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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Pacific Beach

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172 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pacific Beach Hideaway restaurant
1. Pacific Beach Hideaway
5.0
Exceptional(4)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 8 times today
Hideaway is a beach-town casual kitchen and bar located in Pacific Beach, California. The concept honors the local community, incorporating vintage artifacts, furnishings and artwork that reflect its laidback surf, music and beach culture and history.
A photo of Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge restaurant
2. Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(193)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 8 times today
Firehouse American Eatery and Lounge in Pacific Beach, San Diego, epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with a delightful ocean view that complements its vibrant atmosphere. This beachside gem is renowned for its eclectic American dishes, craft cocktails, and an iconic patio that features a signature fire pit and private cabanas. Diners rave about the "best French Toast" and "delicious calamari," highlighting the quality and authenticity of its offerings. With glowing reviews like "the service is amazing!" and the "best food decision we could make," Firehouse not only promises but delivers a quintessential Californian dining experience. Whether it's brunch by the ocean or a late-night gathering, this spot is a must-visit for anyone seeking the true flavor of California.
A photo of Union Kitchen & Tap Pacific Beach restaurant
3. Union Kitchen & Tap Pacific Beach
4.6
Exceptional(4)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 3 times today
At UNION PB, we proudly declare a "Culinary Revolution." Our menus are meticulously crafted to showcase the quality and purity of each ingredient. Our chefs, devoted to their craft, infuse every dish with innovation. Our creative mixologists serve up classic and progressive cocktails, each balanced with a broad spectrum of specially selected spirits and liqueurs. Our emphasis on interesting and artisanal winemakers, along with our showcase of house-made cocktails and craft beers, adds distinguished appeal to your experience. Just a stones throw from Mission Blvd. UNION is more than a dining experience, it is a place where people come together. Join a community dedicated to crafting unforgettable moments and forging lasting connections. Welcome to the heart of UNION Kitchen & Tap.
A photo of The Fishery restaurant
4. The Fishery
4.7
Exceptional(3067)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 50 times today
Nestled just blocks from the ocean in North Pacific Beach, San Diego, The Fishery epitomizes exceptional Californian cuisine with its dedication to fresh, local ingredients. Celebrated for its coastal-inspired menu, the restaurant has earned accolades such as the Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence from 2018 to the present. Patrons consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes. One diner exclaimed, "Best Seafood in San Diego. All the food items were well made, tasty and delicious." With its focus on seasonality and a superb wine list that complements the vibrant flavors of each dish, The Fishery offers an authentic taste of California's rich coastal bounty in a setting that's as welcoming as it is picturesque.
A photo of Slowly Restaurant & Lounge restaurant
5. Slowly Restaurant & Lounge
4.7
Exceptional(56)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 17 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego, Slowly Restaurant & Lounge offers an exceptional Mediterranean culinary experience that's as authentic as it is innovative. Patrons rave about the "amazing" in-house creations, from the perfectly fried branzino with crispy skin to the richly flavored broccolini paired with whipped feta and harissa sauce. Guests are consistently impressed by the fresh, high-quality ingredients and the creative twists on Mediterranean classics. The atmosphere is described as "chic yet warm," making it the perfect spot for both a casual meal and a sophisticated evening out. With glowing reviews highlighting both the food and the ambiance, Slowly stands out as a Mediterranean gem in San Diego's culinary scene.
A photo of Oceana Coastal Kitchen restaurant
6. Oceana Coastal Kitchen
4.3
Awesome(1300)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 7 times today
Oceana Coastal Kitchen in Pacific Beach, San Diego, guarantees an unparalleled seafood experience that has diners raving, "Absolutely love this restaurant" and praising dishes like "super fresh seafood!" and the "amazing" seafood tower. Nestled in an iconic Pacific Beach hideaway, this gem offers a stunning bayfront dining ambiance with an impressive 800-gallon aquarium and sweeping panoramic views of Mission Bay. The menu, curated by Executive Chef Paul Arias, includes highlights like the Striped Seabass and the Oceana House Roll, which have helped earn the restaurant the prestigious 2023 Traveler’s Choice Best of the Best award from TripAdvisor. Whether you're enjoying a sunny al fresco meal or a cozy dinner, Oceana Coastal Kitchen is the epitome of high-quality, authentic seafood cuisine.
A photo of Paradisaea restaurant
7. Paradisaea
4.7
Exceptional(568)
Price: Very Expensive
• Mexican • La Jolla
Booked 26 times today
Nestled in the historic Piano Building in the heart of La Jolla's vibrant Bird Rock community, Paradisaea epitomizes the essence of Californian cuisine with its commitment to quality, flavor, and local sourcing. Celebrated for its "crave-able, accessible fare executed at the highest level," this destination restaurant has become a local favorite, with diners praising its "amazing food and service" and the "extraordinary" chef's tasting menu. The ambiance, described as both "vibrant" and "soothing," complements the meticulously prepared dishes, from the fresh oysters to the flavorful steak au poivre, each "beautifully presented and delicious." Paradisaea's dedication to the Californian tradition of fresh, innovative dining is evident, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly remarkable meal in La Jolla.
