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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Carmel Valley

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of South of Nick's - Del Mar restaurant
1. South of Nick's - Del Mar
4.7
Exceptional(668)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 69 times today
Nestled in the heart of Del Mar, San Diego, South of Nick's stands as a beacon of exceptional American cuisine with a tantalizing Southern California twist. This lively eatery has earned rave reviews for its vibrant atmosphere and impeccable service, where "Jordan was the best" and "Chase was phenomenal." Diners are consistently delighted by classic favorites like the "Cabo Shrimp" and "toasted coconut drink," which are celebrated for their authentic flavors and creative flair. With high praise for its rich, flavorful dishes and top-notch hospitality, South of Nick's promises a dining experience that's "always consistently good" and utterly unforgettable.
A photo of Ocean View Bar & Grill Restaurant in Hotel Indigo Del Mar restaurant
2. Ocean View Bar & Grill Restaurant in Hotel Indigo Del Mar
3.7
Very Good(25)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Hotel Indigo's Ocean View Bar & Grill serves authentic local favorites, creative appetizers, sharable plates and signature cocktails. Along with its enticing menu, guests enjoy ocean views and contemporary décor. The grill also features live local music on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Bring your furry friend and enjoy al fresco dining by the fire pit, or belly up to the bar for one of our signature cocktails.
A photo of Sbicca - Del Mar restaurant
3. Sbicca - Del Mar
4.6
Exceptional(2532)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 16 times today
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Del Mar, Sbicca - Del Mar stands out for its exceptional Seafood cuisine, offering diners a taste of the ocean with stunning views of the Pacific. Awarded the "Gold Medallion Award" for Best Neighborhood Restaurant, Sbicca ensures every dish is crafted with authenticity and quality. Guests rave about their "outstanding Lobster Shrimp Bisque" and the "incredible Blackened Shrimp Salad and Salmon." With a menu that perfectly captures the essence of the sea, paired with a "Wine Spectator award-winning wine list," Sbicca promises an unforgettable dining experience that seafood lovers will cherish.
A photo of West End Bar & Kitchen restaurant
4. West End Bar & Kitchen
4.7
Exceptional(1006)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 11 times today
West End Bar & Kitchen in Del Mar is a seafood lover's paradise, offering a delightful blend of flavor and freshness in every dish. Nestled across from the serene lagoon at Torrey Pines State Reserve, this restaurant is praised for its "amazing food" and "great service." Diners rave about the exceptional clam chowder, described as "full of clams," and the crab-stuffed ravioli in lobster sauce, hailed as "delicious." The creative and authentic seafood offerings, combined with a menu that boasts local craft beers and eclectic wines, make West End a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable seafood dining experience.
A photo of Pacifica Del Mar restaurant
5. Pacifica Del Mar
4.5
Awesome(4892)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Del Mar
Booked 31 times today
Pacifica Del Mar is a shining star in the heart of Del Mar, offering an exquisite Contemporary American dining experience that has been delighting patrons for decades. Elevated above the Del Mar Plaza, the restaurant boasts "spectacular ocean views" that perfectly complement its delicious and inspired menu. Renowned for its casual yet refined offerings, Pacifica Del Mar excels in crafting dishes that are both "exceptional" and "super tasty," featuring fresh seafood, tender steaks, and creative pasta options. The award-winning wine list and inventive cocktails enhance the dining experience, while the attentive and "wonderful service" ensures a memorable evening for all.
A photo of Waverly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
6. Waverly Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(161)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Encinitas
Booked 63 times today
Waverly Restaurant & Lounge, nestled in picturesque Cardiff by The Sea, offers an exquisite take on Contemporary American cuisine with a unique European twist. Diners frequently praise its innovative dishes, with the duck meatball and whipped ricotta receiving standout reviews for being "delicious" and "super tasty." The atmosphere is lauded as "lively and fun" with an inviting indoor-outdoor setup, making it perfect for any occasion. Guests are treated to top-notch service, often described as "informative and friendly," contributing to an overall "5-star experience." Whether for a casual outing or a special celebration, Waverly consistently delivers excellence in every culinary aspect.
A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
7. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(597)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 13 times today
Paradisaea in the heart of Bird Rock, La Jolla, offers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience that delights with its “creative and delicious” culinary creations. This destination restaurant is celebrated for its “outstanding food and service,” making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Guests rave about the chef’s ability to craft “custom vegan and pescatarian multi-course meals,” showcasing the restaurant's commitment to inclusivity and innovation. With an ambiance that is both “hip and fun,” Paradisaea artfully combines “delicious food and cocktails” with a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring every visit is a memorable culinary adventure. Highly recommended for those seeking modern American cuisine at its finest.
