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

Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Linda Vista

Price
Regions
Areas
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating options
Award-winning
Accessibility

33 restaurants available nearby

A photo of NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego restaurant
1. NM Café at Neiman Marcus – San Diego
5.0
Exceptional(329)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Valley
Booked 2 times today
NM Café at Neiman Marcus in San Diego offers an exceptional Californian dining experience, beautifully blending fresh, local ingredients with culinary innovation. Nestled in the heart of Mission Valley, this newly remodeled café is described by guests as a "hidden gem" where "delectable food and exceptional service" define every visit. The menu delights with dishes like salmon tacos and indulgent tuna melts, making it a "go-to spot for lunch." Diners praise the café's "sophisticated dining experience," with service that is "spot-on" and a welcoming atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Discover the essence of Californian cuisine at this chic and inviting locale.
A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
2. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1373)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 76 times today
Kettner Exchange in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian fusion experience that is both inventive and authentic. Executive Chef Brian Redzikowski’s creations have earned the restaurant a coveted spot on the Michelin Guide's Bib Gourmand list since 2019, showcasing high-quality meals at accessible prices. Diners rave about the "spicy garlic noodles" and "juicy cheeseburger special," underscoring the delightful fusion of flavors. The rooftop patio with stunning harbor views enhances the dining ambiance, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests frequently praise the "stellar service" and "amazing cocktails," solidifying Kettner Exchange as a must-visit destination for Asian cuisine enthusiasts.
A photo of Great Maple San Diego restaurant
3. Great Maple San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(4409)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 107 times today
Great Maple San Diego, nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Hillcrest, is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine. This modern eatery is celebrated for its "outstanding" food and "exceptional" service, making it a favorite destination for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Diners rave about the delightful maple bacon donuts and "delectable" brisket hash, highlighting the creative use of fresh, local ingredients. Reviewers consistently praise the "huge portions" and "fantastic flavors," ensuring no one leaves hungry. With its inviting atmosphere and "friendly" staff, Great Maple offers a truly authentic and memorable dining experience that captures the essence of Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
4. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2646)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 31 times today
The Smoking Goat Restaurant in North Park, San Diego, delivers an exceptional Contemporary French / American experience that has garnered rave reviews and awards, including the Gold Medallion for the best French Bistro in San Diego three years running. Executive Chef Fred Piehl's masterful blend of classic French techniques with the fresh, sustainable bounty of San Diego offers a "rustic, yet refined" culinary journey. Diners have lauded dishes such as the "perfectly cooked" duck l'orange and the "delicious" prime rib, each beautifully presented. With an attentive staff and a well-curated selection of wines and craft cocktails, The Smoking Goat promises a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
5. Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1307)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Hills
Booked 12 times today
Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar in Mission Hills, San Diego, is a seafood lover’s paradise, celebrated for its "Live Maine Lobster" nights that consistently delight diners. With an emphasis on quality and authenticity, their seafood offerings are praised for being "perfectly cooked" and "delicious." The restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with "exceptional service" from a friendly and professional staff, ensures a memorable dining experience. Their commitment to crafting incredible dishes, like the lobster, makes Harley Gray stand out in the seafood scene. If you’re seeking fresh, expertly prepared seafood in a warm neighborhood setting, Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar is a must-visit!
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
6. Cowboy Star
4.9
Exceptional(4773)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 81 times today
Cowboy Star in downtown San Diego is a gem of Contemporary American cuisine, capturing the essence of regional American heirloom recipes with a modern twist. Their commitment to using locally sourced, natural, and organic ingredients shines through every dish, offering "exceptional quality" that diners rave about. Known for their impeccable service and warm atmosphere, Cowboy Star is celebrated for its perfectly cooked steaks, with one reviewer exclaiming, "the best steakhouse in San Diego, PERIOD." The diverse menu, which includes top-notch wine and cocktails, ensures that every visit is a "memorable and enjoyable experience," making Cowboy Star a must-visit for any steak lover.
A photo of Coco Maya restaurant
7. Coco Maya
4.5
Awesome(381)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 7 times today
Coco Maya in Little Italy, San Diego, is a vibrant cocktail bar that elevates your dining experience with "excellent drinks and ambience." Renowned for its diverse mezcal and tequila selection, this bar seamlessly blends tropical and rum-based cocktails, a hallmark that traces back to its roots at Miss B's Coconut Club. Guests rave about the "perfectly crafted espresso martini," which stands out among their expertly curated beverages. The lively rooftop setting, often accompanied by a DJ, adds a fun and energetic vibe that enhances the entire experience. If you're seeking a memorable cocktail adventure, Coco Maya promises to deliver!
A photo of Covewood - Mission Bay Resort restaurant
8. Covewood - Mission Bay Resort
4.2
Awesome(543)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Mission Bay
Booked 5 times today
Covewood - Mission Bay Resort offers an exceptional American dining experience that captures the essence of California Coastal Cuisine with a delightful twist. Located in the picturesque Mission Bay, San Diego, this restaurant has garnered rave reviews for its "delicious and beautifully presented" dishes, such as the bold Caesar salad and perfectly cooked burgers. Diners appreciate the "wonderful ambiance" and "fantastic food and service," making it an "unexpected gem" for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's ability to pair fresh seafood with wood-grilled vegetables and local wines creates a memorable culinary journey that truly stands out in American cuisine.
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
9. Topside Terrace
4.2
Awesome(389)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown / Gaslamp
Booked 6 times today
Topside Terrace is a vibrant gem in downtown San Diego, offering an unforgettable taste of authentic Californian cuisine. With an open-air terrace that perfectly captures the coastal spirit, the restaurant delights diners with its "incredible rooftop brunch experience" featuring dishes like Carne asada chilaquiles and Crab Benedict. The menu seamlessly blends Baja California and Classic American fare, all beautifully plated and complemented by contemporary cocktails. Guests rave about the "great food" and "attentive staff," making it a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine Californian flavors. Live music and happy hour specials further enhance this lively venue, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
A photo of Ketch Grill & Taps - Point Loma restaurant
10. Ketch Grill & Taps - Point Loma
4.6
Exceptional(56)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Point Loma
Booked 24 times today
20 Tap Handles featuring our Ketch Brewing beers and several guest taps. Modern Casual Faire overlooking San Diego Bay and the sportfishing fleet of Point Loma
‘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

Explore OpenTable

Discover
OpenTable
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Careers
More
Our sites
Businesses
  • Delight more diners
  • Restaurant Blog
Join us on
  • Privacy policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Impressum
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable International Ltd. Alphabeta Building, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH - 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