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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Harbor Island

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34 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Kettner Exchange restaurant
1. Kettner Exchange
4.7
Exceptional(1407)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 77 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 Coco Maya restaurant
2. Coco Maya
4.4
Awesome(388)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Little Italy
Booked 11 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 Brew 30 restaurant
3. Brew 30
4.5
Awesome(2169)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 2 times today
Sally's Fish House & Bar offers an exceptional American dining experience right on the picturesque San Diego Bay. Renowned for its "phenomenal seafood and cocktail menu," this charming eatery brilliantly combines authentic American flavors with locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Guests revel in the "excellent quality food" and "gorgeous views" that make every meal memorable. The menu features standout dishes like the unforgettable Chilean sea bass fish and chips, described as the "best fish and chips" one reviewer ever had. With its inviting atmosphere and pet-friendly patio, Sally's is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of American cuisine in San Diego.
A photo of Cowboy Star restaurant
4. Cowboy Star
4.8
Exceptional(4833)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 52 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 Great Maple San Diego restaurant
5. Great Maple San Diego
4.8
Exceptional(4452)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Hillcrest
Booked 85 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 Rustic Root - Gaslamp restaurant
6. Rustic Root - Gaslamp
new
4.5
Awesome(1344)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 57 times today
Rustic Root showcases our take on New American Comfort food with a California twist. Classic dishes are rooted in tradition, including regional dishes from around the country. All reimagined with fresh and local ingredients and our Chef’s modern flair. Our Signature drink menus offer our take on timeless classic cocktails as well as Rustic Root originals using creative spirits and the freshest ingredients. Join us in our street-level dining room for dinner nightly or our award-winning weekend brunch. Our rooftop lounge is an excellent place to grab drinks & a bite with friends, enjoying the San Diego weather and our unique location in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Close to the San Diego Convention Center, we're a favorite for locals and out of town tourists alike.
A photo of Topside Terrace restaurant
7. Topside Terrace
3.9
Excellent(391)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Downtown
Booked 5 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 Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar restaurant
8. Harley Gray Kitchen & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(1326)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Mission Hills
Booked 15 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 The Smoking Goat Restaurant restaurant
9. The Smoking Goat Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2679)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • North Park
Booked 27 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 Tavern restaurant
10. Tavern
4.8
Exceptional(774)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Coronado
Booked 11 times today
Nestled in the heart of Coronado, Tavern is a beacon of authentic Farm-to-table cuisine, where "every bite is amazing" and the "food is consistently great." Diners rave about the fresh, locally sourced ingredients that make each dish a culinary delight. From the delectable wagyu steak to the inventive cocktails, the menu showcases a commitment to quality and sustainability. The cozy, rustic-chic atmosphere, complemented by "fantastic people" and excellent service, makes every visit memorable. With its "great food, great atmosphere," and an unwavering dedication to genuine Farm-to-table dining, Tavern is the perfect spot for a delightful and authentic dining experience.
‘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
  • Ashley
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great greeters and waitress! I had a Pear cocktail which was super strong♥️ maple logs w/ fried chicken is a must! By the end of the meal, I completely understood the hype behind the Maple bacon donuts. Huge portions, would definitely come back!!!!! 10/10
    More info
    Great Maple San DiegoPrice: Moderate• American• Hillcrest
    •
    4.8
  • Andrew
    Los Angeles •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Took my wife here for Valentine’s Day pre set menu. Was delicious. She got the wine pairing and Andrew our waiter was so knowledgeable about all the different wines with every course. I got an Old fashion and was so yummy. Just a great date night and loved the atmosphere and Andrew was an incredible waiter. Will definitely be back!
    More info
    Kettner ExchangePrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.7
  • Hannah
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    My boyfriend and I came for an early Valentine’s Day dinner and we got a sangria and Old fashioneds which were great!!The food was AMAZING. The Parker house rolls, the mussels, the steaks 🤌🏼 The only negative thing I have to say is that because we had a later reservation (10:00) we felt pretty rushed to order our food, thus feeling rushed to leave. It didn’t negatively affect our experience too much because the food was so bomb but definitely expected a higher level of service (minus the bussers and food runners who were friendly and great).
    More info
    Cowboy StarPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Downtown
    •
    4.8
  • Christi
    South Carolina •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Had a great time, beautiful spot. Addicted to the lobster tacos! Must have!
    More info
    Coco MayaPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Little Italy
    •
    4.4
  • Sarah
    Idaho •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 29 Nov 2024
    We had Thanksgiving dinner at Sally’s. Our reservation was accurate. Beautiful location. Good food. Juan provided excellent service.
    More info
    Brew 30Price: Moderate• Contemporary American• Downtown
    •
    4.5

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