A photo of Beaumont's restaurant
8. Beaumont's
4.7
Exceptional(928)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 10 times today
Beaumont's Neighborhood Eatery, nestled in the charming Bird Rock area of La Jolla, San Diego, is the quintessential hub for Comfort Food lovers. Known as the “heart and soul of Bird Rock,” this vibrant spot has been delighting locals since 2005 with its authentic, hearty dishes. Guests rave about the "outstanding food and excellent service," while the brunch, featuring unique options like Eggs Benedict, receives accolades for being "superb." Beaumont's effortlessly combines its comforting cuisine with a lively atmosphere, complete with live music and handcrafted cocktails, making it a beloved community gathering place. Experience the warm, inviting vibe that keeps patrons coming back for more!
A photo of Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center restaurant
9. Bazille - Nordstrom University Town Center
4.7
Exceptional(190)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 3 times today
This full-service restaurant with a casually sophisticated atmosphere features bistro cuisine and a full bar. Enjoy fresh salads, specialty entrées, signature cocktails, a wine list and housemade desserts.Nordstrom is located along Genesee Avenue, between La Jolla Village Drive and Nobel Drive. Bazille is located on the 2nd floor, overlooking the main courtyard of the newly expanded UTC. We offer a full bar with wine, beer & hand crafted cocktails, as well as open patio dining. We are open for dine-in service, covered, heated outdoor patio dining and to-go orders with Curbside Pickup. Call (858) 812-3582 to place your order.Join us for Brunch on weekends;July 4th hours: 11am-5pm
A photo of Bernini's Bistro & Bar restaurant
10. Bernini's Bistro & Bar
4.8
Exceptional(610)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • La Jolla
Booked 19 times today
Bernini's Bistro & Bar in La Jolla is a true gem for those who appreciate exquisite Contemporary American cuisine. With over 24 years of culinary excellence, it's no wonder it remains a neighborhood favorite. Guests rave about the “excellent food” and “consistently good” dishes that showcase the restaurant's passion for quality and authenticity. The inviting atmosphere, complete with cozy fire pits and a vibrant patio, enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Bernini's dedication to impeccable service and their standout dishes, such as the cioppino and wood-fired pizzas, ensures a memorable visit every time.
‘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
  • GuyVIP
    San Diego •43 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We went to dinner to celebrate Valentines Day. Everything about the evening was perfect. The service provided by our waiter, Ricky, was just wonderful. He was attentive but not obtrusive and seemed to intuitively know when to check on us. The dinners my wife and I were magnificent. We shared the wedge salad and a cup of clam chowder- perhaps the best we have ever had. My wife had the linguini with clams and I had the crab ravioli in lobster sauce. Both were delicious. However, the jewel of the evening was the tiramisu- absolutely wonderful and the best we have had in a restaurant in a long time. Overall this was a magnificent meal and the perfect way to celebrate our 56th Valentines Day together. We will certainly be returning soon.
    More info
    West End Bar & KitchenPrice: Moderate• American• Del Mar
    •
    4.7
  • Lorie
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Beautiful and unique layout of the restaurant. Delicious food. Our server was so friendly, competent and wonderful. One of the owners or managers, even stopped by for a friendly greeting. Overall, a wonderfuldate experience!
    More info
    Sbicca - Del MarPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Del Mar
    •
    4.6
  • StephanieVIP
    New York City •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Love this restaurant! The food was all outstanding but the oysters and broccoli are beyond!!! We had a great server Zach and the service was top notch!! Great experience -very much recommend!!
    More info
    CampfirePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carlsbad
    •
    4.8
  • JoVIP
    San Diego •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Pacifica never disappoints. Delicious food, fantastic service, great ambience and view. I’m a vegetarian and even though Pacifica seems to focus on seafood, their vegetarian options have been creative and delicious every time. Extensive wine selection too, with half-price bottles on Thursdays, it’s a great value.
    More info
    Pacifica Del MarPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Del Mar
    •
    4.5
  • KennyKazVIP
    San Diego •48 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 30 Jun 2024
    It was a great evening eating dinner with an ocean view!
    More info
    Ocean View Bar & Grill Restaurant in Hotel Indigo Del MarPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Del Mar
    •
    3.7

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