hotspot since opening in 2014. Snag a seat on the rooftop patio with swinging daybeds, a roaring fireplace, and bookable private cabanas for sweeping harbor views and inventive American dishes with Asian twists like Szechuan frog legs and spicy tuna and crispy rice with eel sauce from James Beard Award-winning chef Brian Redzikowski.

Additional information

Dining style
Casual Elegant
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Asian, Californian
Hours of operation
Brunch Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Bar Mon–Wed, Sun 5:00 pm–12:00 am Thu–Sat 5:00 pm–1:00 am
Phone number
(619) 255-2001
Website
http://www.kettnerexchange.com/
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Dress code
Smart Casual

Location
2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101
Award-winning
1. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2023
2. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2022
3. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2021
Neighborhood
Little Italy
Cross street
Grape St
Parking details
Valet is available for $10.00 Cash or $12.00 Credit Card.
Entertainment
Live Djs Thursday-Saturday + occasional live bands (call venue for nightly entertainment)
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Featured in

Experiences

Small Cabana Reservation
$100.00 per party
Prepaid
Multiple dates available
THIS IS NOT A STANDARD RESERVATION, please read below: *Mon-Wed evening Small Cabana Reservations have no F&B minimum but tax and 22% service charge will be applied. *Thurs-Sun evening Small Cabana Reservations have a $400 F&B minimum + tax and 22% service charge. *Sun Brunch Cabanas have a $200 F&B minimum + tax and 22% service charge. The Small Cabanas offers a space where groups of up to (6) guests are able to enjoy Kettner Exchange’s elevated cuisine and unique beverage program in a casual lounge style VIP setting. Guests may dine from the Lounge Menu till 10pm while being seated at the core of a lively open-air rooftop. Everything ordered will go onto one bill. Each reservation is for (3) hours maximum.

What 1,490 people are saying

Kettner Exchange reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.7

4.7 based on recent ratings

4.7Food
4.7Service
4.7Ambience
4.3Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

San Diego
Contemporary American
San Diego
Contemporary American

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

Kettner Exchange in San Diego's Little Italy is a "dynamic culinary destination" known for its "inventive American cuisine" and vibrant rooftop ambiance. Reviews highlight "exceptional service" and an atmosphere that blends "modern sophistication with coastal charm." The menu, crafted by Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski, offers bold contemporary American dishes with global influences. The restaurant's inclusion in the Michelin Guide underscores its "quality ingredients" and "distinct personality." Ideal for both intimate dinners and lively nights out, Kettner Exchange promises an "experience that satisfies the palate and delights the senses."