A photo of Waterbar San Diego restaurant
8. Waterbar San Diego
4.4
Awesome(390)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • Pacific Beach
Booked 8 times today
Located alongside the vibrant ocean-front boardwalk in Pacific Beach, Waterbar offers only the best in tantalizing menus, innovative libations, panoramic views, and lively entertainment. Our “social seafood” menu is inspired by East coast, West coast and Baja cuisines, and transforms the freshest flavors through our chef’s unique renditions of coastal classics. Flavor-forward craft cocktails, local micro-brews, national brand favorites, and a diverse wine list are offered across comfortable bar seating, community-table dining, and intimate ocean-side tables. Waterbar’s thriving, energetic environment captures the passion of San Diego’s iconic coastline for an unforgettably satisfying experience.
A photo of Puesto La Jolla restaurant
9. Puesto La Jolla
4.6
Exceptional(2125)
Price: Moderate
• Mexican • La Jolla
Booked 79 times today
Puesto La Jolla is a gem in La Jolla, San Diego, renowned for its exceptional Contemporary Mexican cuisine. This award-winning restaurant, celebrated by outlets like National Geographic and the Michelin Guide, offers a unique culinary experience with its Mexico City-style crispy melted cheese tacos on non-GMO, organic maíz azul tortillas. Chef Luisteen Gonzales crafts vibrant dishes, from fresh ceviches to inventive tacos, praised for their “amazing flavors” and described as “the best tacos ever!” by satisfied diners. The lively ambiance, complemented by an innovative bar program featuring hand-crafted cocktails and exclusive Mexican wines, ensures every visit is memorable. As one review raves, it's “an absolute must-try!” with “outstanding service and food.”
A photo of NINE-TEN restaurant
10. NINE-TEN
4.7
Exceptional(2934)
Price: Expensive
• Mexican • La Jolla
Booked 18 times today
Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, NINE-TEN stands out as a beacon of farm-to-table excellence. Under the helm of nationally-recognized chef Jason Knibb, the restaurant has earned a MICHELIN distinction for its commitment to locally-sourced, seasonally-inspired cuisine. Diners rave about the exceptional quality of dishes such as the "best duck breast I’ve ever had" and praise the innovative "Mercy of the Chef" tasting menu. With ingredients carefully selected daily from local artisans, NINE-TEN not only promises but delivers a dining experience that is both authentic and sublime. Whether you're enjoying a meal on their cozy terrace with ocean views or indulging in the warmth of their elegant indoor setting, NINE-TEN is a true gem in farm-to-table dining.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Melanie
    San Diego •58 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Definitely glad we made reservations! It was Christmas night and super busy! Our server was great. Food was good, got a Carnitas taco and it was gushy and had no pork taste. We decided it was pot roast not carnitas! Very disappointed. The white rice was interesting, never seen that at a Mexican restaurant before. Beans were good. The other taco I had was delicious! I think it was called the Gringo. I will go back just for that taco!! Overall it was a good night! We will be back
    More info
    Casa De Freds, Tacos y TequilaPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
    •
    4.5
  • Shanta
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Blanco is a hidden jewel in Coronado. The prices are very reasonable and the food and service are outstanding. The staff is extremely professional and very kind. I highly cannot say enough kind things about our dinning experience. We are looking forward to our next visit, keep up the great work.
    More info
    Blanco Cocina + Cantina - CoronadoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Coronado
    •
    4.6
  • Anne
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Amazing food and service. Well designed space with lots of seating. We ordered crab enchiladas, snapper with plantain crust, chicken mole enchiladas, and table side guacamole. My husband ordered a Don Julio margarita and I got a pomegranate spritzer. Really appreciated how many non alcoholic options they had on the drink menu that weren’t just soda! We will definitely be back
    More info
    Ortega's A Mexican BistroPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Hillcrest
    •
    4.5
  • Lattie
    San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 9 Dec 2024
    Better than expected! Great service, food & ambience. We enjoyed it!
    More info
    Blanco Cocina + Cantina – Fashion ValleyPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Mission Valley
    •
    4.7
  • Cynthia
    San Diego •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 10 Nov 2024
    The food was delicious! The drinks were also delicious! Food is moderately priced, but the drinks are quite expensive! Guacamole was plentiful and very tasty! Our server was extremely helpful and personable! First time at blind and we would come again!
    More info
    Blind BurroPrice: Moderate• Mexican / Southwestern• Downtown
    •
    4.6

Discover best Mexican / Southwestern restaurants in Pacific Beach

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in the heart of Pacific Beach, San Diego! Our collection of top-rated Mexican restaurants in this lively neighborhood offers a diverse range of dishes, from traditional tacos and enchiladas to innovative Baja-inspired creations. Each restaurant is committed to authenticity and quality, providing an immersion into Mexico's rich culinary traditions with every bite. The dining scene in Pacific Beach is renowned for its dynamic atmosphere and a blend of casual and upscale dining options, making it a perfect destination for food lovers. Whether you're a local or a visitor, these establishments ensure a memorable dining experience with their friendly service, inviting ambiance, and commitment to culinary excellence. Embrace the local love for fresh, flavorful ingredients and explore the best Mexican dining options Pacific Beach has to offer.

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