Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

130 restaurants available nearby

1. Cowboy Star

4.9

Exceptional(4773)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 74 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 Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

2. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.7

Exceptional(975)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 50 times today

Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego is a standout destination for Pizza Bar cuisine, offering a delightful experience in the heart of Downtown San Diego. Known for its woodfire-oven baked pizzas, Provisional serves up authentic Italian flavors that have earned rave reviews for their "extraordinary service and quality." Guests appreciate the "beautiful venue" and "lovely atmosphere," which enhance the dining experience. The pizzas, crafted with fresh ingredients and a perfect crisp crust, are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to excellence. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Provisional promises a memorable culinary journey with its top-notch Pizza Bar offerings.

A photo of Saint James French Diner restaurant

3. Saint James French Diner

4.6

Exceptional(242)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 17 times today

This American diner meets elegant French bistro is open Monday–Friday for Breakfast and Lunch, every day for Dinner and Happy Hour, and on the weekends for Brunch. With a full bar and an approachable menu, locals and travelers can indulge in a variety of French-inspired classics, from shared mussels to ratatouille and burgers.

4. Huntress

4.5

Awesome(815)

Price: Very Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 34 times today

Huntress in downtown San Diego redefines American cuisine with its adventurous and energetic approach, offering diners a truly "world-class experience." As a standout modern steakhouse, it boasts the finest cuts of meat, such as the highly recommended Australian Wagyu, and complements them with "exquisite presentations" that rival a Michelin star experience. Guests rave about the "amazing service" provided by knowledgeable staff, ensuring each visit is memorable. With a lively atmosphere, one of California's largest collections of Japanese whisky, and unique dishes like the Magic Mushroom dessert, Huntress delivers on its promise of American cuisine elevated to extraordinary heights.

A photo of Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

5. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.6

Exceptional(1740)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 38 times today

Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego, nestled in the vibrant Downtown, is a standout in American cuisine. Renowned for its innovative twists and seasonal ingredients, it offers a fresh-catch experience that diners rave about. One reviewer exclaimed, "The food was incredible and perfect to share," highlighting the delectable variety and quality presented in each dish. Notably, the restaurant's American flair is evident in the exquisite steak and lobster spaghetti, praised as "amazing" and "rich and tasty." With its polished ambiance and exceptional service, Lionfish ensures an unforgettable dining adventure, making it a must-visit for lovers of authentic and refined American cuisine.

6. Grant Grill

4.7

Exceptional(1629)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 11 times today

Grant Grill, nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego, masterfully delivers an unparalleled Contemporary American dining experience. Celebrated for its "world-class" food and "outstanding service," this iconic restaurant has been a beacon of culinary excellence since 1951. The menu, reflecting the best of seasonal ingredients, offers a fresh approach to American classics, ensuring every dish is a standout. Diners rave about the "superb" seabass and "divine" pork chop, while the elegant ambiance and attentive service create a perfect setting for any occasion. Whether enjoying a leisurely brunch or an exquisite dinner, Grant Grill promises an unforgettable experience, redefining Contemporary American cuisine.

A photo of Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood restaurant

7. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

4.0

Excellent(2313)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 25 times today

Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood in Downtown, San Diego, is a beacon for seafood aficionados seeking top-tier quality and authenticity. Renowned for its fresh and expertly prepared dishes, diners frequently rave about their seafood options. One delighted guest exclaimed, "The oysters were super fresh and delicious," while another praised the perfectly cooked Chilean Sea Bass as "a must try!" The restaurant's commitment to sourcing the finest seafood ensures an unforgettable dining experience that captivates the palate. Greystone's dedication to excellence, combined with its elegant ambiance and outstanding service, makes it a standout choice for seafood lovers in San Diego.

8. STK- San Diego

4.3

Awesome(3358)

Price: Expensive

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 56 times today

STK- San Diego stands out as a premier destination for authentic American cuisine, perfectly blending traditional steakhouse excellence with a vibrant, modern twist. Located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, this steakhouse offers a "high-energy dining experience" that captivates patrons from start to finish. Guests rave about the "spectacular food" and "exceptional service," making it a top choice for special occasions and casual outings alike. The menu, featuring mouth-watering steaks and reimagined American classics, showcases the highest quality ingredients with traceable sourcing. Whether celebrating a milestone or enjoying a lively Happy Hour, STK promises an unforgettable American dining adventure.

9. Bronze Bird

4.5

Awesome(151)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 20 times today

Bronze Bird, nestled in the vibrant Downtown San Diego, offers a delightful foray into Contemporary American cuisine, skillfully blending So Cal comfort fare with modern culinary techniques. Located in The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, this spot is revered for its "exceptional" service and "delicious" dishes, which make it a perfect pre-theater dining destination. Diners rave about its inventive twists on classic dishes and the attentive staff that ensures every visit is memorable. The restaurant's ambiance complements its culinary offerings, creating a "casual and fun" atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more. Whether it's the perfectly grilled steak or the divine tomato soup, Bronze Bird promises an authentic and satisfying Contemporary American dining experience.

A photo of Smokin J's BBQ - Gaslamp restaurant

10. Smokin J's BBQ - Gaslamp

4.4

Awesome(37)

Price: Moderate

• Southern american • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 1 time today

Smokin J's BBQ in the Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego serves up some of the finest American cuisine you can find. Known for their award-winning BBQ, this restaurant was crowned Best BBQ in San Diego by Reader Magazine in 2022. Diners rave about the "delicious food" and "ample portions," making it a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. The brisket is described as "melting in your mouth," while the smoked jackfruit offers a delightful surprise for non-meat eaters. With a warm, inviting atmosphere and "great service," Smokin J's BBQ is perfect for any occasion, from family outings to date nights.

‘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.

Explore OpenTable

Downtown

Southern american

Best Southern American Restaurants in Downtown

Price

Regions

Areas

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating options

Award-winning

Accessibility

130 restaurants available nearby

1. Cowboy Star

2. Provisional Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

3. Saint James French Diner

4. Huntress

5. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

6. Grant Grill

7. Greystone Prime Steakhouse & Seafood

8. STK- San Diego

9. Bronze Bird

10. Smokin J's BBQ - Gaslamp

Explore OpenTable