1,490 Reviews

A
Anu
California Central Coast1 review
3.0
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 3
We got seated near the bar. It was super noisy. The view was horrible, we were looking at the exhaust vent of the building on the street opposite to us. The plates were too small and simple for the price. The cocktails were very average. The taste was average. However, the service was excellent and quick.
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M
Manas VIP
Chicago / Illinois1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Excellent food! My girlfriend and I had a great dining experience. Zach was an incredible server!
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B
Brian
San Diego10 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Always amazing. The food is fantastic and the service is impeccable.
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M
Matteo
Dallas - Fort Worth1 review
4.0
Dined on June 18, 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 5
Bel locale, menu sufficiente, prezzo corretto, buona scelta di birre.
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S
Sameer
Las Vegas2 reviews
4.0
Dined on June 18, 2025
1. Overall 4
2. Food 4
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 4
Kettner Exchange is more than just a restaurant—it’s a dynamic culinary destination in the heart of San Diego’s Little Italy. With its inventive American cuisine, vibrant rooftop ambiance, and exceptional service, it’s no wonder this local favorite has earned recognition in the Michelin Guide. The ambiance is an experience in itself. Kettner Exchange masterfully blends modern sophistication with coastal California charm. The open-air rooftop, lush greenery, and nautical-inspired design create a buzzing yet laid-back atmosphere, perfect for both intimate dinners and spirited nights out with friends. The rooftop cabanas offer a touch of exclusivity and make for a stunning setting under the San Diego skyline. The food is a bold and exciting take on contemporary American cuisine, with global influences woven throughout. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski delivers a menu that’s as playful as it is precise. The menu is constantly evolving, showcasing seasonal ingredients and creative flair, making each visit feel fresh and unique. Equally impressive is the service. The staff is polished, professional, and genuinely enthusiastic about the food and experience. From the moment you’re greeted to the last sip of a handcrafted cocktail, every detail is handled with care. The team is knowledgeable about both the menu and the extensive drink list, always ready with a recommendation that hits the mark. Kettner Exchange’s inclusion in the Michelin Guide is well-deserved. It exemplifies what the Guide looks for: quality ingredients, distinct personality, and consistently high-level execution. Whether you’re a local or visiting San Diego, Kettner Exchange is a must-visit for those who appreciate modern American cuisine in a setting that feels effortlessly upscale. In short, Kettner Exchange doesn’t just serve food—it serves an experience. One that satisfies the palate, delights the senses, and keeps you coming back for more.
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R
Rachel
San Diego7 reviews
5.0
Dined on June 15, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The vibe at Kettner is always immaculate. My server Nikki was very nice and well versed on the menu. She helped me pick out a few different dishes, all were very good. I tried the cucumber salad, salty savory and refreshing. Similar to something you'd find on Convoy. The tuna sashimi was very good, a little hard to eat with chopsticks because the tuna was resting on top of mashed avocado. The roasted Chinese eggplant was very good, the lemon yogurt was a little overbearing for my taste but the overall taste of the dish really complemented itself. Grilled Striped Bass was fresh and perfectly cooked. Good portion size considering the price. Overall, the dining experience was great. The valet and the girls at the front and even the security were all super welcoming. I'd say the stand out moment of the night though was getting to chat with Alejandro. His station was near my seat, he has a warm personality and he and I had a good conversation about various topics all while he was tending to his tasks which made the whole experience really pleasant because I was dining alone. Even though I was in and out, I really enjoyed myself. Thanks!
1 person found this helpful
M
Michael
Los Angeles2 reviews
5.0
Dined on June 15, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Dined here tonight to celebrate some very important moments for my family and the kettner team went above and beyond to make the experience so special. 10/10 food 10/10 vibes 10/10 service. You need to dine here!
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C
Carin VIP
New York City3 reviews
5.0
Dined on June 13, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Outstanding flavors! Beautiful venue. Great vibe. I’ll be dreaming about the Szechuan lamb noodles and the whipped ricotta for years to come.
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A
Alli
New York City3 reviews
5.0
Dined on June 12, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Awesome experience with my mom and boyfriend for a special dinner. Service was spectacular! Food was a 10/10! Highly recommend!
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T
Tiffany
Chicago / Illinois3 reviews
5.0
Dined on June 10, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
The food was fantastic! The service was fantastic! I'm only in San Diego for 6 seeks but I would come back just to visit Kettner!
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FAQs

Kettner Exchange offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (619) 255-2001.

Kettner Exchange is rated 4.7 stars by 1490 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

Jun 29, 2025

9:00 PM

Booked 47 times today

Experiences are available.

2001 Kettner Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101

Additional information

Award-winning
1. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2023
2. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2022
3. MICHELIN Bib Gourmand 2021
Cross street
Grape St
Neighborhood
Little Italy
Hours of operation
Brunch Sun 11:00 am–3:00 pm Dinner Daily 5:00 pm–10:00 pm Bar Mon–Wed, Sun 5:00 pm–12:00 am Thu–Sat 5:00 pm–1:00 am
Price
$31 to $50
Cuisines
Contemporary American, Asian, Californian
Dining style
Casual Elegant
Dress code
Smart Casual
Parking details
Valet is available for $10.00 Cash or $12.00 Credit Card.
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
Entertainment
Live Djs Thursday-Saturday + occasional live bands (call venue for nightly entertainment)
Additional
Banquet, Bar/Lounge, Beer, Chef's Table, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Counter Seating, Delivery, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Indoor Fireplace, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Website
http://www.kettnerexchange.com/
Phone number
(619) 255-2001

Kettner Exchange

Make a reservation

About this restaurant

Why they're an Icon

Additional information

Featured in

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Experiences

Small Cabana Reservation

Menu

What 1,490 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Loved For

Review summary

FAQs

Does Kettner Exchange offer delivery through OpenTable or takeout?

How is Kettner Exchange restaurant rated?

Is Kettner Exchange currently accepting reservations?

Make a reservation

Additional information

Featured in

50 San Diego Restaurants to Connect In For Mother's Day

West Coast Restaurants to Love This Valentine's Day